The English National Opera (ENO) is on the verge of a potential strike as members of Equity, the performing arts union, consider balloting for industrial action. The dispute revolves around proposed pay cuts of 40% for ENO chorus members, coupled with contract reductions in light of the planned shortening of the opera season in London.

Key Points:

1.Pay Cut Proposal

Equity is challenging ENO’s plan to slash chorus salaries by 40% and reduce their contracts. The union argues that such a significant loss of income would be detrimental to the livelihoods of its members.

2.Strike Vote

Members of the ENO chorus, represented by Equity, are set to vote in early January on whether to initiate a campaign of industrial action. The union aims to protect the work, pay, and terms and conditions essential for the survival of its members.

3.Resignation of Music Director

Earlier in the year, ENO’s music director, Martyn Brabbins, resigned in response to the announced cuts. He expressed concern that the proposed changes would compromise the artistic integrity of the company and negatively impact the livelihoods of musicians.

4.Orchestral Position Cuts

The ENO’s cost-cutting measures also include a proposal to eliminate 19 orchestral positions and shift the remaining musicians to part-time contracts. This has raised concerns about the long-term impact on the artistic output of the renowned performing company.

5.Arts Council England’s Role

Arts Council England’s removal of the ENO from its national portfolio resulted in the company losing its £12.8 million annual grant. Critics lambasted the decision to instruct the company to move outside London to qualify for future grants.

6.Shift to Greater Manchester

Despite facing challenges, the ENO recently announced Greater Manchester as its future home. The company is excited about potential collaborations with the region’s arts community. They are committed to inspiring and creating work for new audiences.

Conclusion

The ENO, currently in a dispute with its chorus members represented by Equity, highlights challenges for arts organizations. They grapple with adapting to funding changes and navigating the delicate balance between financial sustainability and artistic integrity. The potential strike at ENO emphasizes the urgency for a resolution. This resolution must address performers’ concerns and ensure the continued success of the English National Opera.