VANCOUVER, BC — In a significant victory for British Columbia’s live entertainment sector, Universal Show Services employees have overwhelmingly decided to form a union at their workplace.

This historic decision paves the way for IATSE Local 118 to officially proceed with collective bargaining on behalf of more than 200 stage technicians. The organizing drive represents one of the largest successful stagecraft certifications in recent Canadian labor history.

“This is a massive win not just for the technicians at Universal Show Services, but for live event workers across the province,” said Joe Sawan, Business Agent for Local 118. “For too long, these workers have faced uncertainty. By forming a union, workers at Universal Show Services can begin the bargaining process to secure the fair wages, workplace safety, and stable employment conditions they deserve.”

IATSE Local 118 represents the skilled backstage professionals—including riggers, audio technicians, lighting operators, and stagehands—who build and run the major concerts, theatrical productions, and live events that anchor Vancouver’s cultural economy.

“Our local is strong, unified, and fully prepared to enter negotiations,” added Sawan.  “We look forward to successful and collaborative bargaining process with Universal Show Services”