Union stage crew workers in Columbus, Ohio have been in a prolonged battle with one of the largest live Entertainment companies in the Midwest for fair wages and benefits. Despite their hard work setting the stage for lucrative live performances, these workers are still denied fair compensation.
The live entertainment industry thrives on the excitement and passion of live music, creating a sense of community through shared experiences. However, behind the scenes, stage crew workers put in long hours and hard labor to ensure every show runs smoothly.
Many stage workers in Columbus lead transient lifestyles, taking freelance gigs wherever they can find them. This often means working long hours for low pay without access to healthcare or other benefits. Travis Lautenschager, a stage crew worker, found himself drawn into the fight for fair treatment after returning to Columbus during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Promowest, the largest independent entertainment company in the Midwest, has faced criticism for its failure to provide healthcare coverage for its stage crew employees. Despite efforts to unionize and negotiate fair contracts, workers continue to struggle with inadequate pay and benefits.
The Local 12 chapter of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and Moving Picture Technicians, Artists, and Allied Crafts of the United States and Canada (IATSE) represents stagehand employees at Promowest locations in Columbus. The union has faced challenges in negotiating with Promowest, leading to delays in securing fair wages and benefits for workers.
Despite these setbacks, Local 12 stagehands remain committed to their fight for fair treatment. They understand the importance of live entertainment to the community and are calling for support in their efforts to secure better working conditions.
Travis Lautenschager, who has worked in the industry for over a decade, emphasizes the need for change in the live entertainment sector. He has witnessed firsthand the disparities in pay and benefits compared to other regions and is determined to see improvements for workers in Columbus.
The ongoing struggle between the union and Promowest highlights the need for industry-wide changes to ensure fair treatment and compensation for all stage crew workers. As workers continue to push for better conditions, their resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who make live entertainment possible.
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