Los Angeles, CA — Wardrobe workers at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre represented by IATSE Local 768 will be leafletting outside the venue starting Thursday, November 11th at 7pm PST to demand equal treatment.
The workers, who are predominantly women and LGBTQ+, are paid $99 less per performance on average and receive 60% less in contributions to health care and retirement plans compared to the stagehands they work alongside.
Wardrobe workers say they are committed to providing exquisite experiences for patrons and such commitment should be met with equal wages, health coverage, and dignity.
“We’re highly skilled in our crafts and are often the first in the theatre and the last to leave.” Said wardrobe worker Jamie Brown. “We are behind every costume change and emergency repair that contributes to the performances you see. We deserve a better quality of life and peace of mind that our retirement will be enough when we need it.”
IATSE Local 768 President Mary Basile believes the artistry and craftmanship that the wardrobe crew brings to performances is severely undervalued. “Wardrobe is an intricate part of portraying the story being told onstage. We are asking for a fair and living wage that reflects the hard work put into building and continuously maintaining each costume piece to ensure they look their best for every performance.”
Wardrobe workers are encouraging patrons and community members to join a letter-writing campaign addressed to Pantages leadership that demands equal pay and benefits for the wardrobe staff.
