The Coalition of Broadway Unions and Guilds (COBUG) Announces Agreement with the Broadway League for Compensation During Unprecedented Broadway Suspension

NEW YORK – March 20, 2020 – Members of the Coalition of Broadway Unions and Guilds (COBUG) issued the following statement announcing that members have reached an agreement with the Broadway League for compensation during the COVID-19 crisis. The COBUG unions negotiated jointly on the terms. 

“We are grateful to be able to tell our members that the industry came together to provide some compensation during this terrible time.

“Broadway needs to come back and working together is the best way to make that happen. Now Congress must do its part for arts and entertainment workers on Broadway and beyond to ensure they have access to unemployment insurance and health care during this industry-wide shut down.” 

Financial relief includes basic wage supplements to affected workers and additional health contributions with a commitment to resume discussions on the possibility of additional health contributions the week of April 6.

“The leaders of our industry have been working tirelessly with our partners at the unions to forge an agreement that will address many of the needs of our employees during this crisis. We are a community that cares about each other, and we are pleased that we can offer some relief,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of the Broadway League. “Once we are past this challenging moment, we look forward to welcoming everyone back to our theatres to experience the best of live entertainment together once again.” 

COBUG-affiliated unions represent the full spectrum of New York arts professionals, including: artists, dancers, singers, musicians, playwrights, directors and choreographers, , makeup artists, set, costume, lighting, sound and projection designers, stagehands, stage managers, ushers and ticket-takers, box office personnel, wardrobe workers, hairstylists, porters, press agents ,company managers, and house managers. These are hard-working individuals who provide vital services to New York.

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