Edinburgh Fringe Work

[hjames]

Dear Fellow Blue Roomers,

 

I've been asked to work as a technician on a two man show at the Edinburgh Fringe this August. It would entail operating sound and lighting during performances each day, in the afternoon and evening thoughout August. Having never been or worked at the fringe before, I'd be very interested to hear how much you think I should charge for this? I really don't know where to start and don't want to quote rubbish without having researched?

 

Any Advice, thoughts would be great. Thanks

 

H

[StevieR]

Hi Harry,

 

And welcome to the Blue Room.

 

I think that this will depend on a number of factors.

 

Firstly, a lot of performing companies will want to spend as little as possible on staff costs. There are those that are happy to pay for a competent, reliable set of technical hands. If you are already freelance then I would quote your standard hourly/daily rate and see how they react. If they 'squeal' then you could always offer a slightly reduced rate based on the length of the run. However, I always believe in the old 'an honest day's work for an honest day's pay' motto and personally I would not work for a client who is not willing to pay my going rate. Not knowing you're experience level it would be difficult to suggest a fee level but certainly it should be no lower than £10 per hour with a minimum call time specified.

 

Also, I don't know if you're local to the area. If not, you may have to factor in accomodation/subsistence expenses. Some groups will arrange this for you - often booking entire flats for their performers/crew. If you need to sort this yourself, however, then this can get pretty expensive as hotels and private accomodation is very limited at this time of year.

 

Finally, many visiting technicians can pick up additional work for other performers/groups who suddenly realise that they need a tech and this can add a little extra beer money.

 

Hope this helps a bit. Feel free to PM me if you need any other local knowledge.

 

Steve