Our new three-year agreement with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was approved by AGMA members and ratified by AGMA’s Board of Governors on July 28, 2025.
This agreement delivers meaningful gains in wages, benefits, and protections, with guaranteed workweeks, across-the-board raises, and significant improvements for both dancers and production staff. The contract also breaks new ground with a commitment to paid parental leave, new benefits for Artists on visas, and stronger equity and wellness provisions—all reflecting a forward-thinking, inclusive approach to collective bargaining.
Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this agreement!
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS
Stability and Financial Growth
- Wage Increases Across the Board – Raises of 2%– 4.25% in the first year, followed by 3% in years two and three
- Three-Year Agreement with Guaranteed Workweeks – 40-40-39 structure ensures reliable employment
- Significant Raise for Production Assistants – Weekly rate increased by 14.5%
- Increased Compensation – Higher rates for overtime, penalties, travel overtime, per diems, and special contract provisions like Extraordinary Risk
- First-Time Delegate Pay – AGMA delegate work now officially memorialized in the CBA
Production Staff Protections
- New Overtime Limits – Introduced OT caps to support Production Staff work-life balance
- Load-In/Performance Bonus – 1/6 bonus for days with both a load-in and performance, recognizing the intensity of these days
Equity and Inclusion
- Employer-Paid Unemployment Benefit for Artists Working on Visas – A groundbreaking benefit for Artists facing immigration-based barriers to receiving unemployment insurance
- Paid Parental Leave – A historic first: commitment to implement paid parental leave with alternative work options by early 2026
Dancer Wellness and Artistic Integrity
- Three Cast Guarantee – Ensures dancer sustainability and safety through better workload distribution
- Improved Casting Timelines – Advance notice for touring and engagements allows for better preparation and planning
- Formalized Evaluation and Reengagement Process – Brings greater transparency and fairness to dancer review cycles
- Artistic Advisory Committee Established – Creates a formal space for Artists to contribute their voices to artistic decisions
Health and Scheduling Enhancements
- Wellness Stipend Boosted – $100 increase with broader allowable uses
- Advance Scheduling Improved – Schedules now guaranteed at least 2 days in advance
- Preserved Protections – Temperature safeguards and bathtub access maintained for dancer health and recovery