This guide is meant to serve as a beginner’s manual to start learning about how to market your work for the world of dance touring. It is intended for general information purposes only. Before making any decision based on your specific situation it is advisable to consult a professional in the field of interest such as a lawyer, accountant, arts manager, publicist, etc.

• Getting Started
• Why Do You Want To Tour?
• Do You Need An Agent?
• Market Research/Approaching Presenters
• How Much Does Your Show Cost?
• Effective Marketing Materials
• Follow Up!!
• Conclusion / Q&A for you.
• Resources
  

Why take it on the Road?

The first and foremost question to ask yourself is “why do I want to tour this show?” Most people think of touring as a glamorous thing to do, not realizing that it will take months of hard work and follow up to secure the booking you are looking for. And remember that touring is not a money making venture, in fact you will probably lose money on your first few tours. However, if you are willing to commit to this, carry on!

How Can Dance Umbrella Help?

The Dance Umbrella of Ontario offers a wide range of services, some of them specific to touring. A one hour consultation with our Tour Coordinator will give you a chance to meet in person to discuss the ideas presented in this kit, as well as advice or assistance the following:

• Creating your promotional kit
• Tour budget analysis and costing
• Approach and follow up with presenters and venues
• Suggestions on where your work is best suited for presentation
• Access to presenter mailing lists and contact information
• Assistance with touring related granting opportunities and with applications
  
  

If you are interested in making an appointment for a free one hour consultation, please contact;

Adriana Sabogal
Arts and Tour Manager
Dance Umbrella of Ontario
adriana@danceumbrella.net
416 504 6429 ext 27

Going through this guide will answer the basic questions about whether touring is a viable option for you. The world of touring is an exciting place to be - but not always possible or positive. DUO has resources for touring, directories, lists of presentors, showcases and the knowledge to guide you through the process of booking your company.




LINKS


Canadian Heritage
On the Road: Online learning tools for presenters and touring artists
www.artsontour.ca

Foreign Affairs Canada
Canadian Performers: How to Enter the United States
www.voyage.gc.ca/main/pubs/canadian_performers-en.asp