The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) has successfully ratified its first collective bargaining agreement with Ballet Memphis. The agreement was approved by AGMA leadership on April 13, 2025, following a vote by the members.
In a statement acknowledging the efforts involved in reaching this agreement, the negotiating committee expressed gratitude and extended congratulations on this milestone achievement.
Key aspects of the two-year contract include new minimum wage rates for artists, which are set to increase by 5% in the first year compared to previous entry-level rates. Artists will also see a guaranteed 3% wage increase during the 2025-26 season and a further 2% increase in the following season. The contract introduces an expanded rank structure that includes a new Leading Artist rank and provides compensation for daily company classes.
Additional provisions ensure a minimum number of artists and weeks per season, with supplemental or guest artists only allowed after all guaranteed positions are filled. Overtime pay is established at one and a half times the hourly rate, along with extraordinary risk pay and compensation for teaching master classes.
Artists are entitled to 11 paid holidays, including Juneteenth, and will receive retirement, dental, vision, and disability insurance benefits. Ballet Memphis will contribute to health insurance premiums for artists opting into company policies. Other guarantees include two weeks of paid time off annually, free days each week, break times during performances, bereavement leave, complimentary tickets for productions, and royalties for choreographers.
The agreement emphasizes inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility through annual policy reviews and discussions. There is also a commitment to eliminating appropriation and stereotyping in artistic choices while promoting diversity within hiring practices. Gender variant artists receive specific support measures under this contract.
Health and safety measures are enhanced with guaranteed physical therapy sessions twice weekly and appropriate safety checks before productions. Artists will have access to water, ice, first aid supplies as well as suitable rehearsal spaces.
Costume-related terms guarantee pointe shoes weekly for those who dance on pointe alongside cleaning services for costumes. Touring conditions address transportation logistics over long distances while ensuring proper accommodations.
Media-related clauses grant approval rights over headshots with required negotiations concerning artist compensation for streaming content. General terms stipulate regular joint committee meetings involving key stakeholders from Ballet Memphis.
Overall, this comprehensive agreement marks a significant development in labor relations between AGMA and Ballet Memphis aimed at improving working conditions across various facets of artistic employment.
