(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Production Workers and Box Office Staff at four of Washington D.C.’s most renowned concert venues have voted decisively to join International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Locals 22 and 868.

The victory for the 150 Workers employed at the venues that are operated by I.M.P. represents a significant step forward for Workers across the Live Music Industry, Union Officials said.

Stagehands, Technicians and Riggers voted 48-to-11 to join IATSE Local 22, while Ticket Office Workers voted unanimously 25-0 to join IATSE Local 868.

The organizing effort covers Workers across four historic Washington venues - the 9:30 Club, The Anthem, The Atlantis and the Lincoln Theatre.

The decisive win comes after months of organizing by the Workers who sought Union Representation to address concerns about wages, working conditions and job security.

After I.M.P. voluntarily recognized UNITE HERE Local 25 to represent Hospitality Workers in November 2025, the company declined to extend the same recognition to Production and Box Office Workers represented by IATSE, forcing the Locals to petition the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for an Election.

“It’s been so meaningful to watch the generation coming up after me refuse to allow their passion for their livelihood be leveraged into accepting less than they deserve,” said Christopher “Goose” Ruble, who serves as Secretary-Treasurer of IATSE Local 22. “I remember when I got fed up with being taken advantage of for enjoying my work, and it’s amazing to see that sentiment spreading through Live Event Workers.”

IATSE Local 868 President Anne Vantine emphasized the broader significance of the win: “It means security for the IMP Workers, a much-needed morale boost for (Local 868) Members who are navigating a challenging time at the Kennedy Center - and hopefully spurs other Box Offices to seek representation.”

To Continue Reading This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Production and Box Office Workers at Four Iconic D.C. Concert Venues Vote to Join IATSE - IATSE