Good observations on both sides of the issue. We know that there are some very fine performers that won't play our venue without a guarantee, but there are many who have done, and all have come away with a good fee. As for increasing our margins so as to put more in the kitty - easier said than done. We have found that when we raised our ticket prices, even by a few dollars, it had an effect on attendance, so that is a risky option. The other option would be lowering the performer's percentage of the door - again, not a popular move. As for fundraisers that is a possibility but as I said we're stretched pretty thin as it is.

Anyhow I appreciate the insights.