Stephanie G. Mathis First and foremost, I am a huge music fan. We opened our home for concerts when I became a mother, and it was harder to go to shows. This quickly became and remains one of my favorite things to do. That’s why I co-founded Side Door along with touring artist Dan Mangan. I’m asking you, artists, to find more people who are like me so that we can do more shows.
Let’s start with some basics.
Yes, if you think a large audience that is willing to buy merchandise qualifies as a “real” show. You can often enhance the community of your hosts by adding your fans.
Does it make financial sense?
House concerts and DIY venues are usually cheaper than regular shows. However, the ticket price can be higher. Even if there are fewer people present, you can still make more money.
Is this weird?
You will face some physical and mental challenges when you transform a community or business space into a performance space. Good communication, preparation, and setting clear expectations can help you feel more comfortable.
How can you find people to host house concerts and other DIY shows?
Say you’ve booked a date for a festival. If you’re going to a festival, can you book more shows while on your way? Booking shows at traditional venues has never been harder. The backlog of rescheduled performances is now filling the nights for the next three years. It is, therefore, essential to open up more space.
It’s hard to find hosts, especially ones who are the right match for you. Side Door was created to match artists with hosts in homes, cafes, and bookstores. Barns, community spaces, co-working spaces, etc.
You can begin by contacting your audience. This could be through your mailing list, social media posts, or simply talking to them after your shows. You’ll find someone willing to host a show. Side Door’s Show Calls is a great way to convert fans into hosts. You can try it for free.
How can you turn a fan host?
Fans of artists are one thing, but expecting them to know what you need for a successful show is another. It’s important to make sure that you are clear with your needs and also let the fans know how they can assist.
Communicate your needs:
1. Will they be paying a fixed fee or tickets? Will there be a ‘pass the Hat’ at the end of each show?
2. How long and what time will the show last? Two sets or one? When do you set up?
3. What is the price of the ticket and the split (if you’re the host, do you get a portion of the revenue)?
4. Determine how many people you can comfortably fit in the space.
5. Ask if the PA is provided or if it needs to be hired. Who is responsible for the technical setup/requirements?
How can you and the promoter work together to bring in an audience?
7. Agree on the language/photos/frequency/platforms of promotions.
Working with a partner
Side Door is a marketplace where artists and hosts can find each other. There are many tools available to help hosts prepare for the show and find them. These include managing performance royalties and taxes, as well as ticketing and payments. It may be worth hiring a third party to collect the money and logistics to reduce stress.
You can work with a lot of partners! You can work with other partners. Some will book your shows, and you show up at the venue. Some will help you meet potential hosts. You can also meet hosts at conferences and festivals.
It would be best if you considered whether or not you want to pay for their support.
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Be creative
You can choose a space that is suitable for the show by performing in an alternative location. Is it necessary to keep the space super quiet? Are you a nature lover? Try a Park. Do you want cute animals to be around you? Try a house that has a dog or a Barn.
Work with the host to decide how you want the space lit and decorated. If you want your guests to focus on the event, you may wish to limit photography/video. You may want to encourage people to dance. Provide enough space so that they can do this.
What can you do to enhance the performance of your show and the experience for the audience? It’s important to be creative in how you set up this show. You don’t need to come up with a different scheme for each show. You can bring along a simple projection that will run throughout the show.
Sell merchandise
When it comes to band merchandise, assume the best. Bring it if you can. Many people don’t know how to support the artists they love, so giving them an opportunity to purchase something after a show as a memento of their experience can be very beneficial. You can earn more money and cement a relationship with the person.
T-shirts, vinyl, and unique items such as scarves or caps are some of the most popular items I have seen at shows. One of my favorite items is a jacket with band pins.
The shows you put on should be a way to grow your audience, generate revenue, and have fun. You should find hosts and spaces that will allow you to create an amazing experience for both you and your audience and who will keep everyone happy and safe.
