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The union represents City Opera's principal singers, regular chorus, associate chorus, stage directors, assistant directors, stage managers and dancers.

The new two-year agreement follows the adoption in June 2009 of a new contract between City Opera and Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, which represents the members of the New York City Opera Orchestra.

Louis Perry, a long-time member of New York City Opera Regular Chorus, a national officer of the union and an ex officio member of City Opera's Board, said, "Many artists who work at City Opera have dedicated their professional careers and much of their lives to the company. The shared goal of New York City Opera's management and the union and its members was to assure City Opera's well being. We took the steps necessary to achieve that goal."

George Steel, City Opera's General Manager and Artistic Director, said, "We are gratified to have reached this agreement with our company's deeply valued artists. We can now move forward together, with confidence, as we prepare for our 2009-2010 season in the renovated David H. Koch Theater."

Alan Gordon, the union's National Executive Director, said, "AGMA is very pleased to have been able to work out a deal that protects our members' jobs and their contractual protections, while also making a significant contribution to New York City Opera's finances."

AGMA represents 7,000 opera singers, production personnel and ballet dancers throughout the United States. At its Monday, August 17 meeting, the union's Board of Governors unanimously ratified the Agreement, subject to a subsequent shop vote.

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City Opera recently announced full casting for its upcoming season. Visit New York City Opera for tickets.