Sunday shows at the National Theatre (NT) have been brought a step closer, following a new deal between the NT and the theatre and entertainment union BECTU. NT technical staff in stage, lighting and sound are to be employed on a salary rather than receiving hourly rates plus overtime.
The NT sees this as benefiting both management and staff, by delivering security of earnings coupled with new financial efficiencies and flexibility in scheduling staff time. In a joint statement with Nick Starr, Executive Director of the NT, Willy Donaghy, BECTU Supervisory Official, said that the deal would “significantly increase basic pay rates and include arrangements for working Sunday performances which adequately compensate members and include quality time off work for current and future BECTU members”. The plan involves separate negotiations with the different departments of the NT as well as with Equity and the Musicians’ Union. Sunday shows are planned for the summer, provided that all the departments have made workable agreements.