Local #93, IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees)

In the early part of the century, “live action” was the standard in the entertainment business. This was a good time for the stagehands while the Motion Picture Operators were struggling to begin their existence. When audio was added to film, times changed; from theatres that sometimes showed movies, to movie theatres that sometimes had live productions. Local #93 became a group of technicians who relied on the occasional show to augment maintenance jobs with the theatres in Spokane.

During the 50’s and early 60’s, stagehands worked in many different venues, the Fox Theatre, The Post Street, The Orpheum and the Masonic Temple. In December 1954, the City of Spokane got into the entertainment industry and Local #93 has never been the same. The Spokane Coliseum was built and it was a huge shot in the arm for Local #93. While the Coliseum was a plus for the members of Local #93, it came during the same era that the City of Spokane was loosing its most treasured downtown theatres. The Orpheum and The Post Street were torn down and the Fox became a triplex movie house.

In l974, Local #93 was proud to be an integral part of Expo 74. Members, during this era, are the ones that have seen Local #93 grow to its present size. While growth has not always been smooth, Local #93 did survive to reach 100 years. Many of the Locals that were its contemporaries did not make it. Local #93 looks much different today than it did in even the most recent past. Local 93 has seen the arrival of women, a city contract, the Public Facilities District, and WestCoast Entertainment. Local 93 has changed and the entertainment business has changed.

When the spotlight shines, the curtain rises, the set moves, the costumes change, or the microphone is turned on; you won’t notice them. But for 100 years, they have been there, making every part of your entertainment experience happen. You won’t be thinking of them, but they will be thinking of you. We hope you enjoy the show.