We are often asked if we bring our own stage, and the answer is no. Stages are huge, heavy, and a truck with a 2-3 person crew is needed to deliver-set up-take it away. Some venues have a built in stage or sections they can put together (usually 4×6 platforms) to build a stage in the ballroom. Most of the time, we play on floor level, and a stage is not needed, but it is nice to have for the following reasons…
Elevated Presentation.
With a stage you can see the band from every part of the ballroom/party space. If this is important to you, then by all means bring in a stage. It will make the bandstand feel more like a focal point of the party, and will give the event ‘concert performance vibes’.
Safety for guests and the band.
With a stage in place, it’s nearly impossible for any guests to enter the band’s performance area and trip/fall over monitors, cables, instruments, etc. This would be my No. 1 reason for suggesting a stage for any event – safety for all.
Photos of the Party Goers.
Your photographers will taking action shots of the dance sets, and they’ll almost always try to capture the band in the background – a stage makes this much easier to make this happen. If this is important to you, rent a stage.
How large does it need to be and will it fit in my venue?
Some venues are not logistically set up for a stage of any size. It depends on the space dedicated to the band and the shape of that space. We need a stage that is 16 feet deep by 20 feet wide in order to fit the players and sound system on it. If you don’t have that much space in a rectangular shape, you can’t have a stage.
How much space do you need without a stage?
Without a stage, we ask for 12 feet of depth and 16 feet of width.
How much does a stage cost?
Prices vary and you’ll have to ask your venue, caterer, planner or tent/table/chair rental company for rates. I’ve seen estimates from $1500-$5000+ so you need to ask your preferred vendor about this.
Bottom Line.
We don’t need a stage, so it’s 100% up to you. We’re happy to discuss this based on your venue. Feel free to reach out. Contact us for more info…