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Dear John

How do I sell my full act at a short showcase?

Question:
I've been working hard at my act and now have a strong one-hour show - but how do I sell that show when my showcase is only ten minutes long?

Answer:
As there are always newcomers entering this industry, or hoping to do so, this particular column makes no apology for occasionally presenting yet another fresh take on some of our most frequently asked queries, but on this occasion I would like to congratulate you for asking a question which falls into the category of questions which don't get asked frequently enough. Whatever stage we are at, in whatever branch of the business we are aiming to make our name in, it is perfectly natural that we will be aiming to steadily develop our skills and reputation to bring us more of what we are hoping for. For some of us, that might be more money, for others more recognition or more stage time or bigger and better parts. Our ultimate aim is quite probably a combination of all of the above. For this reason, it's never a bad idea to be reminded that the key to more success in performance is usually 'less' in the sense that the doorway to lead roles, headline shows or TV residencies is likely to be a very short audition or showcase slot in which we need to make the maximum possible impact in the shortest possible time. This can be particularly important at events such as the upcoming Stage Showcall Showcase II in Preston where newer acts will not only be performing alongside some highly experienced returnees, but if they can indeed manage that magical ten minutes, can reap ample rewards in terms of bookings and new work opportunities. To help you on your way, I've been working with some backstage Showcall experts to put together some useful free information which I'll tell you about shortly, but first let's hear from two Showcall performers who have more than made the most of their stage time at previous events.

What the experts say:

Freddie Mensah

Freddie Mensah has a distinctive and unique vocal sound and song style, a mixture of classic and R&B with a twist of gospel, which has been described as "Motown for the 21st century". Freddie's polished and passionate performance style has made him a very successful booking for a wide range of events and venues, from hotel and wedding engagements to casinos and top corporate gigs.

"It might seem obvious but the keys to success in your showcase performances are in the work you do long before you go out for your ten minutes.

"For me, loving the music you do and putting in the hours to build up your confidence and experience are vital. Although I do Motown songs in my act, I'm not trying to be a copy of Marvin Gaye - not that anyone could be - and it is just one of a wide range of other styles I do. What I have done is choose classic songs that mean something to me and then worked to bring my own personality and 21st century sound into the performance. The bookers at showcase events are liable to have heard almost every song many times over, so I always want to make sure that when they hear me perform, they are getting a whole new, fresh version.

"I've also learned to view showcases as a learning experience. You are not going to like every review you get - like any other show, reactions can be a matter of taste - but you can learn from every review.

"Even though my act has now had some very good reviews and has reached a standard where the existing corporate and private bookings often lead to further work and requests for return visits, I still think is important to come back and do Showcall.

"I'm always working to develop my act and I want to remind potential bookers, old and new, of the standard of work and the quality and range of material I can offer.''

Vickee Lester

Vickee Lester is an international West End-style vocalist, whose Showcall performances have gained a string of highly complimentary reviews, not least the accolade "creme de la creme" from no less an authority than the late, great Peter Hepple. As well as her highly successful solo act, Vickee has formed a double act called Chemistry, with fellow vocalist Bruce McLaren.

"I was lucky enough to get my early training in the business from the legendary Palladium Hall of Fame members June and Johnny Burslem.

"The most important things they instilled into me were how to make full use of the stage and not just stay rooted to one spot, as many singers do, and also how vital presentation is in bringing all the elements of your talents together to form the best possible show. This is a quality I make sure to bring to my showcase performances. Rather than just stringing songs together, I make sure I choose songs which not only suit me vocally but also interest me. I do some research into each song, so that, as well as singing them well, I have something to say when I introduce them, so I can show off that side of my personality as well as my vocal strengths.

"I have also learned to carry the same quality of presentation I display on the stage into the equally important before and after parts of the show. One of the highlights of the Showcall event is being able to perform with a top notch live band, but I make sure my own backing equipment is also top quality, so that people who book me after the event are getting the same standards that attracted them in the first place. I also make sure I have my date list with me, as well as my business cards and everything else that will make life easier for bookers (and for me).

"One final point for first timers is to remember that some of the bookings you get may not come at the showcase at all. It's not unusual to hear from people months later, who are looking for the right person for a cruise or corporate booking and remember you from your Showcall spot. Of course, the fact that they do remember just proves that June and Johnny's point about the importance of presentation still rings true.''

John sums up

Actually, I have heard so much useful advice from Showcall veterans, be they performers, musical directors, critics or bookers, that it can't be summed up in this small space, so what we have done instead is make it available to you free as a downloadable e-booklet which you'll find on our website soon. Even if you are not booked to perform at next week's Showcall (if you are serious about getting entertainment work, you should certainly be considering a future one), the tips on what to do - and more importantly what not to do - should be extremely useful when you are next faced with the prospect of turning your ten minutes of fame into something more long term. If you are going to Showcall, do keep an eye out for me. Like the rest of the Stage crew, I am always delighted to hear about what you would like covered in future columns and guides, and even more so to hear of any Showcall tips which you find particularly useful.

* Both Freddie and Vickee will be performing at Showcall in Preston, but can also be contacted (and indeed booked while they still have some dates free!) via the Showcall website, www.showcall.co.uk

See also:

Dear John: Websites as promotional tools

How To Guides: How To Market Your Act

How To Guides: How To Be A Showcase Performer

Dear John: Using a TV appearance to further your career

* Feedback/queries are welcome to dearjohn@thestage.co.uk

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