The Musicians’ Union (MU) is holding a demonstration prior to the performance of Dirty Dancing at the Orchard Theatre in Dartford on Friday 2 September at 4pm in protest at the fact that the current production, dubbed the ‘ultimate live experience’, features more recorded music and fewer live musicians than previous tours.
An unauthorised recording, made outside of the UK, is being used in this show and instead of the live band of ten or eight musicians used in previous productions; this show features only five musicians. Despite this scaled-back production; ticket prices remain comparable with all previous tours of Dirty Dancing.
Horace Trubridge, MU Assistant General Secretary says:
‘In a musical, live musicians are a fundamental part of the show; for quality, audience enjoyment and value for money. The MU fought for more live music in the current production of Dirty Dancing, but the producer refused and therefore we believe the all-important musical element of the show is compromised.
‘Returning fans keen to see this show based on their enjoyment of previous tours may be disappointed to witness the apparent cost-cutting changes that have been made. The MU believes that live theatre should be just that – live.’
For further information please contact Kelly Wood on 07775 895141 / kelly.wood@themu.org or Alex Mann on 07875 409724 / alex.mann@themu.org.
Notes to Editor
The Musicians' Union was established in 1893 and represents over 30,000 musicians working in all genres of music. As well as negotiating on behalf of its members with all the major employers in the industry, the MU offers a range of services tailored for the self-employed by providing assistance for professional and student musicians of all ages.