On October 18, after weeks of intense negotiations that included the looming threat of a strike, the Actors' Equity Association (AEA), representing actors and stage managers, successfully reached an agreement with the Broadway League. This agreement outlines the details of a new Broadway work contract, which is set to enhance the working conditions and compensation for union members.
On October 22, the specifics of the new three-year Production Contract were unveiled to AEA's membership. Union members have until October 30 to cast their votes on whether to adopt this new contract. A comprehensive email, co-authored by negotiation committee members Jacqueline Jarrold, Anne McPherson, and Kristen Beth Williams, was distributed to over 51,000 union members, breaking down the key elements of the agreement while addressing member concerns.
One of the most significant highlights of the new contract is a pay increase for Broadway actors. Currently, actors earn a minimum of $2,638 per week, with potential increases for additional responsibilities, such as understudying. Under the new contract, the minimum salary will rise to $2,717, with an annual increase of 3 percent over the next three years. Additionally, actors known as "swings," who are capable of performing multiple roles, will receive a further 6 percent pay increase on top of their existing salary.
The agreement also mandates an increase in the contributions from Broadway producers towards the health insurance of actors and stage managers. Currently, producers contribute $150 per week per employee to the union's Health Fund. Under the new terms, this contribution will rise to $175 per week, with an additional $25 increase each year for three years. This change aims to bolster the health coverage provided to Equity members.
Addressing concerns over overwork, particularly around performance schedules that deviate from the standard eight-show week, the new contract limits the number of consecutive performances. Union members will now be scheduled for a maximum of 12 consecutive days of work, a reduction from the previous 16 days. Producers will still have the option to schedule 13 or more consecutive days up to four times a year, but members will be entitled to a paid performance off or a personal day to be used later.
This contract marks a historic milestone, granting stage managers the right to request additional staffing for technically demanding productions, a decision that previously rested solely with producers. Moreover, Equity members can now call out of work without facing disciplinary action, provided they have valid reasons such as illness or personal emergencies.
In a move toward sustainability, the new contract allows producers to utilize a QR code in physical Playbills to announce cast changes, reducing the need for paper inserts. An online archive of cast changes will be maintained for 30 days, and a physical callboard will still be present at each theatre for immediate reference.
Actors and stage managers who have been part of Broadway or sit-down productions since September 30, 2019, are eligible to vote on the new contract, with ballots due by 5 PM on October 30. If a majority of members reject the contract, the AEA will resume negotiations with the Broadway League. Conversely, if the contract is approved, it will take effect 120 days post-ratification, with any stipulated pay increases being retroactively applied since the previous contract expired on September 28.
In their email to union members, Jarrold, McPherson, and Williams expressed pride in achieving a strong deal without major concessions. They highlighted the creative solutions found to meet some demands while maintaining the integrity and safety of Broadway productions.
