Block Booking Program
The Block Booking Program brings presenters together to coordinate performance tours across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. By working together, communities can share touring costs while creating more opportunities for artists to perform.
Manitoba Arts Network supports the booking process, helping presenters plan connected tours that work for both communities and artists.
Better Programming, Lower Costs
Block booking allows presenters to work together when booking an artist, making it more practical to bring live performances to their communities.
Rather than organizing individual performances separately, presenters coordinate dates across multiple venues to create a connected tour. This helps reduce travel costs and gives artists a more sustainable touring schedule.
MAN coordinates the process, connecting presenters with artists and supporting the development of tours across its network.
Booking Fees
Standard booking fee for non-member presenters.
Steps to Get Started
Presenters interested in block booking follow a coordinated process to help MAN develop touring schedules.
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01
Sign the Member-to-Member Commitment Contract
Formalize your participation in the block booking group and establish expectations for the season ahead.
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02
Prepare Before Manitoba Showcase
Attend committee meetings, review the artist roster, identify available dates and determine programming preferences ahead of the conference.
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03
Submit Your Booking Form
Submit confidential bid amounts and indicate which artists you would like to present. MAN uses this information to help coordinate tours across the presenter network.
5 Keys to a Successful Block Booking Tour
Coordinating performances across multiple communities takes planning. These practices help presenters work together throughout the booking process.
Plan Early
Strong tours typically include four to six communities. Begin coordinating dates and connecting with other presenters early.
Hold Regular Meetings
Meet at least monthly from November through February to review plans and coordinate programming decisions.
Prioritize Showcase Artists
Consider artists who have participated in Manitoba Showcase when planning your touring season.
Respond Promptly
Participate in block booking meetings and respond to scheduling requests so the process can move forward for everyone involved.
Trust the Process
MAN's coordinator assists with scheduling and helps address gaps as tours develop. The process works best when participating presenters follow through on their commitments.
Booking Support & Artist Directory
MAN also offers support for presenters who are new to booking performances, along with a directory for discovering touring artists.
MAN Curated Performing Arts Series
Presenters who are not ready to navigate the full block booking process can work with MAN to develop a curated performance series.
Share your season budget, preferred artists and available dates. MAN provides support with coordinating the bookings.
Get in TouchManitoba Showcase Directory
Explore artists who have applied to or participated in Manitoba Showcase.
The directory allows presenters to search for performers by genre, price range and location, helping them identify artists for their communities.
Visit the DirectoryQuestions about Block Booking?
Contact Manitoba Arts Network to learn more about participating in the Block Booking Program or booking artists for your community.
Email performingarts@mbartsnet.ca or call 204-943-0036.