The industrial action led to the cancellation of a scheduled performance of The Merry Widow, marking the first time in more than 15 years that a show at Nice Opera House has been cancelled because of a staff strike.
Artists call for higher salaries and negotiations
According to trade union representatives, some artists earn as little as €1,600 net per month, a salary they argue is particularly difficult to live on in Nice, where housing costs remain high.
Violaine Darmon, concertmaster of the Nice Philharmonic Orchestra and CGT staff representative, described the situation as a social emergency.
She warned that low salaries could lead to the departure of younger musicians and performers, potentially affecting the Opera House’s ability to maintain its artistic programme.
The unions are calling for a dedicated budget to increase salaries and a review of the allowance system for Opera House employees.
Staff representatives say they have raised these concerns with management and the city’s cultural department for several months but have yet to receive concrete proposals.
Further disruption possible
The strike began on 11 November following earlier warnings from staff, who had announced plans for industrial action on 11, 12 and 13 November.
The Opera House cancelled Wednesday’s performance of The Merry Widow the previous day and offered refunds to ticket holders.
The decision sparked disagreement, with union representatives arguing that the cancellation was premature, while the City of Nice said it wanted to avoid audiences making unnecessary journeys.
The industrial action has also divided some employees, with concerns raised about the impact on audiences and the months of preparation involved in staging productions.
The City of Nice has stated that it will meet with trade union organisations following staff representative elections scheduled for 10 December.
Meanwhile, striking artists say they are ready to enter negotiations sooner and will decide whether to continue their action as the situation develops.
The strike has been extended until at least Thursday, 12 November, with further performances potentially affected.
