Backdoor Reference Checks on ACTORS

[themikejones]

I work as a Stage Manager but also as a Company Manager.  This topic really falls under the CM part of my job, but I thought the folks in this forum might have some insight into this question, so here goes.

I've been asked to check references on every new hire.  This includes Actors.  But here's the thing-- actors don't' list references on their resumes.  Just previous roles/theatres/directors.   My question is this-- is it legal (and morally right) for me to blind contact theatres and directors that an actor has on their resume and ask for a reference-- even if I don't know these people? 

According to some internet research, this might fall under "backdoor reference checks".  Also, I may need written permission from the candidates to check any references. 

Has anyone ran into this "checking actors references" thing before?  Do other theatres do this? 

Thanks for any insight you might have. 

[loebtmc]

This isn't really an answer, more a parallel, but it's common practice to blind contact people from a stage manager's resume rather than listed references, esp if the interviewer knows someone associated w the show.

This kinda happens in film, btw, if not in theater.

[EFMcMullen]

I've never heard a Company Manager doing it, but I have heard of Directors and Artistic Directors doing it (and quite frequently actually if they haven't worked with an actor.)

[MatthewShiner]

I still think you need to get consent even for backdoor reference checks.

[LexieTaylor]

Do you generally get resumes sent in cold or do they come in response to job postings?
You could try adding "please include references" or a similar statement on your job or audition postings to let actors know that you expect them to include contact information.