skip to main content

Working to Re-Open the West End

The Stage have published details of a confidential letter received by the Union from the Society of London Theatre several weeks ago.

Published: 10 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of closed theatre curtains
Any variations to our agreements with Theatre producers would of course be thoroughly consulted on. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU and SOLT are working in collaboration to try to get West End productions back on their feet as soon as possible, with the safety of musicians in mind as well as the economics for all concerned.

Opening with partial capacity will obviously be extremely difficult. The Union and SOLT are lobbying the government for a support package to ensure survival of the theatre industry.

Both organisations are also involved in many high level meetings as the music business and wider creative industries plan for a phased reopening of workplaces.

The leaked letter was an early proposal, has been discussed by the relevant Union committee and negotiations have moved on.

Any variations to our agreements with Theatre producers would of course be thoroughly consulted on, including via a formal ballot of MU members engaged on suspended productions.

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

The UK and EU flags, waved together in front of Big Ben in London.

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

The EU/UK Culture Forum has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to rejoin Creative Europe from 2027. The programme supports funding and cultural collaboration across Europe, and the MU is encouraging members to sign and show their support.

Published: 26 February 2026

Read more about MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme
A crowd with their hands raised at a music festival.

MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham

Taking place from 7-9 May, FOCUS Wales is an international showcase spotlighting over 250 artists and featuring industry sessions, arts events, film screenings and more. The MU will be hosting a series of coffee morning drop-in sessions, as well as an afternoon mixer event.

Published: 24 February 2026

Read more about MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham
Empty music classroom with seats and sheet stands.

Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks

From 17 February 2026, legislative changes in Northern Ireland allow self-employed musicians working with children and vulnerable adults to apply for an Enhanced AccessNI disclosure check through a registered Umbrella Body.

Published: 23 February 2026

Read more about Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks