No Negotiations Between League/Equity For Now

There will be no talks between Actors' Equity Association and The League of American Theatres and Producers today, June 28, the first day since the Production Contract expired. Negotiations ceased at 10:45pm on June 27 and, while the two sides have been in contact today, there have been no official negotiations since that time.

"We are committed to keeping the shows open and are heartened that Equity has taken the same position," the League declared in a statement released this afternoon. "We are currently in contact with Actors' Equity Association regarding the next steps in negotiations. We are eager to achieve an equitable contract that works for both parties and are willing to engage in round-the-clock negotiations if necessary."

Equity has offered no official statement today. However, a spokesperson for the organization told Broadway.com that the union's governing body, Equity Council, will meet tomorrow at 1pm to decide on a course of action. Equity membership has already voted by a majority of 98.2% to authorize a strike, so Equity Council could choose to call one after tomorrow's meeting.

As previously detailed, the main sticking points between Equity and The League center around the proliferation of non-Equity tours and health care coverage for actors. Non-union productions were being discussed last night when negotiations broke down.

Actors and stage managers working on Broadway and Equity national tours are currently doing so without a contract. That will continue to be the case until further notice.