Crew of Off-Broadway's Little Shop of Horrors Votes to Join IATSE

In a move that further solidifies the union's influence Off Broadway, production employees of Little Shop of Horrors have voted to join The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). It is the fourth off-Broadway group to unionize since IATSE launched its organizing efforts earlier this year. The successful recognition vote follows similar outcomes at the off-Broadway musical Titanique and Atlantic Theatre, where workers also voted overwhelmingly in favor of IATSE representation.

The crew, comprising 26 members responsible for various production aspects including audio, video, carpentry, properties, electrics, wardrobe, hair, and makeup, nearly unanimously supported unionization. The official National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) election results showed 16 "yes" votes and only one "no" vote.

The Off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors began at the Westside Theatre with previews in September 2019, and has amassed over 1,000 performances in an open-ended run. In November 2023, Little Shop employees initiated their organizing drive alongside crews from other Off-Broadway theaters. Despite facing legal obstacles from the show's producers -- who contracted the services of the law firm, Littler Mendelson -- the vote to unionize prevailed. The NLRB ultimately dismissed all legal challenges and ordered a mail-in election, with ballots counted on April 18.

This victory adds momentum to the Off-Broadway organizing trend, underscoring workers' recognition of the importance of collective bargaining and solidarity in achieving improved conditions. "We are fighting for portable health benefits and fair wages," says one crewmember. "Joining forces with the IATSE is our pathway to success to achieve these goals."

"Off-Broadway workers are uniting with the IATSE for their mutual aid and protection," says ATSE's lead Off-Broadway organizer, Dan Little. "This campaign has momentum and it's not stopping anytime soon."