‘Castlevania’ Studio Animation Workers Ratify First Union Contract

‘Castlevania’ Studio Animation Workers Ratify First Union Contract

As a gamer who’s been through countless battles and boss fights, I can’t help but see the struggle of the workers at Powerhouse Animation Studios as another level in this grand game we call life. The fact that they’ve managed to ratify their first union contract is like finally beating that elusive boss that seemed impossible to defeat.


Workers at Powerhouse Animation Studios in Texas, who specialize in animation, have decisively approved their initial union agreement.

Nearly 96% of the Austin-based Castlevania production team endorsed the agreement during a recent vote, according to an announcement made by the Animation Guild on Tuesday. Previously reported by The Hollywood Reporter, this collective bargaining group exceeds 100 members and encompasses both production personnel and artists at the studio, incorporating positions like animators, background designers, and production assistants.

As a gamer, I recently learned that the animation industry is growing, and I’m thrilled to be part of it! The recent contract ratification by Animation Guild members for Powerhouse Animation Studios marks only the second time this has happened outside of L.A. County – the first being at Titmouse New York back in June 2023. It’s fascinating to see how the union is expanding its influence beyond Southern California and into new territories!

As a dedicated union member, I’m thrilled to share that our latest contract negotiation has resulted in one of the strongest agreements we’ve ever achieved. The unwavering determination of our crew, particularly on priority issues, was instrumental in reaching this point. In a statement, Steve Kaplan, our business representative, acknowledged this resilience and also highlighted the efforts of Powerhouse and its leadership team. He stated that everyone involved had to demonstrate flexibility to cross the finish line, and that Powerhouse’s commitment to being a reliable union partner during negotiations was evident throughout the process.

Beyond the borders of Texas, Powerhouse Animation Studios operates a modest branch in the bustling city of Los Angeles, which is currently bound by a contract with The Animation Guild.

In a statement, the CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Powerhouse Animation Studios, Brad Graeber, expressed their “great pride and joy” that the union had approved the agreement. When they moved to Los Angeles, they established a positive relationship with the union and have collaborated with them for years. However, they are proud to be a studio that originated in Austin, Texas, with strong ties to the state. Having an animation union in Texas is significant, and they are delighted to contribute to this historic first.

The contract signifies the conclusion of a campaign for unionization that was initially made public in April 2023. Workers had expressed their intention back then to establish better wage parity and job stability, with this being the goal of the movement. In July of the same year, the studio chose to acknowledge the union voluntarily.

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2024-09-20 03:25