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Hospitality rider: what to ask a venue for
By BandManager · 1 min read ·
The hospitality rider lists what you need to be comfortable during the show: dressing room, food, drinks and logistics. For an independent band, less is more.
What is usually requested
- A dressing room with a key, or a safe space for the instruments.
- Enough water for everyone, in the dressing room and on stage.
- Food or meals for the crew, or an agreed amount.
- Parking close by for the van and access for loading.
- Guest list spots, with a clear number.
What not to ask for
Things the venue cannot deliver or that look like whims: specific brands, exaggerated quantities. In a small room, ask for the basics. Anything else is appreciated more when it is offered than when it is demanded.
How to present it
- Keep it apart from the technical rider: the sound engineer does not need to read about the food.
- Mark what is essential and what is nice to have.
- Ask first what the venue provides: many already have it covered.
- Confirm it in writing in the day sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Is a hospitality rider required?
No, but it helps avoid misunderstandings. A few clear lines are enough.
Is it negotiable?
Yes. It is common to adapt it to each venue’s or festival’s budget and conditions.
Where do I include it?
In a section separate from the technical rider and the press kit, or as its own document.
All your documents at hand
Keep your rider and press kit in BandManager and share them with a link in every proposal.
Keep reading
- Technical rider templateFill it in, print it or save it as a PDF.
- Tour day sheet: what to includeHow to prepare the day sheet for a show or a tour: times, contacts, load-in, sound and accommodation. With a checklist.
- Gig contract checklist: what to includeA checklist for a live performance agreement: parties, date, fee, payment, rider, cancellation and rights. General guidance.
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