The Theatrical Management Association (TMA) represents more than 120 regional theatres. They face the possibility of being closed as their staff threaten strike action.

Bectu, the trade union which represents many of the theatre workers says that talks between themselves and the TMA have broken down. They had been requesting a 5% rise in minimum wages. However the TMA have been adamant that a pay freeze is required, although they say they would review matters again in six months’ time.

The TMA have pointed out that sales of programmes, food and drink have fallen disastrously. They also said that because of the current economic climate, people were not booking theatre tickets in advance.

Bectu have therefore asked their representatives to check to see if the general membership would be prepared to strike in support of their claim. This request is not an official ballot which would have to take place before lawful union action could take place.

If strike action were taken, it would be the worst industrial action taken in theatres in decades. Meanwhile, Equity, the actors’ union have made a claim for 14% and are awaiting a response.

It certainly looks like 2009 could be a make or break year for regional theatre.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 17th, 2009 at 6:14 pm and is filed under Theatre News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.