The Block Booking Program at Manitoba Arts Network (MAN) helps presenters book high-quality touring artists by working together. This collaborative model reduces costs, strengthens touring opportunities for artists, and ensures sustainable performances in communities across Manitoba.

By participating in block booking, presenters gain access to Showcase artists and emerging talent at significantly reduced rates.

What is Block Booking?

The Block Booking Program is a structured process where multiple presenters coordinate to schedule performances by the same artist across different venues. This collaborative effort:

• Reduces booking fees for individual presenters.
• Encourages cross-community programming and artist sustainability.
• Provides access to performers from across Canada and beyond.

Why Participate?

• Lower Booking Costs – Group bookings can reduce artist fees by up to $2,500 per presenter.
• Access to Exclusive Talent – Secure Showcase artists and emerging performers.
• Seamless Coordination – MAN manages contracts, tour logistics, and artist negotiations.

How the Block Booking Program Works

• MAN Members: 5% booking fee
• Non-Members: 8% booking fee

Steps to Get Started

• Sign the Member-to-Member Commitment Contract
• Prepare Before the MAN Showcase Conference
  • Meet with your Performing Arts Committee.
  • Review the Showcase artist roster and select your top 8–10 choices.
  • Determine which months you’re available to host performances.
  • Identify preferred performance days and alternative options.
• Submit Your Google Booking Form
  • The Performing Arts Coordinator will provide the form.
  • Bids are confidential—submit an amount that fits your budget.
  • Express interest even if the suggested fee seems high—block-booked tours often lower artist fees significantly.

5 Key Pillars of a Successful Block Booking Program

• Plan Early – Strong tours include 4–6 communities.
• Hold Regular Meetings – Meet at least monthly from November–February.
• Prioritize Showcase Artists – Book Showcase artists first before considering additional performers.
• Respond Promptly – Attend bi-weekly block booking meetings to keep the process on track.
• Trust the Process – The Performing Arts Coordinator will assist with any gaps in scheduling after tours are confirmed.

MAN Curated Performing Arts Series

🎭 New to presenting? Need help with booking?

MAN provides curated booking support to help presenters book artists without handling complex logistics.

✔ Submit Your Season Budget – Outline your artist fee allocation.
✔ List Preferred Artists – Rank performers you’d like to present.
✔ Provide Date Ranges – Indicate your availability.

Manitoba Showcase Directory

Our members can discover a diverse lineup of artists through our Manitoba Showcase Directory! Featuring over 360 artists from the past four years of Showcase applications, this searchable database allows presenters to explore performers by genre, price range, and location. Each listing includes technical and hospitality riders, videos, and key details to help streamline the booking process. Whether you’re looking for musicians, theatre performances, or multidisciplinary acts, the directory is your go-to resource for finding incredible touring talent in Manitoba.

The Block Booking Program at Manitoba Arts Network (MAN) helps presenters book high-quality touring artists by working together. This collaborative model reduces costs, strengthens touring opportunities for artists, and ensures sustainable performances in communities across Manitoba.

By participating in block booking, presenters gain access to Showcase artists and emerging talent at significantly reduced rates.