Thread: Pricing a Gig -- I'm proud of myself!

I'm on Gigmasters and have been getting, after a quiet bout, some gig alerts.

Got one today (other Los Angeles area Bhuzzers might have gotten it, too) for an hour-long show at a "gala banquet" next March. The following is what I wrote in the comments section of the bid:

"Most belly dance sets featuring one entertainer are 15-20 minutes in length, for which I charge $200.
If your client is looking for a true floor show, I suggest a minimum of three performers, which allows for costume and prop changes while allowing the show to continue without interruption. The fee for 3 entertainers for a 1-hour show is $750. This price point reflects a professional performance by experienced entertainers who will require considerable time in rehearsal together prior to the event.
As requested, I will contact you via phone, as well as by this email response.
Looking forward to speaking with you,
Deborah the Belly Dancer"

Since this potential client specifically requested a call, I called. Having just gotten an email from Gigmasters indicating my bid had been read, I knew she had at least seen it.

When she answered the phone, I introduced myself and asked her if she had any questions. No questions. Thanked her for her time and told her I hoped all will go well with the banquet.

I have never really priced for a specific potential client what I call a "floor show" with multiple dancers, costume changes and props.

From what I understand, this area (greater Los Angeles) prices its 15- to 20-minute solo gigs between $150 and $250 (although I know of many who charge much less). I'm happy with $200, so that's what I often charge, so I used that as a jumping-off point.

$750 is just $250 per dancer for an hour. That's a little less than what I charge for a 45- to 60-minute "girls night out." Since I'm not part of a dance troupe, I would have to get together with other dancers to decide on show format, who's using what prop(s), and probably come up with a couple of group numbers. That's a lotta work. Sounds fun to me, though!

Is $750 too little to charge, or this that dollar amount making people faint for a different reason?

Deborah

that sounds good to me! :)

It sounds fair to me, also. this is pretty much what I charged the make up company a couple of years ago. Plus costume rental for their people who went out to embarrass the CEO, but that is another story!

{{{HUGS}}}

That sounds perfect to me. The rate is certainly fair for the amount of work involved, and I think you did a good job of phrasing it professionally and explaining why you charge what you do.