Busking Flop

[fracksfreakshow]

Ok I thought I found the perfect answer for making a bunch of money. It sounded in theory liked it would work. Simple enough it goes performing + outside big concert(sum 41)+ lots of people = big money. Was I wrong. I heard every crappy line tonight like "sorry no money". No money who goes to a concert with no money? I ended up with $13.31 in tips. I was sword swallowing, human blockhead, lifting weights with my ears, and I ate two dozen crickets. So I guess what I am saying is just cause it sounds good doesn't always mean it is. Thanks for listening to me complain.

[AJJames]

I feel for you dude,I've been there, if you had put a thread on asking anyone what they thought of the idea you might have been spared the experience. The thing is ,for some reason people who are on their way to somewhere don't want to know, people on their way back are a different story,
A few years ago ,I was paid to entertain the crowds in the lobby of a huge stadium where the spice girls were playing, I was part of a 12 strong group of experienced performers, but our audience prefered to go straight to their allocated seats and sit there for an hour than watch us, they even prefered to queue up for an hour to buy an extremely overpriced drink or maybe a bullshit piece of merchandise.
don't despair , we learn from these things.
Thanks for sharing ,that's what this board should be about.

[mnozzolio]

Much depends on the type of event going on inside. I've had some good luck playing outside the arena when the circus comes to town. There are a lot of families, kids are naturally curious about the accordion, and they often stop to listen. They're also in a good mood, even though the parents probably had to shell out a ton of bucks for a program book, refreshments, souvenirs, etc.

[Orange]

here's the thing: don't ever expect teenagers to give you money. they won't. that's why it didn't work.

[Blake]

I sympathise.
I have an experience to relate though.
I was in Lucerne Switzerland and walked past a large theatre where about 2000 people were going to see a show.
The pitch i was headed to was taken so i headed back to the theatre, having asked how many folks were inside and when the show finished.
This theater is near the lake if any one has been to Lucerne and basically where i set up was like in the middle of a large parking lot with no flow and no people.
I felt very vulnerable as i was taking a punt on this and had no idea how it would work.
A few interested people came over to watch me set up.
I was performing my comedy statue character and i get into costume on pitch.
All there was was a few kids and their parents, my reflection in the doors of the centre i was outside and my nerves.
About 5 oclock the moment of truth came and i was very surprised when 2000 people who had just suspended there disbelieve for a couple of hours came out to find me doing a show.
I had an instant crowd of about 200 people
To my amazement I made about 150 francs in about 20 minutes.
The biggest hat to date in the shortest amount of time.
I dont busk much anymore as the gigs keep me fed but if i was to be in need of a good pitch i wuld definitely consider outside theatres after the show.
before the show people are excited and wanting to see what they have paid for after most people are inspired and open to a performance if there is one right there....
Richard from Stretch MK1 told me they would often get the ushers to close all the doors except the ones leading onto their show.Apparently thet did this all the time.
Thats my experience hope it helps.
Blake
standstill.va.com.au


[This message has been edited by Blake (edited 11-01-2001).]

[scot]

I think you were doing it wrong.

People should not have a chance to use any lines on you.


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[stickman]

Have some of the local teenagers trained to beat up the other annoying teenagers, who attempt to steal my gear. They also seem fond of buying me cigars, coca cola, and chocolate bars. Not all teenagers are bad, just like to spend there money on the important things, like drugs, and alcohol. If I was so inclined I'm sure they'd share. Money however "is" rare from a teeenager.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by Orange:
here's the thing: don't ever expect teenagers to give you money. they won't. that's why it didn't work.