Workers at The Basement, a Los Angeles-area escape room known for its interactive horror experiences, have ratified a union contract, becoming the first escape room employees in the world to operate under a collective bargaining agreement.
The performers, who guide guests through story-driven puzzle scenarios, unionized with Actors’ Equity Association two years ago, making the Sylmar attraction the first unionized escape room in the United States. With the new agreement now approved unanimously by workers, the venue becomes the only escape room globally with a formal union contract.
The agreement includes wage increases ranging from 6.8% to 15.9%, a signing bonus, a guaranteed raise after one year of employment, and new scheduling protections such as minimum four-hour shifts and advance notice of work schedules. Additional provisions address safety standards, including cleaning protocols for facilities, wigs, and costumes, along with guidelines for managing intoxicated guests. The contract also establishes rules around media capture and appearance fees when workers are recorded for promotional materials.
In a statement, Equity president Brooke Shields praised the performers’ efforts, noting that the contract sets a precedent in a rapidly expanding segment of the live entertainment industry.
Escape rooms have seen significant growth in recent years. Within 50 miles of downtown Los Angeles alone, there are more than 75 escape room businesses offering over 200 experiences. Nationwide, industry estimates place the number of escape rooms at more than 2,000 as of 2025.
First opened in 2014, The Basement combines puzzle-solving with a live horror narrative performed by actors. Three of its four attractions include live performers who interact with visitors as they progress through the story.
