The orchestra members of the Welsh National Opera voted in favor of a potential strike.

Per The Strad, 81.25 percent of members voted for full strike action and 96.87 voted for action short of a strike.

The vote was made following “threats” that full-time jobs at the company would be reduced to 85 percent contracts. Moreover, the company had revealed plans to cut down on touring. The company’s management reportedly made the decisions following a 35 percent funding cut from the Arts Council England in late 2022 followed by another 11.8 percent cut from the Arts Council Wales in late 2023.

“Our members don’t take ballots for potential industrial action lightly,” said Musicians’ Union general secretary Naomi Pohl. “We always want to avoid full strike action if possible and WNO management need to work with us to consider alternative proposals and pursue an appropriate funding solution that will enable WNO to remain a full-time company.”

Per a survey conducted earlier this year, 60 percent of members were considering leaving the orchestra while 40 percent were considering leaving the sector outright.

“Welsh National Opera cuts will also have a wider knock-on effect on the industry and the arts ecosystem in Wales; with ever decreasing opportunities for jobs that provide the stability and benefits of year-round employment and year-round opportunities for engagement of freelancers,” said Laverty, the Musicians’ Union national organizer for orchestras.

The Welsh National Opera recently announced that Adele Tomas and Sarah Crabtree would be taking on the roles of General Director and CEO together. In April, the company also revealed changes to its season due to financial challenges.

The Welsh National Opera’s 2024-25 season opens this September with a production of “Rigoletto.”