Entertainment industry workers who work behind the scenes and in front of the house at some of your favorite shows and concerts held a solidarity walk in downtown Portland March 11 to mark the one-year anniversary of when the industry went dark due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most haven’t worked a day since.
Dozens of members of IATSE Locals 28, 488, B20, and 154 of Ashland—many of them donning props and costumes that represent their craft—met outside the Arlene Schnitzer Theater on Main Street and Southwest Broadway March 11 to commemorate the day. Some held hand-made signs showing the last day they worked in the industry and what show they were working.
Today, with coronavirus case rates dropping and more vaccinations becoming available, some shows are being booked for later in the year, so there is some light at the end of the tunnel. When live entertainment does return, these folks say they are ready and eager to get back to work.
