How to Book a One Woman Show

A one-woman show is something that has propelled many, including beloved sitcom star Roseanne, to stardom. Many well-known comedians used the vehicle as a way to get noticed. You can use a one-woman show as a way to get noticed, a way to showcase your own work, or as a way to put out fulfilling theater. There are limitless reasons for having a one-woman show, and, once you have it written and rehearsed, the only obstacle is booking a one-woman show. Here you'll find how to book your one-woman show in just the right place.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Know your material. Know your audience. If it is your first original play in your first acting performance, you need to be realistic. It should be a small production. If it is the smash success of your dreams, you can get an extension and book it in a bigger place. The idea is to book in a place where you can sell at least half the seats. The dream would be to sell out each night. Since it is incredibly difficult to turn a profit in theater in most places, even in New York, starting slow will help put your foot forward into success.

2. Decide what kind of a show that you have. Did you write it yourself, or is it established? If you are performing a one-woman show that someone else wrote, be sure to work with it until you have made it your own. Performed by someone else, it can even take on a whole other feel or theme. Once you've decided what kind of show you have, it will likely become clear when you want to perform. Some shows are matinee-friendly. Others are great for a weekend traditional show. For even others, a late night show works.

3. Call and compare. That is essential. Most spaces even have a website. Get all of your information, and compare it. Decide on the place that is best for how you want to artistically express yourself, and keep in mind the important factor of what is best for you budget. Don't shoot for perfection in an initial run. Basically, you want a place where you can feel comfortable performing for as cheap a price as possible. If it is a light night show, some theaters offer deals. Beware of free space in exchange for a certain number of heads. If you fail to get that many paying customers, sometimes you have to pay a hefty premium. You may not even be allowed to continue using the venue.

4. Book as far in advance as possible. You will get a better deal, and you will have a plan in motion to start doing press earlier. Knowing this gives you peace of mind and a definite goal and deadline.

5. Invest in PR! Get the word out about your show. Call in any favor anybody ever did for you. Make sure that you are talked about, reviewed, and that the town knows you are playing. The best tip for success in a show is publicity. If you have any contacts to a well-known star or celebrity, having them sponsor the show can make all the difference. It is very easy to get a lot of free press with a celebrity sponsor, not to mention the friends and the wannabe friends of celebrities who will show up to see you based on the association. Utilize any connection you may have! Try to get a celebrity sponsor. If you have a lot of confidence in your show, write to some you may see as approachable. Go for this angle as it will pay off!

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for help. Hopefully, you have tried to live generously. Asking favors from others can be a saving grace in success for a one-woman show.
• Don't give away too many tickets for free. While you want to comp a close relative, getting paid for your art and work is important.
• Don't be too quick to promote yourself personally. Have others do that. While you want to be confident, arrogance never attracted an audience for anybody.
• Beware of free space. Make sure you read the fine print in signing any contract.

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