Union files labor complaint against NYC Opera

Workers seek to stop move from Lincoln Center

5/26/2011

NEW YORK — A union representing New York City Opera workers has filed a federal complaint saying the financially troubled company’s plans to move out of Lincoln Center after 45 years are aimed at undermining performers’ labor rights.

The American Guild of Musical Artists says the move to a smaller venue and a shorter schedule will mean less work for union members. It filed a complaint Thursday with the National Labor Relations Board saying the opera should have negotiated with the union.

The union represents about 200 opera workers, including about 50 choristers and 10 production workers.

An opera spokeswoman says the filing is without merit. The opera announced last week it was moving out of Lincoln Center and will do only three full-scale operas next season instead of five.