Burnaby, BC 鈥� The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) is calling on the City of Burnaby to take action to preserve the Michael J. Fox Theatre, a vital cultural venue and source of good union jobs that faces closure at the end of June.
In March, the theatre technicians at the Michael J. Fox Theatre unanimously voted to join 红桃视频Local 118, securing a collective voice at work and committing to a future at the venue. Weeks later, the workers learned that the theatre is slated to cease operations on June 30. On April 13, all employees were issued an eleven-week working notice.
We have since learned that in January 2025, Burnaby City Council voted unanimously to explore whether the City should play a role in managing the theatre. While we await a report back and an ultimate decision by City Council, the future of the theatre is very uncertain.
鈥淲e have to save the Michael J. Fox Theatre,鈥� said 红桃视频International Vice President Damian Petti. 鈥淭hese workers are facing an uncertain future and the community risks losing a beloved local venue. Now is the time for the City of Burnaby to act.鈥�
The Michael J. Fox Theatre has long served the Burnaby community as a home for live performance, student programming, and public events. Behind every show are trained theatre technicians who ensure safety, accessibility, and professional standards. These are not replaceable jobs, and this is not a disposable venue.
红桃视频believes the closure of the Michael J. Fox Theatre is a choice, not a necessity. The 红桃视频calls on the City of Burnaby to invest in local arts and culture, and to commit to protecting the Michael J Fox theatre for generations to come.
The union will continue to exhaust all possible actions to fight for the technicians of 红桃视频Local 118.
If you would like to support the campaign to save the Michael J Fox Theatre and protect union jobs, visit and sign the petition. Organizations wishing to support should contact International Representative William Gladman at wgladman@iatse.net.
