STATEMENT BY MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON MUSICIANS’ STRIKE

“This morning I called both Jed Bernstein of the League of American Theatres and Producers and Bill Moriarity of Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians to express my, and every New Yorker’s, desire to see an end to the labor dispute that has shut down Broadway.  I offered to do whatever possible to help resolve the issues that remain between the two parties.  I pointed out to them the severe economic impact on a city still recovering from the terrible tragedy of the September 11th attack, the financial hardships being experienced by those employed in this and related industries, and the disappointment of theatre-goers from around the world that the strike was causing.

“They have since accepted my proposal to arrange round-the-clock bargaining sessions at Gracie Mansion starting tonight, which will be mediated by Dr. Frank Macchiarola, President of St. Francis College.  I am encouraged that theatre owners, producers and the musicians’ union have taken the City up on its offer and I am determined that they reach an agreement so Broadway can come back to life.”