Stage Door News
Stage Door News
On the eve of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s 60th season the theatre is on the verge of a labour dispute.
Fifty-three box office staff almost unanimously turned down the Festival’s latest contract offer Wednesday. Box office staff belong to IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) Local 357.
Box office staff, which includes the call centre, could be locked out or could go on strike anytime beginning Friday.
“We’re trying to come up with a solution but there is a real possibility (a strike) could happen after (Friday),” said Larry Miller, business agent for Local 357.
“The feeling is if we have to walk a picket line and put our case out to the public, we’re certainly prepared to do that,” Miller said.
Festival publicity director Ann Swerdfager said the organization will continue to negotiate and is hoping to avoid a walkout. However, should there be a strike management is ready.
“We have plans to deal with that and avoid having an impact on our patrons,” she said. “We’re not going to talk about specifics.”
One of the main issues for the box office staff is the possibility the Festival could contract out their jobs.
“We’re trying to save local jobs and keep the work in Stratford,” Miller said.
Swerdfager said the Festival does not intend to outsource those jobs.
The union wants a guarantee written into the contract that box office jobs will remain in Stratford but the Festival won’t acknowledge the union's proposal, Miller said.
“They’re very disappointed they didn’t get an offer that would have satisfied their concerns. They really enjoy the job they're doing,” Miller said.
Wages are another outstanding issue.
The timing is critical as opening night, which is Monday, fast approaches. The evening traditionally draws dignitaries, media and spectators from around the city. Though the show would go on, picketers outside the theatre could dampen the mood.
The union has had a relationship with the Festival since inception, Miller said.
“This may be the first time in 60 years we may end up with a labour dispute,” he said.
By Laura Cudworth for www.stratfordbeaconherald.com.
2012-05-25
Stratford: Strike looms at Stratford Shakespeare Festival