2008 Woodie Awards
Radio City Musicians Go on Strike
Gina Saccaro Staff Reporter
Issue date: 10/6/05 Section: A & E
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According to the union, the famous Christmas Spectacular the most in jeopardy. During Christmas season, the band plays up to six shows a day.
The president of Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, David Lennon said Cablevision, which is responsible for Radio City, is not willing to pay the 35-piece orchestra overtime. The weekly base pay for the musicians is $1,600 for 12 shows a week.
"Cablevision is attacking one of the basic, fundamental rights of American workers, which is providing overtime pay for overtime work," said Lennon.
"I think that the music adds a lot to the show but its not the main focus. It may stop some people from going but if they have the music on tape and play that during the show, I think people will still go," said Andrea Davenport, sophomore, Northport, N.Y.
The orchestra's contract expired this past May and according to Lennon, the groups in charge of pay have been meeting to discuss new contracts all summer. They have not yet been able to reach an agreement.
There was a set contract negotiation that took place last Thursday. Radio City Entertainment released the following statement last Wednesday: "While we typically do not comment on labor negotiations, we will say that we fully expect to reach an agreement with our musicians."
"The shows have been around for so long, I don't think that people will complain, as long as the show goes on. I also think that the people in charge should give the orchestra the pay they deserve. They work just as hard as other people who work overtime," said Jackie Stephens, sophomore, Ridgefield Park, N.J.
The New York City Ballet union went on strike in 2000, and the 13 performances of "The Nutcracker" went on as scheduled with taped music. However in March 2003, a four-day walkout by Local 802 shut down almost all Broadway musicals.
"I think that some people will complain about the musicians not being at the shows. But those who are true fans will probably stand by them and try to support whatever they are on strike for," said Lauren Pigninelli, sophomore, Nutley, N.J.
If the band does not agree with the contract negotiations, it is possible for the show to still go on. However, the music in such shows as the Christmas Spectacular is important and vital to the shows performance.
The show-goers are either going to complain that there is no live music, or they will enjoy the show either way. Regardless, something needs to be done in order to save the Radio City Musicians.