Welsh National Opera Chorus Plans Unprecedented Walkouts Over Pay Cuts

The Welsh National Opera (WNO) chorus is set to embark on a series of unprecedented walkouts in response to proposed reductions in employment and compensation. This marks the first instance of such action in the company's 78-year history.

The initial protest is scheduled for September 21, 2024, coinciding with the premiere of Verdi's Rigoletto. Chorus members plan to refrain from singing during the opening nights of three new productions. Concurrently, orchestra members intend to engage in "action short of a strike," which may include wearing protest attire, distributing informational materials to attendees, and delivering speeches on stage.

These actions stem from the WNO's recent proposals to reduce pay, decrease working hours, and implement staff reductions. The opera company has faced significant financial challenges following funding cuts from arts councils in England and Wales. In 2022, the Arts Council England reduced WNO's annual grant from £6.2 million to £4 million, while the Arts Council of Wales decreased its funding to £4 million, representing an 11.8% reduction.

Equity, the trade union representing the WNO chorus, reports that the proposed changes would result in a minimum 15% pay cut for chorus members, along with reduced contracted hours and some involuntary job losses. The decision to strike received overwhelming support, with 93% of members voting in favor on a 100% turnout.

The Musicians' Union has expressed concern that these measures would effectively reset their members' salaries to levels from five years ago. Jo Laverty, the union's national organizer for orchestras, stated, "We cannot accept another opera orchestra being forced into part-time, less secure employment due to management decisions and what appears to be an assault on the profession by funders."

Several prominent figures in the entertainment industry have voiced their support for the WNO and expressed concern about the potential impact on Wales' musical heritage. Michael Sheen, Sir Simon Rattle, and Katherine Jenkins have suggested that these measures could jeopardize Wales' reputation as "the land of song."

The WNO, founded in 1946 and based in Cardiff, has acknowledged the situation and expressed a commitment to finding a solution that addresses the needs of chorus members while recognizing the company's financial constraints following the significant reduction in public funding.

"We will work to find a solution which works for chorus members, while recognizing the reality of WNO's financial situation following significant cuts to our public funding."

Throughout its history, the WNO has been renowned for its Verdi productions and has consistently championed new operas. The company has performed internationally and maintains a youth opera program to nurture emerging talent. As the situation unfolds, the opera world watches closely to see how this esteemed institution will navigate these challenging circumstances while preserving its artistic integrity and supporting its dedicated performers.