How to Write a Performance Contract (Free Template)

A performance contract protects both you and your client. It sets clear expectations, prevents awkward disputes, and makes you look like the professional you are. The good news: a great contract for entertainers doesn't need legal jargon — it needs clarity. This guide walks through every section you should include and ends with a reusable template.

Why you need a contract for every booking

Verbal agreements fall apart the moment someone remembers things differently. A written contract confirms the date, the fee, what you'll deliver and what happens if plans change. It also signals professionalism, which reassures clients spending serious money on their event.

The clauses every performance contract should include

1. 1Parties: your business name and the client's full name and contact details.
2. 2Event details: date, arrival time, performance start and finish times, and the venue address.
3. 3Services: exactly what you're providing (e.g. two 45-minute sets, close-up magic for 90 minutes).
4. 4Fee and payment terms: total fee, deposit amount, and when the balance is due.
5. 5Deposit and cancellation policy: what's non-refundable and the notice required to cancel.
6. 6Technical and space requirements: power, stage size, changing room, parking or access.
7. 7Force majeure: what happens if the event can't go ahead for reasons outside anyone's control.
8. 8Liability and insurance: confirmation you hold public liability insurance where relevant.
9. 9Signatures: both parties sign and date to make it binding.

Deposits and cancellations: protect your income

Your deposit secures the date and compensates you if a client cancels late. A common approach is a non-refundable deposit of 20-50% on booking, with the balance due a set number of days before the event. Spell out a clear cancellation window so there's no ambiguity if circumstances change.

Getting it signed (the easy way)

Printing, signing and scanning is friction that slows down bookings. Sending a contract for a legally-binding e-signature lets clients sign from their phone in seconds — and you get notified the moment they do. Faster signatures mean fewer lost bookings.

Free performance contract template

Copy and adapt the outline below. Replace the bracketed sections with your own details:

This agreement is between [Your Business Name] ("the Performer") and [Client Name] ("the Client"). The Performer agrees to provide [description of services] at [venue] on [date] from [start time] to [finish time]. The total fee is [amount], with a non-refundable deposit of [amount] due on booking and the balance of [amount] due by [date]. Cancellations within [X days] of the event forfeit the deposit. The Client will provide [space/power/access requirements]. The Performer holds public liability insurance. Signed: ____________ (Performer) and ____________ (Client), dated ____________.

With PerformerDesk you can save this as a branded template once, then send it for e-signature with every booking — and attach the deposit pay link in the same message.