10 questions to ask before you book entertainment
Updated 2026-10-14
The most common complaints in public reviews of UK entertainment booking services are about a named act cancelling, a substitute being offered, deposits not being returned, and unclear communication. These questions help you avoid all of them.
The questions
1. Is the named act guaranteed? What happens if they can’t perform: a substitute, a refund, or my choice?
2. How much is the deposit, is it refundable, and when is the balance due?
3. Can I see the full terms and conditions before I pay anything?
4. Does the act have public liability insurance and PAT-tested equipment?
5. What is included: number and length of sets, PA, lighting, DJ cover?
6. What do you need from the venue: power, space, load-in and finish times?
7. Are travel, parking and accommodation included?
8. Who is my contact on the day, and how do I reach them?
9. Can I see recent live video and reviews from real bookings?
10. Will the price change once I’ve paid a deposit?
Why booking through an agency helps
A reputable agency issues a contract, checks its acts and can help if something changes. Ask each agency to explain its cancellation policy in writing.
FAQs
What if my act cancels?
It depends on your contract. Before paying a deposit, check whether you’re entitled to a refund or only to a substitute.
Sources
- Hitched reviews of a UK entertainment agency (examples of cancellation and deposit complaints)
- Poptop reviews on Trustpilot