Help & Advice
Ask us a Question
From questions about booking speakers, presenters and performers, to the contractual process and what you can expect on the day; with 20 years experience and standing at the forefront of our industry we've hopefully thought of, and answered, most common queries. But if not, please call us and one of our experienced agents will be very happy to help you.
Can I speak directly with the speaker or performer before my event?
Whether a telephone conversation or 'briefing call' is necessary between you and the speaker, presenter or performer prior to your event will depend entirely on what, or who, you have booked, and what they will be doing at your event.
Performers
Stand-up comedians, headline musicians, dance groups and other speciality acts that are performing a standard routine or, 'act as known', are unlikely to require a briefing call. This is because the routine they will be presenting is one which they'll most likely have performed hundreds of times previously.
However, a technical conversation may be advisable between your AV company and the Artist's Tour Manager or Sound Engineer, just to ensure all will run smoothly on the night and that any props or equipment they've requested in the Rider has been, or will be, provided.
Speakers and Presenters
When booking speakers, hosts and presenters there are often specific details about your event that make it nearly always necessary to speak with the individual beforehand. So we'll certainly encourage a briefing call between you and them. In fact, we will usually insist on it.
Whether you're booking an after dinner speaker to deliver a light-hearted and entertaining talk, a keynote speaker to deliver a serious industry presentation or a host to preside over your annual awards dinner, it is always advisable that you speak on the phone beforehand.
The call needn't take a long time. On average, around 15-20 minutes will suffice. Having introduced yourselves, you'll most likely want to discuss the overall aims and objectives of the night, the running order and timings, plus scripts etc that have previously been exchanged, and run through the schedule of events.
Whatever is required for your event, to ensure its smooth-running and uninterrupted execution, the NMP Live team and booking agent overseeing your event will arrange everything with you, and in plenty of time ahead of the day.
