NYS Senator Eric Adams Holds a Press Conference with NYS Assemblyman Rory Lancman to Spotlight Safety Issues at Spider-Man Production

New York State Senator Eric Adams and NYS Assemblyman Rory Lancman held a press conference on December 23rd in front of the Foxwoods Theater, site of the play ‘Spider-Man,’ to discuss safety issues and the need for proper regulations and oversight of hazardous theatrical productions. NYS Senator Eric Adams states: ““Theater productions have seen an increased use of pyrotechnic, acrobatic, aerial, and other extreme visual performance techniques, and there has been a growing concern for safety. This apprehension focuses both on the performers and the audience watching them. “’Spider-Man’ has already had several accidents, and the show has not even opened yet. Monday night, a stuntman fell from a raised platform into a pit in front of the stage and was seriously injured. With four injuries thus far, “Spider-Man’ must become a safer production. Broadway theatergoers do not expect a circus spectacular. “We are here today outside the Foxwoods Theater to emphasize our concern about the safety of the actors and their audience; there must not be a fifth mishap. ‘The show must go on,’ but theater-goers do not attend a drama in order to see a living tragedy. “It is imperative that New York State create a taskforce to examine ways to enhance the safety of theatrical shows, strengthen the protection for actors, and minimize the risk of injury to the audience. I will introduce legislation to establish a taskforce to assess current safety conditions, recommend best practices, and suggest new legislation or regulation if required.” Presiding: NYS Senator Eric Adams NYS Assemblyman Rory Lancman (Chair, Assembly Subcommittee on Workplace Safety) Representatives, Actors' Equity Association President, IATSE-Local 1 (Theatrical Stage Employees)