Performers

Would you like to perform with Arts Out West ?

Are you.....?

Flexible
Adaptable
Self-sufficient
Sociable ?

Could you.....?

do your own get-in and get-out
get changed in the toilets
perform 3 feet from the front row
chat with your audience in the interval and after the show ?

If so, read on...

Getting a rural touring gig is a two-stage process.

First you have to convince the scheme manager that your show should go on the "Menu".
Then the Menu information you provide has to be good enough to persuade the volunteer promoter in the village that they should choose your show.

THE MENU :

This is compiled twice a year. The Menu for Autumn events goes to village hall promoters in April/May. The menu for Spring events goes out in September/October.

Promoters have one month to decide what they would like. Often the menu is circulated round the entire village hall committee, so that they have "buy-in" to whatever choice has been made. Then the scheme manager has to juggle the requests to make a workable tour.

The contract is made between the performer and Arts Out West, who pay the agreed fee. Financial constraints mean that the fees we pay have to average about £550 per show, so ranging from £250 upwards. We hardly ever pay more than £800.

Arts Out West, in common with about 30 other rural touring schemes, is a member of the NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM. We would strongly advise you to have a look at the website - www.nrtf.org.uk. go to the "Companies and Performers'" page and click on the information sheet. That will tell you how to download or purchase the excellent booklet "Eyes Wide Open" which has been specially prepared to give performers some idea of what to expect.

To be considered for our menu you will need to complete and return the Company Details Sheet (see File Gallery below for download).

The following are very helpful :

website, myspace or youtube pages
demo cds or dvds
reviews, particularly of village hall performances
references, particularly from other schemes.
Good quality publicity materials, particularly a5 fliers, a4 posters and hi-res colour images.

THE PERFORMANCE:

You liaise with the village hall promoter about get-in and get-out times, directions etc. They make sure the hall is open, heated and lit for you, and provide you with refreshments. Village halls like intervals, because its a chance for friends and neighours to meet and chat, and for the hall to sell refreshments and raffle tickets. If your show doesn't have an interval, refreshments may be served at the end with a chance to "meet the artists" after.