Host the Show

The show is completely self-contained. It requires no stage, no lighting, no sound system. All it needs is a good-sized room with electricity, enough space to perform and the ability to dim the lighting sufficiently for slide projection.

I bring a minimal set and modest sound system. The lighting can be created in situ, for example by removing light bulbs over the audience to create something akin to a theatrical ‘stage wash’.

See the gallery below for examples of stage set-ups.

Performance space is approximately three metres by three metres. In a large hall with an audience of more than 50 it might be necessary to use a raised stage/platform, if available.

Basic stage lighting and plugging into a sound system enhances the show.

I provide free programmes which are mock-up invitations, as if sent by you in 1912. The reverse gives some useful information about the Boxer Uprising and the Siege of the Legations and credits.

It is ideal to have a backstage area for costume changes and preparation and a door for entry and exit up-stage left or right.

The main item of the set consists of a six panel Chinese screen. I ask for the venue to provide a narrow table behind it.

• Set up: 60 minutes. Includes a simple tech rehearsal, sound check and assistance with arranging the room and seating. 
• Performance: 70 minutes without interval (can be adapted).
• Q and A: Approx 20 mins.
• Pack down: 30 minutes to strike the set and load it

Option 1. You invite a private audience.

The host covers the set fee for the production, plus travel expenses.

Option 2. We collaborate to attract a local audience. I will support local PR activity and provide marketing materials (flyers, posters, email mailshots).

The financial arrangement will depend on seating capacity and the local ‘market’. I use ticketsource.co.uk as a box office and/or you can sell tickets direct.

Whichever option we decide on, I hope for a minimum fee of £600 plus expenses.

Charity/Benefit Performance

I am very happy to discuss using a performance to raise funds for a good cause.

Upon request, a basic agreement will be drawn up. It tends to be that everything is agreed upon in advance over email and there is no need for a formal contract.

There is ‘walk up’ and ‘exit’ music, provided by me. There is no music during the performance. There is therefore no need for a PRS for Music Licence.

This works best with the audience still seated, once they have refreshed their drinks. The advantage of having people stay or return to their seats is that they can leave at will. Generally everyone stays put. The Q and A can get quite heated.

There are a myriad of possibilities. Rather than list and twist them, here’s a sample of private venues where Chinese Boxing has appeared.

• North Norfolk, an empty café during lockdown, the first preview, to a family of five
• West Acre Norfolk, a converted barn, 40 seats from the village hall, post show picnics in the garden
• Brussels, a drawing room, 40 seats from all over the house, post show party in the garden
• Worcester, a dining room, 18 seats, post show dinner overlooking the river
• Holkham Hall, the saloon, open to public, i.e. option 2 above. 70 seats, pre-show drinks
• Many village halls, averaging between 70 and 90 in the audience