Backstage production workers at Washington, D.C.’s Arena Stage have overwhelmingly voted to join the
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
The stagehands, wardrobe staff, scenic workers, makeup professionals and hair crew who make world-class performances at one of the country’s leading regional theaters will be represented by IATSE locals 22, 772, 798 and United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829. This victory has been four years in the making, and members are eager to bargain for the fair working conditions, job security and a collective voice they deserve.
“This is an amazing step for the workers at Arena Stage and Washington, D.C. in general,” said Nicholas Arancibia, vice president of Local 22. “This is the third regional theater in the Washington D.C. 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.”
AFL-CIO Daily Brief