Production Advice From The Pros

Production greatly impacts the look, sound, and overall experience of a show. As we have been in show season full swing and many clients have begun booking headliners for 2017, it is important to keep the tips from the experts in mind.

Before you consider increasing your talent budget, realize what that will mean for the rest of your budget. Some events are surprised by artist agent push back when they step up their talent budget because their stage and roof will not support the bigger artists’ full production (something they get sensitive about). A stage that has supported $100,000 – $200,000 acts for many years, will not likely work just as well for the level of production of a $500,000 act. While some acts can pair down their production a little, they’ll want to put on the best show possible to give fans what they expect.

After you set your production budget, following the simple guidelines listed below will help you secure professionals that you will enjoy working with.

Production Bid Guidelines:

  • Get referrals from friends in the business. If you are lacking in the friends department, call your REG agent. They’ll be happy to make some introductions.
  • Interview referrals. Even if you have wonderful friends with solid referrals, you may have different needs or concerns.
  • Get at least three bids. Make sure for yourself that it’s a good deal. You may help out your friend by finding something better.
  • Ask about the experience of personnel. The best equipment will not reach its potential in the hands of amateurs.
  • Try to go local or regional if possible. It’s easier to get in touch with someone if problems arise or if equipment failed to be loaded on the truck.

More Production & Amenity Tips:

  • If possible, hire professional stagehands. It will make load in & out more efficient and make for an easier day.
  • Be sure to have enough stagehands on site.
  • Provide the best accommodations back stage as possible.  Consider upgrading when it’s in the budget, especially when upgrading the size of act you book.
  • Consider a video wall for a venue with capacity greater than 3,000. With smaller venues, patrons can get a good view without the added expense.

A special thanks to Bogie, a.k.a Steve Bogdanovich, our Vice President, and to R.J. Romeo, Senior Booking Agent and In-House Counsel for their production advice.