Local 706 - The Artisan

Winter 2019

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12 • THE ARTISAN WINTER 2019 by Randy SayeR Business Representative I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Theme Park, Theater & Broadcast Television News SHOW NEWS Last year, I reported on the juggernaut theatrical event Hamilton, that has redefined this generation's American musical experience—winning 11 Tony Awards, 7 Olivier Awards, the 2016 Grammy and 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama in the process. Since the show opened on Broadway in July 2015 (aer an off-Broadway debut at the Public Theater), three (3) touring companies have been crisscrossing the United States for the past couple of years— enjoying stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County. A fourth company has just concluded its three-week engagement at the Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with creator Lin-Manuel Miranda reprising the title role. Miranda announced that the engagement in Puerto Rico raised much-needed funds for the Flamboyan Arts Fund, dedicated to supporting institutions and arts groups, as well as musicians, galleries and other artists to ensure that the rebuilding of Puerto Rico includes the nurturing of the island's vibrant arts and culture. Our own Marcelo Donari/Pink Contract hair stylist was hired specifically for this tour and flown to Puerto Rico for this special engagement. Marcelo is thrilled to 'give back' to his new country, and views himself as 'an ambassador.' "This show celebrates immigrants, how important we are in the history of this country. Hamilton was an immigrant, and was very accomplished. I knew nothing about him, but now every night I hear 'Immigrants, we get the job done!' and I feel very proud to be here. It inspires me to be a beer American. I got my first contract working for SF Opera just one week before I was granted asylum, and I was able to show the judge that I had employment in my field of work! I will forever be grateful to Gerd (Mairandres) and my co-workers during this time. The union was my first family here in the USA. Since joining the team at San Francisco Opera, Marcelo has gone on to work at least a dozen touring productions—including the Hamilton engagement in 2017, and is oen requested in advance by traveling department heads. He exemplifies the excellence of being a Local 706 member. This new Hamilton production now 'returns' to San Francisco for a long sit-down, open-ended run at the Orpheum Theatre beginning February 12. In the meantime, I will see you at the awards show, at the negotiating table, or in the wings… Randy Sayer Regional Theater News Negotiations for our Disneyland Resort Agreement are underway! These negotiations are so important. This contract was last re- negotiated in 2014. Nearly all of the other locals involved with the Coalition of Resort Labor Unions (CRLU) have re-negotiated their contracts, and many have seen $4/ hour increases where 40-cent increases had been proposed… Our Negotiating Committee consists of Amanda Baker, Kathleen Brown Zablan, Kelly Faust, 'Jeg' Green, Therese Levasseur, Deserea Parrish, Patrice Madrigal is our new Theater Business Representative. She is in training here at the Local 706 office, ready to represent our Theater, Theme Park and Network Television members. Patrice comes from a solid 'union family,' and understands the importance of strong representation. "My father was the master carpenter at the Ahmanson Theater when the Music Center opened in 1967, and he remained there for 20-plus years. He taught us all 'It's not a done deal until the contract is signed!' and we all learned to read every line of any contract we are given…" Patrice's father, Ernest L. Madrigal, is legend. He was instrumental in creating the Local 33 Pension and Health Plans, and often worked on the Local 33 Negotiating Committee. Patrice is a welcome addition to my team! Rebekah Pedersen and Jennifer Valencia. Business Rep Emeritus Tommy Cole will also be joining us at the table! Negotiations continue with San Diego Opera, NBC West LLC and KTTV/KCOP (for the Broadcast Television shows). Next up: Los Angeles Opera! Madrigal Is New Theater Business Rep Our own Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards show will be presented on Saturday, February 16, at the beautiful Novo Theater in downtown Los Angeles. We will be presenting awards to the 'Best of the Best…'

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