Free tool
Live performance contract template
Fill in the details of the gig and get a plain-English performance agreement you can print, sign, or paste into an email. Free, no signup, nothing stored.
LIVE PERFORMANCE AGREEMENT
This agreement is between [ARTIST NAME] ("Artist") and [VENUE NAME] ("Venue") for a live musical performance.
1. Engagement
Date: [DATE]
Location: [VENUE ADDRESS]
Load-in and sound check: 18:00
Performance: 19:00 to 22:00
Format: 2 x 60 minutes with a 20-minute break
2. Compensation
Total fee: $600. A non-refundable deposit of $150 is due on signing to hold the date. The remaining balance is payable in full on the night of the performance.
3. Venue obligations
The Venue provides PA system, two vocal microphones, and stage power, a safe and weather-protected performance area, parking or loading access for the Artist, and complimentary water for all performers.
4. Artist obligations
The Artist arrives at the load-in time above, performs the format described, and provides all instruments and personal equipment not listed as Venue-provided.
5. Cancellation
Either party may cancel in writing at least 14 days before the performance date. If the Venue cancels inside that window, the full fee remains payable. If the Artist cancels inside that window, the Artist will refund the deposit or provide a suitable replacement act at the same fee, at the Venue's choice.
6. Force majeure
Neither party is liable for cancellation caused by events outside reasonable control (severe weather, government order, venue closure, illness with documentation). The parties will make a good-faith effort to reschedule; the deposit carries over to the rescheduled date.
7. Recording and promotion
The Venue may photograph or record short clips of the performance for its own promotion. Any full-length audio or video recording, broadcast, or commercial release requires the Artist's written permission. Both parties may use the other's name and logo to promote the engagement.
8. Independent contractor
The Artist performs as an independent contractor, not an employee, and is responsible for the Artist's own taxes and insurance.
9. Entire agreement
This document is the entire agreement between the parties and may be changed only in writing signed by both.
Artist: [ARTIST NAME] Signature: ______________________ Date: __________
Venue: [VENUE NAME] Signature: ______________________ Date: __________
Why a one-page contract wins you better gigs
Most bar and restaurant gigs are booked on a text message, which is exactly why artists get bumped for a private party the week of the show. A short written agreement with a deposit does two things: it makes the date real, and it tells the venue you run a business. Venues that hesitate at a simple agreement are usually the ones that would have cancelled.
Keep it to one page. Fee, deposit, times, what the room provides, and what happens if someone cancels. That covers almost every dispute an independent artist actually runs into.
A note on legal advice
This template is a starting point written in plain language, not legal advice. If a gig involves large sums, exclusivity, recording rights or travel abroad, have a lawyer in your state review your standard agreement once — then reuse it forever.
Send it for e-signature instead
Inside BookTheStage the same agreement is generated from your booking, emailed to the venue, and comes back signed — with the deposit invoice attached. Free to start.