Philadelphia, PA — On July 1, production employees at Philadelphia’s World Cafe Live officially became members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 8, after the venue’s management voluntarily recognized the workers’ union. The group includes 25 workers in production classifications such as audio, lighting, video, and stagehand roles.
Located in Philadelphia’s University City neighborhood, World Cafe Live is a nonprofit independent organization known for its artist-first mission, acoustics, and cultural programming. The venue hosts a diverse array of events, including WXPN radio broadcasts, live concerts, private rentals, and community-focused programming.
Beginning in June, Production Department employees mobilized to sign union authorization cards with IATSE Local 8, ultimately receiving voluntary recognition of their union shortly thereafter. The recognition marks a major milestone in the venue’s history, establishing formal representation for its skilled production workforce for the first time.
“We’re proud to welcome the World Cafe Live production team into the IATSE,” said Dan Little, IATSE International Representative. “This voluntary recognition reflects a shared commitment to fairness, professionalism, and partnership. It’s a win for the workers, for World Cafe Live, and for the broader Philadelphia arts community.”
“I am thrilled that the production team of World Cafe Live that I love so much is now represented by IATSE,” said Adam Henaghan, an audio engineer at the venue. “With our new empowerment and resources, we’re looking forward to producing bigger and better things for the city of Philadelphia.”
With recognition secured, workers now look ahead to negotiating a first collective bargaining agreement with World Cafe Live that reflects their contributions while building a collaborative relationship with venue management.
World Cafe Live production workers join a growing list of crews across the country unionizing to improve conditions and strengthen the live events industry. If you are interested in joining the movement, head to iatse.net/join to contact an organizer.
