Ratification solidifies new contract with the League of American Theatres and Producers.

By Jonathan Zipper

NEW YORK (Hollywood Today) 12/10/07 – Almost two weeks after going back to work, the Broadway stagehands cast their votes on a new contract with producers on Sunday, and union members widely approved the deal.

While he would not disclose any further details from the meeting, spokesman for the stagehands, Bruce Cohen, confirmed the results. “It was an overwhelming ratification,” Cohen said.

For producers, the stagehands’ acceptance of the deal means shows are now completely in the clear, which will be important for both theatres and the city of New York as Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach.

“We are pleased that Local 1 has ratified the contract,” announced League of American Theatres and Producers executive director Charlotte St. Martin. “Come and see a show this season.”

Broadway lost millions of dollars when the stagehands began striking on November 10. Although the walkout lasted less than three weeks, the Thanksgiving weekend was a wash, hurting theatres and restaurants throughout Manhattan.

The stagehand strike ended on November 28.