It said those challenges included “injuries, a delayed technical week and changes late in the process”.
The Manchester Evening News reported, external that the show, set in the city’s present-day rave scene, was axed after managers objected to a song with lyrics that referred to trans rights and the phrase “free Palestine”.
Theatre news outlet The Stage reported, external that one of the points of contention was “free Palestine” being daubed on the set as well as featuring in a rap.
Equity said union officials met the theatre’s management on Wednesday and “received assurances that they take our concerns seriously”.
A statement said: “While we welcome the engagement, we remain deeply frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding the events leading to the cancellation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
“For Equity, this is an issue of dignity at work and freedom of expression. We absolutely back the rights of our members – performers, stage management, creative team and all involved in the production – to be treated with dignity and respect at work.
“We reject the growing culture of censorship created by funders and pressure groups. We are fighting for artistic integrity, as well as dignity for our members, and all working people.
“We remain in conversation with Royal Exchange management to protect the principle of artistic freedom, guarantee our members’ dignity at work, and ensure the integrity of our collective agreements.”
