How to Select a Reputable Entertainment Agency and The Advantages of Booking Acts using one.

Most people if they are being honest view Entertainment Agencies as middle men who will be more expensive if acts are booked with them rather than making a booking direct with the act.

After all with the internet and Google why not DIY and save some money into the bargain?

Firstly, Entertainment Agencies don’t simply book acts. Whilst this is clearly a central function, it is far from being their only function. They will have wide contacts and working relationships with acts and entertainment service providers and be available to help and advise on a wide range of specialist matters within the Entertainment Industry.

For example Performance Standards, Working Practices, Event Management, Contract Law, Acts Professional Organizations and Government Regulations are just a few matters dealt with by Entertainment Agencies.

So you need the assistance of an Entertainment Agency, but how do you select a reputable one?

First impressions are important and a guide to the professionalism or otherwise of the Agency concerned. For example when you phone, is your experience a pleasant one or does the Agent sound too busy to listen to your concerns?

If they pass this test you might like to dig a little deeper before using their service. How long have they been established, are they members of a professional organization, is the Agent knowledgeable and pleasant, can he answer your questions, does the Agency have a professional website, or does it look unprofessional and have poor or incomplete information?

Try sending the Agency an e mail enquiry and see how quickly and completely they answer your questions.

You think you might like to book an act using the services of a reputable Entertainment Agency but what are the advantages that they offer compared with booking an act yourself direct?

Firstly, they will have wide and varied contacts with acts and a working knowledge of each act’s talent and skill. The Agent will be able to match your requirements exactly with a suitable act and if that particular act is unavailable, will have the resources to find another similar act.

If you have a particular budget the Agent will know which acts are likely to come close to your budget and be in a position to negotiate an acceptable fee on your behalf.

A good Agent will deal with the act and your Venue and deal with their individual requirements. A Contract will be issued to the act and Client that meets Government regulations and protects the interests of each party.

Should you be in the unfortunate position that an act is unable to perform due to illness or other circumstances, a reputable Agent will be able to find another act at an acceptable fee as a replacement?

Finally, if you need to cancel a booking the Agent will negotiate a settlement with the act on your behalf.