Local stagehands’ union backs Hillary Clinton
The local stagehands' union announced Thursday that it is supporting the presidential candidacy of Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y.
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees' Local 720, which represents workers at Strip trade shows and theatrical productions, claims about 4,500 members and affiliated workers in Las Vegas. Their work includes everything from rigging and audio to makeup and special effects.
In a news release, union president Hal Ritzer said the membership voted unanimously to support Clinton because they believe her candidacy "is in the best interest of all working men and women and their families."
The New York City chapter of the union, Local 1, ended its strike Wednesday after more than two weeks that saw many Broadway shows shuttered.
The Las Vegas local is involved in an ongoing dispute with "Blue Man Group." Since the show moved from Luxor to The Venetian, the quirky modern mime production has resisted negotiating with the union, although its workers have voted to join.
The dispute is currently in federal court, and the show is being boycotted by the AFL-CIO.
