Bectu/UK Theatre Agreement

What is the Bectu / UK Theatre Agreement?

The Bectu/UK Theatre Agreement is the foundational national framework governing the minimum pay, terms and working conditions for non-performing and backstage staff at most commercial and subsidised theatres across the UK.

Negotiated by Bectu and UK Theatre (UKT), the organisation representing theatre employers, this collective bargaining agreement establishes the baseline of rates and standards for theatre workers who work in venues operated by UKT member bodies.

Bectu has separate collective agreements covering the West End (Bectu/SOLT Agreement) and small-scale independent theatre companies (Bectu/ITC Agreement). 

Which roles are covered by the Agreement?

The Agreement covers theatre staff working in the following roles:

• Box office
• Administration
• Technical staff
• Front of House
• Performance and firemen
• Stage door
• Catering staff
• Cleaners
• Casual staff
• Support staff (including chaperones)
• Wigs and wardrobe

How do I know if my venue or employer falls under the Agreement?

All current UK Theatre member organisations are listed below.

Can I get terms and conditions above the Bectu / UK Theatre Agreement minimums?

In short, yes.

Bectu members are organised at several UKT venues and have achieved union recognition and/or negotiated house agreements, i.e. agreements pertaining to working at that specific venue.

Where these house agreements exist, members should assess how the terms and conditions compare to those in the Bectu / UK Theatre Agreement. The Bectu branch at that venue can then consult with the employer if members want any changes.

Union recognition is achievable with a majority of staff in your union and is the best way of negotiating improvements to your pay, terms and conditions. Here’s testimony from a Bectu rep who negotiates house agreements at Theatre Royal Newcastle.

Read this blog post about what union recognition is:

You can find out more about unionising your venue by contacting your Bectu official or the Arts & Entertainment Division via a&[email protected].

How can I get more involved if I’m already a Bectu member?

Recruit your colleagues to your union

For each colleague you recruit, Bectu will give you a £15 lifestyle voucher, or you can donate it to charity.

For help recruiting, contact your Bectu official or check out these resources:

• Watch this session delivered by Bectu organisers for advice on talking about your union to colleagues
• Read: Your guide to talking about your union

Become a Bectu rep

If your venue needs a Bectu rep, could you take on the role? Or do you know a colleague who you think would make a good rep?

Already a rep?