[Atlanta, GA – September 24, 2024] – The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Atlanta Ballet are proud to jointly announce a progressive 4-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that sets a new standard for dancer compensation, working conditions, and long-term security within the ballet industry. The AGMA Board of Governors ratified the CBA on August 12 after being approved by the AGMA Artists at the Ballet.
In 2022, Atlanta Ballet and AGMA came together to lead the industry in eliminating the long-held practice of Apprentice status for dancers beginning their careers, increasing entry-level salaries by nearly 40%.
This new CBA takes that bold step further, reflecting the mutual commitment of both AGMA and Atlanta Ballet to foster an environment where professional dancers are fairly compensated and supported throughout their careers. The negotiations, marked by collaboration and innovation, resulted in significant changes across multiple areas, including the complete elimination of entry-level compensation rates, substantial wage increases across the company, the introduction of exit pay, enhanced parental leave, and new benefits that recognize the unique needs of professional dancers.
“We are thrilled to announce this landmark agreement, which reflects the dedication of both AGMA and Atlanta Ballet to ensuring our dancers are compensated fairly and supported holistically,” said Joshua Hong, AGMA Senior Negotiator. “This CBA not only addresses immediate financial concerns but also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and equitable future in the ballet industry and sets a strong precedent for other dance companies.”
“We are proud to reach agreement on our new CBA with Atlanta Ballet,” the Artists of the Negotiation Committee said in a written statement. “Setting a precedent of collaboration and mutual respect, this milestone represents a significant step forward for our organization. United in our vision, we aim for a dance community both here and across the industry where Artists are valued and supported, ensuring that the beauty of dance can flourish for generations to come.”
“We have built a company of strong professional artists here at Atlanta Ballet, and we believe that nurturing the development of their artistry is as essential to a successful organization as dancers’ financial independence,” said Atlanta Ballet Artistic Director Gennadi Nedvigin.
“Under Gennadi Nedvigin's leadership, Atlanta Ballet has a strong history of prioritizing support of the dancers,” said Executive Director Tom West. “During the pandemic, he ensured that Atlanta Ballet was among the very few professional ballet companies in the U.S. that did not furlough its dancers, and he has championed in making entry-level positions a livable wage.”
This CBA also introduces several other provisions aimed at improving the overall working environment and securing the long-term well-being of Atlanta Ballet dancers. AGMA and Atlanta Ballet are committed to continuing their partnership to ensure that the voices and needs of dancers remain at the forefront of their work.
About The American Guild of Musical Artists:
The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) is the labor union of singers, dancers, and staging staff in opera, ballet and concert dance, and concert choral performance in the United States. A national union with a membership of over 6,500 artists, AGMA provides forceful advocacy and defense of its members’ employment and artistic rights. AGMA negotiates and enforces over 70 collective bargaining agreements throughout the country, ensuring fair and safe working conditions and enhancing the quality of life of its members. AGMA has a direct charter from the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with the AFL-CIO Branch of Associated Actors and Artists of America and the Department for Professional Employees (DPE). AGMA is also a part of the Coalition of Broadway Unions and Guilds (COBUG).
About Atlanta Ballet:
Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the country and the official state Ballet of Georgia. Atlanta Ballet's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals. After 95 seasons, Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance. In 1996, Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education, which is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization. For more information, visit www.atlantaballet.com, follow us on Instagram @atlantaballet, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atlantaballet.