A short engagement touring agreement (SETA) is a common contract used in the theatrical industry for shows that are going on tour. SETAs are typically used for tours that are shorter in duration and cover a smaller geographic area than a traditional national tour.
The purpose of a SETA is to provide a clear understanding between producers, venues, and actors about the terms of a tour. These agreements are typically negotiated between the producers and a union representing the actors, such as Actors` Equity Association.
One of the key benefits of a SETA is that it allows for flexibility in the tour`s schedule. Because SETAs cover shorter timeframes, they can adapt to changes in the tour`s routing or scheduling more easily than a longer engagement agreement. This allows producers to take advantage of last-minute opportunities for performances or adjust the schedule if a venue becomes unavailable.
Another advantage of SETAs is that, compared to a standard national tour, they are typically less expensive to produce and require fewer resources. This can make them a more attractive option for smaller productions or productions that are just starting out.
SETAs also establish clear guidelines for actor compensation and working conditions. For example, they can stipulate the number of performances per week, the length of each performance, and the minimum number of actors required for a production.
Overall, SETAs can be a useful tool for producers and actors in the theatrical industry. They offer flexibility and clarity in negotiations and can help to ensure that productions are executed smoothly, even when touring on a smaller scale.