I just have to bitch about something.
So yesterday I was offered to cover a friend's dance gig, but she told me only 30 mins before showtime and I live quite far from the place. So, instead of getting there late, I told her I couldn't do it and to let me know if she ever needs covering in the future in advance so that I could have time to prepare and whatnot. She texts me this morning about a dance event happening where it's open dance. I told her I was interested knowing that it was unpaid, just to hangout have a little fun and see some awesome dancing. So after spending some time getting ready and packing my costume to attend, I get a text from her saying that there's a $15 cover for all dancers. This cover is used to pay the musicians, is what I was told. Now, I am all for musicians getting paid but that is total bullshit. Why should I pay for the musicians, when I myself am also a "starving artist" preparing costume, energy, makeup, and my time to come out and do a free gig. You don't go to a new restaurant and because you're new expect them to give you their food for free so that you can try it out or whatever. You pay the price and you take your risk.
I've done a lot of shows for free acting gigs and dance gigs because it's good experience. However, if I am required to PAY to PERFORM that is where I draw the line. It's totally taking advantage of people. Those who come to that event are coming to hear music and see dancing. It shouldn't be the performers responsibility to pay for each other, that's ridiculous. Needless to say, I wasted my time getting ready to not go anywhere. Blahh.