I just inquired about electricity access/fee at an upcoming show because I just invested in some great Propanel lighting and was looking forward to trying it out...then I was told electricity was available for an extra $50! Does that sound outrageous to anyone else, or is it just my inexperience? I only did one other show with electricity and they charged $15. I have to respond soon and I'm torn because i really want to use the lights but it really angers me to think that they are taking advantage of artists like that and I don't want to give them my permission to keep doing it. That's a full tank of gas, or a large frame or negotiating room in the price of a piece!
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I doing a few shows where the electric fee is 150 or higher. Some them you have no choice. I also see some promoters start asking for fire extinguishers specially if they put you close to food vendors. I do not understand why the fees are so high but sometimes you have no choice.
Hmmmm. Ok, thanks. Glad I asked!
$50.00 is a bargain! Depending on the venue, electrical needs are generally set up by union electricians... Pro Panels has a pretty good article on their site about LED lights using a deep cycle marine battery and an inverter. A good deep cycle battery is about $200.00 plus there is the maintenance and charging issues. You do not want to charge an acid wash battery in your motel room at night.
Thanks Rich...good advice! I did buy the LED lights...can't wait to try them out. Take care.
That's about the cheapest I've seen it, unless it's provided to everyone as part of the booth fee.
If you want electricity every show, you can invest in some DC lighting and deep cycle batteries and a charger.
Larry Berman
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100
I just ran into a show I signed up for over in Ohio and they don't allow batteries. It may be a fire marshall deal as they also require fire extinguishers and tents must meet a fire resistant code. They don't supply power either. I'm taking small fans and I have a small sealed battery, 12V/9AH, that fits inside a small camera bag. I'll keep it in the back and the fans will stay next to me. I'll be damned if I plan to run the risk of heat stroke at my age ;-/
$50 isn't out of line for electricity. If it makes your work get noticed and then sold, think of it as an investment to make sales.
Deb