Well, wouldn't you know; the Metropolitan Opera has finally found some common ground. GM Peter Gelb and two of the Met's largest union factions have reached tentative labor deals, while negotiations for 10 other unions are still in progress.

Sources say that the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service announced agreements with Local 802 of the musicians' union and with the American Guild of Musical Artists, its orchestra and chorus.

Specific details are still to come.

A spokesman has announced, though, the Met will extend its original Sunday night contract deadline through midnight Tuesday with the remaining unions.

One of those labor groups, Local 1 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, is another major player in the discussions--representing stage hands, carpenters and electricians--major contributors to the success of the coming season.

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING

Join the Discussion