AGMA members have ratified a new one-year agreement with Oregon Ballet Theatre, following approval by the AGMA Board of Governors on July 28, 2025. The contract introduces several changes for dancers and stage managers, focusing on scheduling, rehearsal protocols, break protections, and artist recognition.
“This contract reflects a collaborative and forward-looking bargaining process that delivered important wins for dancers and stage managers, including improvements to scheduling, rehearsal protocols, break protections, and recognition for all artists. While financial challenges shaped some outcomes, the agreement still secured a wage increase for apprentices and meaningful language gains across the board,” stated AGMA.
Among the key points is a 5% wage increase for apprentices as part of an effort to support early-career artists. The agreement also clarifies policies regarding breaks—strengthening language around five-minute breaks and codifying 15-minute breaks after class to promote dancer health. Dress rehearsal durations have been adjusted to allow more time for dancers to receive feedback.
Casting notices will now be posted earlier so that artists can better prepare. Scheduling around Thanksgiving will involve mutual input from management and performers.
For stage managers, the contract reduces consecutive workday requirements and increases penalties if meal breaks are missed during technical or performance weeks. Guidelines have also been established to clarify when stage managers must be present at rehearsals.
Artist recognition has been expanded; all artists involved in productions—including production staff—will now be formally listed in each performance’s credits distributed to audiences. There is also a commitment to improve playback quality of archival footage used for artist development and documentation.
Safety measures include establishing a joint committee tasked with identifying suitable intimacy training within the first four weeks of the 2025–2026 rehearsal period. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training will be provided to all dancers within three months of their first rehearsal.
The union highlighted that these changes were achieved through comprehensive negotiations resulting in clearer contract language across multiple areas.
“Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this agreement!” said AGMA in its announcement.
