Union UASA said it was on the brink of striking at the State Theatre in Pretoria after its eight-month wage negotiations with the management of the largest theatre complex in Africa deadlocked.
In a statement, UASA said the theatre was offering labour a 4.23% increase while labour has demanded an 8.7% wage increase. UASA said while a strike certificate had not yet been issued, the union was preparing for industrial action.
"A strike certificate has therefore been issued, and arrangements are being made for a secret strike ballot. The ballot outcome will be a determining factor in notifying the employer of UASA's intention to embark on a strike," it said.
The union said it believed the employer could meet demands for "a just salary increase".
"UASA represents the majority of employees at the theatre and a strike will have an impact on the productions offered," the statement said.
The State Theatre did not immediately reply to requests for comment from News24 Business.