Arts

Business

What are the venue hire costs for the different theatre spaces at Sadler's Wells?

The Peacock Theatre costs £11,000 + VAT per day, with an additional £6,500 + VAT for the first get-in day if setup is required without a show. The Lilian Baylis Studio costs £3,100 + VAT per day (09:00-22:00). Sadler's Wells East costs £12,500 + VAT per day. All venues require a non-refundable 50% deposit on signing and the remaining 50% two months prior to the event.

What technical staffing costs should I budget for beyond the venue hire?

Technical staffing is mandatory for health and safety reasons and costs extra. The Peacock Theatre requires approximately £3,000 + VAT per day for technical staffing, while Sadler's Wells East requires approximately £8,000-£10,000 + VAT per day. Rates are charged at single time Monday-Friday, time and a half on Saturdays, and double time on Sundays.

What are the ticketing arrangements and associated costs?

You receive 100% of ticket sales revenue. The ticketing service costs £300 + VAT per performance/event and includes website listing and e-tickets. There's a 3% payment processing fee on all card and cash transactions for tickets sold. Ticket office staffing costs are additional and will be invoiced separately.

What are the capacity limits for each theatre space?

The Peacock Theatre accommodates larger audiences (specific capacity not detailed in available information). The Lilian Baylis Studio has flexible seating that can be retracted to create an open space for receptions. Sadler's Wells East has a retractable seating bank for 397 people plus a First Circle Terrace for 10 additional guests.

What restrictions apply to catering and merchandise sales?

All catering must be provided by Sadler's Wells' in-house team - no external caterers are permitted. The venue takes a 30% commission on all programmes and merchandise, which must be sold exclusively through their front-of-house staff. If you're showcasing a drinks brand without serving, this may be negotiable but requires prior approval.

When are the theatres unavailable due to maintenance or programming?

All theatres undergo maintenance during August and are unavailable for hire. September through December is the busy programming season with limited availability. January and February typically have better availability, though specific dates vary year to year.

What approval process is required for external events?

All external enquiries require senior management approval. You must provide an artistic presentation or video/photo material of your show or event for review. This approval process is mandatory before any booking can be confirmed, regardless of the event type.

What are the standard booking hours and any restrictions on timing?

Standard booking hours for theatre spaces are 09:00-22:00 each day. Get-out hours may run later than 22:00 after the final day as required. No equipment is present at the start of hire, so the first day begins with all technical rigging and preparation before stage access begins.

What front-of-house and security costs should I expect?

Front-of-house and security staffing costs are recharged and invoiced as additional expenses beyond the venue hire fee. Staff costs apply to Sunday events at premium rates. The venue hire includes access to front-of-house spaces like bars, but staffing these areas incurs separate charges.

What technical equipment is included versus what requires additional hire?

All light and sound equipment noted in the venue's technical specifications are included (excluding radio microphones). However, if you don't require the general rig or have specific technical needs, additional equipment hire and setup costs will apply. A detailed quote is provided once you submit your production schedule and technical rider.