In an unprecedented moment, the Hollywood industry is grappling with a drastic slowdown, precipitated by the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) strike. Almost simultaneously, an eerie silence threatens to envelop Broadway, located miles away on the opposite side of the country. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) is gearing up for their strike authorization voting, scheduled to be held on Wednesday and Thursday. In the event of a successful strike declaration, picketing could commence as early as the following Friday.
This current development has its roots in negotiations initiated on May 25 concerning the prior contract that remained operative from July 1, 2019, until July 2, 2023. For a protracted period spanning almost 20 days, the union has functioned under the previous contract’s stipulations. However, given the stalled negotiations with the Broadway League and Disney Theatrical Productions, the IATSE is bracing itself to take a bold step, possibly even seizing picket signs if the need arises.
Despite the outcome of the majority vote, the final verdict rests solely on the shoulders of the IATSE President. Regardless of this fact, achieving a significant “yes” vote share of at least 75 percent can serve as a formidable bargaining asset in their quest for equity. The contract in question covers approximately 1,500 workers, including stagehands, hair and makeup artists, and wardrobe personnel. Collectively, they contribute to 45 theatrical shows, with 28 of these being staged on Broadway and the remaining 17 touring. These union members, employees of the production, dedicate their services from the commencement of the out-of-town tryouts until its premier in New York City or throughout the duration of its tour.
What Motivates the IATSE Strike?
Matthew D. Loeb, IATSE International President, stated that the union is advocating for “wages, benefits, and rights,” mirroring the objectives of WGA and SAG-AFTRA members. A distinct characteristic of IATSE’s approach is the noticeable progress they have achieved with baseline agreements focused on employer-provided healthcare. This would ensure the preservation of current plans and a cap on out-of-pocket expenses. An additional pressing issue involves the provision of accommodation for touring crews by the productions – a provision shockingly not already in place. Outstanding negotiation points include wage disputes and the assurance of adequate rest periods for crew members to mitigate overwork and burnout.
This wave of action from the IATSE occurs just a few months after the Actors’ Equity’s strike authorization vote concerning their touring contract with the Broadway League. This is promising for those about to cast a similar vote, as Actors’ Equity managed to broker a new contract agreement in April. With picketing actions now spreading across the country in the entertainment industry and the impending strike by UPS, it remains to be seen how these events will impact the broader struggle for workers’ rights in the United States. You can see the ripple effect in action in some of the scenes from the UPS/WGA event this morning.
As this whirlwind of activity unfurls across Hollywood and Broadway, it’s clear that the industry’s stakeholders are being called to address long-standing employment issues. Only time will tell how these bold moves by the unions will shape the future of the entertainment industry. What is certain, however, is that the resolve of the workers’ unions is stronger than ever, making these labor movements not just necessary but critical to the continued health and vitality of the industry.
