David Byrne Upcoming Musical Responds to Broadway Union Complaint, Commits to Live Music

Here Lies Love • Broadway theatre • David Byrne: A few weeks ago, we received news that the musicians union on Broadway had filed a formal complaint against Here Lies Love, the musical based on David Byrne and Fatboy Slim's album of the same name, which portrays the life of Imelda Marcos, the former First Lady of the Philippines. The musical, after being staged in various parts of the world over the past decade, is set to make its Broadway debut in a week. Initially, the plan was to forgo live musicians in this production, even though shows at the Broadway Theatre are contractually obligated to have a live band. The Here Lies Love team argued for an exception, citing that the story is rooted in karaoke and "track acts." They claimed that using prerecorded tracks would be more authentic to the music depicted in the story, especially considering that all prior productions of Here Lies Love had used prerecorded tracks.

However, the latest update, as reported by The New York Times, reveals that Here Lies Love has reached an agreement to include 12 musicians in the show. The producers released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the outcome and their excitement to present the revolutionary musical experience of Here Lies Love at the Broadway Theater starting from Saturday, June 17.

The musicians union, Musicians Union Local 802, also issued a statement, expressing their contentment with the agreement and acknowledging the special place Broadway holds with its exceptional musicians and performances worldwide. They believe that this agreement honors the tradition of live music on Broadway.

Of the 12 musicians, three will be members of the cast. This agreement marks a significant change from earlier in the conflict when a union spokesperson accused David Byrne of attempting to undermine the union instead of engaging in negotiations.