Hire Event Vendors

FAQs

1. What should I verify about a performer’s experience, act type, and suitability for my event?

Ask for full-length videos of recent, comparable performances (not just highlights) and client references from similar event types. Confirm the performer’s act type (solo music, dance, storyteller, variety, adult comedy, family-friendly), how it can be adapted for your audience, and any content or audience-interaction elements. Verify their typical set length, flexibility for timing changes, and whether they require additional cast or crew. Discuss language, cultural sensitivities, and any topics you want avoided, and require a brief pre-event briefing to confirm boundaries and expectations.

2. What should a clear quote and contract include, and what hidden costs should I watch for?

The contract should itemize the fee, deposit schedule, exact arrival/soundcheck/load-in windows, set length and number of breaks, and cancellation/refund terms. It must state who supplies technical elements (PA, mics, instruments, backline), travel and accommodation responsibilities, and insurance requirements. Watch for hidden costs: overtime rates, travel or per-diem, tech-rider items supplied by you, replacement fees if the performer brings extra personnel, recording/streaming fees, and rider expenses (hospitality, dressing-room needs). Require a signed rider and a written change-order process for any last-minute adjustments.

3. How do I evaluate technical, staging, and hospitality requirements for a smooth performance?

Obtain a technical rider and stage plot showing inputs, monitor needs, power/circuit requirements, and preferred stage placement and sightlines. Confirm whether a sound/lighting tech is required and who provides them, and schedule a soundcheck window. Clarify hospitality and dressing-room needs, arrival and warm-up timing, and secure storage for instruments or props. Agree on load-in logistics, backstage access rules, and any venue restrictions (noise limits, pyrotechnics, live animals).

4. What logistics and audience-management policies should I confirm before the event?

Provide clear load-in directions, stage dimensions, performance start/finish times, and backstage contact information. Agree on volunteer or staff roles for audience selection for interactive segments, photo/video permissions, and emergency procedures if an audience member becomes disruptive. Confirm ticketing or comp policies for the performer and set expectations for meeting/meet-and-greet timing if planned.

5. What contingency, insurance, and post-performance responsibilities should be required?

Require proof of liability insurance and a backup plan for performer illness or travel delays (approved substitute or refund terms). Specify remedies for late starts or technical failures (partial refund, extra time, or replacement act) and incident-reporting procedures for injuries or property damage. Clarify rights for recording and post-event use of performance footage, teardown and strike expectations, and final invoicing terms including how overtime or extras will be billed.