Performance Agreements
A Performance Agreement is a contract between the University and an Artist or Speaker for a live performance or presentation. An artist includes individuals or groups providing music, theater, dance, film, or spoken word for an audience.
When is a Performance Agreement Needed?
- A Performance Agreement is required when hiring an artist for a performance.
- If the engagement is a service rather than a performance, a Purchase Order is required instead.
- Example: A face painter provides a service (requires a Purchase Order), while a mime is a performer (requires a Performance Agreement).
A Performance Agreement template is available for general campus use to streamline the hiring process (follow the steps below to initiate the Performance Agreement with Business Contracts). All performers—whether paid or unpaid—must provide a Certificate of Insurance unless Risk Management grants a special waiver.
Note: The Associated Student Program Board and The Barn use specialized Performance Agreements tailored to their venues and unique event needs.
Performance Agreement Process & Support
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Performance Agreement Examples
Needed for:
NOT Needed for:
- Music: Bands, DJs, and singers
- Dance: Dance companies and individual performers
- Authors: Reading or speaking about their work
- Public Speakers: Inspirational or informational presentations for staff, faculty, and students
- Performance-Based Presentations: Magicians, comedians, and jugglers
- Performances Directly Related to Academic Curriculum
(Honorarium) - Professional Expertise at a University-Sponsored Event (Independent Consultant or Contractor)
- Includes panelists, workshop leaders, participants, or keynote speakers at conferences, workshops, or symposiums
- Service Providers (Purchase Order Required)
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How to Facilitate a Performance Agreement
This framework outlines the steps for executing a Performance Agreement and processing payment.
Step 1: Complete the Performance Agreement Intake Questionnaire
- Fill out the Performance Agreement Intake Questionnaire (available here)
- Email the completed questionnaire to buscon@ucr.edu.
- Business Contracts will draft the agreement and provide guidance if changes are requested.
Step 2: Insurance Requirements
- Performers must provide a Certificate of Insurance that meets UCR’s requirements.
- If insurance is unavailable, the department must:
- Work with the artist to obtain coverage, OR
- Request a Risk Management waiver via the Risk Portal.
Step 3: Verify Supplier Status
- Before submitting an ePay request, the performer or agent must be registered as a supplier in Oracle Financials/ePay.
- If the payee is not already in the system, submit a New Supplier Request (step-by-step guide).
Step 4: Obtain Necessary Signatures
- Secure signatures from both the performer/agent and an authorized UCR representative (Business Contracts).
- If the performer requests changes or a Rider, only the Materiel Management Director is authorized to approve modifications.
Step 5: Coordinate Event Logistics
- Arrange required approvals and services (e.g., Security, Parking, Risk Management).
- Finalize all travel, accommodations, and equipment needs.
- Provide the artist/agent with a link to University policy: Regulations Governing Conduct of Non-Affiliates (Title V, Division 10, Chapter 1, Sections 10000–10015).
Step 6: Final Submission & Payment Processing
- Send the signed agreement and insurance documentation to Business Contracts.
- Process payment through ePay after the performance.
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Business Contracts Responsibilities
- Assist departments with completing the University’s standard Performance Agreement template and review agreements for accuracy.
- Draft Performance Agreements upon department request and obtain the Certificate of Insurance when required.
- Provide guidance on policies and procedures related to Performance Agreements.
- Negotiate terms and conditions with the artist or agent when necessary.
- Facilitate coordination with other campus services by providing relevant contacts.
- Prepare agreements for signature by the Director of Materiel Management and the artist/agent when required.
- Distribute fully executed agreements to the artist/agent.
- Send a copy of the executed agreement and Certificate of Insurance to the department for payment processing.
- Advise on policy issues related to performance events and direct departments to the appropriate office if needed.
- Prepare amendments for signature if agreement terms change after execution.