Touring children's theatre for schools

School PTAs and administrators, public libraries, daycare centers, summer camps and community organizations.

A flat fee per performance, with discounts for booking two or more shows in one day. Add-ons like a post-show workshop can raise the price.

• Acting or directing
• Writing or adapting scripts for young audiences
• Booking and scheduling
• Comfortable working with children

• General liability insurance, which schools often ask to see as a certificate
• Background check requirements for working in schools, check with each district
• Licensing for any scripts or songs you did not write, check copyright and performance rights
• Check your state and city rules on business licenses and any child performer rules if you cast minors

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your sets, costumes, props and insurance. These are estimates. A small cast with simple, portable sets helps keep the starting budget low.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many shows you book and the flat fee you charge each venue. Treat this as an estimate, not a guarantee.

Check that you carry general liability insurance, since schools often ask for a certificate. Also check each district's background check rules, performance rights for scripts or songs you did not write, and local business license and child performer rules.