Booking a burlesque performer for the festive season? Read this first!
At different points during the year there is an increase in bookings for private gigs: either corporate events for organisations or private parties in the home. As performers we often have our own guide on how to behave for these events, how to charge and how to be safe.
When talking to clients there is often a lot of confusion on what to expect from a burlesque performer - and even how to find a reputable performer. Here are some tips for anyone looking to book a burlesque performer.
Decide on a budget
What's your budget for the event? This is the first thing a performer is going to want to know. If you have no budget and expect a performance for FREE I suggest you imagine a creative expletive in your own mind. No reputable artist will perform for free without exceptional circumstances. If you are running a charity event, I would bear in mind that many performers will look for some reimbursement of expenses. This is a reasonable expectation and would be best practice if you were hiring volunteers.
In short, you need to decide what the budget is and who's in charge. This is critical if it's an organising group. Decide who ultimately is in charge of the yes/no when it comes to booking and what the flexibility around price is. This person is probably best placed to contact the performer as it will save you plenty of time in the long run.
Negotiate
Be prepared to negotiate somewhat or to consider costs you hadn't anticipated (travel/parking for example). I think it's great to be upfront with performers about what you can offer. Most artists are really fair, and will be clear about why their pricing is fixed at a certain rate. I know from experience that if your event isn't in their price range they will often refer to someone more appropriate.
They are cheap for a reason
Be wary of performers that will do anything for $50 or $100 for a private gig. You are more than likely getting someone with little experience or who will be completely unprofessional.
Do your homework
If you don’t have someone in mind or a recommendation, you need to research. Here are some things that you can look at:
The style of their web or social media presence
Look for a showreel
Check out past gigs - or go to an upcoming show and see them live!
Photos (live or photo shoots) will give you an idea of the artist’s style
Look at any reviews or testimonials
Approach with your key information
E-mail or web form contact is (90% of the time) better than Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. You can always drop a message via social media letting them know you loved their profile and have sent a booking inquiry via their website. But sometimes messages on social media get lost or filtered into junk.
Be professional in your approach and specify the date/time/location and estimated budget. If you have done your homework you might reference a photo of them you love, an act you have seen.
Booking policies
Most artists once confirmed will invoice you. Everyone has a different deposit policy (from 10% - 50% to full fee upfront). Make sure you have a copy of the invoice and have confirmed a cancellation policy if needed. Get it all down in writing as it will make both of you feel a lot better.
Have nudity rules in place
I'd also advise being clear on the 'striptease'. Since the Burlesque movie was released, many punters think that there is no nudity in burlesque. This is not the case. Most artists will have a pasties/gstring or underwear reveal. Please make sure your audience will be comfortable with this. Check with the performer what they reveal to, and (if needed) make any negotiations if you need. If you want a more PG or "Boston" version for your event you need to ask. Some performers will consent to this - some won't and will refer you on.
Make it right on the night
So you've found a great artist, booked them and paid their fee or deposit. Here’s what to think about for the night of the gig:
Make sure there's a private change space that is clean and well lit
A mirror and a soace to hang a costume goes a long way
Access to a bathroom is important
Make sure there is a stage area or dance space.
Get the performer in early to check the stage space. If you're in a private home you need to set up something that can act as a performance zone that is clear and accessible
If there are children present let the performer know. I've know many parents are fine with boobs and tease. But some performers aren't and might be thrown by seeing kids watching them bump and grind.
Have a stage kitten: someone that picks up the costumes and bits after the act. Have them take these to the change room for the performer. There is nothing worse- and nothing that ruins the illusion more - than having to scramble back through a party or venue for your costume.
Be clear what format the music is on: CD, Ipod, USB. Always best if possible to get it e-mailed in advance to ensure no muck ups.
Videos and Photos: Check with the performer their policy. It's pretty common to want to ban photos/videos during the show but allow photos after the performance. And please enforce the policy at your show.
Security: Performing at a Grand Final party? Show really late at night? You might want to ask the performer to bring a friend or guest for security to walk them back to their car, train,bus or hotel. Or provide an option for this if you are in a public venue. Trust me nothing worse than tottering down laneways at 3am in your heels and show makeup.
If you follow these steps the performer will love you forever (guaranteed) and want to work with you again. And you'll make the experience better for both parties and ensure that your event goes smoothly.