Movies

Performers slam event producer over claims he failed to pay them nearly $200,000

BBG News

As a lifestyle expert with extensive experience in the entertainment industry, I find it disheartening and frustrating to learn about the situation involving Bass Fam and the artists who have been left unpaid for their performances. It is crucial for event producers, especially those who have graced stages like the Sydney Opera House and Adelaide Fringe Festival, to uphold professionalism and integrity in their business dealings.

Australian artists have criticized an event organizer following allegations they did not pay over $200,000 that was owed to them.

Event producer Bass Fam, known for hosting shows at venues such as the Sydney Opera House and Adelaide Fringe Festival, is in debt to artists and a lighting design firm, totaling at least $182,000, according to reports from News Corp.

Furthermore, it is asserted by the publication that numerous individuals are allegedly owed money by Mr. Fam’s firm, Bass Fam Creative.

Artists from the TV series Matador, Mansion, Memories, and Oracle have been pursuing unpaid earnings that they allege are rightfully theirs for over two years now. Reports suggest that artist management agencies voiced worries about delayed payments as early as 2022.

The show “Oracle” could be characterized as an enthralling display that delves into the 12 zodiac legends. These themes are expressed musically with powerful live vocals, stunning circus performances, captivating aerial acts, and sensual burlesque routines.

In 2022, the show had successful runs with fully booked tickets in Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and it also made its premiere at the Sydney Opera House, marking a sold-out debut in Sydney.

Performers stated they hadn’t received any money for months, even though a payment plan was proposed.

An email was forwarded to a cast member, stating that when the company manages to secure a steady income, a flexible repayment schedule will be arranged for them.

The message indicated that it’d be easier for me to establish a manageable payment schedule, featuring routine smaller payments, supplemented by larger instalments from any extra significant projects or occurrences.

Australian burlesque artist Bettie Bombshell, a former member of Oracle’s troupe, alleges that she is entitled to a $7,000 payment and retirement savings contributions (superannuation).

She informed News Corp that the matter had persisted for two years, confessing to the outlet that she briefly considered accepting a large gold martini glass prop as compensation, but eventually decided against it.

After considering things carefully, especially given some significant changes in my personal circumstances, I came to the unfortunate realization that I no longer have enough money to cover my rent and utility bills,” she explained.

‘So I messaged him to say that would no longer work, and that I was in a bit of trouble financially. He still didn’t pay me. He contractually agreed to pay me $7,000. The prop was worth about $3,000.’

An unnamed artist asserted that they began receiving delayed payments, and at first, the cast and staff showed understanding towards this issue.

Instead, the performer asserted that Mr. Fam departed for Europe to pursue potential events while owing some funds.

Regarding his Europe trip that was reported by News Corp, Mr. Fam stated that he held discussions in London for arranging the performance of Matador, but unfortunately, these talks did not result in the show taking place as planned.

‘Everything almost went ahead, I have no reason to lie are you f**king kidding me?’ he said. 

I’ve faced skepticism, derision, and disbelief as I’ve ventured into realms that most others haven’t dared to explore.

Mr. Fam mentioned that he had been advised to dissolve the company, a step he found impossible because no one would receive payment in such a scenario.

Mr. Fam stated, “The company possesses absolutely no property or holdings. All documents list no assets in our name, and if I don’t work, none of us will receive payment.

As the director, I’m responsible for managing everyone’s superannuation funds and repaying the two bank loans that I personally took out, since I have signed the necessary agreements.

If I were to liquidate, none of the outstanding invoices would be paid, and all of the hard work and effort put into this endeavor would ultimately be discarded, which would be a deeply disappointing conclusion to my long-standing battle.

The publication also claimed that a Victorian-based lighting company, which had worked with the company for ‘years’ was owed $157,000.

Mr. Fam admitted to owing the money, however, he contended that there were inconsistencies in the bills which, if rectified by mid-2023, couldn’t be settled because, unfortunately, there was no available funds at his disposal.

frankly, Mr. Fam mentioned that both the current circumstances and the decrease in his business’s cash flow led to a complete mental and emotional collapse.

He added that he is now in a much better place and has paid back more then $47,000 worth of invoices.

He also claimed that the artists would receive a lump sum payment by Christmas. 

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Bass Fam for comment.

Read More

2024-12-19 10:33

Previous post Patrick and Brittany Mahomes dress up as Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at Eras Tour-themed party
Next post Molly-Mae Hague cuts a glum figure as she leaves her hotel – hours after breaking down in tears over Tommy Fury split in emotional new trailer for her Behind It All series