Category Archives: Corporate Event Entertainers

Generate Interest

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If your event is a product launch, you’ll be looking to generate interest from the audience. Most product launches occur at large exhibition centres or conferences, where many a brand is competing to show off their wares to attendees and receive the most ‘buzz’ for their product. But how can you entice someone over to your booth? Entertainment such as stilt walkers or live music incorporating drums is sure to grab people’s attention from across the room. Once they’ve wandered over, keep things visual. Nobody will share your product on Instagram or other social media networks if there isn’t something for others away from the exhibition to enjoy. Make no mistake about it, entertainment is crucial at product launches.

Reinforce Brand Values

Perhaps you’re looking for a bespoke form of party entertainment that reinforces the brand values of your company. Maybe you’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of the company’s inception. Whatever it may be, brand entertainment is brilliant at reinforcing the values of a corporation. If a company is wanting to appear very cool, then there are numerous bands who would fit the bill. Looking for a classy affair? Circus entertainers such as aerial silk dancers are perfect for just such an occasion. Entertainment doesn’t have to be showy or pushed to the foreground, but utilised correctly, it can be a superb way of maximising brand value in a subtle manner.

To Entertain

We could name a whole host of reasons why corporate entertainment is important without stating the obvious but we thought we should really. The main purpose of entertainment in any setting is to entertain! You don’t want invited guests leaving after one free drink and a couple of canapés, bored out of their mind after speaking to Darren from Accounts for the last hour. If you break up the evening with a few headline entertainment choices (with a few strolling entertainers like magicians and caricaturists thrown in), then everybody will remember your event or party much more fondly than if you simply leave attendees in a room with nothing else planned.

Forging Links

This is a clever one! We just mentioned strolling entertainment but when it comes to networking, there really is nothing better to help break the ice between two parties who might be hoping to have a chat but have no idea how to get talking informally. With a magician, both people can be amazed and use the tricks as a springboard to ‘talking business’. Other forms of entertainment like a caricaturist or silhouette artist often get people talking as well, whilst also enticing a small crowd when reactions are positive. Hiring entertainment might just land you that next big deal!

Enhancing Morale

If you’ve had a long and difficult year, staff may be looking for a reason to stay at the company. A well-timed dinner or office party can do wonders to revitalise your staff and there is nothing better than allowing them to dance to a live band or providing a magician to blow their minds. Hiring entertainment is a sure fire way to increase morale and staff satisfaction.

Non-refundable deposits

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When you enter into a contract with your entertainment provider, whether it’s a wedding band, a magician or a DJ, you normally will be expected to provide some kind of non-refundable deposit along with your signature to secure the date. The amount may vary, but a 50% deposit is fairly common.

If you’re planning a party and this is first time you’ve ever bought entertainment services, this can be a scary thing. What if the event gets cancelled? What if someone dies the week before? What if it rains on our outdoor beach birthday party? Do I get my deposit back?

Of course the answer will depend on the wording of the deposit clause in the contract, but most likely if the event is cancelled because of unforeseen circumstances; you will likely be out your deposit. But let’s dig deeper.

It’s easier for people to understand why a caterer or even a venue would request a deposit. They have to buy food or they are reserving the space exclusively for you and must turn down other business. But a musician isn’t purchasing any perishables, right? Well, not exactly. The busy nights for any event entertainer are Saturdays, followed closely by Fridays. There are only 52 Saturdays in a year and each one represents an opportunity cost. If for example a family tragedy occurs 2 days before your graduation party, the band still needs to be compensated for that Saturday night that they committed to your party. It is entirely possible that they have turned down other clients to commit to your party. While it’s very sad that a member of family decided to pass two days before your big event, this is not the fault of your hired act.

What can you do if the unforeseen happens? The first thing is to have a conversation with your hired entertainment. While they may be under no obligation to reschedule, many will try to work with you and apply part or all of your deposit to another date. The flexibility they have will depend on how in demand they are, how full their calendar is and on what day of the week you want your new date.

You certainly can’t expect them to bump another client because you need to reschedule. And nor can you expect them to give you another Saturday night on the busiest part of wedding season. But maybe they’re willing to apply all (or some) of your deposit to a Tuesday night, or an off-season Friday night.

This is a conversation you can have with your entertainer BEFORE signing the contract. Ask the “what if” scenarios. Just understand that if this conversation drags out too long, your vendor may start to question your commitment to the date.

Another option is to take out Event Cancellation Insurance for your date.
What is typically covered by event cancellation insurance?
Fire, earthquakes, flooding, blizzards, hurricanes, terrorism, headline entertainers or speaker cancellation, outbreak of disease.
Event cancellation insurance probably won’t cover things like lack of ticket sales, or the time spent planning the event.

Questions to ask

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We know that many of you have never planned a party before. Perhaps you’re planning a corporate event or a Birthday Party. This list is a product of many years of providing private event entertainment (but this list is applicable to most forms of entertainment). These are the questions you should be asking your performers before you sign on the dotted line.

1. Where (and for whom) do you do the majority of your shows?
What you are trying to find out is how experienced and equipped the performers are for working private parties. Many bar performers represent themselves as party entertainers but may not have the experience working with venues and professional event planners, or they may lack the equipment or insurance that is necessary, especially for larger venues.

2. Can you show proof of insurance?
While we’re not convinced that this is always necessary for event entertainers, this speaks to the professionalism of the entertainer. If the entertainer does a lot of private events in nice hotels and country clubs, they will be more likely to carry liability insurance, as many of the higher-end venues require this. If you entertainer is not insured, then perhaps they are not working many of these venues, which could mean that they are not attracting the top end private event clients.

3. What is the cancellation policy?
Most entertainment acts will penalize you for cancelling a performance that has already been contracted. They look at dates on the calendar as inventory. If you reserve your date, they can’t sell it to anyone else. So if you cancel, they may not be able to rebook. It’s similar to how event venues or photographers view their calendars. If you think there may be a need to cancel or change your date, discuss this with the entertainment BEFORE signing a contract and see if there is any flexibility on their policy. I’ve written contracts for clients that allowed them to cancel up to 4 weeks after entering the contract to suit a particular situation.

4. How much is the deposit and is it refundable?
This goes hand in hand with the previous question. Usually deposits are not refundable. This serves as incentive for a client not to cancel or reschedule. A common deposit structure is 50% upon signing and 50% upon arrival at the venue.

5. Do you bring stage lighting?
A pretty standard thing for entertainers to supply, but some of the smaller groups won’t have this, and some of the higher-tier entertainers may expect that this would be supplied by an outside production company. You should ask.

6. How long do you need to set up?
Make sure you coordinate this with your venue. If the venue is using your space for another client prior to your time slot, you want to ask the venue ‘what is the earliest time that the entertainment can load in’. Then verify that this is sufficient with your entertainment.

7. Ask the venue if there is specific wording they require on the performer’s insurance certificate.
Some venues just want to know the entertainer is insured, but many require that they, the venue, (and sometimes the parent company) are listed on the entertainer’s insurance certificate as Additional Insured.

8. Ask for space (and staging) requirements from your entertainers. This includes length, depth, height and placement. Verify with the venue that this can be accommodated. If it can’t, find out how flexible your entertainers are regarding these dimensions and placement. Many performers can do their show with no staging platform at all if necessary but they will all need a certain amount of space to set up. Know what this is.

Recreate the 90’s

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It’s been said that as you get older, you realise that nobody knows what they’re doing and we’re all just faking it. Many barely feel like they are adults at all, despite having mortgages, hip replacement surgery and a strange desire for that cooking utensil that totally makes it easier to take the shell off an egg. What happened to the youngster who partied hard in the nineties, you might be wondering to yourself as you settle down into your comfy slippers for an episode of Midsomer Murders on a quiet Saturday night. They’re still lurking inside you somewhere and this is the entertainment to book if you want to bring them back for one night only!

DJ
Remember the nineties? If you were part of the rave scene then you may well have been heavy on the drum beats and a distinct belief that you too could put together a decent tune with nothing more than an upturned bucket and a free whistle from a Kinder Egg. Unfortunately, making music isn’t as easy as it looks unless you have the right DJ that can create a different tune every time.
Weapons of Sound

Ultra 90s
Pretty much the must have band on the list if you’re looking to relive the 90s in the coolest way possible. Ultra 90s perform the best classic chart, dance and club anthems from the 1990s. From Snap! To Faithless, from Dee-lite to Vanilla Ice, Ultra 90s guarantees to get any party buzzing. Taking you through House, Chart, Dance and Club Classics along with popular Drum and Bass tunes from the 90s – The Ultimate 90s Revival – 90s Nostalgia at it’s best.

PRIMO
Let’s be honest, rave culture wasn’t just about the music but was also about the all the great futuristic films. Who can forget Terminator?

Primo is a great way to remember the 90’s. The Ex-Terminator is a character we have all grown to love or hate. The concept of this character was a unique challenge, using the art of prosthetics/makeup. The Ex-Terminator certainly does create a lot of interest wherever he performs. He is definitely an awesome character ready to do the business or just to make your corporate party or event go with a bang

If you’re looking to recreate your youth and bring the 90s to your chosen venue, then you can’t go wrong with the above acts but feel free to get in touch if there’s something else you’re looking to recreate!

Professional services every time

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There are reasons for engaging a corporate events entertainment directory. In the first place, you may not have time to make the right choice when hiring a band or a DJ. We at Red Masque entertainment agency will have the perfect choice for you on our website. We can link you up with the best bands in town. You are sure to find a reliable DJ that can handle your event.

It’s not an easy thing to organize an event no matter how small the size. The event may be a private party, corporate event or meeting, fundraising and the like. You need to entertain the guests if you really want to make them happy at the event. You can’t do it all alone. You need to engage the services of an entertainment directory such as Red Masque.

Often at times, some entertainment agencies offer band and DJ services. They do have artists who specialize in different areas of music. Such an agency can offer DJ and band services at affordable price. They also have MC’s that can make people happy at events. All you need is to get in touch with the right agency like Red Masque that can tailor make your special event.

You can be sure of proper accountability when you engage a reliable entertainment directory. Red Masque will give you accurate details online regarding the entertainment aspect of the event.
Professionalism is our game and trusted services when you engage with us. Your guests will be thoroughly satisfied with the acts you have chosen. You don’t need to suffer sleepless night once you have one of Red Masques acts at your event or party.

Indeed, there’s a lot to gain when you hire from a reputable entertainment directory. You don’t have to be in a hurry when searching for the very best. Now that you have found us we will guarantee that you will not book from anywhere else. Once you have chosen your event entertainment you are able to contact direct. You are able to ask the officials some questions, and get it right first time.

Office Party Planning

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People can get nervous at big Corporate events parties. Nervousness can equal erratic behaviour so reduce the stress by setting some ground rules. Make sure you answer the following questions:

Will there be alcohol at the party and if so is it open bar or cash bar?

Are spouses and dates invited? This is particularly important if the party is off your property.

How long will the festivities last? Not everyone can get there at 5:30 so it’s nice to know people will still be there later in the evening.

What’s the proper dress? Not usually a big problem and not necessary in a majority of cases, but if you are hosting the party at a private club or a place no one has been to before a heads up about what to wear can save some people serious embarrassment.

Whether you plan to host a big bash or a small gathering try these suggestions:

Be as generous as your budget allows. Your employees work hard and they are looking for a show of appreciation. They view your generosity as a barometer of their performance.

Try to go somewhere different. If there is a tavern or restaurant close by your employees are probably there all the time. Why not drive an extra 5 minutes and meet at someplace different?

If you have the party on premises, make sure to decorate. Telling them to meet in the cafeteria will excite no one. Asking them to join you on the beach (a decorated themed area) they’ll know it’s a special day.

Invest in a cocktail waiter. They’ll monitor and control drinking. They also can make attractive and fun “virgin” drinks. People like picking a non-alcoholic “cool” option. Letting employees pour their own can be a problem and asking an employee to tend bar may be putting them in a bad spot.

Have a theme for your party. We mentioned luau because it’s always a hit but casino and Mardi Gras are also real favourites that can be planned for 10 or a 100.

Think about providing some great party favours or even door prizes. It’s nice to walk away with a remembrance of a great time. Finally make sure you have fun. If you’re a manager, mingle with your employees they’ll appreciate it and you’ll enjoy it.

We all love a bit of Miss Banbury Cross

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We would say that everyone cannot fail to love a bit a burlesque; they are provocative and humorous and very sexy but in a very classy way, and that is where Miss Banbury Cross comes in:

She has that special something that will make you mesmerised from the moment you set eyes on her. Miss Cross was selected to perform at the Miss Exotic world and Burlesque Hall of fame in Las Vegas, the New Orleans Queen of Burlesque pageant,

Currently One of London’s most sought after headline acts and a firm favorite on the corporate entertainment circuit worldwide. She has wowed, entranced and broken the hearts of countless international and UK based clients. Boasting a “body from outer space”, Banbury is a vision of 1950s bump ‘n’ grind perfection with a sex appeal reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood and mid century B Movie starlets.

Banbury has been dubbed the “Neo-Marilyn” of Burlesque “Bulletproof Blonde” and “The Atomic blonde” (to name a few), was voted one of the top 50 burlesque performers in the world in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and 3rd in the UK.

Banbury is hugely popular and has done many collaborations with others in this field at prestigious events.

A truly wonderful entertainer; she takes her work very seriously indeed and to her this is her life, which she lives and breathes and most importantly loves to entertain her adored fans.

Why not find out a little bit more about this act by looking on Red Masque Directory and clicking on Miss Banbury Cross profile and seeing a short clip of her work.

Music at corporate events

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It’s probably not the main type of event you associate with music, but entertainment during seminar breaks and background music played in exhibition areas are both popular choices.

Music is an important element of any event, whether it’s in the form of a playlist, DJ or live performance. We’re not just talking about parties and product launches: conferences can benefit hugely from hired music entertainment.

Here are the Top 10 songs played at conferences last season:

Sex on Fire – Kings of Leon
Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Locked Out of Heaven – Bruno Mars
Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder
Happy – Pharrell Williams
Get Lucky – Daft Punk
Rather Be – Clean Bandit Ft. Jess Glynne
Treasure – Bruno Mars
You’ve Got the Love – Florence + the Machine
Forget You – CeeLo Green

So, how can you use them to create a great atmosphere at your conference?

Break entertainment

Live music entertainment during breaks can be a good energy booster for conference attendees. Chart toppers like the ones in our ‘most played’ list can work well in this environment, and can easily be played over an in-house speaker system at a reasonable level.

Here, a live band or DJ can really add something to your conference. Stay clear of big sounds and opt for a smaller set-up, as delegates still need to be able to network and recharge for their next seminar.

Music in exhibition halls

Using music in large exhibition halls can be a great way of creating a good vibe.

At the same time the room is likely to be very noisy from all the delegates networking with each other and talking to exhibitors. The latter of course, is exactly what you want.

After parties

Out of all the areas of your conference where you might add music, this is definitely where your delegates will be most relaxed, and might even venture out on the dance floor.

After parties are all about networking and having a really good time. This is also where the ‘most played list’ will feel most appropriate. You can hire a party band or DJ who incorporates them into their usual set-lists, or you could go for a more tailored option.

Hosting events in Manchester

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Crowned the world’s ‘Best Sports City’ in 2012

•Ranked as Europe’s Top city for business competitiveness in 2010

•Started Manchester Enterprise Zone

•Third most visited city in the UK by foreign visitors

If you’re interested in organising some corporate events in the city but want a venue with a difference, here are 10 unique places to choose from:

1. The Palace Hotel, Oxford Road

What could be better for christmas parties, wedding or charity events than an iconic, Grand Victorian luxury hotel? The Palace Hotel features a beautiful glass-domed lobby, stunning art deco interiors and 885 metres of space for up to 900 guests- so there’s plenty of room for entertainment equipment.

2. Audit Room, Chetham’s School of Music

Chetham’s School of Music is the largest specialist music school in the UK and the only music school based in the North of England. If you’re organising an event and looking for a vibrant atmosphere in a setting with gothic windows and 17th century doors, what better venue than a building that is nearly 600 years-old and truly magical.

3. Players Lounge, Hotel Football

Want to say that your event is in a building founded by the infamous Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville? The Football Hotel is a unique party venue situated yards from the Old Trafford stadium. The Players Lounge is a great space that can accommodate up to 200 standing and 100 guests seated.

4. Main Gym, Evolve

Work up a sweat by hosting a fun, innovative event at Main Gym! The venue has the capacity for up to 200 people and the combat sports facility comes complete with boxing ring, trapeze, gloves, shin pads and more.

5. Rovers Return, Coronation Street

If you’re a big Corrie fan, take to the Manchester cobbled streets by hiring out the nation’s famous pub. The venue tour can hold up to 250 standing guests or 80 dining, and you get wine and dined in the main studio, surrounded by the iconic sets. So, who fancies a lock-in?

6. Zombie Shack

The Zombie Shack, near Oxford Road Station, is the loudest and wildest Tiki Cocktail Paradise in Manchester. Please note it’s only available to hire midweek.

7. 2nd Floor At K2 Karaoke Nightclub

One might associate a nightclub with an evening of music, drink and dancing but it can be so much more with a cocktail bar on hand and a dance floor space that’s ready for you to throw out some shapes! The K2 Karaoke Nightclub, located in the heart of Manchester’s China Town, plays host to corporate events and private functions on a weekly basis.

8. Chill Factore

The Chill Factore is home to the UK’s longest indoor skiing and snowboarding slope and is a brilliant family day out but it’s also a great place to hold an event whether that’s a team building experience with your business or a conference. It’s situated just off the M60 so it’s super accessible too!

9. The University of Manchester

It’s not just a place for learning! The University of Manchester offer fantastic conference and event facilities all year round. Its inspirational heritage and convenient location make it an excellent choice and some of their venues are suitable for up to 1000 delegates which is perfect if you’re planning a large scale event.

10. Museum of Science and Industry

Situated on Liverpool Road, the Museum of Science and Industry is a truly unique venue with gorgeous galleries and state-of-the-art function rooms. The historic building offers an amazing backdrop for events and conferences and it can accommodate a variety of event sizes from 50 to over 300.

So there you have 10 unique venues in Manchester if you’re looking to organise an event with a twist.

Great solo challenges

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Individual fundraising efforts can bring in substantial amounts of money. The publicity they attract can also help to boost a charity group’s profile.

This type of trial seems to really suit certain people. Sports enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies and others. None of whom seem happy unless they are taking it to the max!

The trick for your charity is to offer them a way to raise funds for you that matches their interests. This might include encouraging individuals or working with an existing club or corporate events to raise awareness.

There are also a large number of unlikely candidates for even some of the most extreme sports challenges and sponsored events. Of course it is this that helps attract money and publicity.

So if you are looking to bring a test of endurance or stamina into your life. Or fancy yourself as an all action hero. Or if you work for a charity and want to encourage others to raise funds for your group check out the great entertainment ideas below.

Charity Abseil

Charity Bungee Jump

Charity Parachute Jump

Firewalking

Run A Charity Marathon