The Silent Stage: Walla Walla Theater Musicians Walk Out

Instead of an orchestra furnishing music at the Walla Walla theater last night, a piano player was substituted by Manager R. J. Nixon. For some time, Mr. Nixon and the local Musicians' union have been in a controversy over the number of men that should be employed in the theater. The manager contended he had the right to reduce the orchestra from seven to five men when a show did not justify the expense. The union, however, claimed its bylaws required a minimum of seven. After consulting with the American Federation of Musicians, the local union maintained the seven-man requirement. When Nixon insisted on only five, the leader of the orchestra refused to comply, and the musicians walked out. Secretary H. S. Buffum of the local union stated that they viewed the theater's demand as an injustice to the performers, noting that in small cities, the employment of sufficient musicians is essential for both quality and worker protection. Nixon, citing thin receipts for recent shows, argued it was purely a business necessity to cut costs.