Workers at House of Blues Houston Vote to Join IATSE Local 51

HOUSTON, TX – On November 3, workers at the House of Blues in Houston, Texas, voted overwhelmingly to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 51. With 95% of votes in favor, 42 employees united to seek union representation.

The group includes professionals in lighting, sound, video, carpentry, props, stage management, hospitality, freight, and backstage coordination.

About House of Blues Houston

The venue spans 43,000 square feet, featuring multiple performance spaces and accommodating up to 2,100 guests. Owned by Live Nation, it is part of the House of Blues chain, which operates eleven locations across the United States.

Significance of Joining IATSE

By affiliating with IATSE Local 51, the Houston crew joins a rising number of Live Nation venues where workers have organized recently. This reflects a nationwide movement of live event professionals advocating for fair treatment and workplace respect.

Union Formation Process

Workers approached Local 51 in August 2025 to start formal union representation. In the subsequent months, they convened regularly to plan the establishment of a safer and more equitable work environment.

"Workers held regular meetings to discuss how they could build a safer, fairer, and more respectful workplace together."

Author's summary: Houston's House of Blues employees voted overwhelmingly to join IATSE Local 51, joining a growing movement of Live Nation venue workers seeking improved workplace conditions.

iatse — 2025-11-05