How many of us book those last minute gigs and the idea of sending a contract before hand just seems too much hassle? Or how many of us actually chase for the signed copy (that can be electronically signed too)? Or how many of us actually use them?
A contract is an agreement between yourself and your employer, albeit for one performance or even 50 stripteases worth. A contract is worth its weight in gold, glitter and chocolate.
A contract is a legal document. That is right brothers and sisters of the glitter realm. ITS LEGAL. Its binding like chewing gum in your barnet. Breaking contract can be costly and a pain the ass whether you or your client do the damage. A broken clause in a contract can prevent you from being paid. OR worst yet, be fined. I mean it. Some contracts even have clauses for the fines to be implemented if not all other clauses are adhered to.
I will admit now my favourite clause in my own contract is my cancellation clause. If a client cancels me with in a certain time period, they dont pay me anything. However, the closer to the event, the more they have to pay in a percentage of my final fee. I had to put this in after so many shows started to be cancelled without notice. Also not to mention a few promoters who hire performers and then decide not to use them on arrival. Yeah. That old chestnut. Sorry I over booked.
A contract can also lay out what you expect. Do you want a secure room to get changed in? No…ok. Toilets for you then. Do you want to be paid within 14 days of the show? No? Ok…when hell freezes over then. How about that fee…? Here, have half of the amount.
Contracts layout what you want, expect and need from the client and visa versa. Contracts can be negotiated but once signed, they are to be adhered to or face consequences. Yes they can be a ball ache to send them out, chase them and rewrite them but believe me when I say they are well worth it. I take a copy of the signed contract with me to all gigs. The times when I have been told ‘i’ll do a bank transfer on Tuesday’ when payment on night was agreed or the sudden lack of travel money included.
Equity offer contracts for use via their membership benefits. They are DAMN good. This alone makes membership worth it. Not to mention drafting your own can be hard and can work out very expensive if you choose to out source.
If you want to be professional, you need a contract. A contract that is adaptable but also enforceable. Dont mess about with your work or that of others. The contract covers both parties so be sure you know what the terms and conditions are. We all gotta play in the limelight together.
Stand by for more burlesque business posts from me.
