The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Dance Theatre of Harlem announced the ratification of a
collective bargaining agreement, marking their first union contract in many years.
Ratified by the company artists of Dance Theatre of Harlem and approved by Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Board of Directors and AGMA’s Board of Governors, the new agreement reflects a shared commitment to artistic excellence, equity, sustainability and the long-term well-being of the company artists. The Dance Theatre of Harlem company artists were formerly AGMA members for more than a decade starting in the late 1980s, but this agreement marks their first union contract in many years.
“As the company’s first union contract in decades, this agreement reflects a renewed commitment to collaboration and care,” said AGMA delegates and company artists Micah Bullard, Delaney Washington and David Wright. “We’re proud of what this contract secures for the dancers of Dance Theatre of Harlem today and the strong foundation it lays for the future.”
The agreement includes a new compensation structure resulting in average wage increases of 29% effective July 1, 2026, and additional wage increases in subsequent years; establishes clear standards around scheduling and rest; strengthens health and safety protections; provides meaningful improvements to touring conditions; and creates new, structured channels for dialogue between artists and board leadership, strengthening transparency, mutual understanding and shared stewardship of Dance Theatre of Harlem’s mission.
“This agreement is a unique example of what’s possible when artists and management come to the table with a shared commitment to partnership,” said Jeffrey Boyd, AGMA national executive director. “What makes this contract especially meaningful is not only what it achieves on paper, but the spirit in which it was reached—a spirit that we look forward to building on together in the years ahead.”