Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1546047
10 • THE ARTISAN FALL 2026 SHOW NEWS by Patrice K. Madrigal Assistant to the Business Representative | Theater \ I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Every performance begins long before the curtain rises or the cameras roll. It starts with the talented artists working behind the scenes—the professionals who transform performers into unforgettable characters, preserve the integrity of every production, and help bring stories to life. at is who we are. Local 706 is more than a union. We are a community of make-up artists, hair stylists, wig masters, wig technicians, and make-up effects artists whose creativity, professionalism, and dedication set the standard throughout the entertainment industry. Whether we're working on Broadway tours, regional theater, network television, Disneyland, live events, or under the Pink Agreement, our members are part of every memorable moment audiences experience. While our industry continues to evolve, one thing has never changed: the strength we find in one another. Like every corner of live entertainment, we've experienced changing schedules, shiing budgets, and periods between productions. But Local 706 has never been defined by challenges—we're defined by how we meet them. Our greatest asset has always been our members, whose talent, resilience, and professionalism continue to earn the respect of producers, employers, and audiences alike. Every day, our members solve problems, collaborate under pressure, Standing Together: Creating the Magic, Strengthening Our Future and deliver exceptional work. Whether it's creating a flawless period hair style, maintaining continuity throughout a television series, craing a custom wig, or designing transformative make-up effects, our artistry is an essential part of the storytelling process. Much of what we do happens behind the scenes, but the impact is seen in every performance. Protecting that work begins with standing together. Strong collective bargaining agreements remain the foundation of our success. ey protect fair wages, safe working conditions, healthcare, retirement benefits, and the professional standards that generations of members worked hard to establish. Every contract is strengthened through member participation—attending meetings, serving on committees, becoming a steward, and sharing experiences from the workplace. Communication is one of our greatest strengths. When members speak up, we gain valuable insight that helps shape future negotiations and improve working conditions for everyone. Every conversation helps ensure that Local 706 continues to grow stronger. Just as important is the reputation our members have built over decades. Producers know that hiring Local 706 means hiring professionals who arrive prepared, work safely, adapt quickly, and consistently deliver excellence. at reputation belongs to every member who takes pride in their cra and supports the high standards that define our union. Our future also depends on mentorship. Sharing techniques, workplace knowledge, and professional values with newer members strengthens not only individual careers but the future of our entire Local. Every lesson passed along helps preserve the crasmanship and professionalism that make Local 706 exceptional. We are strongest when we celebrate each other's successes. Every production, every venue, and every classification represented by our Local contributes to our collective strength. Whether you're backstage at a touring production, on a television set, creating magic at Disneyland, or supporting a live event, your work represents all of us. ere is every reason to be optimistic. Live entertainment continues to evolve, creating new opportunities for skilled union professionals. As audiences return to theaters, productions expand onto new platforms, and live experiences continue to grow, our creativity and expertise remain more valuable than ever. e future of Local 706 will be built the same way our legacy was built—through crasmanship, professionalism, mentorship, participation, and solidarity. Every hair style helps define a character. Every make-up application supports a story. Every wig and make-up effect sparks imagination. Every member contributes to the unforgettable experiences audiences cherish. Together, we protect our cra. Together, we strengthen our union. Together, we ensure that Local 706 remains the gold standard in entertainment for generations to come. When we stand together, we don't just support one another—we create the magic that makes live entertainment possible.