In performance entertainment there is a thing I call “The Trap”. It is as dangerous as getting stuck in quicksand. Mind you, at least quicksand may kill you. “The Trap” will let you live jaded to what was once fun! A few forms of this trap are out there but ultimately they are all the same. You can place yourself into the trap. You could be tricked into the trap by others. Worst case scenario you convince yourself that being caught in the trap is a good thing. There is a future out there for people in entertainment. Trust me, I know. I am living proof. My fear is that people forget they have a choice. There is opportunities out there that will lead them into the unknown world of success!
Most commonly “The Trap” is any performance you are asked to bring people or for you to buy pre-sale tickets to perform at said venue without being compensated. Pay to Play is illegal because you must be compensated for your time or in this case, service. Bring 10 people + 4 performers = 40 person audience. You brought 10 + $10 door + drinks and food ($20 more) = $30 a person. You earned $300 and are paid $0.00 for your performance time. If this makes you happy, then throw a BBQ for friends and family, feed them and perform for a charge of $5 a person. You earn 100% for your time! If friends and family come to see you that's not building a fan-base. That and a real fan base is done through marketing, not performing. (kind of).
If you feel you will make a killing by asking your friends to perform and they will bring 10 people each you are falling for the same trap, except you are setting up THE TRAP for them. Feeling you will grow your audience because each performer is bringing 10 people is delusional unless you have marketing/branding material to hand out after each show. Even a “visit my site” business card does wonders for you! Let them remember you with an item. Most of the time, friends and family of other performers don't even want to be there let alone want to see you perform. Break free of THE TRAP. Know your rights, and know your value. Be the cause of your worth through Networking, Marketing, and Practicing!
There is more to the business of entertainment than performing. The performing is the fun part, not the business...
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