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Substance use and abuse in the workplace affects everyone in our industry.

Learn more about recognizing the signs and how to help yourself or a colleague. Taking just one hour to learn more can save lives by allowing you to say the right thing – or point someone to the right resources.

In a 2019 survey of entertainment industry workers, over 40% of respondents said they had experienced alcohol or substance misuse. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the anxiety, fear, uncertainty, stress, and isolation experienced by so many in our industry significantly increased those numbers. Many of us saw ourselves or colleagues, friends, or family members turn to substances as a way to cope with the disruption in our lives. Many found recovery could be difficult to sustain.

Behind the Scenes recently announced the launch of a website to provide resources for industry professionals to answer questions about alcohol and substance use and abuse. It offers information about how to spot the signs of misuse in yourself or others and the potential long term effects. There is practical guidance on getting help for yourself as well as how you can respond if you are concerned about a co-worker or friend. It also addresses situations where you may be concerned about someone you report to or someone who reports to you. Tips are provided on how to have a conversation with someone you are concerned about as well as on coping and self-care. Visit btshelp.org/substanceuse to learn more.

Neal will be present in the Behind the Scenes booth #11930 to sign books and posters on Friday, June 3rd at 3pm and on Saturday, June 4th at 11am and 3pm. He’ll be speaking about his experiences and showing images on Saturday, June 4th at 12pm in the NAMM Member Center in the lobby between Halls A&B.

Neal will also be available for press interviews. To schedule an interview, contact [email protected] or call 212-244-1421.

Neal Preston is one of the most prolific and highly regarded rock photographers of all time. He began working with Queen in the mid 1970s as their tour photographer. He was present on the legendary South America tour in 1981, Live Aid in 1985, and the band’s last tour with Freddie Mercury in 1986, among others. Brian May has commented, “Neal just has the knack, the skill, to always be in the right place at the right time.”

Behind the Scenes would like to thank NAMM, The Lightpower Collection, and ACT Lighting for making Neal’s appearance possible and expresses our deepest gratitude to Neal for his unwavering support of the charity.

The Lightpower Collection of Rock’n’Roll art features photography and album cover artwork from many of the world’s greatest photographers and designers. Neal Preston’s Rock’n’Roll photography represents the core of this collection and comprises over seventy large-format original fine art prints. 

Tobin Neis, a BTS Board member, accepted the check on behalf of the charity, and commented, “It’s so gratifying to accept this donation from Rosco who was our very first Pledge-a-Product Partner. We know times have been tough for everyone and the sustained support Rosco has shown means an enormous amount to us and to those we help.”

For more information about joining the Pledge-of-Support Program by naming a product or service to support the charity, click here or email [email protected].

On the show floor at USITT, Westview Productions presented a check to Behind the Scenes to honor their Pledge-a-Service commitment to the charity. Westview is an entertainment, energy, and immersive technology solutions firm headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Their unique project process encompasses all aspects of design that integrates with all construction trades to ensure a cohesive and seamless project experience. Westview has global experience in lighting, motion control, audio and A/V systems, media, and architectural systems allowing them to provide comprehensive services as a sole solutions organization.

Upon presentation of the check, Eric Bloom, President, stated, “Westview is honored to be able support Behind the Scenes, and to be able to give back to the community that has given so much to us all.”

Eddie Raymond accepted the check along with other members of the Behind the Scenes Board of Directors. Eddie commented, “We are very grateful to Westview for their contribution, and their understanding that it takes long-term commitment to truly make a difference in caring for our colleagues in need.  We challenge other service companies to step up and become a Pledge-a-Service Partner.”

For more information about joining the Pledge-of-Support Program by naming a product or service to support the charity, click here or email [email protected].

InCord made their 2022 donation to Behind the Scenes on the show floor at USITT reflecting a percentage of profits from sales of their Theatrical Safety Netting Systems. The systems (https://incord.com/theatre-division/) are hand-crafted in the USA by skilled artisans, safety tested to exceed all applicable industry standards, and are custom designed by professional engineers to perfectly fit your orchestra pit and/or protect your stage and house operations according to your technical and aesthetic requirements.

Joe Menhart, InCord’s Theatre Division Sales Manager, commented, “We are delighted to provide this needed support to BTS especially when so many more are still in need due to the ongoing global pandemic that is now stretching over two years. Our hearts go out to all those who benefit from the grants and resources provided by BTS.”

Todd Spencer accepted the check along with other members of the Behind the Scenes Board of Directors. Todd commented, “We are so appreciative of InCord’s donation. Their concern for the safety of industry workers is built in to their product and their commitment to Behind the Scenes. Our Pledge-of-Support Program is the perfect vehicle for InCord and their customers to demonstrate that concern.”

For more information about joining the Pledge-of-Support Program by naming a product or service to support the charity, please visit https://wp.behindthescenescharity.org/pledge-of-support-program/ or email [email protected].

The resources provided include a set of posters to raise awareness of words, actions and behaviors that constitute bullying, harassment or intimidation; information to empower individuals to Be Informed, Be Aware, Show Support, and Take Action; and a sample policy and procedures to identify, investigate and resolve instances of bullying, harassment or intimidation and to provide support to those who experience these behaviors.

One survey respondent wrote, “My workplaces are decades behind in helping people with emotional wellness. That starts with the  aggressive behavior, belittling behavior, yelling, throwing objects, etc. that I see on the jobsite constantly. Most folks feel that they have to just have a tough skin and take the abusive behavior in stride. That’s a perfect breeding place for all kinds of mental and emotional illness.”

Together we can help curb this behavior in the workplace. We can improve both psychological and physical safety and encourage a more respectful and supportive workplace. 

Behind the Scenes has collaborated with other concerned organizations and individuals to create the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Initiative. A series of tools and resources has been developed to not only help you but also assist you in helping your colleagues, friends and family. Find links to additional tools and resources and information about the initiative at btshelp.org/mentalhealth.