Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535749
12 • THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2025 12 W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 I C A S Q U A R T E R L Y 12 • THE ARTISAN SUMEMR 2025 SHOW NEWS by Patrice K. Madrigal Assistant to the Business Representative | Theater \ I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Strength in Unity: Local 706 Members Thrive in Touring Productions and Contract Successes As of spring 2025, Local 706 is proud to report that we currently have 23 Pink Contract shows on the road or in production across the country—a strong testament to the talent and professionalism of our union's craftspeople. With a number of these shows being department headed by our very own members, we continue to showcase the depth of experience and leadership that Local 706 brings to every production. This remarkable moment in time for our union not only represents the hard work of our members but also highlights the continued demand for skilled labor in the theatrical touring industry. In addition to those on the road, 706 is making strides across multiple venues in Southern California and beyond, from stage to screen. Touring Excellence and Local Highlights One of the crown jewels of our current Pink Contract productions is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, currently running at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. Scheduled to continue through June 22, 2025, the production has proven to be both a technical marvel and an artistic triumph. We're especially proud to have three Local 706 members working on the production, contributing their skills to a show that continues to captivate audiences night after night. If you haven't had a chance to see it yet, we strongly recommend taking the opportunity—it's truly a magical experience. In addition, the critically acclaimed Life of Pi will be making its way through Southern California this spring. The show will open at the Ahmanson Theatre in the beginning of May and continue through the start of June, before transferring to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the remainder of June. These performances represent not only a chance to experience a visually stunning and emotionally powerful story, but also an opportunity for audiences to witness the incredible work done behind the scenes by our Local 706 artisans. And let's not forget our active presence throughout Northern California. San Francisco, San Jose, and San Diego continues to host a variety of exciting touring shows on a rolling basis. These regions remain vital hubs for theater and serve as ongoing opportunities for union members to showcase their expertise in make-up, hair, and styling. We encourage everyone to check local theater calendars to stay up to date on productions and consider supporting the incredible work being done by Local 706 members in those cities. Contract Negotiations and Union Wins While our artists shine on stage, our leadership has been equally active behind the scenes—working diligently to secure favorable contracts for our members across television, theater, and opera. We are proud to announce the successful completion of contract negotiations with Television City, an achievement that marks another step toward protecting and improving working conditions for our members in network television. Beyond that, negotiations are also underway for several other network TV contracts set to expire in the coming months. Our focus remains centered on ensuring equitable pay, safe working environments, and long-term job security. These discussions are ongoing, and we're optimistic that we'll be able to share better good news soon. In the world of live theater, we've achieved significant wins as well. Our recent contract settlements with the Center Theatre Group, which includes the Ahmanson Theatre, Mark Taper Forum, LA Philharmonic, and the Music Center, are all finalized. In addition, negotiations with the LA Opera and San Francisco Ballet have also concluded successfully. We want to take this moment to recognize and thank the many Local 706 members who were directly involved in these negotiation efforts. Your insight, advocacy, and willingness to engage in the process were instrumental to the positive outcomes we achieved. These victories serve as a reminder that when we come together and speak with a unified voice, we are capable of shaping our working future for the better. Investing in Our Future: Education and Connection As our union continues to grow and evolve, one of our highest priorities is ensuring that all Local 706 members have the opportunity to build their skills and expand their expertise. We are currently exploring the addition of new classes and workshops tailored to the unique demands of working in live theater venues. The goal is simple: to support our members in adapting to a wide variety of production environments while fostering professional development and career longevity. Whether you're a seasoned department head or new to the union, there's always something to learn—and something to share. We believe that Local 706 is home to some of the most talented and knowledgeable craftspeople in the entertainment industry. By creating educational opportunities and encouraging peer-to-peer learning, we can continue to raise the standard of excellence while empowering every member of our union to succeed. A Call for Connection and Collaboration Now more than ever, it's important for us to stay connected. The landscape of live performance and media is constantly shifting, and we need each other to navigate those changes. Whether you're working on a Broadway-caliber touring show, a major network TV series, or an avant-garde production at a local venue, your work represents the very best of what 706 has to offer. As we move forward, let's remain committed to supporting one another—sharing knowledge, celebrating wins, and advocating for the rights and recognition we all deserve. When we collaborate and lift each other up, we ensure not only the longevity of our craft but also the strength and solidarity of our union. So, whether you're on the road with a touring show, backstage at a major venue, or working in television production, know that you are part of a powerful community. Let's continue to build that community with intention, integrity, and mutual respect. Thank you to every Local 706 member contributing their time, energy, and talent to keeping our craft alive and thriving. Together, we are creating something extraordinary.