ITEA Local 1 Executes Multi-Year Master Labor Agreement with CNYCAC, Formalizing Nearly 30 Years of Technical Partnership

UTICA, N.Y. — February 28, 2026 — Executive leadership of the Independent Theatrical Employees of America Local 1 (ITEA Local 1) is pleased to announce the formal execution of a binding, multi-year master labor agreement with the Central New York Community Arts Council, Inc. (CNYCAC), owner and operator of the landmark Stanley Theatre.

Executed on February 28, 2026, this milestone agreement extends and formalizes a trusted operational partnership that has spanned nearly 30 years. Under the terms of the contract, ITEA Local 1 will continue to serve as the exclusive provider of skilled technical, stagecraft, and venue operations labor across all CNYCAC facilities and productions. The four-year agreement officially takes effect on September 1, 2026, and remains in full force through September 1, 2030.

Contract Key Terms

• Contracting Parties: Independent Theatrical Employees of America Local 1 (ITEA Local 1) & Central New York Community Arts Council, Inc. (CNYCAC)

• Historical Context: Formal extension of a ~30-year technical production legacy

• Primary Venue Scope: The Stanley Theatre (Utica, NY) & Associated CNYCAC Operations

• Execution Date: February 28, 2026

• Effective Term: September 1, 2026 – September 1, 2030

• Scope of Authority: 100% Exclusive Technical, Staging & Event Operations Labor Jurisdiction
  

Strategic Scope & Operational Continuity

The agreement locks in long-term workforce continuity for CNYCAC’s operational footprint—specifically its flagship venue, the historic Stanley Theatre—across three core pillars:

• 30 Years of Institutional Knowledge: Leveraging nearly three decades of direct venue experience, ITEA Local 1 technicians bring unparalleled familiarity with the Stanley Theatre’s architectural acoustics, rigging infrastructure, and production capabilities.

• Technical Production & Stagecraft: Exclusive jurisdiction over lighting, audio, rigging, carpentry, audio-visual systems, and stage management for touring Broadway series, concert performances, dance competitions, and theatrical productions.

• Operational & Safety Predictability: A structured multi-year labor framework guaranteeing reliable, high-caliber staffing alignment, standardized safety protocols, and sustained labor stability through Q3 2030.

"For nearly three decades, ITEA Local 1 technicians have provided the technical backbone for performances at the Stanley Theatre. This four-year master agreement honors that historical legacy while establishing a modern, highly predictable labor framework that ensures world-class production standards for years to come."

About the Partner Organizations

Independent Theatrical Employees of America Local 1 (ITEA Local 1)

Having served the region’s premier venues for nearly 30 years, ITEA Local 1 represents highly skilled theatrical craftsmen, stagehands, and production specialists. The organization is dedicated to maintaining industry-leading standards in technical execution, venue safety, workforce development, and labor representation.

Central New York Community Arts Council, Inc. (CNYCAC)

Established in 1966, the Central New York Community Arts Council, Inc. (501(c)(3)) serves as a regional cultural anchor. CNYCAC owns and operates the historic 2,900-seat Stanley Theatre in Utica, NY, presenting international touring Broadway shows, concerts, educational programs, and civic events.

Labor Operations & Member Management

Further details regarding call lists, production schedules, and operational transition protocols ahead of the September 1, 2026 effective date will be distributed to active members via internal ITEA Local 1 dispatch channels.

Office of Corporate Communications & Industry Relations

ITEA Local 1 Media Inquiries: mediainquiriesitea@gmail.com

Member Dispatch & Operations: decolaitea@gmail.com