Paris, May 29 – A strike by a segment of the Paris Opera personnel on Thursday, May 28, led to the cancellation of the highly anticipated premiere of the opera ‘Ercole Amante’ at the Opéra Bastille. The industrial action, stemming from salary disputes, marks the fifth such disruption in just over a month for the prestigious institution.
Strike Action Over “Fair and Equitable Remuneration”
The cancellation was confirmed by both the Paris Opera management and the Sud Spectacle union. “We regret to inform you that the performance of ‘Ercole Amante’ on May 28 (…) at the Opéra Bastille is canceled due to a strike movement followed by a part of the staff,” the institution announced on its website.
A central union delegate from Sud Spectacle, who wished to remain anonymous, told AFP that “anger is rising within the collectives towards the opera’s management.” The union is protesting a collective agreement signed on March 31 by management and three other unions (CFDT, CGT, and FO), but not by Sud Spectacle. This agreement introduces a new remuneration system for approximately 500 technical staff, costume designers, prop masters, and reception agents.
Sud Spectacle, which is the majority union for this category of personnel, argues that the new system does not allow for “fair and equitable remuneration.” They are also demanding a “significant revaluation” of a bonus integrated into salaries, a long-standing claim.
Management Cites Valid Agreement, Ongoing Discussions
The management of the Paris Opera stated that the agreement was “signed by an inter-union representing the majority of the staff” and was therefore “valid.” They added that “discussions between management and the unions are continuing, with other meetings scheduled in the coming days.”
This period marks a significant challenge for Aude Accary Bonnery, the new deputy general director of the Opéra national de Paris, who was appointed in March 2025. This strike day is the fifth in just over a month. Previous mobilizations called by Sud Spectacle on April 24, May 5, 6, and 12, impacted tourist visits and led to the cancellation of performances including ‘Roméo et Juliette,’ ‘Satyagraha,’ and ‘La Dame aux Camélias.’ These cancellations have resulted in estimated financial losses of 500,000 euros per day for the institution.
Further Strike Notices Issued
Sud Spectacle has submitted two new strike notices for June 3 and June 9, indicating that further disruptions may be on the horizon if an agreement is not reached.
The ongoing dispute highlights the tensions surrounding working conditions and remuneration within the cultural sector, particularly in major institutions like the Paris Opera. The impact of these strikes extends beyond financial losses, affecting the cultural calendar and the experience of patrons who have often booked tickets months in advance.
The situation remains fluid as both parties continue discussions in an effort to resolve the dispute and ensure the smooth operation of one of the world’s most renowned opera houses.
Source: lefigaro.fr
