Italian theater workers strike over national contract disputes

Theater and entertainment workers in Italy are conducting strikes and protests across the Emilia-Romagna region following the breakdown of negotiations for a national collective bargaining agreement. The dispute centers on a contract that has been expired since 2021, leading to a lack of salary adjustments to account for inflation and the rising cost of living.

In Reggio Emilia, high participation in the strike resulted in the cancellation of a scheduled performance at the Cavallerizza. Labor unions, including Slc Cgil, organized demonstrations and flyer distribution to engage with the public regarding demands for professional dignity, stability, and wage increases. Workers from the Fondazione Nazionale della Danza also participated in the mobilization.

In Ferrara, protesters gathered at the Teatro Comunale. The strike led to the cancellation of a concert by the Orchestra della Toscana, which will be rescheduled for the 2027/2028 season. Union representatives emphasized that the primary issue is the failure to renew the contract and provide wage updates that reflect recent economic shifts.