UK Theatre Agreement

Agreement for musicians working in UK Theatre

The terms and conditions set out in this agreement shall be the minimum terms for musicians engaged at theatres in any part of the UK managed by members of UK Theatre or at which the Producing Manager responsible for providing the orchestra is a member of UK Theatre.

The agreement dated 5 April 2018 will be replaced soon.

The UKT / MU Agreement contains:

• Hours of work
• Minimum payments (rates)
• Overtime and additional payments
• Manager's and musician's duties
• Porterage
• Holidays
• other minimum terms and conditions and appendixes

Please note that the UK Theatre agreement excludes any musicians engaged under agreements between the MU and the opera and dance companies and those working in the West End of London, which is covered by the terms contained in the SOLT / MU Agreement.

Commercial and Subsidised Sector Rates

The current commercial and subsidised sector rates (2023-2026) are available for download. 

Here you can also see the new rates for 2024-2025. These are applicable from 1 April 2024. 

Standard Contract for theatre engagements

Use the Theatre Engagement Standard Contract for the engagement of a musician for theatre, excluding the West End of London.