Navigating Conference Season: A Peek into the World of Performing Arts Business

As the leaves start to turn and the air carries a hint of autumn, the performing arts world gears up for one of its most exciting and crucial times of the year: conference season. This is when artists, agents, and presenters come together to showcase their talents, forge new partnerships, and shape seasons at performing arts centers, festivals, and concert series. 

I just returned from the first of several large booking conferences (Western Arts Alliance) and I will be a workshop leader at another arts conference next month (Arts Northwest).

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at conference season, how business is conducted between agents and presenters, and what artists can expect.

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The Essence of Conference Season
Conference season typically spans several months, with events and gatherings taking place in various locations, both physical and virtual. These conferences are organized by industry associations, such as the Western Arts Alliance (WAA), Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) and the International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA), to name a few. They serve as a melting pot for professionals from all corners of the performing arts world, including artists, agents, presenters, producers, and more.

The Heart of Business: Agents and Presenters
At the core of conference season lies the intricate dance between agents and presenters. Agents, representing artists or performing companies, aim to secure bookings and partnerships with presenters, who are responsible for programming performances in venues, festivals, and theaters. These meetings are where the magic happens, where artistic visions meet practical logistics, and where future collaborations take shape. 

Be mindful that presenters are booking for the upcoming season, not the current one, so there may be months or even year+ between when the conference takes place, the deal is made, and when the actual performance takes place (and you get paid).

What to Expect as an Artist
For artists, conference season is a whirlwind of opportunities and a chance to gain exposure on a broader scale. Here's what you can expect:

• Showcase Performances: Many artists are invited to perform short showcases during these conferences. This is a golden opportunity to demonstrate your talent to potential presenters who may be interested in booking your act. Make sure your performance is impeccable and leaves a lasting impression. With travel costs, registration and fees, showcasing can be a hefty financial investment.
• Networking: Conference season is all about networking. Engage with fellow artists, agents, and presenters. Attend workshops and panel discussions to stay updated on industry trends and build valuable connections.
• Pitch Meetings: If you have an agent or manager, they'll be setting up meetings with presenters to discuss potential bookings. Be prepared to present your work, answer questions, and negotiate terms if necessary. Agents are likely more focused on booking work for their current roster at conferences rather than seeking out artists to join their rosters. That said, a good showcase or connection at a conference can lead to representation later on.
• Market Your Brand: Have promotional materials ready, including press kits, videos, and a professional website or social media presence. Presenters often want to see more than just your performance—they want to know how well you can market yourself.
• Patience and Persistence: Securing bookings and partnerships can take time. Don't be discouraged by initial rejections; persevere, and keep refining your pitch and performance. Remember, it's about building relationships and connections first. 
• Attend Educational Sessions: Many conferences offer educational sessions covering a wide range of topics, from grant writing to technical production. Take advantage of these opportunities to expand your knowledge and skill set.
• Stay Informed: Be aware of current industry trends, market demands, and the preferences of your target audience. This knowledge will help you tailor your pitch to potential presenters.

Conference season is an exciting and crucial period in the performing arts world. It's a time when artists, agents, and presenters come together to shape the future of performing arts entertainment.

As an artist, conference season offers a unique opportunity to showcase your talent, connect with industry professionals, and pave the way for future collaborations. Embrace this season with enthusiasm, be well-prepared, and remember that patience and persistence can go a long way in building a successful career in the performing arts.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, conference season can be a game-changer for your career.

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Want help navigating conference season? Need help figuring out if it’s a good investment for your music career? I can help with that. Send me a message and we’ll set up a time for a free consultation.

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