FAQ's

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We have compiled a list of questions most frequently asked by our clients. If you do not find an answer to your queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on enquiries@5seasons.co.za.

For our Wedding-specific list, please visit our Wedding FAQs page.

Using Five Seasons Entertainment

Question: Can someone help me choose the right performer(s) for my event?

Answer: Yes, of course, that's what we do! Just let us know all your event requirements and we would be happy to suggest suitable options based on style, preferences, budget etc. Back to top

Question: Who is Five Seasons Entertainment? What is your role in the booking process?

Answer: We are an entertainment consultancy and booking agency. We have access to all the top performers under one roof and are therefore uniquely positioned to provide you with a one-stop and tailor-made consultation service. Our turn-around time is known to be top-notch and our attention to detail well-respected in the industry. We work on all types of events, from large corporate functions, to showcases, festivals as well as small private functions, weddings and intimate gatherings. We manage the booking process from start to finish, and take care of all the "legal stuff" (contracts, payments etc.) with the performer(s) on confirmed bookings. READ MORE ABOUT US
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Question: Do you charge commission?

Answer: An industry-standard commission is included in all our quotes. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Booking & Enquiry Procedures

Question: What is the standard process, from enquiring about live entertainment, to confirming a performer for my event?

Answer: Very broadly speaking, this is a 4-step process:

Client makes contact with us
You can contact us through our CONTACT US page or by completing an ENQUIRY FORM. Once you've given us an indication of your requirements, we will provide you with preliminary options and / or costs and exclusions within ± 1 working day. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have at this stage through regular correspondence.

Availability check
We generally do not check the availability of performers upon each and every enquiry we receive, as the feasibility of a particular performer is usually dictated by factors such as budget and suitability, which is often only established after some correspondence between ourselves and the client. When feasibility has been established, we will be happy to check availability, if required. This is a process which often involves following up on various provisional bookings and other diary follow-ups, and while we do go out of our way to be able to guarantee availability ASAP, this process does occasionally take up to a few days. You will be kept updated, though!

Decision-making time
Once availability has been established, we will let you know and provisionally book the performer for your event. A provisional booking can be held for strictly up to 5 working days (or 24 hours in case the performer receives another booking request for the same date), so you would need to let us know ASAP if you wish to confirm. Please be aware that while some performers are happy to hold a booking provisionally for quite a while, many are not, and it is recommended that you make a final decision as soon as possible. Should you decide not to take the booking further, it would be greatly appreciated if you could let us know so that we can release the performer.

Confirmation
Once you have accepted the quotation and requested a booking to be confirmed, we will ask you to complete a client / event details form, and once returned, we will issue an invoice and contract. The contract will need to be signed and returned to our office within 3 working days and, upon confirmation, we require a 50% deposit on the performance fee in order to fully secure the date.

Once this process has been completed, a confirmed booking will come into existence. Back to top

Question: How long will it take for you to answer my initial enquiry?

Answer: We aim to respond to all request within one working day. Complicated or multiple requests may take slightly longer, but you can expect and initial response within a day.
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Question: What information do I need to give you in order to get a quote for an artist?

Answer: Please give as much information as possible! As a bare minimum, it really helps if we know the following:

Event date
Venue (if you don't have one yet, at least include the city or province/area)
Number of guests expected & their profile (industry / sector / level, age, race etc.)
Type of event (corporate, private, festival etc.)
Basic indication of budget

Additional information that would be extremely helpful to know, are listed on the ADDITIONAL INFO tab on the ENQUIRY PAGE

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Question: How far in advance should I make a booking or start enquiring?

Answer: There is no set answer to this query. Whenever you start planning your event, is a good time to start enquiring! Many top performers have packed diaries and some are fully booked months in advance. However, this is not always the case, as many performers choose their events carefully and are quite readily available for events they feel they are suitable for. Also, some performers prefer not to book months in advance, as it is not always possible for them to know what their future movements will be. With actors and presenters, production schedules often prevent them from guaranteeing availability more than a month or so in advance, while musicians often have regular engagements which they may be able to "shuffle" around if given adequate notice. These are all factors that depend on the individual performer; all the relevant information will be communicated to you. Back to top

Question: What are the costs involved?

Answer: View the COSTS section for some general guidelines. Back to top

Question: I've received some quotes from you. I assume all the performers you quoted on are available for my event and the booking is now confirmed?

Answer: As you might expect, we cannot always check availability with all performers at quotation stage for each and every enquiry received. This would become an unmanageable process, as the feasibility of a particular performer is usually dictated by factors such as budget and suitability, which is often only established after some correspondence between ourselves and the client. We therefore do require clients to first review the rates / performance options before we approach the performers with availability checks. If you decide you would like to book any of the artists quoted on, kindly advise which artist in particular, and we will be happy to check availability accordingly.

Generally the following enquiry and booking procedure applies (also see COSTS & PAYMENTS section for more):

Indicate your intention to confirm a specific artist and we will check availability, based on event date, time(s), venue etc.

A performance contract is drawn up, which has to be signed and returned to our office

Payment of 50% deposit is due in order to confirm booking

Balance is payable at least 2 days before the performance date (this does vary between performers).

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Question: How does payment work? Do you require a deposit and/or contract?

Answer: As per the previous question, in order to confirm a booking, we would require a signed contract (issued by us) and 50% deposit to secure, with the balance payable at least 2 days before the event. Please also see COSTS & PAYMENTS section for more information.
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Question: I'd like the performer to perform for a shorter period of time than what is indicated on the quotation. I assume the fee can be reduced for shorter performances?

Answer: Performers generally do not charge on a "per hour" basis, but rather for "up to X number of sets, within X number of hours". Therefore, performance fees are generally not reduced for shorter performances as artists would not be able to take on another booking on the same date, should it overlap with your event. In some unusual cases certain performers may consider being flexible about this, so feel free to ask and we will be happy to advise accordingly.

There are exclusions to this rule though, with many Classical performers, magicians, DJs etc. providing a very specific "per hour" rate structure, so please have a look at your quote, which will be detailed in this regard. Back to top

Question: What happens if I have to cancel, or if the artist cancels a booking?

Answer: Cancellation terms will be detailed in your contract. However, as a general industry practice you will forfeit your 50% deposit should you cancel more than 30 days before the actual event. In the unfortunate case that you need to cancel within 30 days prior to the event, the full fee will become payable to the performer, as commitments have already been made and the artist would have most likely refused other offers for the same date. In the unlikely event of intentional / willful cancellation by the artist, Five Seasons will procure a suitable replacement performer immediately and, should this be impossible, you will receive a refund (contractual conditions apply). Back to top

Question: What is your preferred method of communication?

Answer: We are always available telephonically, but do prefer communicating via email. Why? On any given day, we received hundreds of new requests, and it makes it more manageable for us if we have a paper trail (albeit an electronic one!) to connect to each enquiry. We do love chatting to our clients though, so feel free to call as well! Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

General Booking Questions

Question: How long before the start of performance time will the band / performer arrive for set-up and / or sound check?

Answer: This does depend on the type of performer booked. For instance, Classical musicians and others who generally perform acoustically (such as Marimba bands, Magicians etc.) arrive no more than 30 mins prior to start (as they normally don't require sound-check), while function / show bands etc. will generally arrive 1.5 - 2 hours prior to start of their 1st set (i.e. not necessarily the start of the event) in order to sound-check. If this does not tie in with the starting time of your event and you would require all set-up & sound-checks to be completed prior to guest arrival, please advise and we will be happy to discuss a possible early arrival time with the performer concerned. In some cases early arrival requests may need to be quoted for separately, but this does vary greatly between performers, as some artists may ask for an additional fee for early set up whilst others may not. Generally speaking, bear in mind that performers charge for their time, and if you do intend to request an early setup and / or sound-check which is not required by the performers themselves (or included in their quote), it is advisable to be upfront about it from the start so that we can advise you on the potential costs involved. Back to top

Question: Will the performer(s) arrive on time? What if they don't turn up?

Answer: Yes, they will! But, we do communicate with performers regularly and can usually warn / advise a client should a traffic delay, or similar, delay a performer for some reason. This is however the exception and our performers are well-briefed and understand the importance of punctuality. We are happy to say that it has never happened to us that a performer does not turn up, but in the unlikely event of this happening, we will try procure a replacement, or refund your money. Back to top

Question: How will they know where to go? Who provides directions to the venue?

Answer: Our performers regularly appear at most of the major venues across the country. As such, we already have a large database of maps and driving directions which we will provide. However, if your venue is not within our existing database (our perhaps difficult to find), we would appreciate if you could provide a map and exact driving directions.
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Question: Where can I see the artist(s) performing live before booking?

Answer: Many performers do not have regular public appearances and, as such, it is often difficult to see an artist live. It is usually not possible to "pop in" at closed corporate events or weddings either in order to make a decision whether or not to book an act. For this reason, most of our performers either have sound clips and / or video available on their dedicated Artist pages on this website, and most musical performers / bands also have repertoire lists available for download (just look in the right hand bar on each performer's page). It is strongly advisable to refer to these clips and documents to assist you in forming an opinion about a performer. However, feel free to ask about public performances; if your chosen performer is appearing in public, we will of course tell you! Back to top

Question: Do you have sound or video clips available?

Answer: Yes! Most performers on this website have sound and / or video clips available, which can be accessed in the right hand bar on each individual performer's page. In addition, most musical performers / bands also have repertoire lists available which you can download. Should nothing be listed for a particular performer, it regrettably means no clips or material are available. Back to top

Question: What if my event runs late on the night?

Answer: In most cases, the performer's booking time is calculated quite exactly according to what the client pays for. If the proceedings do run late, there is provision for overtime in the contract, and this will normally attract an additional charge. The overtime rate for your performer will be clearly noted on the booking contract which you will sign to confirm the booking. Back to top

Question: What if I ask the performers to start earlier on the day / night? Does that mean the booking extends?

Answer: No, it does not. If, for instance, you have booked a band for up to 4 hours, with originally contracted booking time from 19:00 - 23:00, and you now want them to commence at 18:00, they would finish at 22:00, not 23:00. Back to top

Question: Do I have to provide meals and beverages for performers & crew?

Answer: Yes, hot meals (not take-aways) and beverages during the event are required for all performers and crew. The number of meals required will vary, depending on the performer booked and the numbers of persons in his / her group. Some higher-profile performers often have special meal / beverage requirements which are detailed on their hospitality rider, but for most others, a basic hot plate of food and non-alcoholic beverages would be the norm. For shorter bookings (up to 1 hour only) beverages will be sufficient, with light snacks being preferred but not absolutely essential. The meal & beverage requirements will be stipulated in your booking contract and are normally not negotiable. Back to top

Question: WHY do I have to give the performers meals & beverages? Surely they are being paid to work, not consume food and drink at my event? When I go to work, my boss certainly does not provide me with meals and beverages at the office!?

Answer: If only it was that simple! Bear in mind most bookings run over a period of ± 3-4 hours, with sound-check ± 1.5-2 hours before that. In addition, many events fall directly over meal times, and the performer is often in attendance for up to ± 6 hours! Performers cannot bring their own food to events, many of which are high-profile affairs requiring certain etiquette and class, nor can they simply pop out for a snack, or wait until they get home - travel distances, event schedules etc. normally make this completely unrealistic. Please therefore understand that the meal & beverage requirements are really not designed for the performers to have a "jol", they are quite essential to ensure the artists are able to go on stage and perform to the best of their abilities! Back to top

Question: Your list of FAQ's is long and I am worried that the performers will add to my stress levels on the day. You seem to have many rules. Why is that?

Answer: The questions listed on this page are a list of queries and issues we have encountered in our many years providing this service. They are intended to give you every possible opportunity to decide whether our service is right for you or not. We work with the best performers we can find in order to give you the best service possible; in order to keep doing that, we need to protect our artists and in turn adhere to their requirements. We have earned a reputation in the industry of being sensitive to the needs of our performers and this is extremely important to us.

Similarly, we are sensitive to the dynamic between event organisers, clients and performers, and have a strong understanding of the client�s requirements and the role entertainment � and as such, the performer - has to play in various event types. We therefore also have a very strict contract with our performers, which is designed to protect the client in many ways, and contribute to a successful performance within the context of each unique event. If you find any of our guidelines to be too specific for your needs, please feel free to let us know and we will be happy to look at each query on merit. Back to top

Question: Typically, at how many events do your performers appear? Do they have any experience?

Answer: Too numerous to list. Since our inception in 2001, our performers have played at so many events, we are unable to put a number on it! We place performers on a continuous basis throughout the year and pride ourselves on being one of SA's leading and most respected agencies. Many artists also have Client feedback listed on their individual artist pages for your perusal. Back to top

Question: What if I am not happy with the performance? Do I get my money back?

Answer: No, unfortunately not. Live performance always carries a certain degree of risk, and it is very important that you familiarise yourself with the profile of a performer before confirming a booking. Make sure you listen to sound clips, view the videos, peruse the biographies and view the repertoire lists. We unfortunately cannot be held responsible for the choice of artist/s a client makes for an event nor for any perceived or otherwise negative reaction by an audience to the performer's repertoire. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Technical Matters & Other Specifics

Question: Do I need to supply sound equipment for the band / performer?

Answer: It would depend on the specific performer, and the requirement will normally be stipulated at quotation stage. Many function bands would normally provide their own PA system for medium-sized indoor events, but most show bands and superstars do not provide any equipment at all and their needs would need to be met by a qualified audio-visual company. For artists who require technical infrastructure (sound equipment, staging & lighting), we can source quotations on sound equipment should you wish. Back to top

Question: What is a "technical rider"?

Answer: This is a document which lists equipment required by a performer, and is usually also attached as an addition / addendum to the performance booking contract.
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Question: I have had a look at the technical rider of the performer and see that they need quite a lot of equipment. They are quite "diva"-ish, hey?

Answer: No, not really! To the untrained eye, a technical rider can sometimes be a daunting document for its sheer length and complexity. However, bear in mind that a sound engineer and technical company will know exactly what it means and how to interpret it. Technical requirements are not intended or designed to display "diva behaviour"; they are actually pretty essential requirements in order to facilitate performance. Without certain things being in place, an artist may be unable to perform at all. Back to top

Question: My performer is providing the sound equipment, and I would like to make use of the band's microphone for our speeches - is this OK?

Answer: Most performers would be happy for the client to make use of their microphone for speeches. If you would like to do so, please request this with your agent prior to the event as we will just need to check with the performer. Please also kindly note that if you do use the performers' microphone, this will need to take place within the contracted artist booking duration as sound equipment will not remain at the event beyond the agreed booking time to facilitate speeches and / or other formalities, unless potential overtime remuneration is agreed upon. Back to top

Question: When the band has finished their performance, will they pack up their equipment, even if there are still guests at the event?

Answer: Yes, the band is contracted to perform / be at the venue for a certain period of time, as per the quote and performance contract. If artists or artist equipment is required to stay at the venue beyond the agreed booking time for whatever reason, relevant overtime fees would normally apply. Back to top

Question: Do I have to provide lighting?

Answer: There will need to be sufficient lighting available in the artist performance area so that artists can easily read their music, as well as be clearly seen by the audience. Lighting is generally at the client's discretion and dependant on various factors such as time of performance, general available light in performance area / venue, client's budget, type of performance booked, type of ambiance client wishes to create etc. We do however recommend that stage lighting is provided as this will enhance the visual aspect of the performance, especially for feature acts, comedians, cabaret etc. Please note than many of our higher profile artists do require specific lighting for their performance (stipulated in their technical riders), so in some cases stage lighting is non-negotiable. Back to top

Question: Do I have to provide a stage?

Answer: Staging is not something that would generally be provided by performers themselves, so if staging is required for the artist at your particular event, then this would need to be supplied by the client through the necessary service provider. Please note that staging is generally advised / required for events with more than 150 guests, but the decision to erect staging is at the client's discretion, depending on the particular event requirements / nature of performance. We do however always recommend having at least a raised performance area, as it greatly enhances the performance experience for both the guests and performers. Please make sure to check the stage dimensions for the particular artists concerned should you be erecting a stage at your event. Many higher profile artists do require staging, so in some cases this is non-negotiable. Back to top

Question: My event taking place outdoors. Is this a problem? Can the musicians perform in direct sunlight?

Answer: Performing outdoors is generally not a problem, but bear in mind that you would have to provide adequate cover to protect against direct sunlight, wind and rain. Artists cannot perform in extreme elements, and their instruments can sustain serious damage in wet weather or direct sunlight. It is therefore essential that you plan for this ahead of time, and preferably also have a "plan B" / indoor venue as a backup. If you don't have a staging company erecting professional stage covering, then please ensure that you provide a shaded area with umbrellas / gazebo in order to protect the musicians' instruments. This is an absolute requirement and unfortunately not negotiable. Back to top

Question: My event is taking place in two different performance areas in the venue, and I want the performers to move. Is this OK?

Answer: Yes, this is normally OK. But, bear in mind sound equipment normally cannot be moved once set up as it requires a period of breakdown and re-assembling. If you are booking an amplified performer / group who relies on sound equipment, it would be advisable to rather make use of an audio-visual company to provide the sound equipment in both performance areas rather than the performers trekking their equipment from one room to another! For marimba bands, classical groups (i.e. those generally not relying on sound equipment), this is not normally an issue though. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Costs & Payments

Question: Can you give me a general costing guideline for performers?

Answer: Please find a very general and indicative costing guide below. Kindly note this is not a quotation, nor should it be interpreted as a rate card. It is merely a rough guide to assist you in your planning and expectations. If you would like a quotation, please ENQUIRE and we will be happy to assist.

All cost indications exclude VAT, technical requirements, travel costs etc.

Musicians
Famous / Celebrity Bands: ± R50, 000 - R165,000
Corporate Bands / Show Bands: ± R20, 000 - R50, 000
Small to medium-sized Ethnic / African Bands (marimba etc.): ± R6, 000 - R12, 000
Larger African Bands: ± R25, 000 upwards
African Choir: ± R6, 000 - R14, 000
Private Function Bands: R6, 000 - R20, 000
Classical Quartet: ± R13, 000 - R18, 000 for 4 hours
(or much less: ± R3, 600 -R4, 000 for a shorter booking duration)
Solo saxophonist: ± R8, 500 - R12, 000 for ± 4 hours (or from ± R2,500 for 1 hour)

Comedians
Famous / Celebrity Comedians: ± R25, 000 - R40, 000
Professional (but non-celeb): ± R12, 000 - R20, 000

MCs / Keynote Speakers
Famous / Celebrity: ± R30, 000 - R40, 000
Professional (but non-celeb): ± R8, 000 - R14, 000

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Question: How much do you charge per hour?

Answer: With the exception of some performers (classical ensembles, DJs, magicians etc.) most artists do not charge "per hour", but rather for a set duration of "up to X sets / hours". Please check your quote in this regard. Back to top

Question: I have limited budget. Can you still help?

Answer: Yes, within reason. We have a huge variety of performers and options available and it is likely that we will be able to help. Simply complete an enquiry form and we will respond with appropriate rates and options. Back to top

Question: Do your musicians charge for travel / petrol?

Answer: For venues in within major centres, transport is not normally charged. For venues outside major centres, transport charges will be applied to your booking. This charge will normally be advised to you at quotation stage and should be taken into account for your budgeting. Back to top

Question: What about flights & accommodation for the performers?

Answer: Should your venue not be within driving distance and the artists are required to fly and stay over, all such costs will be for your account. We are happy to facilitate travel quotes and bookings, if required, so feel free to ask and we will source competitive quotes for you. Back to top

Question: I would like to proceed with a confirmed booking. Do you require a deposit?

Answer: Yes, in addition to signing a comprehensive performance contract, you would be required to pay a 50% deposit in order to secure the booking. We require proof of payment to be sent to us as well in order to update our accounts. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Rehearsals & Meetings

Question: I would like to hear your groups before booking. Can I come to your office to hear them rehearse?

Answer: No, unfortunately not. We work with a vast number of professional performers and they do not rehearse at our offices. The best way to hear examples of the groups we represent is to peruse the sound & video clips on each individual Artist page. If you still insist on attending a live rehearsal, please note this will be charged for (please see more about rehearsals below) and certain logistical issues will need to be discussed. This may also delay the normally streamlined booking process. Back to top

Question: What is the difference between a sound-check and Event rehearsal?

Answer: There is a big difference. A sound-check is just that: the band or performer would setup their sound equipment and check the sound thereof (either with their own equipment, or in conjunction with your contracted audio-visual company), test the various components etc. This is included in most amplified bookings and occurs within the space of 1.5-2 hours before the start of the actual performance, usually lasts ± 1 - 1.5 hours and does not involve anything other than the sound-check. A rehearsal, on the other hand, is a much more involved affair, usually incorporating various other role-players such as additional performers, the MC, technical company etc. and its intention is to do a dry run of the event order to ensure the smooth running of the event. Rehearsals are NOT included in performance quotes or contracts, unless negotiated and confirmed as such upfront. Back to top

Question: I would like the performers to attend an event rehearsal.

Answer: Rehearsals are not normally necessary for our performers. They are highly experienced artists and will be fully briefed by us before arriving at your event. Most bookings include a sound-check (as discussed above), but not a more involved event rehearsal as such. If you insist on a rehearsal or your event specifically calls for one (for instance, if there are collaborations, a specifically complex line-up etc.), this will attract additional costs and must be quoted for separately. Please bear in mind that this can amount to a substantial extra cost and rehearsals are not included as a free service at any time. Back to top

Question: Why do the performers charge for rehearsals? Is this really fair? Surely they should include this as a free service seeing as I am paying for their performance at my event?

Answer: You would have been quoted and will be paying for their performance at the event only, not for rehearsals. Therefore, rehearsals are an absolute exclusion. If you want the performers to rehearse, you will need to pay for it separately as artists always charge for their time, whether in performance or rehearsal. Back to top

Question: I would like the musicians to "audition" for me free of charge. Is this possible?

Answer: No, unfortunately not. If you insist on hearing the performers live before making a booking, we will provide you with a quote for that, which will be calculated at performance rates. Why? Our artists are extremely busy and we must therefore charge for their time, even for "auditions". If you need to hear what any groups sound like, please visit peruse their sound clips, videos and repertoire lists which can be found on the right hand side of the individual artist pages. Back to top

Question: Can I meet with the performer / band prior to my event?

Answer: Generally most of what needs to be discussed between the artist, client, AV company, agent & venue etc. can very easily be done via email or over the phone, and we do find that face-to-face / site meetings prior the event are often not essential. However, if a face-to-face meeting is of specific importance to you or there is legitimate reasons for this, then please send your request to your booking agent, who will be happy to check with the performer if he / she is available to meet at a mutually agreed date, time and place. Please do note that some artists request an additional fee if required for client / on-site meetings, as this unfortunately does not form part of the artists' standard performance fees. Why? As per "auditions" above, performers charge for their time and we therefore may have to quote for this. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Special Requests / Choice of Music / content etc.

Question: I have booked a band for my function and have various songs that I would like them to learn. I see these are not on their repertoire list. What now?

Answer: It is of great importance that such requests are made prior to confirmation of a specific artist rather than trying to persuade a performer to considerably change their repertoire once already confirmed, a process which is often not fully successful. Bringing up such requests early on in the enquiry process may also highlight unsuitability of an artist for your specific requirements and you may find that looking at another act may be a better option. However, if you do have special performance requests, please feel free to send them through, and we will be happy to check with the performer(s) if they would be able to incorporate some of them into their performance. In some cases, learning new songs will require writing out sheet music, purchasing backtracks, scoring charts etc. and may therefore need to be quoted for separately. Back to top

Question: Can I pick and choose specific songs / tailor-make the artist's performance to suit my preferences and event?

Answer: In most cases it is generally acceptable to send a few song requests from the artist's existing repertoire which you would like to hear performed at your event. However, song choice is ultimately at the artist's discretion and providing a "pick-list" of songs in a specific order should be expressly avoided. Back to top

Question: You say you charge for requests outside the artists' repertoire. What does this mean?

Answer: When you book certain artists (such as Classical ensembles, for instance), please bear in mind that certain contemporary songs will not sound good on these instruments. Typical examples are requests for light Afrikaans songs, certain Pop songs and generally repertoire which rely largely on drum rhythms or electronica. Sometimes these songs are simply not executable on Classical instruments and - even if they are - sheet music may not be readily available for our musicians. If you insist on the musicians playing a particular song which requires special transcription, sheet music etc. kindly note there may be substantial additional costs and not all requests can be accommodated. Similarly, a Jazz band will not be able to successfully perform a traditional Classical piece etc. Back to top

Question: I have booked a comedian and would like to let him know which jokes to tell at my event. Is that OK?

Answer: No, please don't! The beauty of booking live entertainment is that it is sometimes unpredictable. While it is OK to send some preferences and guidelines through as a written brief, please bear in mind performers are creative individuals, and really do not enjoy being prescribed to how exactly to conduct their performance. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Dress Code

Question: I have decided to make a booking, but I am concerned about what the musicians will wear on the day? Can I instruct them on how to dress?

Answer: Performers will normally dress in formal or semi-formal attire, i.e. black dresses or skirt & blouse. Men will wear formal trousers and a smart shirt. Some show bands have very specific costuming options, and you can normally get an idea by viewing the pictures on the individual artist pages. Back to top

Question: I have a particular theme / colour scheme for my event. Can the artists dress accordingly?

Answer: This will depend entirely on the artist. Please enquire and we will be happy to check with the artist concerned. Should the artist currently own something suitable, then it is generally acceptable for them to dress accordingly; however should the artists not currently have something to tie in with the theme, then the client would be responsible for covering the costs for special costuming. Back to top

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Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Charity Events

Question: Our event is for charity; will the performer be prepared to appear free of charge or at a reduced rate?

Answer: As an rule, Five Seasons Entertainment does not ask performers to donate their time. As we are a non-exclusive booking agency and not a management company, we unfortunately do not have the capacity to process the numerous charitable requests we receive on a daily basis. We are happy to work on charity events where a sponsor is involved and able to cover all costs for the celebrity. We would then correspond with the representative from the sponsoring company, who would be expected to sign our contract and arrange payments as per our normal booking procedure. Back to top

Question: So can you not assist with charitable functions at all?

Answer: Sometimes we can, but it really depends on the specifics. We ask that you kindly communicate with us in this regard via email, and rather not utilise our telephone lines for this purpose. Please view the CHARITIES/PRO BONO REQUESTS section here, and follow the process as indicated. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Press Enquiries & Invitations

Question: Please give me the contact details of the performers on your site. I would like to contact them for an interview.

Answer: Please understand that we are a booking agency and generally do not handle the public relations activities of our performers. If you require an interview, wish to propose TV commercials, other shoots, or wish to invite a performer to attend your event etc, but you don't have the PR details of a particular performer on hand, please feel free to email us, and we may be able to pass your request on to the relevant PR liaison officer. It would be up to them to respond should they be interested in your proposal and, unfortunately, we are not able to follow-up once these requests have been passed on. If you are looking for direct contact details of a particular performer, please avoid calling our office as we regrettably will not be able to assist under any circumstances. Please note marketing emails and / or requests for mailing list additions are not regarded press enquiries. Please view the PRESS ENQUIRIES section here, and follow the process as indicated. Back to top

Question: Can you not just give me the contact details of the relevant PR person?

Answer: No, our policy is not to hand out contact details. Please follow the procedure detailed in the PRESS ENQUIRIES section here, as this is the only way that we may be able to assist. Please avoid using our telephone lines for the purpose of seeking contact details as we simply won't be able to help you. Back to top

Question: My client is launching an exciting new product at an exclusive event, and I would like to forward a special invitation to some / all of the celebs on your site to attend. Please may I have their contact details?

Answer: No, our policy is not to hand out contact details. Please follow the procedure detailed in the PRESS ENQUIRIES section here, as this is the only way that we may be able to assist. Please avoid using our telephone lines for the purpose of seeking contact details as we simply won't be able to help you. Back to top

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment | Booking & Enquiry Procedures
General Booking Questions | Technical Matters & Other Specifics
Costs & Payments | Rehearsals & Meetings
Special Requests / Choice of Music / Content etc. | Dress Code
Charity Events | Press Enquiries & Invitations | Making Contact with Performers
Other Matters

Making Contact with Performers

Question: I would like to book a certain performer whom I know personally / have used before and I see he / she is on your books. I have lost their cell number, so please could you give it to me?

Answer: No, unfortunately we do not hand out contact details of any performers listed on our books. We would be happy to assist you with a booking enquiry and quote, if required.
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Question: Am I allowed to contact the artists directly for future bookings after I have already booked them with you?

Answer: It is standard agency policy that any repeat bookings / re-engagement of services within 12 months of the performance date shall be referred back to us. This is detailed accordingly on our performance contract. Should the client be given the artists' direct contact details by the agency at any stage, it is understood that the client will be trusted not to hand out the contact details onto any other potential clients. In the case that contact details need to be handed out, agency contact details should given. Back to top

Question: I assume I will have direct contact with the performers before the event?

Answer: Yes, we will provide you with a contact number of one representative closer to the event. However, all event details are still to be managed through us, as it is part of our service to remain involved until the end. Your artist contact person will only act as your liaison on the day. Back to top

Question: One of the celebs on your site is an old friend of mine and I would like to get in touch again. Please may I have their contact number?

Answer: As you may expect, we are not in a position to hand out contact details of any of the performers on our website. There is no exclusion to this rule, so please avoid calling / emailing us with this request. We dislike saying no just as much as you dislike hearing it, but really have no choice - we value the privacy of our performers just as much as you value your own! Back to top

Other Matters

Question: We see you have lovely pictures of performers and celebs on your website. May we copy them?

Answer: No, sorry! Absolutely everything on our website is copyright protected and copying images is strictly prohibited. If you need a picture for a publication of some sort, we recommend that you try to find the source independently by making contact with the relevant artist (we do not provide such contact details). If you really do need to contact us with this type of request, please do so via email only, and kindly avoid using our telephone lines for this purpose. Back to top

Question: I am working on a school / college assignment and would like you to give me guidelines, cost indications etc.

Answer: We unfortunately cannot manage such requests as we simply do not have the capacity to do so. We recommend that you try to contact performers through your own means (we do not provide contact details) for the information you require. Back to top

Question: I would like to buy tickets to go see one of the artists listed on your website. Can you tell me where they are performing next and how much the tickets cost?

Answer: We are not a ticketing company and generally would not have knowledge of such performances. It would be best to contact Computicket, Webtickets or other similar ticketing agencies, or watch the press for details. Back to top

FAQ's

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Using Five Seasons Entertainment

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General Booking Questions

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Technical Matters & Other Specifics

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Rehearsals & Meetings

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Special Requests / Choice of Music / content etc.

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Dress Code

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Charity Events

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Press Enquiries & Invitations

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Making Contact with Performers

Other Matters

Current Promotions

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Latest Additions

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FAQ's

Quick Links

Using Five Seasons Entertainment

Quick Links

Booking & Enquiry Procedures

Quick Links

General Booking Questions

Quick Links

Technical Matters & Other Specifics

Quick Links

Costs & Payments

Quick Links

Rehearsals & Meetings

Quick Links

Special Requests / Choice of Music / content etc.

Quick Links

Dress Code

Quick Links

Charity Events

Quick Links

Press Enquiries & Invitations

Quick Links

Making Contact with Performers

Other Matters

Current Promotions

Classic goes Pop!

Latest Additions

5 questions with 5 seasons

Seen Around

Upcoming Events

The Rudimentals @ Summer Concerts in the Park

5 questions with
5 seasons