Festival Prep 101!
GICF26 is fast approaching!
So we thought we’d help you get fully prepared for the festival and ensure your show runs as smoothly as possible
First off: Who’s Who & What Do They Do?
There are a few moving parts to any festival show, so it’s important to be clear on who does what:
Your Venue Contact
They’re usually your go-to for anything venue-specific – access times, tech specifications, seating – that sort of thing. Be sure to check in with them well in advance to ensure you’re on the same page. Good communication early on can help avoid issues down the line!
Your Promoter (if you’ve got one)
If you’re working with a promoter, they’ll usually be able to answer questions on much of the above, as well as provide assistance with marketing, tech and on-the-day show management. It’s worth checking your agreement and catching up with them ahead of time so you’re both clear on responsibilities.
Team GICF (that’s us!)
We look after the overall festival – programme listing, central marketing, and general coordination. We don’t directly run your individual show, handle press outreach, or manage your tech unless that’s been specifically arranged.
It’s really just about getting clarity early on, which can save a lot of unnecessary stress later.
Let’s cover Tickets, Comps and Box Office Admin – not glamorous, but very important.
SeeTickets
All GICF ticketing is handled via SeeTickets. You can check and monitor sales at any time via your SeeTickets Client Console. If you’ve misplaced your log-in details, you’ll need to contact SeeTickets directly at event.management@seetickets.com.
Comp Tickets
If you wish to allocate complimentary tickets, the simplest way is to set up a Guest List via your Client Console.
Simply create your Guest List (as pictured below), then click ‘Add Guest’. From there you can add attendee details, send a confirmation, etc.
Right, let’s talk about Show Day!
The goal is simple: no last-minute panic.
Make sure you’ve confirmed everything with your venue contact and/or promoter well in advance:
Tech
Mic requirements
Lighting states or sound cues
Audio-visual needs
Do you have pre-show or walk-on music? Get this prepped beforehand (and bring a backup!).
Quick Tip:
Check with your venue or promoter about PRS. If using copyrighted music in your show, a licence fee will usually apply. Some venues will deduct around 4% of the gross box office (depending on the tariff), but if your show qualifies, you may be eligible for a discount rate. To apply, you’ll need to complete and send this form to varietyapplications@pplprs.co.uk ahead of your show.
Front of House
Who will be checking tickets?
Will you be selling tickets on the door?
What is your policy on filming/photography and latecomers – and who will be managing the audience?
Don’t assume – make sure you have a clear plan.
Scanning Tickets
If scanning tickets, make sure you’ve downloaded the SeeTickets Access Control app (iOS users → App Store / Android users → Google Play).
GICF26 isn’t just about performing your show – it’s a great opportunity to get inspired, network, create assets for future marketing, and have some laughs!
Here’s a few tips on Making The Best of The Fest…
Film Your Show (If You Can)
Even a decent-quality clip from a pal’s phone can be great for social media and future promo. The same goes for photos – get someone to snap a few good ones if possible.
Share The Love (and Maybe Bag Some Freebies?)
Consider using the GICF Performers Facebook group to share discounted tickets, or offer last-minute comps. It’s a great way to get a few extra bums on seats, or catch some shows you might not otherwise see!
Snap Up Some Discounts
As a festival participant, you can get great discounts on restaurants, hotels and more! Check out our Discounts page for full info.
GICF Discounts 2026
Come and See Us
Fancy a chat? Need some guidance? Throughout the festival, members of Team GICF will be posted at The Social Hub on Monday to Friday, 12pm-4pm. Pop along if you have any questions, need assistance, or just fancy a cuppa.
That wraps up our top tips for making the most of the festival. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy yourself – you’ve earned it!
So – you’ve spread the word, nailed the prep, and you’re (almost) ready to light up the stage…now what?
With the festival close to kick-off, here’s what you need to know about getting paid once your show wraps up.
Payment
Please ensure you’ve completed your company details on SeeTickets so they can register you on their payment system. You can do this by clicking on Company Details in the top right-hand section of the Client Console.
Once your event has passed, you’ll need to email your invoice to promoter.invoices@seetickets.com, and they will process payment for you!
Please make sure your invoice includes:
Invoice number
Show name
Performance date
Settlement amount
Bank account details
Payments are generally received within 3-10 working days, depending on when payment is requested.
After your show is over, try to keep the momentum going. Take the time to thank your audience for attending, and use the opportunity to post photos and clips on social media.
Remember, there’s over 600 performances taking place across the festival, so once your show’s done – catch some others! Then it’s just time to start thinking about next year…😉
Thanks again for being part of GICF26, we hope you have a fantastic festival!
All the best,
TEAM GICF!
Still needing a bit of help? GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Email the team on: info@glasgowcomedyfestival.com
