PERFORMER
FAQ
What kind of groups can
perform?
Singer/Songwriters, Bands, Dancers, Drama Acts, Circus Acts, Comedians, Painters, Writers, and more. Just keep in mind that your audience may have toddlers.
Feeling Especially Brave? Are you interested in sharing personal essays, life lessons, humorous tales, daring escapades, and middle school (or HS or current!) journal entries. If we have enough brave performers, we will create a "PG-17 Stage". Register for 30 minutes but expect to perform for 5-15. Let us know you are interested in being part of the "Let It Go" Grille on the form under "Is there anything else you believe we should know?" We'll be in touch in August to discuss details.
What about Student Performers?
Students are encouraged to perform! Each year, nearly a quarter of the performers were under 18. If your band only has 15 minutes of material, fear not. Do a double set or supplement with any creative endeavor you'd like. Some examples: tell jokes, do magic tricks, share life lessons, have everyone in the band read their, "What I did over summer vacation" essay - even if they don't assign those anymore, juggle. We know you have lots of talents.
Where will the Youth Bands perform:
If you are interested in performing with other youth bands, let us know on the form under "Is there anything else you believe we should know?" If we have a groundswell of youth performers signing up for this we will put you all together. Otherwise, feel free to sign up on a pre-arranged Porch
How do you assign porches?
If you don't have a porch, we will find a porch for you and connect you with your host in mid-August. Please don't select an address unless you know the Host because you will not be sent contact information (prearranged addresses are for hosts and performers who know one and other).
If you are performing on a friend's porch, select their address from the dropdown menu when you register. If it's not there, let us know (there is a question on the form for these kinds of details: "Is there anything else you believe we should know?") and send your host a reminder to register. We will connect you with their porch when they register.
If you are performing on your own porch, register your porch first, then select your address from the dropdown menu.
Do I need to be from
Belmont to perform?
No, but if we are matching you with a Porch, we prioritize Belmont performers.
What about rain?
Light rain will not shut us down! Talk with your host about whether you will be on a porch or if you should bring a canopy. If you and the host do not have a canopy, ask your friends.
If we use the rain date, it will be communicated on the HOME page of the website by 10 a.m. September 7th. Once Porchfest begins, we will not have a rain date option.
Belmont Porchfest urges all hosts, performers, and audience members to prioritize their safety and that of others. An adverse weather event marks the end of Porchfest.
Will I be paid?
The Virtual Tip Jar links to the PayPal or Venmo account you provide on the registration form
Can Performers sell
merchandise?
No, but you can have a recommended donation sign.
How long should I play
for?
Sign up to play for 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes but Belmont Porchfest will make the final determination. Factor in the time you will need for setup and breakdown into your performance time.
Can I choose when I
perform?
You can request a time slot, but we would prefer you don’t. Please plan to be available any time between 11 am – 6 pm on both Saturday and Sunday so we can make one schedule that accommodates everyone for Saturday and our Rain date, Sunday.
How loud can I play?
Performances can be acoustic or amplified, just be aware of your surroundings. The goal is to be heard to the sidewalk, but not down the street. There will be other performers nearby, so please be respectful.
Should I bring my own
water or other refreshments?
Yes.
Should I bring my own
equipment?
Absolutely! Organizers
and hosts will not provide equipment. Hosts may provide electrical outlets.
Discuss your requirements with your host ASAP.
Will I be performing on the porch?
Possibly. Any outdoor, ground level, residential space without access to a pool could be your stage.
How will I know where
and when I’m performing?
Expect to hear from us in mid-August and be part of the rollercoaster ride of getting a final schedule in place, including porch/performer matches.
Who will advertise my
performance?
You, us, and your
host!
We will post the
description and social media links on FB, Instagram, and our website
You can make an event on FB and tag us. Tag us on Instagram, too! Anything you can do to promote your performance is recommended!
What about parking?
Parking may be difficult depending on the porch location. Plan with your host. Arrive early and be prepared to walk. You can drop off your equipment, but depending on where the porch is located, you may need to park elsewhere.
Are there any bathrooms?
Hosts are expected to provide their performers with access to their restroom.
There are also Porta Potties in the Town Parks. The locations are on the map on this website.
You may want to time getting a snack in Town Center, Waverley Square or Cushing Squares with a bathroom break, as well.
Any images and links you share with us may be used to promote Belmont Porchfest and other projects.