Performing Arts Centre Iceland
Austurstræti 5, 4th floor
101 Reykjavík
Iceland
©2022 Performing Arts Centre
International tours can open new opportunities for performing artists, extend the lifespan of their works, and create new connections with audiences, partners, and markets. This handbook covers preparation, funding, promotion, logistics, and execution.
An international exhibition tour begins long before the first flight is booked. Tours are based on relationships, clear objectives, and good preparation.
Before getting started, it needs to be clear why you are embarking on this journey. The objectives can vary:
The objective influences the entire process – from which events you attend to how you negotiate with venues.
Few projects go directly from premiere to international tour. It usually takes several years to build relationships and trust that lead to regular bookings.
It is important to view marketing, networking, and participation on an international stage as an investment for the future.
Successful touring rarely relies on a single sale – but rather on relationships that develop over time.
At venues and festivals, roles are often clear.
Artistic Directors and Curators
Evaluate the artistic merit of projects and decide what is offered for the program.
Producers and Managers
Manage contracts, financing, planning, and execution.
It can take time to build a relationship with both groups.
Don't take anything for granted. Confirm everything in writing:
Airport shuttle
Technical equipment
Timings
Payment arrangement
Accommodation
Per diem
Setup time
Clear communication prevents most problems.
International collaboration is built on visibility, networking, and participation in the right forums. Here are the main ways to meet people, build connections, and create opportunities.
Markets, showcases, and professional conferences are often the most effective way to meet many presenters and partners in a short amount of time.
Examples of markets and showcases:
Active participation in networks can open doors to collaborations and bookings.
Examples of Networks
The first meeting rarely results in a booking. Relationships develop over time through:
Regular communication.
Repeated meetings.
Invitations to shows.
Presenting new projects.
An international tour should be built on a solid foundation and a clear budget. The goal isn't just to go abroad, but to do so sustainably.
The goal is not just to go abroad, but to do so sustainably.
A good showcase tour should facilitate:
Administration Fee
It is recommended to charge an administration fee on top of the project cost.
This includes:
Email Communication
Production Management
Agreements
Settlement
Bookings
Production Fee
Many groups also charge a production fee.
The goal is to create room for future projects and to sustain operations.
Daily fees
Artists should be paid for:
Not just the exhibition itself.
Per diem
Use recognized standards and official rates where applicable.
It can be tempting to accept a low price to enter a new market.
However, too low a price can:
Assess the value of the work and ensure the exhibition is properly valued.
Good preparation is key
A clear budget, fair pricing, and solid contracts are the foundation for sustainable international operations. This creates room for art – and the future.
It is important to explore the available opportunities, both domestically and internationally. Here are the main funds and support options worth looking into.
Performing Arts Centre Iceland
Travel grants and translation grants for international projects.
Nordic Culture Point
Mobility support.
Nordic Culture Fund
Especially Oppstart.
Bilateral Cultural Funds
For example:
Culture Moves Europe
Perform Europe
Creative Europe Cooperation Projects
Helpful Tips
Reach out in good time, present your project thoroughly, and adhere to the funds' guidelines. Good preparation significantly increases the likelihood of securing support.
You need to present the performance and explain its execution simultaneously. The promotional pack is designed to convince festival and artistic directors. Technical specifications assist producers and technical staff in assessing whether the work is suitable for the venue and schedule.
Reception and Reviews
A Tour Pack is typically a 2–3 page PDF that is visually appealing and confirms the quality of the work (social proof).
Technical Requirements
Equipment List
Weigh all props and measure boxes while you are still at home. Essential for:
Interpreter or contact person
If traveling to countries where technical staff do not speak English, it may be necessary to request a contact person or an interpreter who can assist with communication during setup days.
Practical considerations
Details that matter:
Things to consider
All promotional materials and technical documents should be available in English. In international collaborations, the first impression of the work is often made through the Tour Pack and Technical Rider before any meeting takes place.
6 · Set design, equipment, and logistics
Decisions made during set design can significantly impact the cost, execution, and sustainability of touring productions. A set that travels well is generally cheaper to transport, quicker to set up, and easier to manage.
7 · On-site
Good preparation is crucial, but once you arrive at your destination, new challenges emerge. Communication, flexibility, and clear roles can be vital for the success of the performance.
8 · Follow-up
Good follow-up strengthens relationships, simplifies future applications, and increases the likelihood of new projects. What happens after the trip can be just as important as the trip itself.
9 · Checklist
Review the key items before departure.
About the handbook
This handbook is based on the experience of Icelandic performing artists with international tours and material compiled for an educational project by the Icelandic Centre for Performing Arts. It specifically draws on a webinar on international touring led by Tinna Grétarsdóttir for the Icelandic Centre for Performing Arts in 2023.
