West End pay deal agreed by Society of London Theatre and Equity prevents strike
The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and Equity have agreed a proposed three-year pay and conditions deal for West End performers and stage management, averting planned strike action. The substantive offer promises significant improvements to pay, leave entitlements and working arrangements until 2029.
The new agreement between SOLT and Equity is set to run from April 2026 through April 2029. It includes a minimum pay increase of at least 13.5% over the period alongside enhanced holiday and family leave provisions. The deal also introduces more flexible working arrangements for producers and managers.
Additional payments will be made for specific responsibilities such as fight captains and social media representatives, as well as increased differentials for stage management roles. Holiday entitlements rise by two days to 30 by the third year of the contract, with more paid maternity, adoption, paternity leave, and injury leave for performers involved in shows.
Provisions have been improved to cover inclusive wigs, hair and make-up, greater accessibility in casting and auditions, and progress towards a five-day week in rehearsals. The agreement aims to balance fair treatment of performers with the operational needs of producers in the West End.
Claire Walker, co-chief executive of SOLT, described the deal as “a fair, sustainable, and long-term agreement which recognises the contribution of performers and stage management, while giving producers the certainty and flexibility they need.” She added that it “delivers meaningful improvements to pay and conditions” and supports better work-life balance.
The offer will now be subject to an online ballot of eligible Equity members, who are being recommended to accept the terms. If ratified, the agreement will take immediate effect.
Earlier this year, Equity members had voted in favour of strike action if negotiations with SOLT failed, signalling the high stakes of this settlement. This deal thus represents a crucial resolution to labour tensions in London’s flagship theatre district.
