Striking Philly Stagehands End Daylong Strike

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Theater stagehands and other workers at three Philadelphia venues have ended a daylong strike, allowing Sunday events—including a production of the opera "Carmen"—to go on as planned.

Members of the local chapter of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees went on strike after midnight Saturday. The contract covers about 1,000 stagehands, ushers, wardrobe workers and box office staff at the Kimmel Center, the Merriam Theater and the Academy of Music.

The sides announced a one-week cooling-off period to allow more talks.

Union business agent Michael Barnes says members are still seeking wage and benefit increases, better working conditions and protection and expansion of their jurisdiction.

Kimmel Center official Thor Steingraber says officials are glad the opera can proceed and look forward to more talks.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)