Last Updated February 15, 2024
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A Performance Contract is an agreement between a performer and a client outlining the terms and conditions of a live performance. A client or a freelance performer can create this contract to finalise an agreement for a performance at a private or commercial event.
Clients may be individuals or businesses running a venue. Performers may be, for example:
- Bands or musical groups
- Solo artists or DJs
- Dancers or gymnasts
- Theatre actors
- Comedians
- Magicians
- Poets
As with any business arrangement, it’s important that all parties agree with the terms of the arrangement. Though verbal agreements are considered legal, they are much more difficult to prove later on as it’s much harder to prove the terms without evidence in writing.
Having a contract in writing is a stronger agreement as it clearly outlines the terms and conditions of an arrangement. A written document makes it easier to prove what was originally agreed upon should a legal dispute occur.
A Performance Contract benefits both parties. For a client, interests concerning scheduling, accommodations, cancellations, and liabilities are all laid out in a contract. As for performers, it creates stability for their scheduling and income while detailing their responsibilities for the performance dates, which is why many managers and agents require them upon booking a performer.
Often, performers are the ones to initiate the use of a Performance Contract. However, if a performer doesn’t initiate a contract, a client can bring it up to solidify the deal.
For example, suppose a company is celebrating the launch of a new product and hires a singer to perform. A Performance Contract can secure the booking and outline the terms.
To help with booking an artist, you can customize LawDepot’s Performance Contract for several kinds of events, including:
- Corporate events
- Live shows
- Weddings
- Parties
- Birthdays
- Reunions
- Concerts
LawDepot’s user-friendly questionnaire helps you create your Performance Contract in minutes. We provide a short version contract, which provides a straightforward agreement for more private events like birthday parties. We also offer a long version contract that outlines further details, such as extended performance requirements and additional expenses.
Once you’ve selected your country and agreement version, simply complete the following steps:
LawDepot’s Performance Contract template can include a group or solo performer. Fill in the:
- Names (including stage names, if applicable)
- Group name, if applicable (e.g., band name)
- Contact details
You will then decide who will sign the contract for the performer, this is also known as the signing authority. The artist can have signing authority. Alternatively, a group leader or a business manager can have the authority to sign on behalf of a group or artist.
2. Complete client and venue details
Whether the client is an individual or a business, include a name and contact details for whichever suits the situation best. Most importantly, have the address and name of the venue. These will be details the performer needs for travel and preparation.
Describe what kind of performance that will be taking place. Performance details will include how many shows there will be with the dates and times for scheduling.
4. Give payment details
Payment details outline how much performer(s) will be paid and any deposits required before the event date. You can also include any overtime rates and additional expenses the client will provide (e.g., transport, accommodation, meals, etc).
Some artists may have a business manager to negotiate payments if you’re looking at how much to pay a performer. Other performers may have set rates for their time or be part of a union for their profession. Unions they could be under include:
Deposit amounts can vary depending on the performer and the length of the booking (e.g., if there are numerous dates and shows), but a deposit is important for a performer to protect their financial interests.
With our Performance Contract, you can create a more detailed list of performer and client duties for an event. You may specify the following:
- Who is providing the light and sound system?
- Will performers be allowed to sell merchandise?
- Will the client be responsible for obtaining liability insurance?
Clients are responsible for permits and ensuring that performances are not recorded or transmitted during an event.
6. Create cancellation details and dispute resolutions
Cancellation deadlines and deposit refund dates are in place for both parties. Giving a deadline for cancellations benefits both parties. For example, it provides a client with time to find new entertainment and allows the performer to book a new, paid gig. Our questionnaire will prompt you to include cancellation details for both parties that fits your needs.
As you create your contract, LawDepot’s template implements a dispute resolution clause should anyone breach the contract. This includes options for mediation or going straight into arbitration.
7. Select your signing details
Choose a date for signing with the option to include a witness to be present. Though it’s not legally required, having a witness present is good practice. It adds to the formality of the signing and makes both parties focus on the decisions being made.
Witnesses should be an independent person without familial or business ties to either party. If a future dispute occurs, the witness can be called upon to say that they did see the parties sign the agreement.
Yes, when properly executed and signed, contracts are legally binding. LawDepot’s Performance Contract is customised for each country in the UK to ensure your contract follows all legal requirements for your jurisdiction. We also include a dispute resolution clause to save time and money from going to civil court to resolve any contractual breaches.