AGMA's new collective bargaining agreement with Atlanta Ballet has been ratified by AGMA leadership, after being overwhelmingly approved by the shop.
There have been multiple additions and improvements to the contract language, particularly when it comes to more equitable compensation for newer dancers. Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this 2-year agreement!
HIGHLIGHTS:
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
- New Dancer rate of $700 will replace the old Apprentice rate – fully $200 more
- Preserved existing wage structure and seniority for the rest of the company
- Approx. 5% increase for most dancers in the first year and 3% in the second year; with a higher increase for dancers below $1,000
- Increased complimentary tickets from 2 to 4
- Pension contributions snapped back to 3.5%
- New provision for 2 PTO days in addition to sick leave
- Increased minimum number of dancers from 23 to 27
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION and SAFETY:
- Eliminated Apprentice rank to remove barriers to entry for traditionally excluded dancers
- Gender-neutral language will be used
- New DEI section was added to reflect a commitment to review existing initiatives and additional policies at monthly Joint Committee meetings, and right to representation during any complaint procedure
- A new anti-discrimination and anti-harassment section was added to reflect legal requirements previously located only in Dancer Guide