What is a Live Performance Contract?
A Live Performance Contract is a legal agreement between a musician, band, or artist and another party (called the hirer), who is hiring them for a live performance. This document outlines the details of the performance, such as the date, location, duration, payment, and any other conditions agreed upon by both parties.
Who needs to sign the Live Performance Contract?
Both the hirer, which could be a person or a company organizing the event, and the artist or band leader must sign the contract. If the band has more than one person, the band leader acts as the agent for the rest of the members and signs on their behalf.
How is the performance date and venue defined in the contract?
The performance venue and the dates are clearly specified within the contract. If there’s more than one performance (such as a residency), additional dates are listed in a separate schedule attached to the contract.
Does the contract cover travel, accommodation, and meals for the artist?
Yes, the contract specifies whether the hirer or the artist is responsible for arranging and covering the costs of travel, equipment transport, accommodation, and meals for all personnel. Depending on the agreement, these expenses can be included in the final payment or covered by the hirer separately.
What happens if the performance is cancelled?
The contract outlines a cancellation policy, which requires written notice within a specified timeframe before the performance date. Depending on when the cancellation occurs, a deposit and any incurred travel costs may not be refundable. If the artist cancels due to unavoidable circumstances (like illness or transport issues), they are not liable to refund the hirer.
How is payment for the performance handled?
Payment terms are detailed in the contract, including the total amount, deposit requirement, and the timing of final payment. The agreement might also include a clause about a percentage of door takings as part of the payment, specifying when it should be paid to the artist.
What are the responsibilities of the hirer regarding the performance venue?
The hirer is responsible for providing a safe and compliant venue, ensuring all equipment is in working order, obtaining necessary permits, and providing adequate power supply. The hirer must also ensure safe loading conditions for the artist and provide secure parking.
Can the artist sell merchandise at the event?
Yes, the artist reserves the right to sell merchandise at the performance venue, both before and after the performance, from a location agreed upon with the hirer.
What happens if performance conditions change due to the hirer or weather?
If the performance is delayed, interrupted, or finishes early due to the hirer’s actions or weather conditions, the hirer is still responsible for paying the full agreed-upon amount.
How are disputes between the hirer and the artist resolved?
The contract stipulates that any disputes should first be attempted to be resolved through negotiation. If legal action becomes necessary, the courts of the State of Western Australia have exclusive jurisdiction, and each party bears their own legal costs, unless the artist prevails, in which case the hirer pays.