Summer Under the Canopy

Performer Guidelines

1. Performance Standards

  • All performances must be family friendly. This includes no swearing, hate speech, explicit themes, simulated or actual violence, or horror-themed content.
  • Performers should be confident delivering a full set and engaging a public audience.
  • Amplification is welcome but must remain at a reasonable volume so nearby businesses and conversations are not disrupted.
  • Both original music and covers are welcome - If playing copyright–protected music, the legal responsibility to have a licence lies with the performer

2. Logistics & Operations

  • Performances may last up to 2 hours, with set lengths chosen by the performer.
  • Performers must arrive with enough time to set up without disrupting the previous act. A 1‑hour changeover is required.
  • All performers must bring their own equipment; none is provided on site.
  • As this is an outdoor space, the venue reserves the right to pause or cancel performances if weather conditions become unsafe.

3. Space & Safety

  • Walkways, entrances, exits, and emergency routes must always remain clear.
  • Performers must respect the shared public space and avoid aggressive solicitation of tips or obstructing passers‑by.
  • Public liability insurance is preferred but remains the responsibility of the busker, not Wakefield Council.
  • Any act that poses a potential risk to public safety — such as acrobatics, juggling, stunt acts, or similar — must provide PLI and a risk assessment.
  • No animals may be used in performances.
  • No liquids, powders, confetti, or messy materials that could create slip hazards or require cleanup.
  • The venue reserves the right to terminate any performance that is considered unsafe or poses a risk to the public.

4. Behaviour & Conduct

  • Performers must treat staff, audiences, and fellow performers with respect and courtesy.
  • Harassment, discriminatory behaviour, or aggressive conduct is not permitted.
  • Tips may be collected, but performers must not solicit them in a forceful or intrusive way.
  • If a crowd forms, performers are expected to help keep the area safe and accessible, ensuring walkways remain clear.
  • Performers must follow all instructions given by venue staff.

5. Money & Permissions

  • Performers may collect tips and sell CDs or merchandise.
  • No busking licence is required to perform under The Canopy.

6. Media & Promotion

  • By booking a performance slot, performers give permission for Wakefield Council to take photographs or video of their performance for use on social media, websites, and promotional materials.
  • Performers may also take their own photos or videos but must obtain consent from members of the public before photographing or filming them.
  • Performers are welcome to share social media handles or business cards, provided this does not disrupt the performance space.
  • No leafleting is permitted.