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Performing Arts Programs

Block Booking Program

A collaborative touring model that reduces costs and brings high-quality artists to communities across Manitoba.

The Block Booking Program helps presenters book high-quality touring artists by working together. By participating, presenters gain access to Showcase artists and emerging talent at significantly reduced rates — while artists benefit from connected, multi-community tours that make travel and logistics sustainable.

Why Participate

Better Programming, Lower Costs

$2,500
Savings per presenter
4–6
Communities per tour
360+
Artists in the directory
How It Works

Block booking is a structured process where multiple presenters coordinate to schedule performances by the same artist across different venues. By sharing the booking effort, each presenter pays less while the artist gets a more viable tour.

Presenters gain access to Showcase artists and emerging talent at significantly reduced rates, while artists benefit from connected, multi-community tours that make travel and logistics sustainable.

What You Get

Access to performers from across Canada and beyond. Encouragement of cross-community programming and long-term artist sustainability. MAN coordination support throughout the booking process.

5%
MAN Members
Reduced booking fee for Manitoba Arts Network members.
Become a Member →
8%
Non-Members
Standard booking fee for non-member presenters.
Getting Started

Steps to Get Started

  1. 01
    Sign the Member-to-Member Commitment Contract

    Formalizes your participation in the block booking group and sets expectations for the season ahead.

  2. 02
    Prepare Before the MAN Showcase Conference

    Attend committee meetings, review the artist roster, determine your availability, and set date and day preferences ahead of the conference.

  3. 03
    Submit Your Google Booking Form

    Submit confidential bid amounts and express interest in specific artists. MAN uses this to coordinate tour pairings across the presenter network.

Best Practices

5 Keys to a Successful Block Booking Tour

  • Plan Early

    Strong tours include 4–6 communities. Start building your network and locking in dates as early as possible.

  • Hold Regular Meetings

    Meet at least monthly from November through February to keep the group aligned and momentum strong.

  • Prioritize Showcase Artists

    Book Showcase artists first before considering additional performers. This ensures access to the best available talent at the best rates.

  • Respond Promptly

    Attend bi-weekly block booking meetings and respond quickly to keep the scheduling process on track for everyone.

  • Trust the Process

    MAN's coordinator assists with scheduling gaps after tours are confirmed. The system works best when everyone commits and follows through.

New to Presenting?

MAN Curated Performing Arts Series

Not ready to navigate the full block booking process on your own? MAN provides curated booking support to help presenters book artists without handling complex logistics.

Submit your season budget outline, rank your preferred artists, and indicate your availability dates. MAN handles the rest.

Get in Touch →
Discover Artists

Manitoba Showcase Directory

Browse over 360 artists from the past four years of Showcase applications. The searchable directory lets you filter by genre, price range, and location to find the right fit for your community.

Find this year's touring artists ready to book through the block booking program.

Visit the Directory →

Questions? Email performingarts@mbartsnet.ca or call 1-866-919-2787 (toll free)  ·  204-943-0036