VANCOUVER, BC — 26 workers at Vancouver’s historic Rio Theatre have overwhelmingly ratified their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the Arts and Cultural Workers Union, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local B778. In a decisive vote, over 93% of workers voted in favour of ratifying the new contract, which covers workers across nine classifications including, Tech/Front of House Manager, Security, Office Manager, Promo Trailers, Admin, Bar Manager, Tech, Supervisor, and Concessions. The workers first voted to join IATSE Local B778 in January 2025, and the local was certified as their bargaining agent by the BC Labour Relations Board in February of the same year.

The new CBA delivers substantial improvements for workers, including wage increases of at least 6% across the board, with 3% annual raises thereafter. The contract also guarantees a four-hour minimum call with penalties for late cancellation, health benefits, additional paid leave, and organizational changes designed to promote fairness.

Built in 1938, today the Rio Theatre serves as a multimedia venue for premier independent cinema and live entertainment. Known for its eclectic programming featuring cult classics, burlesque, comedy, touring acts, and film festivals, the Rio has long been a cultural icon of Vancouver’s East Side.

“It’s been inspiring to see the Rio workers organize not just for themselves and their coworkers, but out of genuine love for their work at this historic neighbourhood gem,” said Hania Ilahi, Vice-President of Arts and Cultural Workers’ Union, Local B778. “They can now continue their work there with stronger protections and benefits, demonstrating that arts and culture workers everywhere deserve fair working conditions and should not have to sacrifice their well-being simply because of a love for their craft. This is a major win not just for the Rio workers, but for arts and culture workers everywhere!”

“All workers deserve union representation,” says John Lewis, IATSE International Vice-President and Director of Canadian Affairs. “This collective agreement reflects the hard work and dedication of the workers at the Rio Theatre, and we’re proud to represent them. I encourage other theatre workers to contact the IATSE so that we can continue to build this movement together.” Workers can head to iatse.net/join to contact an organizer.