Thread: "we want X dancers... but we cannot pay"

*burp*

After reading the last few posts, I think *burp* I need *burp* some Beano . . .

*burp*

Deborah

Originally Posted by artemisia_danst

aargh,

i keep getting these requests for "a bellydance group", "we want several dancers", and then "we have no budget" "but we will give you free drinks"

i'm annoyed.

This tight arsed tack has obviously worked for them in the past. There are those out there who dance for sweet bugger all.

Originally Posted by artemisia_danst

aargh,

i keep getting these requests for "a bellydance group", "we want several dancers", and then "we have no budget" "but we will give you free drinks"

i'm annoyed.

In my experience TV media does this as well. I've had more than one occasion where I've been offered TV work, asked the fee, to be told there isn't one. My reaction? Get lost, I'm a professional.

Maybe it's because some people will do anything to be on television?

Totally off topic but Satin - I am loving the new Avatar! Based on that pic, I have a really great promotional opp for you!

and unfortunately there are lots of dancer out there having weekly "showcases" and asking people to perform for free. I have a hard time morally doing it monthly.

I DO ask if there is budget for entertainment right up front. Also my troups don't do freebies for commercial enterprises. I don't need that kind of exposure. We do lots of charities and most in our area have no budget. For the worthy causes, it also depends upon how the question was phrased, if the caller had any respect for dancers/their time and if it will look good on the 'resume'. Must be family event, multi national, i.e. not politically charged, lots of potential attendees. Some years I've turned down more than accepted and we are still quite busy.

Originally Posted by eshtabellydance

and unfortunately there are lots of dancer out there having weekly "showcases" and asking people to perform for free. I have a hard time morally doing it monthly.

When you say showcases what do you mean? I know (and dance) at a few in my area that are weekly and we don't get paid. There are usually five dancers, a band and a cover. Where is the line drawn at community event/showcase? There are tons of dancers both pro and amature that dance at these places for free and there is never a shortage of people who want to sign up. I guess I don't understand when it is considered not okay and when it is.

i would like a house on the ocean but i can't pay for that either.
if they cant afford to pay for entertainment then they shouldn't host an event.