If you work as an entertainer, disputes may arise from time to time with the venue that hired you to perform.
Common disputes
One of the most common disputes you may face is a fee disagreement because you were not paid as promised. This may mean that you were not paid at all or were paid less than the agreed amount. Similarly, disputes can arise if you are not paid on time for your work.
Contractual disputes can arise if the venue cancels your performance at the last minute, refuses to provide sound, lighting or other equipment as promised, or where the contract terms are left open to interpretation. It may be unclear whether you or the venue is responsible for rescheduling a cancelled event or refunding the audience.
Finally, if the venue does not honestly report the event’s income to you, it can affect your compensation.
Resolving disputes
If you can discuss the dispute with the venue, that may be a useful first step, as well as reviewing the contract to understand whether it requires that the parties participate in a dispute resolution process.
If you have documentation, such as letters, e-mails, voicemails or any other information related to the dispute, it’s helpful to keep a record of those.
You may be able to negotiate a resolution with the venue directly which requires compromise on the part of both parties. This solution may be appropriate if you want to work with the venue in the future.
If you are not able to resolve the issue, it may be necessary to pursue legal remedies.