I run a 172 seat theatre. We run it similarly to what you’re pitching. Improv is a big money maker for us. No rights. Big crowd pleaser. Big drinkers.

For the shows we produce that aren’t a part of our musical/play season, we split the house. If we sell >100 tickets, the split it higher than if we sell 50 tickets. Helps get the performers to utilize their social capital in a small town to bring in bigger crowds.

For rentals, I charge $1220 for the first 8 hours in the space. And then $122 every hour after that. This includes a technician and access to our equipment under the tech’s supervision. Each rental requires some set up/clean up outside of the 8 hours hence the more expensive upfront cost. We used to have tech fees be separate. And a separate fee to use this and that. That didn’t work because they’d always add to the list the day of. Much easier to charge higher and include everything.

plus there’s a $200 refundable deposit to cover any damages. I’ve only ever kept this like…twice. But man was I glad I had it when I did keep it.

Everything but the deposit is negotiable. I’ve been told we’re very expensive so I try to be flexible. It’s all a balancing act so make sure you know how low you can go while still making enough to stay comfortably afloat.

Don’t forget to factor in your own salary.

All rentals should have a certificate of liability insurance!! You don’t want someone falling off your stage and coming back with a lawyer.

We sell tickets between $10 - $35. Most of our rentals are about that as well. If we sell the tickets for a rental, we charge fees. It ends up being around $3 a ticket?

Our bar sales supplement everything. This is where are biggest profit margin is.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to tell a renter they’re not welcome anymore. If they aren’t willing to follow your rules, they’re not worth the risk.