So you are producing a burlesque show? Great! Now look after your performers
I moan a lot about the work that goes into producing local shows (let along touring an event for a festival, fringe show or as a tour). It is a hard and often thankless job.
Performers have expectations about how an event will work. Producers have expectations about what performers will do to assist their event being successful.
I've reflected a lot recently on how to produce events well. I'm not the only one. There are some great articles and sources of advice about. Check out the great article on 21st Century Burlesque from Doc Wassbasco, on lessons learnt in producing. I found this invaluable.
One of my 'take home messages', has been to acknowledge that there should be some hassle in producing. At the end of the day you do have a responsibility to the people that work with you. And if that is beyond you as a producer you perhaps aren't ready for the responsibility.
And it definitely is a responsibility. It is important to look after your performers. If you have no other motivation to do so, there are huge benefits in doing this (aside from just being a decent human being of course)
Performers may be more likely to promote your event; invite people along;
Greater reputation which can result in attracting a better or more diverse range of performers;
You might also see increases in ticket sales: either in that you achieve a greater volume of seats sold or your standard raises and ticket prices rise accordingly.
But I've seen too many events forgetting the absolute basic needs of performers. So consider this good practice, and one that should lead to great engagement with your performers and better profit margins.
OH&S
Here's a boring one. I know we often don't get a huge say given the venues you can perform in. Sometimes things like staging, backstage space, security are out of your control. But if you are booking a venue try to get the basics covered. Ask yourself:
Is there a private space for changing?
Is the stage safe (i.e not covered in glass; no trip hazards; safe lighting).
Do the venue staff seem professional/legit?
Is there security?
Is there adequate provision for the performers to have a reasonable working environment?
Payment
Be clear on your payment. Make sure you write down how long you will take to pay performers and establish how much you are paying them. You can't operate on an 'understanding'. In no other profession would you have to contact Human Resources for six months to get your pay sorted out.
If there has been a major problem, let the performers know as soon as possible. Most people are really understanding if there's been a delay in transfer of ticket sales; a problem with the venue or other issues. Keep people up to date and be up front with them. It's the bare minimum.
And while we're on it, re-read Sydni Deveraux's article on performance rates/fees.
Promotion
If there is one big lesson I've learnt in the past few years it is - be clear on the expectation you have of your artists to promote the event.
Do you expect them to put up a few posters?
Share it X times on social media?
Add to a website?
Do a flyer run or promotional event?
Get it in writing and make sure the performers agree to it if you think it's critical to the event's success. I've found most people are happy to help out. It often means a repeat event, good relationships and sometimes more money.
Staff
It is a privilege to be able to have an event and to hire performers. It can be a major hassle of course. The biggest favour you can do as a producer is to hire great performers that are easy to work with. It makes your stress levels manageable, and makes backstage way more enjoyable for all.
These are some of my suggestions. I'd love to hear any other tips or ideas for keeping performers safe and happy in burlesque events.