Production Workers at Arena Stage Vote to Join IATSE

Approximately 80 backstage production workers at Arena Stage in Washington, DC, have voted to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). In a National Labor Relations Board election, workers voted overwhelmingly for union representation, with over 85% of ballots cast in favor. The bargaining unit, comprised of stagehands, wardrobe, hair/makeup, and scenic workers, will be represented by IATSE Locals 22, 772, 798, and USA 829.

In a statement, IATSE says, "This victory marks a significant milestone for theater workers in Washington, DC and represents the culmination of years of organizing efforts. Workers have been discussing unionization for more than four years, with the effort gaining traction last summer before the current season began. In a show of good faith, Arena Stage management agreed to a neutrality agreement and honored it throughout the process, allowing workers to make their decision without interference."

"This is an amazing step for the workers at Arena Stage and Washington, DC in general," says Nicholas Arancibia, vice president of IATSE Local 22. "This is the third regional theatre in the Washington, DC area to win recognition with IATSE in the last six years. Workers are stepping up and making sure everyone is taken care of and has a path forward for a better life through a union."

"Arena Stage workers are part of a long tradition of artists and technicians who know the magic onstage is built by collective work backstage," says IATSE international representative Dan Little. "Their union vote is part of a growing national movement for solidarity and security."