Touring children's shows for schools

Elementary schools (often through parent councils or school budgets), libraries, daycares, community centres and summer camps.

A flat fee per performance, often with a discount for two shows in one day at the same school. Workshops or study guides can be added as paid extras.

• Acting or directing
• Writing or adapting age-appropriate scripts
• Organizing bookings and travel
• Engaging with children

• Check whether your school board requires vetted suppliers, and whether performers need a police vulnerable sector check
• Commercial general liability insurance, which schools often ask to see
• Rules on using scripts, songs and characters you did not create, since you may need rights or permission
• Winter driving and weather cancellations, plus school holidays that shrink your booking window
• Check whether you need to charge GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and whether you must pay performers as employees or contractors in your province

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on sets, costumes and vehicle needs. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many bookings you win.

Check whether your school board requires vetted suppliers and whether performers need a police vulnerable sector check. Also check commercial general liability insurance, rights for scripts or songs you did not create, GST/HST, and contractor or employee status for performers.

Estimates suggest at least about 10 hours a week. Useful skills include acting or directing, writing age-appropriate scripts, organizing bookings and travel, and engaging with children. Winter weather and school holidays can limit bookings.