LATEST NEWS: No official news is yet available, though NY1 and other news sources are reporting that optimism is in the air. Both sides spoke positively earlier in the day about reaching a resolution, but no official announcements have yet been made. A press conference is expected later this evening.
The League and Local One began meeting today, Wednesday November 28 at 10AM in hopes of finding common ground.
NY1 reported yesterday: Cohen emerged from the talks just before 5AM on November 27 stating: "Right now it's the 9th inning of the 7th game of the World Series. I'm optimistic both sides are still talking, even as the sun rises over Manhattan. People are getting their second wind. There's still hope that before people leave the building today, there will be an agreement."
Last on-camera word from Charlotte St. Martin, Executive Director of The League, on the evening of November 26 was: "We're hoping for a successful conclusion."
The morning of November 27 marked the second in scheduled failed negotiations between The League and Local One. Talks fell-through last weekend (November 17 & 18) as well. Network news sources reported the evening of November 26 that the issue of load-in had been resolved, However issues of continuity hours and mopping duties were still being discussed. The strike has been estimated to cost the city of New York $2-million a day, adding up to approximately $34-million in lost revenue so far.
There were reports that both sides had open spreadsheets in front of them and that the union showed up 25 strong. Talks were held at the law firm Proskauer Rose, which represents The League.OTHER STRIKE NEWS...
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
will keep the St. James Theatre smiling and green this holiday season,
as reports say Jujamcyn Theatres have agreed to not appeal last week's
court ruling to keep the show alive on Broadway.
Variety
reports: "Judge Helen Freedman agreed, and the appeal, originally
scheduled for Tuesday morning, has been canceled. The show has resumed
its regular performance schedule and will continue until Jan. 6, when
its limited run is slated to end."
The Nederlander Organization – and the producers of the nine
shows currently housed in the Nederlander-owned theatres – is suing the
stagehands' union Local One for $35 million.
Reuters reported: "Producers sued members of Local and its
president James Claffey Jr. in Manhattan
federal court seeking to recover damages for lost revenues… The League of
American Theaters and Producers has said the strike that has darkened some 25
productions since November 10 is costing a total of about $17 million for every
day it lasts." The law-suit was filed
late Tuesday November 20.
The League of American Theatres and Producers has provided their own Claim vs. Fact sheet: Details Here.
Actors' Equity has provided their own Myth vs. Fact sheet: Website Here.
* * * * * *
