Entertainment Fees Explained
Entertainment fees vary show to show and are
often negotiable depending upon a variety of factors. We've outlined
some of the key factors below, ranked in order of importance:
High Importance
- Travel Distance
Distance traveled is easily the
most important factor that goes into performance price. Fees
are generally higher the further an act has to travel from
their hometown.
*NOTE: Listed Fee ranges may not include
travel
- Overnight Lodging
If the distance traveled
requires overnight lodging will you provide accommodations, or
will the artist need to cover their own lodging expenses?
- Sound System
Most artists charge extra for
providing sound (and lighting, if needed). For many events,
though, this charge is less than what it would cost you to
provide sound yourself.
- Day of Week/Time of Day
Many performers will vary their
price for "off" nights (typically Sunday-Wednesday). However,
the exact opposite can be true for performers with day jobs.
Lower Importance
- Number & Length of Sets
This isn't a factor for every group, but some artists charge
more for longer performance times.
- Arrival/Departure Time
Does the artist have to arrive
early to set up or stay late to break down? For multiple sets,
are their long breaks between performances? Fees are generally
higher the longer you keep the artist at the performance.
- Meals Provided
Providing meals for the artist
is appropriate in most cases, but rarely influences the fee
you pay.
- Publicity
Most of the artists on this site perform for a living and
their fees are generally not influenced by publicity or "great
exposure" opportunities.
Intangibles
- Experience
When comparing performers, expect to pay more for an
experienced, professional performer. Entertainment definitely
follows the old adage, "you get what you pay for."
- Demand
If you want a popular or well-known act, expect to spend
more than you would on an act just starting out.
