In February 2024, the theater world watched as the curtains metaphorically closed, not for intermission, but with the looming possibility of an Actors Equity strike. The Actors’ Equity Association, a union protecting more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers, sent a strong message to the industry by authorizing a strike against The Broadway League.

Still fomenting, this decision aims to redefine the future of performing arts. This strike isn’t just a call for action; it’s a powerful statement for fairness, respect, and the undying spirit of the artistic community. Let’s delve into the story behind the strike and how it hopes to shape a better future for actors and stage managers alike.

Has the Actors Equity Association Gone on Strike Before?

The Actors’ Equity Association has a storied history of advocating for its members, with strategic strikes being one of the many tools in its arsenal. This includes a 33-day strike in 2019. These moments of standing united against inequities have not only marked pivotal chapters in its history but have also led to significant advancements in the rights and working conditions of theater professionals.

Why Is Actors Equity Striking Again in 2024?

As of this writing, the Actors’ Equity Association and The Broadway League are in negotiations. If things go well, that could preclude the need for a strike. But should it indeed come to pass, the Actors Equity Strike of 2024 will be centered on a crucial issue: fair compensation. More specifically, compensation for developmental work on shows.

Under current norms, many actors and producers are paid via profit-sharing models. This means that developmental work on shows, which can eat up countless work hours, often goes overlooked and unpaid. 

Equity Executive Director and Lead Negotiator Al Vincent, Jr. explains the basis of the potential strike. “We know that show development is work. This development work hopefully leads to successful shows, some of which have long lives with many iterations, that can make a lot of money for producers. We know there is no revenue from the development sessions themselves, but it’s still work, and that doesn’t change whether there’s revenue today or whether it’s an investment producers are making against future profits. And that work must be appropriately compensated.”

What Are They Hoping to Achieve with a Strike?

The goals of the 2024 strike are clear and compelling. Equity members seek not just better pay but a redefinition of working conditions that mirrors the demands of the 21st-century theater. This includes a structure that recognizes and compensates the full spectrum of their contributions, both on and off the stage.

Ultimately, the looming threat of a 2024 Actors Equity Strike is a rallying cry for dignity, respect, and fairness. It is a testament to the belief that the arts not only enrich society but also deserve a foundation that supports and values those who bring stories to life. Through unity and resilience, the strike aims to ensure that the theater remains a vibrant, equitable space for future generations.

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