Industry Pro Newsletter: NEA Funding Preserved & IATSE Joins Casino Opposition
Actors' Equity Association secures better terms for Off-Broadway performers. Support the GoFundMe campaign to save The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre.
By: Alex Freeman Jul. 29, 2024
We highlight the U.S. House of Representatives' decision to preserve NEA funding, the new collective bargaining agreement between Actors' Equity Association and the Off-Broadway League, and a GoFundMe campaign to save the West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre. Additionally, IATSE joins the No Times Square Casino Coalition, and Garth Drabinsky continues his legal battle with Actors' Equity. Regionally, South Coast Repertory welcomes Suzanne Appel as Managing Director, and Steve Tague is named Artistic Director of Delaware's REP. Internationally, UK theater advocates push for inclusive playwright schemes, and arts engagement rises despite sector challenges.
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Industry Trends
US Representatives Vote to Save Funding for the National Endowment for the Arts
The U.S. House of Representatives voted to preserve funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), rejecting an amendment that proposed significant cuts. The vote concluded with 292 members opposing the reduction, securing continued support for the NEA. This decision ensures that the NEA can continue its mission to provide critical funding and support to various cultural and artistic projects across the country.
Broadway/New York
Actors' Equity Association and Off-Broadway League Reach New Collective Bargaining Agreement
Actors' Equity Association (AEA) and the Off-Broadway League have reached a new collective bargaining agreement, ensuring better wages and working conditions for performers and stage managers. The agreement includes increased salaries, improved health and pension benefits, and enhanced safety measures. This marks a significant step forward in supporting the rights and well-being of theater professionals working Off-Broadway.
GoFundMe Campaign Launches to Save The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to save The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre, iconic venues in New York City’s theater district. Facing closure due to financial difficulties, the campaign aims to raise the necessary funds to keep these beloved spaces operational. Supporters and patrons are encouraged to contribute to help preserve the rich history and continued operation of these cultural landmarks
IATSE’s New York Theater Locals Join the No Times Square Casino Coalition
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) New York Theater Locals have joined the No Times Square Casino Coalition, opposing the development of a casino in Times Square. The coalition argues that a casino would negatively impact the theater district, leading to increased congestion and detracting from the cultural character of the area. IATSE’s involvement underscores the significant opposition from the theater community against the proposed casino
PARADISE SQUARE Producer Garth Drabinsky Appeals Once More to Revive $50M Equity Lawsuit
Garth Drabinsky, producer of "Paradise Square," is making another attempt to revive his $50 million lawsuit against Actors' Equity Association. The lawsuit, which was previously dismissed, accuses the union of defamation and illegal conduct by placing him on the "Do Not Work" list. Drabinsky's continued legal efforts highlight the ongoing disputes between the producer and the actors' union over his handling of the production.
Landlord Says SLEEP NO MORE Owes $4.5 Million in Back Rent
The New York City landlord of "Sleep No More" claims the production owes $4.5 million in back rent. This immersive theater experience, inspired by Shakespeare's "Macbeth," is currently scheduled to play their final performance on September 29th. The landlord sued for eviction in March, but the production countersued alleging an amended lease.
Regional
South Coast Repertory Names Suzanne Appel as Managing Director
South Coast Repertory has appointed Suzanne Appel as its new Managing Director. Appel brings extensive experience in theater management, previously serving in leadership roles at various cultural institutions. She will oversee the administrative and financial operations of the theater, aiming to enhance its programming and community engagement. Her appointment marks a new chapter for South Coast Repertory as it continues to thrive in the regional theater landscape.
American Theatre: Steve Tague Named Artistic Director of Delaware's REP
Steve Tague has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of the Resident Ensemble Players (REP) at the University of Delaware. Tague, a veteran director and actor with extensive experience in theater education and production, succeeds Sandy Robbins. He aims to continue REP's tradition of high-quality productions while exploring new and innovative approaches to theater. Tague had been serving the last two years in an interim capacity.
International
The Guardian: Emerging Playwright Schemes Should Include Over-40s, Say UK Theatre Figures
UK theater figures are advocating for emerging playwright schemes to include writers over the age of 40. They argue that the current focus on younger playwrights overlooks the valuable perspectives and experiences that older writers can bring. Including over-40s in these programs would ensure a more diverse range of voices and stories in the theater, enriching the cultural landscape.
The Stage: Arts Engagement Increases Despite Challenges in Sector
Despite ongoing challenges in the arts sector, a new report shows that public engagement with the arts has increased. The report highlights that more people are attending cultural events, participating in arts activities, and valuing the role of the arts in society. This positive trend comes amid financial pressures and logistical hurdles faced by arts organizations, demonstrating the resilience and enduring appeal of the arts.
Missed our last few newsletters?
July 22, 2024 - Tom Viola Retires, Cutting Ball and West Bank Cafe Announce Closures
This week's newsletter covers significant leadership changes, financial challenges, and key events within the theater community. Tom Viola, Executive Director of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, announced his retirement, and we look at the closure of New York's iconic West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre. Additionally, NYC's HERE Arts Center names four new co-directors, and the beloved Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction returns this September. Regionally, San Francisco's Cutting Ball Theater is closing, and Connecticut theaters struggle with funding declines. Internationally, Nicholas Serota presents a revitalization plan for the UK's cultural sector, while Edinburgh Fringe venues fight to recover from pandemic-induced losses.
July 15, 2024 - Making an Original Broadway Cast Recording & NYC's Record Investment
This week's newsletter highlights the intricate process of creating an Original Broadway Cast Recording and celebrates New York City's record $254 million investment in cultural institutions. Regionally, Milwaukee theaters respond artistically to the Republican National Convention, and new leadership appointments at Virginia Repertory Theatre and Shakespeare Center Los Angeles promise fresh visions. Internationally, Kathy Bourne's election as President of UK Theatre aims to bolster the sector, while a report on rising West End ticket prices raises accessibility concerns. We also cover the imprisonment of Russian theatermakers for "justifying terrorism" and the community-driven rescue of Oldham Coliseum Theatre from closure.
BroadwayWorld launches its Trendsetters program to connect influencers and productions, while Garth Drabinsky's legal woes continue with a lost appeal. The Duplex's Upstairs Theater is set to reopen, and the Broadway Show League enjoys media spotlight. Regionally, Nike Doukas takes the helm at Antaeus Theatre, and Florida Studio Theatre secures essential funding despite statewide arts cuts. Internationally, SOLT and UK Theatre call for governmental support, while QPAC appoints a new Chief Executive. Additionally, the UK Labour Party proposes substantial cultural funding boosts, aiming to revitalize the arts sector.
BroadwayWorld Resources
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