IATSE to Start Talks
By Dena Seif

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, which boasts 25,000 below-the-line employees in 18 locals, will start three days of talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers on April 7.

While IATSE's current deal doesn't end for another 16 months, president Thomas Short has indicated that the union will show up with a focused proposal with regards to its Hollywood contract. He has also told associates that he expects to conclude talks with a deal by April 9.

The current pact, which was drafted and finalized in early 2006, expires August 2009.