AGMA’s new three-year agreement with The Washington Ballet was approved by AGMA members and ratified by AGMA’s Board of Governors on August 25, 2025.
This agreement brings significant raises to Artists’ wage scales and major improvements for dancers, especially for first- and second-year dancers, in removing financial barriers that prevent dancers from entering the industry. The agreement also guarantees earlier schedule postings, safer working conditions, better travel standards, and stronger protections across the board.
Let’s share some highlights! Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this agreement.
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS:
Wages & Pay Structure
- Year 1 (2025–26): +3.5~27.6%
- Year 2 (2026–27): +3.5~4.5%
- Year 3 (2027–28): +3.0~3.5%
- Continued progress from 2022 negotiations with removal of Apprentice rates and significant wage scale increases to first and second-year dancers.
Seniority
- Seniority pay now begins in the fourth year (down from the fifth).
Reimbursements & Fees
- Local transportation reimbursement increased from $11 to $15.
- Increases to Extraordinary Risk, Rehearsal Assistant, Delegate, Masterclass, per diem, Social Media Takeover, and other fees.
Protections & Scheduling
- Covers: No Artist will be the sole dancer covering a role in a ballet/dance piece.
- Scheduling: Earlier posting deadlines for work schedules.
- Hotels: Higher minimum standards for accommodations.
- Working conditions:
- Higher minimum indoor temperatures
- Lower maximum outdoor temperatures
- Photography/Video: A comprehensive update to the section regarding media usage and Artists’ rights.