DECLARATIONS OF INDEPENDENCE

Trying your hand at producing indy theatre? Essential Theatre’s Amanda LaBonte offers her top tips for forging a successful path.

1. The right team. Independent theatre is bloody hard work, as you know. It can be stressful at the best of times. So maybe sure you assemble the right team around you — be on the same page, have the same expectations, and work ethic. You are going to need to be able to laugh through the tears so choose your team wisely. I’m so lucky to have Sophie Lampel as my partner in theatre, and friendship!

2. Set clear and realistic budgets. We all want the best for our production, but be realistic with what you can afford. Simple is often the best. And don’t budget with the hope that funding will make it possible, try and budget without any funding dollars. If you are successful — it’s an awesome bonus.

3. Choose a venue wisely. I understand we would all like a season at one of the top spots in the city — but don’t bust the budget and then struggle to get your audience. There is nothing wrong with starting small.

4. Be innovative with your fundraising. It’s hard asking friends and family for money to support your work, so try and be clever with your fundraising ideas. And if you are hosting more than one event try and target different groups of mates so you are not always asking the same people for support.

5. Good communication. Obvious? yes. But it doesn’t necessarily always happen. Have regular production meetings. Be clear with your expectations. And listen to those around you — you are never too wise to keep learning.

6. Use a timeline. Schedule in the major tasks from commencement of the project right through to Opening. Have regular production meetings and go back to the timeline weekly, making sure you are not falling behind. We have to do everything as independent producers, as well as create the piece and perform sometimes, so a timeline helps you stay on track.

7. Delegate. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We can’t do everything! You need to be able to share the victories as well as the struggles, so when it’s all getting a bit much, ask for help.

8. Cross promote. There are so many other artists trying to sell their wares and publicise. I think we should work in together more. Ask companies to share on their socials, their databases and then make sure to return the favour.

9. Thank people along the way. I know it sounds obvious, but it is so easy to get caught up being busy, asking for help, working all hours. However it’s your “baby” so you don’t think twice about the effort you put in. For everyone else, it’s a job or a favour. Make sure you show your appreciation, and be generous where ever you can.

10. Have so much fun. It’s one of the hardest things you’ll ever do. Putting on a show from the ground up is hectic. However it is the most rewarding thing you will ever do as well. Take time to stop and admire what you are doing. Who cares what the reviews say? Or how many tickets you sold on Thursday’s performance. You took a risk, you put yourself and your art on the line. Nothing matches that as an artist. Be very proud.

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