When a headliner cancels last minute, immediately change course by announcing a special replacement or surprise act. Use social media to build excitement, emphasizing the unique nature of the new lineup. Offer exclusive incentives like discounted tickets, backstage access, or meet-and-greets to keep engagement high. Highlight the other performers and their strengths, and create urgency by framing this as a one-time, unmissable event. Be transparent about the change while focusing on the enhanced value of the overall experience. Keep your audience engaged with live updates to maintain momentum.

An entertainer cancels (or can’t make it because of weather/airline issues). Yikes! Because I typically only need a two-hour notice for local events, I have received last minute gigs because a sleight-of-hand magician, guitar soloist, or another reader didn’t show up. I think event planners are becoming a bit more savvy and asking the question, “How much notice do you need to be at an event?” There has only been one event that I was forced to miss. New Year’s Eve in Reno…Flight was about to land in Reno on the day of the event and the pilot announced, “Sorry Folks, we can’t land because of the weather. We’re going back to Vegas.” The client had already processed payment and I extended credit for an upcoming event (Mardi Gras).