Musicians on Strike at the National Theater in Belgrade

A number of Serbian orchestras are currently striking in protest of low wages

The National Theater of Belgrade, in Serbia, has canceled all of its opera and ballet performances from March 5 to 9, 2025, on account of the musicians choosing to go on strike. The strike is of indefinite length, and an extension may be announced after the first five days.

Organized by the Union of Music Artists of Serbia, the strike is primarily concerned with low wages, for which the responsibility rests with the Ministry of Culture.

Further, the players are petitioning the management of the National Theater for professional health examinations, compensation for instrument rental, and new uniforms, which have not been updated in 20 years.

The Choir of the National Theater is expected to announce a strike on March 15, and there will also be a protest rally held in Belgrade on that day.

The Belgrade Philharmonic is already on strike, having downed tools on March 3. Their strike period is indefinite and will end only once the demands are met.

"We have already discussed this with Minister Nikola Selaković, and presented him with a wealth of information on this issue," said Boris Postovnik, president of the union.

The Violin Channel reached out to the National Theater of Belgrade for comment.