I.A.T.S.E. Local One Hosts 125th Anniversary Gala

Stagehands' premier union, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E), Local One, celebrated its 125th anniversary, at the Hilton New York Grand Ballroom on Sunday, April 17.

Local One's skilled and talented professional stage employees, such as carpenters, electricians, sound, video, scenery and special effects, have been providing behind the scenes help to New York City's entertainment industry for over a century.

From Broadway shows, to corporate industrials and special events , TV network and cable entertainment productions, concerts and events at premium locations like Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and Lincoln Center, Local One members have been instrumental to the success of countless entertainers and events in New York City.

Brothers and sisters of Local One, other union affiliates, entertainers, producers, and representatives from diverse companies were in attendance to celebrate the special evening. Guests enjoyed historical photos, historical videos, and filmed interviews from retired and current union members. Many proud card carrying members, some from multiple generation families, told sentimental anecdotes of their days in the business.

The evening was hosted by Local One's president, James J. Claffey, Jr., who paid homage to past generations of stagehands saying, "We stand on the shoulders of the giants behind us." Members of the executive committee took center stage by introducing various performers. While Local one stagehands provided most of the pre- event labor, the crew was able to relax and enjoy the evening as Local 600 took care of videotaping the event.

Guests were moved to tears by bass-baritone Eric Owens who gave a beautiful rendition of "Ol' Man River," and the audience cheered their support for Bebe Neuwirth when she momentarily forgot her line while singing "Ring Them Bells." Other entertainment included performances by The Radio City Rockettes, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, and a special videotaped Late Show Top Ten with David Letterman.

The evening's recipients of the union's highest honors - Local One Honorary Gold Card - were as follows: Thomas Richard Fitzgerald
Neil A. Mazzella
Arthur P. Siccardi
Carl Vitelli, Jr.
James L. Dolan and
Phillip J. Smith

Honorary memberships were also given to:
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS
Bebe Neuwirth and
Phil Hymes
Cast from the musical Million Dollar Quartet gave a befitting grand finale performance. To mark the memorable event, guests received an imprinted commemorative wine glass.