New Artistic Finance Episode Looks at Backstage Work

A new episode of the Artistic Finance podcast delves into the issue of backstage workers with Bridin Clements Cotton and Natalie Robin, authors of the new book Theatre Work. The discussion explored how institutions can prioritize workers, the challenges of retention and training, and the broader implications of wages and accountability in the theatre industry.

A key takeaway from the conversation is how institutions can shift from focusing on material investments to the well-being of their workers. Cotton and Robin say institutions should prioritize paying for labor over acquiring new works or expanding facilities. Individuals who engage with these institutions -- as employees or visitors -- can help hold them accountable to their mission statements. This accountability extends to ensuring that workers receive not just a minimum wage, but one that supports a sustainable career in the arts.

Theatre has long been a challenging industry for sustainable careers, but recent surveys paint an even grimmer picture. In February 2022, as the live events industry began its recovery, 37% of workers considered leaving the field, a retention crisis that continues today. In July 2024, a broader workforce survey, not specific to the theatre, revealed that 28% of workers plan to leave their jobs this year. This data underscores the urgency of addressing turnover because when it comes to theatre, workers are not just leaving jobs but are exiting the industry altogether.

The challenges facing theatre workers are not linked to individual institutions. They reflect a broader issue that demands a collective response. "People leave a field that is harming them," Robin says The podcast discusses ensuring that workers receive the same protections -- like minimum wage, holiday pay, and parental leave -- that are standard in other industries, adding that doing so requires a collective effort.

While our discussion touched on many pressing issues, the podcast's creators note that other critical aspects of theatrical labor warrant further exploration. Equity, accessibility, and mental health are deeply intertwined with wages and working conditions, yet they require focused conversations. These topics are addressed in-depth in Theatre Work, offering a more comprehensive look at other challenges and potential solutions within the industry.

A statement from the podcast producers notes, "For those in leadership roles within theatrical institutions, our discussion offers several prompts to consider: How equitable is your compensation structure? Have you implemented succession plans? Are you providing professional development for all members of your organization? These questions, drawn from the Production On Deck survey, are crucial for fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace. By reflecting on these prompts, leaders can take concrete steps to improve working conditions and retain talent in the industry."

Clements Cotton is an arts manager, educator, and maker currently teaching stage and project management at NYU Abu Dhabi. With extensive experience in management and teaching roles, she is dedicated to using theatre as a space for human connection and collective meaning.

Robin is a lighting designer, labor organizer, and educator who serves as a full-time organizer for United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, IATSE. A passionate advocate for union protections, Robin is committed to deconstructing hierarchical and capitalist structures in theatrical collaboration.

Ethan Steimel is a lighting designer and host of Artistic Finance, a weekly podcast with theatre designers discussing personal and industry finances.

Watch the interview at www.youtube.com/watch?si=t07QzsllpdLunmvV&v=vj2qqnYbU8Q&feature=youtu.be.

Listen to the podcast at www.artisticfinance.com/161.html.