The Dancers of Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) have signed cards to form a union and join the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA).
Founded in 1976 by Ann Williams, Dallas Black Dance Theatre is the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas.
In the last 12 months, AGMA has seen an influx of professional dancers taking steps to unionize with AGMA. "The DBDT Dancers decision to organize their shop is a reflection of the evolving landscape in the world of dance, where Artists increasingly recognize the importance of coming together to speak with one voice,” said Griff Braun, National Organizing Director at AGMA. “AGMA stands with the Dancers of Dallas Black Dance Theatre as they move forward.”
In their own letter to DBDT management, the Dancers stated, “We have come to this decision with the company’s mission and legacy in the forefront of our minds. Every day we passionately strive for the company’s motto of “relentless excellence…Our unionization will set an example in the dance community and reaffirm Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s reputation as a leading dance organization today.”
AGMA has officially notified DBDT management with the hopes that the Company will respect its artists’ wishes and voluntarily recognize the Union. The Company has until close of business on Friday, May 3, to respond. AGMA will release more information as it becomes available.