Actors’ Equity Assn. Authorizes A Strike Against Broadway League Over Expiring Development Agreement
The National Council of Actors’ Equity Association, the labor union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, has voted unanimously to authorize a potential strike against The Broadway League. This vote serves as a warning that business as usual could be disrupted if a consensus cannot be reached regarding the expiring Development Agreement that supports the creation of new works by Broadway League producers.
The current agreement has been under discussion since last month and is set to expire on Sunday. The primary concern for Equity is the appropriate compensation for the development work undertaken by their members. While there may not be revenue generated directly from these development sessions, Equity emphasizes that the work involved is significant and must be adequately compensated.
Equity previously went on strike in 2019 over this same issue, which was then known as the Lab Agreement. It was a historic event as it marked the union’s first strike in half a century and lasted for a considerable 33 days.
If Equity and the Broadway League fail to reach a satisfactory agreement before the expiration of the current Development Agreement, actors and stage managers would refuse to participate in projects aimed at the development of shows intended for full-scale productions.
We are willing to stand united and not cross the picket line because we firmly believe in the value of our work and the need for fair compensation, stated Equity Executive Director and Lead Negotiator Al Vincent, Jr.
The potential strike comes at a delicate time as the theater industry continues to recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Both parties involved will now intensify their efforts to reach a mutually beneficial agreement to avoid any disruption to the production and development of new works.
As negotiations proceed, the broader theater community anxiously awaits the outcome, aware of the potential ramifications that a strike could have on the industry. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of finding a solution that acknowledges the contributions of Equity members while also considering the financial viability of the productions.
The Development Agreement holds significance for show creators and producers, as it supports the exploration and refinement of new works that have the potential to become successful, long-running productions. It is a vital resource that enables the theater industry to innovate and entertain audiences with fresh and captivating performances.
While the strike has not yet been initiated, the authorization sends a clear message that Equity members are prepared to take action if necessary. Their dedication to fair compensation reflects their commitment to the craft and the value they bring to the development of new shows.
As the negotiations progress, all parties involved hope to find common ground, ensuring that the future of Broadway remains vibrant and prosperous. The coming days will prove crucial in determining whether a strike can be averted or whether the theater industry will face yet another significant challenge in its path to recovery.
In the meantime, actors, stage managers, and theater enthusiasts worldwide keep a watchful eye on the negotiations, eagerly anticipating a resolution that will support the creation of exceptional productions while acknowledging the worth and dedication of those who bring these works to life on the stage.
