The National Council of Actors' Equity Association has voted to ratify a new five-year Development Agreement, signaling the conclusion of an eight-month strike against The Broadway League. This new agreement, effective immediately and extending to February 11, 2029, is set to benefit members of Equity significantly.
The Development Agreement is primarily aimed at facilitating the development of new artistic works by producers affiliated with the Broadway League. A notable highlight of this agreement is the guarantee of over 8% cumulative pay increases for Equity members, marking the successful fulfillment of the union's primary goal for this collective bargaining process.
Equity Negotiation Team Chair Stephen Bogardus expressed optimism, stating, "Today is a day to celebrate the hard work of Equity's team in getting us back to the rehearsal halls and making some magic. The talent and commitment our members bring to their work is pivotal in transporting what's on paper to the stage, and Development work sessions are integral to this process." He elaborated on the importance of the agreement by emphasizing how it enables members to focus on their craft with improved compensation. "This was a long strike, but it was worth it," Bogardus added.
Among the achievements within the agreement are increased pre-production times allocated for stage managers and the establishment of a joint working group intended to create new audition access programs. This move aims to address long-standing accessibility issues prevalent within the auditioning process and to empower diverse talent seeking opportunities within the theater community.
This summer, the focus will shift as Equity and the Broadway League begin negotiations for the Production Contract, which governs terms for Broadway shows. It is expected to be another pivotal moment as both parties seek to adapt to the changing needs of the theatrical workforce, especially post-pandemic.
The necessity of this agreement arises from the extensive discussions surrounding equity, diversity, and representation within the theatre industry. The Development Agreement is not only poised to reshape financial compensation but also to influence how auditions and creative processes are conducted, fostering environments where all members feel included and valued.
Equity's recent strike stands as evidence of the union's determination to forge advancements for its members, addressing significant gaps and advocating for fair treatment across all levels of participation within the industry. According to Bogardus, the focus moving forward will be on the “magic” produced when talent is recognized and appropriately compensated, encouraging the theatre community to prioritize creator welfare.
This development arrives alongside broader shifts happening within the Off-Broadway scene, including works like Judy Gold’s new show “My First Ex-Husband” at the MMAC Theatre, which epitomizes the diversification of narratives being explored on stage. These strides reflect concerted efforts by artists and producers alike to embrace varied perspectives and stories, as demonstrated by both Broadway and Off-Broadway productions.
The recent report from the Asian American Performers Action Coalition (AAPAC) sheds light on the racial representation across stages, highlighting the necessity for increased inclusivity and equity. Their findings indicated disparities even with notable progress, emphasizing the continued need for engagement and deliberate action to cultivate racial equity within theatre circles.
The New York theatre scene appears to be on the brink of transformation, bolstered by the resolve of artist councils, union negotiations, and fresh productions seeking to resonate with wider audiences through stories told from diverse cultural perspectives.
The ratification of the Development Agreement marks only the beginning of the adventures and challenges to come for actors, stage managers, and creatives alike. The commitment toward building sustainable careers and community-driven theatre experiences now rests significantly on the implementation of the agreed-upon benefits.
By prioritizing both artistic aspirations and equitable working conditions, the industry can pave the way for not only new productions but also sustains talent who can contribute to the rich cultural fabric of American theater for years to come. With this spirit of collaboration and growth, the stage is set for what promises to be another electrifying chapter for Broadway and Off-Broadway alike.