skip to main content

Outrage Over Cinderella Closure Announcement on Social Media

The MU has expressed its outrage, along with fellow unions, after musicians, cast and crew engaged on West End’s Cinderella only learnt of its planned closure through social media.

Published: 03 May 2022 | 3:00 PM Updated: 04 May 2022 | 11:36 AM
Blurred photo of a busy street in the west end, with well lit and colourful shopfronts open.
“Work in the West End usually offers a level of certainty and security to self-employed musicians.” Photo credit: Shutterstock

It was announced on Sunday 1 May that Andrew Lloyd Webber's West End show, Cinderella, would be closing on 12 June. However, some musicians, cast and crew engaged on the musical have spoken up about how they learnt about the planned closure through news and social media before being informed about it themselves.

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl commented on the move:

"It is completely unacceptable for musicians, cast and crew engaged on West End's Cinderella to learn of its planned closure on social media. Given the patience and understanding shown by our members working in the West End throughout the pandemic, this has caused a huge amount of upset.

“Work in the West End usually offers a level of certainty and security to self-employed musicians. They were thrilled to be involved in the production and they certainly deserved better treatment than this. We stand in outrage with fellow unions representing the cast and crew."

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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action
Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters