Why Entertainment Should Be More Than an Afterthought at Your Next Event

Originally published on Event Managers Network

In the world of corporate and community events, entertainment is often viewed as a nice-to-have rather than an essential strategy. But what if it were the very thing that transformed your event from forgettable to phenomenal?

Let me tell you a story about Australian band Amyl & The Sniffers. Recently, they made headlines by putting their entire $35,000 performance fee on a bar tab for fans after a gig was cancelled due to crowd safety concerns. They didn’t perform, but they still got paid, and more importantly, they made a memorable statement. That kind of gesture doesn’t just build hype; it builds loyalty and legacy.

Why is this relevant to you as an event organiser?

Because moments like this show how entertainment is not just about filling time between keynote speakers or adding background noise to networking drinks. It’s about impact, connection, and alignment — three things your event needs to truly resonate with your audience.

What Does It Really Cost to Book Talent?

It’s not as simple as Googling "how much to book Amyl & The Sniffers." You’ll likely get three kinds of results:

1. A sky-high quote from a middleman

2. Radio silence because you’re not a known entity

3. A random alternative act that’s not what you were after

This isn’t a commodity quote; it’s a relationship-based negotiation. And unless you’ve got the right connections or representation, it’s easy to get ghosted or overcharged.

Talent is Strategic, Not Just Flashy

One client once booked a comedian mid-way through his appearance on Australia’s Got Talent. By the time the event came around, the show had ended, his star had faded, and his act missed the mark. He was even booted off stage by the event organiser, live, mid-set!

Booking talent is high-stakes. It can elevate the entire vibe of your event or create awkward, unforgettable moments (and not in a good way). It’s not just about who’s trending; it’s about who fits your brand, your audience, and your message.

Think Beyond the Fee

Sure, Amyl & The Sniffers were paid $35k not to perform. But that’s nowhere near what they earn from a sold-out tour. Entertainment fees vary wildly depending on timing, alignment, exclusivity, and most importantly, perceived value.

Sometimes, artists turn down gigs altogether because they don’t align with the brand or industry. I’ve had to negotiate on behalf of organisations to show artists the deeper value of participating,  not just the paycheck, but the impact they could make.

Behind the Keys: Experience the Booking Process Firsthand

If you’re curious how to navigate all this without risking your event’s success (or budget), that’s exactly why we’re hosting the final Event Managers Network event for 2025 — Behind the Keys.

You’ll get:

• A live performance from The Voice’s Mitchell Dormer

• Insights from The Tivoli’s Dave Sleswick and Harry Upton

• A backstage view of the artist booking process

• A chance to ask your questions about entertainment, budgets, and talent negotiations

Saturday 13 December | 5:30pm | The Tivoli Brisbane
🎟 Register Now on Humanitix

Final Thought

Entertainment can be the element that defines your event experience. Done well, it transforms a room, uplifts your brand, and makes guests say, "I’ll never forget that night."

So don’t treat entertainment as a line item to tick off. Make it part of your strategy.

Want to talk more about booking strategy for 2026? Reach out,  we’re ready to help.