The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and the Kansas City Ballet have reached a new collective bargaining agreement, approved by AGMA leadership on May 19, 2025. The contract was ratified by the shop prior to this approval.
The agreement includes several key changes. Wage increases are set at between 3% and 8% for the first year, with subsequent annual increases of 3% in the second and third years. A notable change is the elimination of the Apprentice rank starting in the second year.
Additional contract provisions include a 20% increase in delegate pay and updates to language to ensure inclusivity, such as new pronoun and gender-neutral facilities language. Juneteenth has been added as an official holiday under this agreement.
There are also expanded protections related to scheduling and well-being. Performers will receive two additional hours of physical therapy per week, and well-being reimbursements now cover mental health professionals. Protections have been put in place against performing more than nine consecutive shows.
Furthermore, if “The Nutcracker” falls on a Monday, performers are guaranteed an alternative free day.
“Let’s celebrate some gains! Thank you to the negotiating committee, and congratulations on this three-year agreement,” stated representatives involved in negotiating the contract.
