A very good point Dick.

I am very aware of the economic downturn, and am watching the audience levels very closely.
At the moment, we are very stable and getting audiences between 70/90 for each event. So far any evidence of dwindling audience isn't apparent.
We have a rainy day pot, that would help us to survive quite a few events without running into problems.
We can survive on 50 paying public nicely, but the knock on effect would be the artist would suffer becuase the 80% concept would not be there, just the base guarantee.
I know what you are saying Dick, it doesn't take much for things to change and its very important to be aware of whats happening and to be able to adjust accordingly. I am very glad I have a good management accounting background. It helps a lot in making decisions.

I am waiting to see what happens if there is a dramatic downturn in audiences becuase of the economic climate. I think the artist will feel the first effect as organsiers won't be able to apply the 80%. The likely effect is that artists may start to up their guarantee fee.

It is also very important to try and provide artists that in general would be enjoyed by your audience. Can't always get it right.

The fact that we have a bar and raffle helps to reduce any possible losses.

I think there is a positive side to it. Invariably when things aren't going well, getting out and being entertained does a lot of good against depression etc.

We have been running now for about 8 years and some people said it would not survive, but it has so far.

Les