FLOOR SPOTS We have had a number of enquiries regarding this subject. People who wish to perform floor spots are welcome to do so at Dartford Folk Club. It has always been part of our tradition to encourage this activity.
What is a floor spot at Dartford ?
A floor spot is time given to a person or group to perform two or three songs, tunes or a combination of both without receiving a fee. There are several reasons why floor spots take place:
- It is a useful way of potential and future (paid) guests at the club to introduce themselves
- People who are performing in public for the first time have an opportunity to do so before a (usually!) sympathetic, quiet audience
- Performers want to display their talents for the satisfaction of others and/or themselves
How do I book a floor spot at Dartford ?
The usual way is to turn up at the club by about 8:15 and make yourself known to the organisers. They will let you know if there is time available, when you will go on and how much time/number of songs you can perform. In addition, it may be advisable (particularly if you are travelling a distance or will be late) to phone up in advance (01322 222553).
Will I ever be refused a floor spot ? The only occassions you will be refused are
- If the floor spot slots have already been booked
- If, due to unforseen circumstances, time over-runs into that of the main guest
Do you have any advice for a novice floor singer?
The main advice is to come along a couple of times to get the feel of what happens at the club. In addition, I have found a very good article which in my opinion is a useful source of information. Rather than copy this, I have created a link to Dick Gaughan's web-site which is one of the places it resides: http://www.dickalba.demon.co.uk/misc/floortip.htm
It only remains to say, if you decide to have a go - Good Luck !