LawDepot’s questionnaire helps you easily draft a Performance Contract in minutes. We provide the option of a short version contract for a minimal agreement for more informal shows, like an entertainer at a birthday party. Alternatively, a long version contract provides further details such as extended performance requirements and additional expenses.
Once you choose your location and contract version, complete your agreement with the following:
LawDepot’s Performance Contract template can be useful for group or solo performers. Fill in the:
- Names (including stage names, if applicable)
- Group name, if applicable (e.g., band name)
- Contact details
You can then decide who will sign the contract, also known as the signing authority. The performer can sign, or you can choose a group leader or a business manager to sign on their behalf.
2. Client and venue details
Whether a 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 will be taking place. This will include how many shows there will be with the dates and times for scheduling.
4. Payment details
Payment details outline how much the 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 cover (e.g., transport, accommodation, meals, etc.).
If you’re looking at how much to pay a performer, some artists may have a business manager to negotiate payments for the contract. Other performers may be part of a union for their profession or have set rates for their time. Unions they could be under include:
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?
Please note venues and clients are responsible for permits and ensuring that performances are not recorded or transmitted during an event.
6. Cancellations and resolutions
Next, set cancellation deadlines and deposit refund dates for both parties. Setting a deadline for cancellations benefits both parties. It provides a client time to find an alternative and allows the performer to book a new, paying performance.
As you create your contract, LawDepot’s template implements a dispute resolution clause should either party breach the contract. This includes options for mediation or going straight into arbitration.
7. 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.
