Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about booking live entertainment with Stables, from prices and payment to what the act needs on the night. Can't find what you need? Call 07970 117172.
Booking and payment
Who runs Stables Entertainments?
Darren Wright. The agency was founded in 1985. Darren started his own agency, DW Promotions, in 1993 and took over Stables in 2004, so he has been booking live entertainment for over 30 years. He has also written a book, Running an Entertainment Agency.
Who do you book entertainment for?
Pubs, clubs, private parties, weddings, corporate events and care homes. We have also provided entertainment for councils.
Which areas do you cover?
Our home patch is Nottingham and the East Midlands, and we book acts across the UK. Some of our bigger acts also perform abroad.
What kinds of acts do you have?
Solo singers, duos, bands, tribute acts and comedians, with more than 80 acts on our books. You can browse them all on our website.
Why book through Stables?
We have over 40 years in the business, and Darren has met every act that works directly for us. Every booking gets a contract. We know the local venues, from how they like to be paid to where the act should park. And our acts range from a solo singer at a care home to internationally touring acts.
How do I make an enquiry?
Call or WhatsApp us on 07970 117172, email mail@stables-ents.co.uk, use the enquiry form, or message us on Facebook. We reply as soon as we see your message, and always within 24 hours.
How much does an act cost?
Solo singers start from £150. The price depends on the day, the time and how far the act has to travel, so get in touch with your date and location for a quote.
Can I check if acts are free on my date?
Yes. Our live availability page shows how many acts are free on any date. Call or email us and we'll confirm who is available.
Do we pay anything upfront?
Usually not. For some bookings, mainly private and corporate events, we may ask for a deposit to secure the date.
How is the act paid?
Usually the client pays the act directly on the night. Other arrangements, such as payment by invoice, can be agreed when you book.
Will I get a contract?
Yes. Every booking gets a written contract, which you can read and sign online.
What if we need to cancel?
Let us know as soon as possible. Deposits are non-refundable. Full cancellation terms are in your booking contract, which you'll receive before the booking is confirmed.
What if the act can't make it?
Acts can only cancel through certified illness, and it's rare. If it does happen, we'll work to find you a suitable replacement straight away. We can't guarantee cover, but in all our years it has very rarely let anyone down.
Are your acts insured?
Our terms require every act to hold public liability insurance and to have current PAT certificates for their electrical equipment. If your venue needs to see proof, tell us when you book and we'll get a copy from the act.
On the night
Do acts bring their own PA and lighting?
Yes. Acts supply their own PA and lighting as standard.
What do we need to provide?
Enough space for the act, power sockets, and a stage or performance area. Parking close by if possible, with street parking as a minimum. If parking or access is difficult, please tell us before booking.
How long do acts play for?
Most commonly two 45-minute sets. Three 30-minute sets and two 60-minute sets are also common. We'll confirm the format when you book.
When will the act arrive?
Solo acts usually arrive 45 to 60 minutes before they start. Duos and bands need longer to set up.
Is there music between sets?
Most acts will play background music between sets if you ask. Acts don't DJ as standard, but some offer a DJ set at an extra cost.
Do acts take requests?
Some do, but we can't guarantee it, because not every song suits every singer's key and vocal range. That includes first dance songs, so ask when you book and we'll check with the act.
Can acts work with a noise limiter?
Yes. Please tell us when you book so the act can plan for it. For care homes, acts keep the volume down to suit the residents.
Do acts need a changing room or food?
Acts usually travel in casual clothes, so a private space to get changed is appreciated. If there isn't one, most acts will simply perform in what they arrive in. Tribute acts are the exception and do need somewhere to change into costume, so please let us know what's available when you book. Food isn't required, but it's always appreciated.
Weddings and private parties
How far ahead should we book?
For weddings and larger private parties, people usually book 12 to 18 months ahead. If your date is sooner, it's still worth asking.
Can we see an act before booking?
Many of our acts have videos on their page on our website. If the act you're interested in doesn't, get in touch and we'll tell you more about them.
Do you plan the running order?
We provide the entertainment rather than plan the event. Let us know your timings when you book, and we'll make sure the act has them.
Do you book children's parties?
Occasionally. Get in touch with the details and we'll see what we can do.
Are there venues you can't do?
Upstairs rooms without a lift can be a problem, especially for bands with heavy equipment. Please ask before booking.
For performers
How do I join Stables?
Use the “Are you a performer?” button on our website, email mail@stables-ents.co.uk, or call 07970 117172.
What do you look for in a new act?
Talent, first and foremost. We meet every act that works directly for us.
Do I have to work only through Stables?
No. Some of our acts work exclusively with us, and others also take work elsewhere.
For venues
Do you provide regular entertainment for pubs and clubs?
Yes. A large part of what we do is weekly and monthly entertainment for regular venues, as well as one-off events.
What help do regular venues get?
We're happy to help you plan your entertainment through the year. Regular venues also get access to our Venue Portal, where you can see all your upcoming bookings in one place.