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

Members and visitors to last year's MU stall at the festival, holding instruments and banners.

Derby’s Annual Silk Mill Festival Returns for 2025

The MU returns to the Derby Silk Mill Festival on Saturday 7 June. This landmark event celebrates the Midlands Labour movement – uniting people in honour of past struggles and present-day solidarity with marches, talks and activities for the whole family.

Published: 02 June 2025

Read more about Derby’s Annual Silk Mill Festival Returns for 2025
A bouquet of flowers resting on an empty theatre seat.

Stop the Closure of Riverside Theatre in Northern Ireland

The MU is concerned to learn of the proposal to close The Riverside Theatre in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, and urges members to get involved by signing the petition and joining the peaceful protest taking place on Tuesday 3 June 2025.

Published: 02 June 2025

Read more about Stop the Closure of Riverside Theatre in Northern Ireland
Daniel stood against a tree at sunset, holding a flute, with a forest and lake in the background.

How I Use AI as a Professional Musician — and Why I’m Still Cautious

In this honest and informative blog, composer, post-production specialist, tutor, flautist, and MU member Daniel Finch explores how musicians are using AI in their work—sharing insights from his own research and outlining the potential benefits, risks, and ethical challenges.

Published: 27 May 2025

Read more about How I Use AI as a Professional Musician — and Why I’m Still Cautious