For the first time in ten years, Equity is inviting members and non-members to take part in a landmark state of the nation survey of the pantomime sector.
Launched this week to capture the real experiences of performers, stage management and creatives working in panto across the UK, the major new survey is open to anyone who has worked on a pantomime production in the last 12 months, including performers, stage management and creative teams.
Equity last carried out a national pantomime survey in 2016. By comparing the results of the new survey with the previous findings, the union will be able to identify emerging trends, measure improvements, and appraise and address gaps to cover.
By better understanding the sector, we can harness the good examples highlighted as the standards to be expected, and we can shine a light on the worst offenders for poor and unlawful working practices
Karrim Jalali, Equity Industrial Official
The union says the results of the survey will help “shine a light on the worst offenders for poor and unlawful working practices”, with the information being used to hold employers to account and fight for sector-wide improvements.
The results will also help the union build a stronger understanding of the general terms and conditions, new trends and improvements, across a sector that contributes significantly to the UK economy and employs large numbers of Equity members and prospective members.
Karrim Jalali, Equity Industrial Official, said:
“We cannot overstate the significance of this survey. We have made major strides in the pantomime sector in the last ten years, ensuring many more producers honour the basic rights of performers and stage management, and increasing collective agreements in the sector including agreeing a collective agreement with Crossroads Pantomimes, the largest panto producer in the world. However, there is still much more to do. By better understanding the sector, we can harness the good examples highlighted as the standards to be expected, and we can shine a light on the worst offenders for poor and unlawful working practices and use the evidence to bring about change. We encourage all eligible members and non-members to take part.”
The survey takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete on average, and all responses will play a vital role in helping Equity fight for a fairer, safer and more sustainable panto industry.
