Equity, the performing arts and entertainment trade union, has secured the first commitment in Scotland to a five-day rehearsal week for performers and stage management with the National Theatre of Scotland.
The change was finalised on Monday 21 September 2026 in a renegotiated house agreement. Usual rehearsal weeks will fall from six days to five, and the working week from 44 hours to 40, with overtime paid above 40 hours. The new terms take effect immediately.
Equity represents around 50,000 members across the performing arts and entertainment industries. The union said the National Theatre of Scotland deal goes further than a July West End agreement that capped only 25% of rehearsal weeks at five days, making five-day weeks the norm rather than the exception.
Curran: 'A two-day break shouldn't be a luxury'
Marlene Curran, Equity Scotland Official, said theatre is hard work and that a proper break between weeks should not be treated as optional.
"Theatre is hard work. A two-day break shouldn't be a luxury. This brings our industry into line with other workers and means better work-life balance and health, avoiding burnout. As a publicly funded national company, the National Theatre of Scotland can lead by example. It shows the Scottish government's Fair Work policy can be embedded day-to-day."
Sinclair: 'Commitment to best practice'
Liam Sinclair, Executive Director and Joint CEO of the National Theatre of Scotland, linked the revised agreement to the company's twentieth anniversary and its work with Equity on fair conditions and equitable casting.
"As we celebrate 20 years, we are proud of working with Equity on fair conditions and equitable casting. This revised agreement evidences our commitment to best practice."
Equity said the deal demonstrates how Fair Work principles can be written into everyday working arrangements in publicly funded theatre, and that other companies should follow the National Theatre of Scotland's lead.
