Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book an artiste from MBM?
The easiest way by far is to give us a call on 08450 1 70707. If you have already been on the website and found an artiste or two that you are interested in, you'll see in the 'Artiste Info' box, who is the Manager responsible for that artiste in the MBM office. Our friendly staff will be able to give you availabilities, prices, performance times - even alternatives should your first choice not be available. We can even help you with an idea from scratch! We are in the business of successfully providing artistes to thousands of events every year... so we know "what's hot... and what's not".
How do I pay?
If you are a private individual booking entertainment for a wedding or private party, you can: 1) Pay a 20% deposit in advance (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders), then pay the balance at least 14 days before the event. 2) Pay the whole amount in advance (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders). If you are a venue booking multiple artistes, subject to status you can: 1) Pay MBM on a weekly or monthly invoiced basis (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders). 2) Pay each artiste their fee immediately after each event in cash. If you are a corporate client you can: 1) Pay a 20% deposit in advance (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders), then pay the balance at least 14 days before the event. 2) Pay a 20% deposit in advance (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders), then pay the balance to the artiste immediately after the event in cash. 3) Pay the whole amount in advance (we accept all major credit/debit cards, cheques, BACS, bankers drafts and postal orders).
Can I cancel a booking?
Yes, subject to the terms and conditions of each contract. Our standard Terms of Business state that: 1) you must pay the whole artiste-fee should you cancel an event up to and including 31 days prior to the event. 2) for cancellation outside of the 31-day period, 50% of the fee will be charged. Certain contracts (Equity Contracts in particular) do not allow for cancellation without payment of the full fee.
I am an artiste. Can I come and work for MBM?
The answer is maybe! We are always on the lookout for new, talented artistes in every genre and hold auditions throughout the year at different venues. In the first instance, complete the form on the 'Join MBM' page on our website. We'll then call you to take it further.
What do MBM look for in an artiste?
We are looking for a long-lasting business relationship based on loyalty. We are looking for professional artistes who treat this as a job. We require that our artistes are easily contactable and that they call us every Monday to check out their diaries with their booking manager. We require our artistes to turn up early: Perform for longer than they are contractually required to: Be nice to our clients, customers and the audience: Dress smartly at all times: Go the extra mile: Pay their bills on time. We will not employ prima-donnas, know-alls, cheats, clock-watchers, latecomers, hypochondriacs and any artiste that does not come up to scratch.
Do I need a contract?
Yes. All of our bookings are defined in a legally binding contract which is usually between the Artiste and the Booker. Each contract must be signed by the Artiste and the Booker it will show the artiste's fee, the date of the event and the date the booking was made, arrival time, time to be ready by (set-up) and the performance time/s and lengths of performanc/es together with the names and relevant addresses of the Artiste, Booker and Venue.
How much does MBM charge for its services?
MBM takes between 17.5% and 20% of an artiste's fee in commission (plus VAT if applicable) for each booking made. We do not charge the customer.
Are my personal details safe with MBM?
Yes. MBM is registered with the Data Protection Agency (entry no. Z88-23918) and are not allowed to disclose any of your details to third parties.
As a customer, do I need to pay VAT when I book an artiste?
If the artiste is registered for VAT, then you will need to add 17.5% VAT to the artiste's fee. If the artiste is not registered for VAT (in most cases), then you do not pay any VAT. If you are required to pay VAT, this will clearly be shown on the issued contract.
Are deposits refundable?
In some instances, deposits are fully refundable, in others they are not. This depends on the type of contract which is issued for the event. You are welcome to ask us before you book your event whether your deposit is refundable or not.
Can I see an artiste before I book them?
Generally this can be difficult. People booking weddings often want to physically see artistes performing - and because this type of artiste is frequently appearing at closed-door events (other weddings & parties), it can sometimes be impossible. You need to trust us! We will guide you to a place on our website or YouTube channel where you can view practically ll of our artistes. We supply thousands of events every year with a massive success rate. We are Entertainment Consultants and will not risk our reputation by offering inferior or inadequate entertainment.
What is The Agents' Association?
Similar to Corgi (for gas fitters), The Agents' Association of Great Britain is a regulating body for entertainment agents. It is only possible to join by referral from existing agents, and a year's probationary membership is required before one can claim full status. The AA seeks to promote fair and proper dealings between agents, artistes, venues and clients. MBM first became a member of the AA in 1994. There are currently around 400 members in the U.K. We would never advise anyone to deal with entertainment agents that are not members of the Agents' Association (or NEAC). Anne Barrett, MBM's managing director has served as Chairman of the Agents' Association Northwest Branch. Philip Barrett is the standing Secretary.
What time is best to call MBM?
Anytime during office hours which are: 9:30 - 5:30 weekdays. We operate an emergency let-down service outside of these hours and cannot usually deal with regular enquiries.
Can I visit your office?
We are a very busy telephone office, so we do not usually entertain artistes or clients at our office.