Musicians file labor complaint over use of recorded music in Casa Mañana production
The Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of the American Federation of Musicians has filed an unfair labor practice complaint against Casa Mañana for using recorded music in its production of “Matilda: The Musical.”
Stewart Williams, president of the American Federation of Musicians Local 72-147, said the union filed its complaint with the National Labor Relations Board last week, alleging that Casa Mañana violated its contract by using recorded music instead of live musicians during a “main stage” production, which is part of the theater’s Broadway series.
Monica Bermea, director of marketing with Casa Mañana, did not return a phone message from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram seeking comment.
Williams said in an interview that the musical was planned for the spring of 2020, and he was aware that there were plans to use recorded music, which is often the case for children’s theater productions.
But in December, Williams learned that “Matilda” was going to be a main stage production where musicians perform and recorded music isn’t used. The union and Casa Mañana couldn’t resolve their differences, which led to the unfair labor practices complaint.
“What is unprecedented here is that a main stage production at Casa doesn’t have live music. Historically, they have always had live music. That is why this is unprecedented as our contract has always provided for an orchestra,” Williams said.
“Matilda” runs through Feb. 13. The musical won four Tony awards.
Asked about “Matilda” ending on Feb. 13, Williams said the complaint was filed in hopes of preserving future performances for musicians.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit musicians hard, and many have been out of work for the duration, he said.
“I do want to stress that we support all the artistry that goes on at Casa and that we are proud of what they are doing with “Matilda,” and we believe it’s important that the inclusion of live music continues to be a part of the company’s tradition,” Williams said.
This story was originally published February 8, 2022 at 1:19 PM.