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Minnesota Elvis Impersonator & Tribute Artist Art Kistler!
"Contact Art"
Scroll down for Info on Rates and Booking Options...
First Step: TELL US ABOUT YOUR EVENT!
Please read the following info and then scroll down to review the things we need to know to give you a quote...
NOTICE: Art's business has evolved and these days he's concentrating primarily on cruise ship shows, creative vacation and "weekend-away" performance opportunities, Christian ministry, a limited number of select fund-raisers and more national performances. Art's "average" fee for local performances is around $1,000, though in some cases negotiation may be possible. Art's realizes that his services are not for everyone. He is connected with several other performers in the "Elvis" business and may be able to help clients with referrals accordingly.
RATES: Currently Art's basic, minimum fee is $750.00 for a local (immediate Twin Cities area) one-set show of any period of time up to 70 minutes. Some negotiation may be possible. Rates generally include basic sound equipment and a sound technician/assistant. Options may be available at lower or additional cost; additional cost options include stage lighting packages, upgraded sound system (needs depend primarily on size of venue and number of people in attendance), multiple set shows with costume changes - and even live band options (live band options start at $4,000 plus travel and accommodations).
Art's flat-rate for character appearances (which usually don't require sound gear, etc.) remains at $300.00/hour plus travel and the $750.00 minimum still applies.
Art's fees are not based on the period of time on stage so much as on preparation, post-show work, significant overhead (the average costume is worth well over $3,000), all of the things associated with running a small business, a successful history of extreme personal dedication, training, experience and professional accomplishments. Jean and Art have done hundreds of shows over the past 14 years and have never had a disappointed client.
Here's what Art needs to know...
Click HERE to download, save and print the following list in Word format
1. When - Day, date and time of the event.
2. What - Type of event: wedding reception, theme or holiday party, private, corporate, etc.?
3. How long - Approximate, desired timing of the "Elvis" appearance or show: include best guess for arrival at venue and setting up & testing sound gear; time of day of start of show (example: 7:00 p.m.).
4. Where - Exact location - include: venue, city, state, indoors or outdoors. Travel expenses may be applicable.
5. Sound system - Will a sound system be provided and operated by others (such as a DJ, band's p.a. system, or "House" system), or would you like Art to provide the sound equipment and technician?
6. Accompaniment - Art's typical show utilizes customized accompaniment tracks - OR do you want - or already have - a LIVE band to back up “Elvis?”
7. How many – about how many people are expected to attend the event? (this helps us determine sound system and certain other needs)
8. Duration - How long of a show do you want: One 60-70 minute set (or specify time desired), or more than one set with costume change? If not sure, please share your vision and we can communicate about creative options.
9. Lighting - Is stage lighting necessary, not necessary, desired, or provided and operated by others? We can provide very basic stage lighting and/or special effects lighting and even have multi-media video options available.
10. SURPRISE!? - Is the "Elvis" performance a surprise/secret? There often presents pre-show performer visibility issues related to set-up, wait time on site, over-all timing, etc.
Details, details…
Art’s fees are NOT simply based on the period of time on stage! The fun part (performing) represents a fraction of the time and effort commitment. There are several hours of pre-show preparation no matter how long or brief the appearance, post-show tasks (cleaning suits, sound system reorganization, lots more), significant overhead and income taxes… and a successful history of extreme personal dedication, honorable business practices and professional accomplishments. It is Art’s passion for performing that makes the rest of running this business all worthwhile.
Negotiation: Art’s normal appearance rates start at $750.00. Some negotiation is possible, but Art's fee structure is based on market rates for specialized, professional entertainment and will apply in most cases. Note terms and conditions on Web site “Rates” page.
egotiation: Art’s normal appearance rates start at $750.00. Some negotiation is possible, but Art's fee structure is based on market rates for specialized, professional entertainment and will apply in most cases. Note terms and conditions on Web site “Rates” page.
Click here to download applicable terms and conditions in .pdf format
Gear specifications, costume availability, etc. are subject to change.
Art's "advertising" occurs through word-of-mouth, referrals, repeat clients and this Web site. The majority of Art's shows are initiated in the form of e-mail communications, which can eventually function effectively as the "contract" so each party has documentation of mutual agreements. All bookings are considered "tentative" until a deposit has been paid. No agreement or obligation exists without Art and the client being clearly and mutually ready, willing and able to commit. Invoices/receipts provided by Art (dba: "E" ala K-Art Entertainment through 2011) will refer to the written, mutual agreements delineated in e-mails.
E-mail Art: art@elvistributeartist.com
We ALWAYS answer every legitimate e-mail message that gets through!
Even some legitimate messages get lost as a result of spam filters, firewalls, virus protection, etc.: IF WE DO NOT RESPOND TO YOUR E-MAIL RIGHT AWAY: Please look at the schedule page to see if we're booked and thus unable to respond. In this case, we will respond ASAP. If not, you might try e-mailing from a different account, include a specific subject line, and/or call the phone number provided below and we'll get back to you ASAP!
- Art's personal cell phone number is -
651-285-5703
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Terms, Definitions and Conditions
Art Kistler – dba: “E” ala K-Art Entertainment
"LOCAL" refers to the immediate Twin Cities area including suburbs immediately contiguous to Minneapolis, St. Paul and/or Cottage Grove, Minnesota.
Sound equipment: An Elvis show requires a sound system. The need for sound equipment components varies depending on the size of the venue, indoors or outdoors, number of people attending, etc. The system can range from two small, self-powered speakers and portable sound gear (this rig fits in a car trunk!) to the basic pro system which includes two main speaker enclosures and all necessary sound gear, or up to the enhanced pro system which includes up to four main speaker enclosures and a powered subwoofer (when necessary) for extremely high quality sound and added potential for adequate volume and sound quality in larger venues. The sound system information herein, system component availability and specs are subject to change. For extremely large venues and some big-scale outdoor concerts, outsourcing the sound system may be recommended or required. When Art is performing through adequate equipment provided by the client (including that owned and operated by DJ’s, bands, concert sound systems, etc.), costs associated with Art’s hauling and setting up sound gear may be significantly reduced.
We will work directly with a DJ or band technical contact and provide specialized equipment within reason and as needed to facilitate integrating into sound amplification systems provided and operated by others.
Stage lighting requires lots of additional equipment and set-up/tear-down time. Stage lighting options can vary from bare-bones, basic passive stage illumination to a fog/haze-enhanced, extremely dynamic and impressive dancing, flashing multi-colored, sweeping and strobing Las Vegas style light show that affects the entire room and can be augmented with follow-spotlight (this requires an additional stage hand). Show venues and clients are hereby advised and responsible for the conspicuous posting of advisories at entrances visible to all attendees that such effects will be used during the course of the show. At some shows (generally select shows that include full sound and lighting systems) we have the option of starting the show by projecting a brief video retrospective compilation about Elvis, the era from which he originated and his evolution as a performer.
“DRIVE-BY ELVIS SIGHTING" Available only when weather conditions are conducive to a local 30-minute outdoor show. The sound gear is loaded into and operated from a vehicle or trailer, and thus never actually unloaded/reloaded. An extension cord must be run to an outlet for electrical power, or we will provide a gas powered generator if an outlet isn't available and this is arranged inadvance. We back in the driveway or other vehicle-accessible space, plug in, pop the hatch/doors, "Elvis" appears and it's SHOWTIME! If arranged in advance and weather conditions preclude this option, the sound gear can be moved to - and set up in - a sheltered area: but we'll need help with that!
EEEEK!! A dressing room of some sort (preferably clean, securable and private) MUST be provided!
TRAVEL: applicable travel costs apply if a show location is not immediately contiguous to the Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul) area. Travel costs include vehicle, trailer if needed for sound and/or light gear, participants, etc. and will be estimated at approximately $50.00 per hour of travel time as estimated according to: www.mapquest.com to and from Cottage Grove, MN. When overnight stays are necessary, the client is responsible for arrangements and/or costs associated with appropriate accommodations for the dates prior to, during, and after the performance/s.
FLAT RATE: for extended appearances, additional time commitments and/or "personality appearances" (those which do not necessarily involve performing), Art's flat rate will usually be estimated at $300.00 per hour, not necessarily to the exclusion of the parameters delineated herein, or at Guild Scale if applicable -- whichever is higher, and the $750.00 minimum still applies. Under some circumstances we may willing to negotiate with regard to extended appearances.
DEPOSIT: Upon agreement, a deposit of up to 25% of the total negotiated amount is required to guarantee the booking date. Any booking will be considered "tentative" until the deposit has been received. The full balance is then due and payable on the day of the show. Invoices reflecting deposits and balance payments will be provided. Alternate arrangements may be made for situations not otherwise specifically addressed herein or if deemed necessary, appropriate and mutually agreeable. With rare exceptions, deposits are generally not refundable except by mutual agreement and/or if incidents occur beyond the control of either or both parties.
The exchange of a deposit from the client and a receipt/invoice from Art Kistler and/or "E" ala K-Art Entertainment constitutes a mutual understanding and agreement to the terms policies and conditions specified in the Web site http://www.ElvisTributeArtist.com.
PAYMENT: We accept personal, business/corporate checks, money orders, cashier's checks, cash, and credit cards via PayPal (an additional, fee equal to the service fee applies to PayPal payments).
PARKING: Parking for Art's vehicle (and trailer when applicable) must be provided and paid for by client if applicable. Close proximity to the nearest stage access is a must when we are providing equipment!
WHEEL-N-DEAL: Sometimes we're able to be creative by negotiating for a partial trade. For example, we might consider weekend get-away accommodations at a resort, or in a whirlpool suite -- or what have you -- the reasonable value or difference of which can be considered in exchange for a commensurate discount from Art's established rates.
Additional services and/or time commitments will incur additional costs.
Short notice appearances and/or "double-headers" (multiple commitments in the same day) are possible but standard rates will not apply.
WHEN POSSIBLE, Art may consider or reconsider certain booking opportunities when a client's offer and budget constitute adequate incentive in the form of remuneration exceeding the rates posted. Under no circumstances will this occur to the exclusion of Art's high, established standards of professionalism and conduct and/or the compromising of prior commitments.
LIMITS: In the interest of vocal longevity, under few circumstances will Art's total or cumulative stage performance time exceed 90 minutes on a given show date.
CHARITIES: In the spirit of Elvis Presley, each year we also try to do a limited number of select charity and fund raiser events. For some charity events, we'll offer a substantial discount but our base expenses must be covered. Another popular means is to have one or more sponsors who will donate toward the entertainment as a charitable contribution. Sometimes Art has such connections depending on the nature of the event and the tax advantage for the donor. .
TIPS/Gratuities? Like any service provider we graciously and gratefully accept gratuities... but assistance unloading and reloading gear is a terrific and very welcomed substitute, where applicable!
WOULD YOU LIKE FRIES WITH THAT? Art will perform songs from - and plug - the CD's he has for sale unless specifically advised or requested not to. If allowable and appropriate, Art’s CD's can be offered for sale at events of all kinds.
Rates include overhead costs which include but are not necessarily limited to: costume and accessories acquisition, costume and accessories maintenance, equipment repair and maintenance, equipment upgrading, new disk acquisitions, business expenses (Web site host server fees, Web site maintenance and upgrades, etc., business cards, advertising, promo CD's, billing processes, etc.), stage lighting lamps, batteries (primarily wireless mic), costume jewelry (rings, pendants, etc.) stage make-up, professional and custom styled costume wigs, miscellaneous vehicle and trailer costs, support staff costs, Gatorade... and lots of Advil!
PHOTOS AND VIDEO: With the condition of requiring a copy of any live video, we are amenable to the private use of personal video and/or photos taken during or following a performance, as long as any and all media are in good taste and reflect favorably and/or so as not to harm the image of anyone affiliated with Elvis and/or "E" ala K-Art Entertainment including clients. Broadcast or any other public display specifically requires the advance, written permission of Art Kistler or an authorized agent of "E" ala K-Art Entertainment.
Uncle Sam: "E" ala K-Art Entertainment is a State of Minnesota registered sole proprietorship. We will always pay our due, and remain in good standing with the Minnesota Department of Revenue, Sales Tax and Use permitting and tax payment obligations including of course the IRS. This is our way of saying: we keep it legitimate and report all income.
A particular outfit/costume can be requested, but the final choice will be subject to availability and will ultimately be determined at Art's discretion.
Substantial advance notice is necessary in the event that a live band is required.
We reserve the right to decline performances in venues in which smoking is allowed, and generally seek to avoid them.
Art reserves the right to decline participation in any event at any location for any client and for any reason.
Venue owners, administration and/or management are responsible for posting appropriate warnings for audiences attending shows with stage lighting as considered necessary due to the occasional use of strobe lights and/or other dynamic or special effects lighting.
Client would typically provide an approximately eight-foot long table near the stage for sound gear and CD sales where allowed.
Individual aspects of the parameters herein may be altered only by mutual agreement.
Pricing structure is a guideline based on estimations only and is subject to change without notice at any time. Each and every appearance/performance is different and negotiated individually.
Weekday performances that affect other employment (ie: necessitating the use of vacation time, etc.) are likely to increase charges shown.
Cancellation: in the extremely unlikely event of catastrophic circumstances, illness, or discovery of any misrepresentation on the part of the client that require an unforeseen cancellation of services by Art Kistler and/or "E" ala K-Art Entertainment, and in the event that a substitute performer, rescheduling or other feasible adjustments do not suit the client, all deposits (minus administrative costs in the event of misrepresentation) will be refunded to the client in full and Art Kistler and/or "E" ala K-Art Entertainment shall not be responsible for further damages or other remuneration. In the event that the client cancels with less than ten (10) days notice, the client may be held responsible for payment of the full contracted dollar amount due to subsequent losses as a result of income opportunities and/or commitments made by Art Kistler and "E" ala K-Art Entertainment to the client thus precluding booking by others.
The exchange of a deposit from the client and a receipt/invoice from Art Kistler and/or "E" ala K-Art Entertainment constitutes a mutual understanding and agreement to the terms, policies and conditions specified in the Web site http://www.ElvisTributeArtist.com.
Returned checks are rare, praise the Lord, but if they occur the client responsible is subject to a $30.00 processing fee plus any other related charges.
Payment in full is ALWAYS expected at time of performance. Untimely or delinquent payments may be subject to monthly interest accrual at the rate of 23% starting from the performance date. Collection agency costs and administrative fees will be added to any and all balance due totals.
In the event that Invoices/receipts are e-mailed as attachments, the original version on the "E" ala K-Art Entertainment business computer hard drive and/or otherwise in the possession of Art Kistler will prevail as the final, legal instrument and original document. This statement is made considering that attached copy formats may be subject to inadvertent and/or unauthorized modification.
VISA, MASTERCARD via PayPal payments are only possible on line. Art's registered e-mail address for accepting payment via PayPal is: art@elvistributeartist.com. When using PayPal, in addition to a 25% deposit, if the balance amount will also be paid using PayPal, payment of the full balance payment amount plus any applicable PayPal service fees must be confirmed at least seven days prior to the date of the show. This is due to payment confirmation delays when using this payment method.
Other terms, conditions and changes may apply.
© 1997 - 2012 - The site: ElvisTributeArtist.com. No part of this site may be copied or reproduced without the expressed written permission of Elvis Impersonator / Elvis Tribute Artist Art Kistler President of "E" ala K-Art Entertainment.