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Dancers of Saint Louis Ballet Take Steps to Unionize

Published October 11, 2022   |  By Musical Artists  |  Post in All Areas

10/11/2022 - With an overwhelming majority of support, the Dancers of Saint Louis Ballet have signed cards to form a union and join the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA).

“Dancers are extraordinarily dedicated artists and deserve to have a voice in their working lives. AGMA is here to support the Dancers of Saint Louis Ballet as they take the exciting first steps in their unionizing journey,” said Griff Braun, AGMA’s National Organizing Director. “It’s a very exciting time at AGMA and we are looking forward to welcoming these fantastic dancers into the fold.”

Saint Louis Ballet is located in Chesterfield, Missouri, employs 21 professional dancers, and stages five artistic productions each season. AGMA has officially notified Saint Louis Ballet management and is hopeful that the Company will respect its artists’ wishes and voluntarily recognize the Union. The Company has until close of business on Friday, October 14 to respond.

The Dancers have also sent their own letter to Saint Louis Ballet’s management and Board of Directors. A part of the letter states, “This decision was made after extensive discussion and careful consideration about the best steps to ensure the success of Saint Louis Ballet and its current and future dancers…This decision is intended to bring the dancers and leadership of the Company closer together. We hope to create a brighter future for Saint Louis Ballet and solidify its place in the American ballet community.”

AGMA will release more information as it becomes available.