A group of 50 protestors dressed as William Shakespeare marched on London's Sadler’s Wells theatre yesterday evening in a bid to stop Northern Ballet’s live orchestra from being axed. Under current plans, Northern Ballet will replace the musicians in its orchestra with recorded music for its touring productions.
The protest was organised by the Musicians' Union, who are petitioning Arts Council England and Northern Ballet to come up with a funding solution that protects jobs and prioritises the full live experience.
As Romeo & Juliet is due to be the first Northern Ballet production affected, protesters held placards declaring ‘O Live Music, Where Art Thou?' and ‘Don’t let live music come to a Bard end’.
The musicians of the Northern Ballet Sinfonia, who work on freelance contracts, have been campaigning since last autumn to protect their jobs. Over 18,000 people have already signed Northern Ballet Sinfonia’s petition to keep Northern Ballet live.
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Naomi Pohl, general secretary of the MU, said: 'Today’s protest is a statement that we will continue applying pressure until Northern Ballet and Arts Council England agree a realistic funding solution, that protects jobs and keeps live music at the heart of Northern Ballet productions. Musicians' livelihoods are on the line – with our data showing that musicians, on average, make £20,000 a year, you can imagine that any negative impact on this income is felt very heavily. It impacts their ability to provide for themselves, their families, and their capacity to invest in their art.'
Oboist Mary Gilbert added: 'It’s devastating that this is the situation we are faced with today, but we’re here to take a stand because we feel it’s necessary. I’ve worked for Northern Ballet in its orchestra for 25 years and have come to call it home. Those and I protesting have a great sense of pride in what we do. Live music is ballet’s heart and soul – even Shakespeare wrote most of his plays around the performing of music. It’s integral to telling the story, guiding the actors and captivating audiences.'
Photo: David Parry/PA Media Assignments