A village gala has to work for everyone, from toddlers to people who have been coming for 50 years. A good line-up mixes a family afternoon with a headline act that people will travel for.
Building a line-up
- Afternoon family slot: a children's entertainer such as Sparky Marky, with carnival stalls running all day.
- Nostalgia slot: the Wartime show, Keep Calm and Carrie On, with Vera Lynn and Andrews Sisters singalongs. It suits a heritage or commemoration theme.
- Headline slot: a big-name tribute such as ABBA Fernando, or the party band Black Lace, known for Agadoo and Do the Conga.
Stage and sound
Outdoor stages need cover, a level surface and a safe power supply. Many acts are self-contained with their own PA, but a field is bigger than a function room. Tell us the audience size and the space so we can check the act's equipment suits it.
Running order tips
- Open with a family act while people arrive.
- Keep stalls and games going between shows.
- Put the headline act at the end, when the crowd is largest.
- Finish before light fades if there is no stage lighting.
Licences and permissions
Check with your parish or local council about any permissions needed for public entertainment, road closures or alcohol sales. The organising committee is usually responsible for site safety and insurance.
Quick answers
Do tribute acts play outdoor galas?
Yes, many do. Billy Joel and Cyndi Lauper profiles, for example, list festivals among their ideal bookings.
What if it rains?
Plan a covered stage or a marquee. Performers can't play electrical equipment in the rain.
Next steps
Tell us your gala date and site and we'll suggest a line-up.
Ready to find your act?
Flair Entertainments has been booking entertainers for clients across the UK since 1984. Send us your date, venue and the kind of night you want and we’ll come back with acts that suit.
