New York City ? Stagehands will go on strike today, a move expected to darken most of the plays and musicals on Broadway, according to a person close to contract negotiations.

The strike was to begin at 10 a.m. CST, shuttering an early matinee of “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,” said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity Friday night because the person was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

Both the union, Local One of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and the League of American Theatres and Producers held two days of unproductive meetings Wednesday and Thursday, reportedly contentious negotiations.