A unionization effort among performers and stable hands at Medieval Times’ Buena Park castle has come to an end.
The American Guild of Variety Artists, the union supporting workers at Medieval Times locations in Buena Park and New Jersey, has withdrawn its support after petitions were filed by actors at both locations to remove the AGVA as their union representative. The National Right to Work Foundation, a conservative anti-union group, provided legal assistance to the actors.
AGVA stated that due to a large number of personnel leaving Medieval Times during contract negotiations, it became difficult for the union to continue its role.
The union effort began two years ago in New Jersey and nearly two years ago in Buena Park. Workers involved in the union alleged intimidation and retaliation from managers during a nine-month strike, leading many to leave the company and reducing support for the union.
Erin Zapcic, a queen at the Buena Park castle and union steward, accused Medieval Times of unlawful practices and intimidation tactics.
William Hainsworth, a former cast manager at the Buena Park castle, stated that the union is no longer viable. Workers at the Buena Park castle voted to unionize in November 2022, citing low wages and poor working conditions.
In February of last year, workers went on strike due to unsuccessful negotiations over wages. Lawmakers criticized Medieval Times for union-busting activities, but negotiations continued to stall.
In November, Buena Park castle workers ended their strike without a contract agreement. Medieval Times refused to reinstate three striking workers, leading to accusations of illegal retaliation by the union.
