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Avoiding Predatory Contracts as a Freelancer

Moderated Panel

Presented by Means of Production

Ever read through a contract and thought to yourself "this seems a bit strange?" or "Is this normal to be asking THIS much for SO little".

Join members of the Means of Production collective as they are moderated through dialogue about how to feel self empowered in asking questions, information gather and determine what are green vs red flags in the contract negotiation process.

This presentation aims to help freelancers feel more equipped in taking the gig without getting exploited in the process.

Presenters: Crystal Lee (she/her), Rebecca Vandevelde (she/they), Maya Royer (She/Her) and Pip Bradford (she/her). Co-moderated by Finn Browne (he/him).

Means of Production is building a support network with shared resources for freelance Production Managers, Technical Directors, and related Arts Workers. We advocate for a safe, equitable, and supportive work culture rooted in creating the conditions for workers to thrive in the gig economy.

Crystal Lee began her independent career as a freelance Production Manager in Toronto where she received a Harold Award for her contributions to the community. She currently works full-time with Why Not Theatre as their Production and Technical Manager.

Rebecca Vandevelde is an arts worker based in Toronto, working mainly as a freelance lighting designer and production manager, often taking small indie shows on tour, and sometimes making/curating events, spaces and installation-based experiments with Art is Hard.

Maya Royer - Born and raised in Toronto, Maya has always been passionate about her city and its culture. She is grateful to be a member of the Toronto performing arts community as a Production Manager. Maya holds a BFA from Toronto Metropolitan University, in Performance Production and Design.

Pip Bradford is an arts worker based in Toronto, mostly working as a production manager and producer with dance companies and festivals. She sometimes makes events and spaces with Rebecca Vandevelde as part of Art Is Hard.

Finn Browne has worked in Canada and England with a broad range of experiences. Working in entertainment production since 2016, Finn has worked as a PM, TD, technician, and designer for audio, video, lighting, and more. Currently, Finn is an apprentice with IASTE 58 and the Head Tech at Artscape Sandbox.