skip to main content

MU/UK Theatre agreement

Following the agreement being implemented in 2018 for a 3 year period.

Published: 28 August 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Orchestra musicians playing in theatre
Our agreement will be renegotiated going forward from 5 April 2021. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The written MU/UK Theatre agreement, following the redrafting process, is now available online. Part of the delay was the settling of negotiations between UK Theatre and the Actors union Equity. The rates for Subsistence and Touring Allowance have now been finalised. These are now in place however with some back dating provision attached.

  Subsistence Touring Allowance
8 April 2019 - 5 April 2020 £173.95 £260.00
6 April 2020 - 4 April 2021 £181.05 £285.00
5 April 2021 - 3 April 2022 £188.15 £300.00

 

Backdating for 2019-2020 applies as follows: ‘backdating is not required for shows which have ended since 8 April 2019 and whose accounts have closed before 1st August 2019’. If you feel you are owed Subsistence or Touring Allowance for this period please get in touch:  theatre@theMU.org

Our agreement will be renegotiated going forward from 5 April 2021.

If you wish to join the Theatre Section Committee then we will be seeking nominations for the 2020-2022 Committee early next year. Help shape the future of the agreement and your working conditions.

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

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry