West End performers demand pay rise

West End performers and stage managers have demanded a 17% pay hike, arguing that existing pay and working conditions are making it hard to retain talent and promote diversity in the industry.

Performer's union Equity has submitted a pay claim on their behalf to the Society of London Theatre and has warned that strike action is possible if the claim is rejected.

Equity has launched a campaign called Stand Up for 17% to coincide with the submission of the claim.

Equity’s General Secretary Paul W Fleming said: “Coming out of Covid, our industry was determined to ‘build back better’, and Equity’s West End campaign on work, rest and pay is the start of making that aspiration a reality. 

"At a time of high inflation, our members have decided to Stand Up For 17% – a sensible rise in the minimum when rents, energy, and other costs have continued to rocket for over a year."

The claim has been informed by the findings of a survey, conducted by Equity in August 2022, which found that 61% of its members working in the West End have considered leaving the industry in the past three years due to "inadequate pay" and "difficult working hours".