October 16th 2024.
A group of performers at Casa Bonita, including cliff divers, magicians, and other entertainers, have come together to form a union. Their motivation stems from concerns about safety in the workplace and the need to negotiate fair pay. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 7 and the Actors' Equity Association have issued a statement outlining the performers' concerns, which range from inadequate training and scheduling to dealing with disruptive and potentially dangerous behavior from intoxicated patrons.
Casa Bonita, located at 6715 W. Colfax Ave in Lakewood, employs a diverse cast of performers who interact with guests throughout the restaurant and venue. The most famous of these are the daring cliff divers, who thrill diners with their stunts off a 30-foot waterfall. But there are also actors, puppeteers, and other crew members who contribute to the unique atmosphere of the restaurant.
In response to the unionization efforts, Casa Bonita's general manager sent a letter to the staff, obtained by The Denver Post, stating that the restaurant would not voluntarily recognize the union and suggesting a vote instead. The employees have since filed with the National Labor Relations Board for a union election. Max Peterson, business agent for IATSE Local 7, emphasized the importance of union representation for all workers in the entertainment industry, whether they work in a bar, theater, or even a fun restaurant like Casa Bonita.
On the other hand, the management of Casa Bonita maintains that they value their employees and their safety, and believe that they are treated well and fairly compensated. They also stated that they respect their employees' right to vote on whether or not they want to be part of a union.
One of the most well-known performers at Casa Bonita is Georgia Pullis, who climbs up the side of a cliff before gracefully diving into the pool below. But not all interactions with guests are as pleasant as this one. Joshua Emerson, an actor who plays the gorilla at Casa Bonita, shared a disturbing incident where a patron threw a lime at his colleague's face while they were in costume. Emerson and other performers believe that alcohol plays a significant role in these types of incidents, as patrons tend to become more bold and reckless after drinking.
As for pay, actors are currently paid a flat hourly rate, ranging from $21 to $28 depending on their role. However, it is unclear how promotions and pay increases are determined, which has led to some employees leaving the company. Actor Riley Holmes, who plays multiple characters at Casa Bonita, expressed concerns about feeling unsafe at work and has also been the victim of inappropriate behavior from diners.
Despite these challenges, Emerson believes that the performers at Casa Bonita are passionate about their work and want to continue entertaining guests in a safe environment. He hopes that the restaurant can become a beloved institution in the Colorado community for generations to come.
It's worth noting that not all workers at Casa Bonita are part of this union effort. Contracted workers such as musicians, tarot card readers, and face painters are not involved in this action.
This is not the first time that Casa Bonita employees have considered unionizing. In 2023, front-of-house service staff sent a list of demands to the owners after they announced plans to eliminate tips and switch to a flat hourly rate. While their efforts did not lead to unionization, the restaurant did make some changes and now offers both an hourly rate and the option for guests to tip. After being in a soft opening phase for over a year, Casa Bonita recently opened reservations to the general public.
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