Equity secures pay rises for performers and creatives

Performing arts and entertainment trade union Equity and Independent Theatre Council (ITC) have agreed pay rises and improved terms for performers and stage managers.

The improvements, which include increases to weekly minimum salaries and the need for producers to source accomodation for touring workers, will come into effect in April.

They will be mandatory for all ITC members with Ethical Manager Status – which means they work to union-approved contracts offering at least the minimum terms and conditions set out in ITC's Ethical Manager Agreement (EMA).

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Equity and ITC say they negotiated the terms together in “recognition of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on workers and the need to support them as much as possible”.

The updated agreement means an increase in excess of 10% to the minimum weekly salary of performers and stage managers (from £494 to £545) and a 20% increase in their minimum daily fees (from £100 to £120).

Choreographers, designers and directors signing EMA contracts will also see a 10% increase in their minimum fees. The agreement also pledges a 20% uplift on meal, daily accommodation and commuting allowances.

Those with contracts including touring and relocation allowances will now be offered a living away allowance covering both needs.

The living away allowance will be set at a minimum of £447.68 per week in London – almost 250% more than the current benchmark of £129 per week – and a minimum of £410 outside of London – 290% more than the current £104.80 per week.

The agreement also states “the principal responsibility for finding and providing accommodation” sits with producers, rather than workers.

Overall maximum working hours have been reduced – with a five-day week during rehearsal period set as “the norm” – and holiday entitlements have been increased to beyond statutory minimums.

ITC Chief Executive Charlotte Jones said the improved minimum terms "will provide the foundations to enhance the well-being of creative teams”.

“ITC members have consistently articulated their strong belief in putting the well-being of their workforce first.

“Despite these incredibly challenging times for performing arts producers this community has recognised the importance of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and improving working conditions in the sector.”

Karrim Jalali, Industrial Official for Equity, says ITC and its members with Ethical Manager Status “actively stride to do as much as possible for the performer practitioner and creative workforces, and have consistently demonstrated their commitment to going above and beyond”.

“It’s a breath of fresh air to be working with these principles at the heart of the negotiations, and we’re really proud of what we’ve achieved for our respective members despite the huge challenges imposed by the funding landscape.

“We hope that this will be a major influence on the industry as a whole.”