When Dates Conflict or - When It Rains, It Pours

Against my better judgement, I took a small single day event several months out. A couple of weeks later, right before the contract returned, I had an inquiry. It was an extended run event in a desirable locale. It fell over the spot date. The money was good, not great, but the location would make up for that. I agreed to submit, figuring it probably wouldn't happen, but I could buy the original date out.

I absolutely hate to break a contract, even though I leave myself an out. This is how I earn a living, I have to make money when it is offered. Clients read the contract before they sign, so they know there is the possibility, but I don't like being the bad guy.

So, the extended run comes through - almost. I was told to send them the contract, they wanted to check on one more issue, but they wanted me. I did, but I haven't released the other date yet, just in case. I will know within the next week and a half for certain, but it still looks to be a go.

Then, today, I got the text that I am wanted for a national showcase. It falls over the same period. The showcase doesn't pay me, but it is a huge opportunity to be seen by some very important entertainment buyers. Now I've got mixed feelings.

One on hand, if the extended date doesn't come through, I could do the small show and the showcase. On the other, the extended date pays a lot more and I have a family and mortgage. I think I win no matter what, but why does it have to fall on the same period. I have availability AROUND that!

A bit later, I found out that the one week I have set aside in July may interrupt a full 20 day tour. AHHHHHHHHH!