Marvin OnumonuEquity, the performing arts and entertainment trade union, has submitted claims for higher pay and better conditions for theatre workers ahead of negotiations on three major agreements due for renewal in 2026.
The agreements cover most theatre productions across the UK, including West End, commercial and subsidised theatre.
Workers have called for a five-day rehearsal week, increased holidays and better accommodation when working away from home.
Equity said it wants a minimum weekly salary of £1,000 for the lowest paid in the West End by year three, rises of over 40% for relocation, over 50% to swing and dance captain fees, and over 80% for cover fees.
The union is also pushing for a five-day rehearsal week and a minimum of 32 days holiday, with more family-friendly provisions.
For subsidised theatre, Equity is seeking significant uplifts to minimum rates of pay and responsibility payments, and the restoration of stage management pay differentials.
They are also asking for a single living away allowance, more holiday, reduced working hours and more notice of calls.
In commercial theatre, the union wants higher minimum rates and responsibility payments, abolishing the lower rehearsal weekly minimum in year one, lowering seating capacity for the highest pay tier, a single living away allowance, and for producers on large tours to provide accommodation.
Increased holiday and reduced weekly hours are also part of the claim.
Paul W Fleming, general secretary of Equity, said: “Equity members’ voices are at the heart of these claims for improvements in pay, working hours, and the costs and impact of working away from home.
“These bold claims are only as ambitious as our members.
“Theatre workers deserve pay that keeps up with the cost of living, a work-life balance, and access to safe and decent accommodation.”
Fleming added: “Like all Equity Agreements, these terms and conditions establish floors through which no worker can fall – not ceilings through which no worker can rise.
“We look forward to engaging in positive and constructive negotiations.
“Ultimately, any offers will be put to Equity members in the relevant areas to vote on for acceptance or rejection so we encourage anyone not currently in the union to join now and ensure their voice is heard.”
Negotiations will take place between Equity and employer groups SOLT (Society of London Theatre) and UK Theatre in the coming months.
