Broadway's Future Hangs in the Balance: Mediation Fails, Strike Looms
The ongoing negotiations between Actors' Equity and The Broadway League have hit a stalemate, with two days of mediation yielding no agreement. The two parties are still far apart on crucial issues, leaving the stage for a potential strike by actors and stage managers. With the current contract set to expire, the clock is ticking for a resolution.
Al Vincent Jr., Equity's Executive Director, stated, 'We've made some progress, but significant differences remain. We're prepared to resume talks on October 17 and will continue our strike preparations.'
The League, representing producers and theater owners, responded, 'Negotiations should take place at the bargaining table, not in the media. We're ready to resume discussions next week and finalize these contracts.'
The dispute centers on several key areas. Firstly, healthcare costs, where producers' contributions to the union's healthcare fund are under scrutiny. Secondly, Equity's demand for additional swings (performers covering absences) and backup for stage managers, addressing the rising absenteeism post-Covid. Lastly, actor schedules, particularly during holiday weeks with extra performances.
Equity members have already voted in favor of a strike, and now Broadway musicians, represented by Local 802 AFM, are voting on their own strike authorization. With health care and wages as major hurdles, the musicians' union is also in the midst of negotiations, mirroring Equity's challenges.
As the deadline approaches, the pressure intensifies. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact Broadway's future, with potential strikes looming over both actors and musicians. The question remains: Can an agreement be reached before the strike begins?
