The new collective bargaining agreement between AGMA and Boston Lyric Opera was approved by AGMA leadership on June 23, 2025, after being ratified by the shop.
AGMA members at Boston Lyric Opera have achieved a powerful new agreement that raises wages, strengthens workplace protections, and prioritizes equity and respect on and off the stage. From significant pay increases and up-front payments to groundbreaking new language around discrimination, air quality, and cultural competency, this contract sets a new standard for artists and production staff.
Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this three-year agreement!
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS:
Wages and Compensation
- Minimum rates for Principals and Stage Directors increased by 5%, 5%, and 3%
- Performance rates for Chorus and Dancers increased by 4%, 4%, and 3%, with hourly pay increased to $40
- Minimum rates for Assistant Stage Directors, Assistant Stage Managers, and Choreographers increased to $1,300 in the first year (more than 11% increase)
- Stage Manager rates increased to $1,600 in the first year, followed by 4% and 3% increases
- Guarantee of up-front payment for Principals
- Up-front payments for Stage Directors (33% on contracting, 33% at start of rehearsal, remainder on opening night)
Working Conditions and Scheduling
- Improved Free Day language for production staff
- New limitations on three-session days for Production Staff
- Improved breaks language for Production Staff
- Expanded definition of holidays, including prohibition on rehearsing or performing on Patriots’ Day
- New protections against rehearsing or performing during a poor Air Quality event
Equity, Inclusion, and Representation
- Expansion of anti-discrimination language, including a prohibition on discrimination based on gender identity or expression, pregnancy, and body size
- Right to union representation in meetings raising concerns of discrimination or harassment
- Requirement of cultural competency for diverse hair textures and skin tones as relates to wig, hair, and makeup
Union Rights and Infrastructure
- New Joint Labor-Management Committee established
- Paid time for union orientation on each production