Start a touring school and family show troupe

School PTAs and districts, public libraries, parks departments, festival organizers, and community centers.

A flat booking fee per performance, plus extra for workshops or a second show on the same day. Some groups add small local arts grants.

• Performing or directing
• Organizing rehearsals and travel
• Pitching and following up with bookers

• General liability insurance, which many schools and venues ask to see before booking
• Whether schools in your district require background checks or vendor paperwork
• Rights and licenses if you perform existing plays, songs or characters, since you may need permission
• Whether to pay performers as employees or independent contractors, check IRS and state guidance
• Local business license rules in the places you work

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how elaborate your sets, costumes and show are. These are estimates, so keep your first show portable enough to fit in a van or SUV.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many bookings you win and your fee per show. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check whether schools in your district require background checks or vendor paperwork, and get general liability insurance, which many venues ask to see. Also check rights and licenses for existing plays, songs or characters, and local business license rules.