skip to main content

Upcoming Dirty Dancing Protests in the Midlands

Join MU members demonstrating in support of live music prior to performances of Dirty Dancing in Northampton, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton. Keep music live!

Published: 24 October 2016 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

Join members of the Musicians’ Union (MU) demonstrating in support of live music prior to performances of Dirty Dancing in Northampton, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton.

You may be aware that there is an on-going issue with the Dirty Dancing touring show.

An unauthorised recording, made outside of the UK, is being used in this show instead of the live band of ten or eight musicians used in previous productions. This show features only five actor-musicians and, whilst there is some live music, the majority of what is heard 'out front' is a pre-recorded soundtrack.

This is not clear to the audience, who might expect the music in a theatre production to be played live. Despite this scaled-back production, ticket prices remain comparable with all previous tours of Dirty Dancing.

The Union’s had a presence at every theatre on the tour so far. Please join MU members and your Midlands team in Northampton, Stoke-on-Trent or Wolverhampton.

  • Northampton: Royal & Derngate, from 6pm on Monday 31 October
  • Stoke-on-Trent: Regent Theatre, from 6pm on Monday 7 November
  • Wolverhampton: The Grand Theatre, from 6pm on Monday 28 November.

Please let us know if you are interested in coming by emailing midlands@theMU.org or by calling us on 0121 236 4028.

Can’t make it on the day? Tweet your support using the hashtags #DirtyDancing and #KeepMusicLive.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre
Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales
Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers
Tom standing in front of the door to Lio London cabaret (formerly the Café de Paris), in October, 2024.

Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)

Tom O’Connor, a talented drummer who performed in the West End, on multiple cruise ships and even at Queen Elizabeth’s garden party, passed away at the age of 89 in March 2026. He was a lifelong member of the Musicians’ Union for 68 years, having joined in 1958.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)