Why Deposits are so important
As Ronnie's manger, I can tell you just how important show deposits really are. They represent a true investment on the part of a show promoter and give a valid reason for a professional comedian to "Hold a Date".
There has been many times where we had a show cancel, either the day before or the day of. What allows a show promoter or a club to cancel so easily? Two words, no deposit.
Don't do shows without a deposit
I wish this was possible. Most comedy clubs including improves, don't provide deposits. When asked most promoters will give you the "Don't worry about the money speech", and when they cancel they just try and offer you another date with, you guessed it, no deposit.
How will a deposit help?
A lot. A deposit allows a comedian to be a professional. Comedians can "Hold a date" for a promoter or comedy club with confidence that the show will come through. It makes the comedian happy, and you tend to get a better show when the comedian is happy and does not have to worry about getting paid after the show.
Paying and collecting deposits
Deposits depend on the total fee for the show. If a comedian is getting $10,000.00 a night then the deposit should be at least 20%. However most comedians are making anywhere between $300.00 - $2000.00 a show, so in their case a deposit of 50% would be fair.
This helps protect the comedian in case of a show being canceled last minute. It also has benefits for the promoter. It lessens the chance of the comedian not showing up, most of the time for another show that had a deposit.
To make things even better for both sides, all deposits should be followed up by a contract. Even for small shows. Comedians should get into the groove of treating all shows the same, professional.
Putting the Professional back into Stand-Up
Deposits benefit the professional comedian and the show promoter. In the comedy business money talks, and unpaid comedians walk. Lets all be professional, promoters pay deposits, comedians show up and give your best show, and let the crowd have the last laugh.