FAQ
BUSKING ON THE FITZSIMMONS TRAIL
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail?
The Whistler Arts Council (WAC) and the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) are
excited to confirm the return of the Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail program this summer
after success as a pilot program in 2012-2014.
Coinciding with the Farmer’s Market in the Upper Village on Wednesday and Sunday (June
14 - September 13, 2015), the program aims to enliven market-goers’ experience by
adding colour, music and vibrancy to the Fitzsimmons Creek/Rebagliati Park area. New to
2015, Busking will expand to Saturdays (July 4 – August 29 only).
Passersby will be delighted by a variety of family friendly entertainment including musical
acts, visual artists, children’s entertainers, balloon artists, caricaturists, athletic and dance
displays, and other unique talents performing at specifically designated busking sites along
the trail.
For the buskers, this is an opportunity to expand their performance experience and work
for donations from the audience rather than payment from WAC, so true masters of
audience engagement have the potential to be highly successful.
‘Busking’ is the practice of performing in a public place for the entertainment of passersby
in return for optional monetary gratuities. It has been present in every major culture in the
world, dating back to antiquity. This is a skillful and nostalgic art form which can include
comedy, live arts, music and acrobatic demonstrations just to name a few. Performers
engaged in this practice are called ‘buskers’.
All buskers are required to clearly display a current busking permit during their
performance at the busking sites to validate their participation in the program. Permits
must be obtained through the Whistler Arts Council for which an application and audition
process is required.
What do our buskers have to say about the program?
“I was part of the pilot busking program last summer and I truly hope that it is going to be
brought back this summer. The feedback was overwhelming as the Fitzsimmons Trail was
transformed into another high point of activity for holiday-makers and locals.”
- Jared Wilbur, Director, Jazz The Balloon Man, Busker
“One of the things I like best about this program is that it’s like getting paid for practicing.
I also like that people walking by enjoy my music. It’s fun to see little kids dancing to the
music and I especially like dancing dogs like Jasper.”
- Sofie Hill, Fiddler Age 10, Busker
“Keep this program going! Its great exposure for the young & an amazing outlet for music
in Whistler.”
-
Meg Pratt-Johnson, Musician, Busker
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
1
FAQ
What does the audience have to say about the program?
“Normally I think of musicians busking so it was really surprising and cool to see a balloon
twister. We definitely enjoyed watching her make the balloons and getting special balloons
made for us.”
“It's nice because you can stop and appreciate the entertainment you like or just
walk through and have it in the background.”
“I saw some fantastic young talent out there. What a way to engage young minds and
promote their independence.”
“I come out to support my mates who play out here and to enjoy the good vibes
they make.”
“I am an established performer, but I started off busking as a youth. There is no better way
to be exposed to the great entertainment lessons and performer character building that
only street performing can deliver. I am very grateful for my busking up-bringing, so am
very happy to see this opportunity exists here for the performers of tomorrow. Last time I
was here I don't think this existed. Keep up the good work!”
“We saw a few guys playing together. They said they had just met as one of the
performers was waiting to take over (the site). Instead they invited him to jam
along with them. They sounded awesome! Great to see that type of
professionalism, courtesy and improv talent.”
-
Excerpt of Public Quotes gathered by WAC through on-site surveys
Who is eligible to apply?









Artists, performers, musicians and other entertainers.
May be solo acts or group acts. Group size will be assessed on a case-by-case basis
during the permit processing stage.
Applicants may be local, regional and touring if already in Whistler.
Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail is a smaller-scale, community orientated initiative;
therefore, performers/artists from Vancouver and beyond may not find this option
viable, particularly as travel costs and time could out-weigh the earnings.
Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
The content of all acts/displays must be appropriate for a family audience and
adaptable to an outdoor site with large public exposure.
Applicants should be confident working in a transient environment and engaging an
audience that would often otherwise be passing by.
Applicants must be self-motivated, proactive and understand that they are responsible
for their own compensation from the audience through audience engagement and a
courteous and creative approach to tip collection. There is no minimum donation.
Applicants must demonstrate a reasonable degree of proficiency in their performances
and are expected to have 1 or more hours of performance-ready repertoire to vary their
sets and avoid repetition.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
2
FAQ
I am under 18 years of age, can I still apply?
Yes!
Applicants between 14 and 18 years of age, will require a parent/legal guardian to cosign their Busking Application and accompany them to pick up their permit – both applicant
and parent/legal guardian must present a valid photo identification.
Applicants less than 14 years of age can have their name on a permit issued under a
parent/legal guardian's name - this parent/legal guardian must accompany the
artist/performer at all times during the audition process, permit collection and
performances at the busking sites.
Busking permits can be issued to applicants of age 18 or older with valid photo
identification.
What’s in it for you as an artist/performer?






Be a part of Whistler’s large, lively and far-reaching arts community which helps create
the awesome environment that is Whistler, and which continues to bring people back
summer after summer.
Get paid to showcase your talent! This is your opportunity to work for donations from
the audience, so true masters of audience engagement have the potential to be highly
successful.
Make your own performance schedule. The more you get out and perform, the better
your chances for success and exposure.
Constantly challenge and hone your skills in an environment where the audience of
locals and visitors is diverse, growing and ever changing.
Work with the gorgeous backdrop of the Rebagliati Park and the mountains!
Gain recognition, make connections, make friends and see doors open to new
opportunities with event producers or artists.
What are the permit options?

Full Season Permit – Single Performer - $45 + GST- Valid June 14 – September 13
from 11am to 7pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Saturdays (Saturdays only from July
4 – Aug 29).

Full Season Permit – Group - $45 + GST- Valid June 14 – September 13 from 11am
to 7pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Saturdays (Saturdays only from July 4 – Aug 29).
This option permits you to perform as a group ONLY. If any individual wishes to perform
solo, outside of their group, they must purchase a Single Performer Permit. The
remainder of the group remains covered under the Group Permit.

Half Season Permit – Single Performer - $35 + GST - Valid July 26 – September 13
from 11am to 7pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Saturdays (Saturdays only from Aug
1 – Aug 29).
This option is suited to performers who may have arrived to Whistler mid-summer
season or are committed otherwise during the first half of the summer season.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
3
FAQ
What are the permit options? (Continued)

Half Season Permit – Group - $35 + GST - Valid July 26 – September 13 from 11am
to 7pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Saturdays (Saturdays only from Aug 1 – Aug 29).
This option is suited to performers who may have arrived to Whistler mid-summer
season or are committed otherwise during the first half of the summer season.
This option permits you to perform as a group ONLY. If any individual wishes to perform
solo, outside of their group, they must purchase a Single Performer Permit. The
remainder of the group remains covered under the Group Permit.

*NEW* One Day Permit – Single Performer - $10 + GST - Valid for the date issued
only (either a Sunday or Wednesday from June 14 – September 13 or a Saturday from
July 4 – August 29) from 11am to 7pm.
This option is applicable for one-off performers visiting Whistler. Special conditions
apply; please see ‘HOW TO APPLY?’ section below.

*NEW* One Day Permit – Group - $15 + GST - Valid for the date issued only (either
a Sunday or Wednesday from June 14 – September 13 or a Saturday from July 4 –
August 29) from 11am to 7pm.
This option is applicable for one-off group performers visiting Whistler. Special
conditions apply; please see ‘HOW TO APPLY?’ section below. If any individual wishes to
perform solo, outside of their group, they must purchase a One Day - Single
Performer Permit. The remainder of the group remains covered under the Group
Permit.
How to apply?
Application for the Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail program is an easy 3 step process:
Step 1 – Complete the Busking Application
New applicants – please complete the application in detail and include all of the required
information.
Return applicants - you will still need to apply for Busking 2015 to ensure we have your
updated file on record.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
4
FAQ
How to apply? (Continued)
2015 APPLICATION DEADLINES:



Full Season Permit – Applications should be submitted by Friday May 29 to take
optimal advantage of the season. Applications received after this deadline will be
processed on a case-by-case basis, however the Busking team does not guarantee that
your permit will be processed in time for the June 14 season start.
Half Season Permit – Applications must be received by Friday July 17 to take optimal
advantage of the half-season permit. Applications received after this deadline will be
processed on a case-by-case basis, however the Busking team does not guarantee that
your permit will be processed in time for the July 26 half-season start.
*NEW* 1 Day Permit – Processed on a case-by-case basis and at any stage, the
Application must be submitted 1 week prior to the date requested for the Permit.
Step 2 – Talent Showcase
New applicants – as part of the qualification for a busking permit, new applicants are
required to come in for a quick chat and showcase of their talent with the program
coordinator.
Don’t be shy! The Whistler Arts Council just wants to learn more about you and your talent.
The Busking Program is aimed at providing artists and performers with employment and
talent development opportunities (including young and emerging artists). We want you to
succeed out there!
You will have the opportunity to receive honest feedback and get your questions answered
in person. The process also allows us to assess whether you are a good fit for the program.
We encourage all applicants to have a look at the BUSKING CRITERIA and BUSKING
REGULATIONS on page 6 & 7 as they are the standard expectations for Busking on the
Fitzsimmons Trail.
New applicants will be contacted directly via email to schedule a meeting once
their completed application form has been received:



Full Season Permit – Contacted between May 29 and June 5
Half Season Permit – Contacted July 17
*NEW* 1 Day Permit – Contacted on a case-by-case basis and at any stage, within 2
days of the Application having been received.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
5
FAQ
How to apply? (Continued)
Return applicants - are not required to come in for a showcase unless their act has
changed significantly.
Return applicants will be notified directly via email on how to renew their busking
permit once their completed application form has been received:


Full Season Permit – Contacted between May 29 and June 5
Half Season Permit – Contacted July 17
Step 3 – Busking Permit
Applicants who have successfully met step 1 & 2 will be granted an opportunity to purchase
a busking permit. Payment can be made by cash, debit, Visa, or MasterCard to the Whistler
Arts Council. AMEX not accepted.
Permits will be issued by WAC upon receipt of payment fee and the performer will be
notified when the permit is ready for collection from the WAC office at Millennium Place,
4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, B.C., V0N 1B4.
Please ensure you present a valid photo ID when picking up your busking permit.
Parents/legal guardians accompanying an applicant under 18 years of age must also
present a valid photo ID.
All permits will include a recent photograph of the busker, busking regulations,
performance dates and times, and necessary contact details.
Can I apply for Whistler Street Entertainment if I have applied for Busking
on the Fitzsimmons Trail?
Yes. Local and touring artists and performers are encouraged to apply for both of these
programs to further their potential of being hired and have more opportunities over the
summer.
Busking Criteria:
SKILL / TALENT
 The talent and potential of the performer must be evident.
 Safety must be at the utmost consideration. The act must not impose a safety concern
to the public or performer/artist.
 The performer/artist is prepared.
SHOWMANSHIP
 The performer engages with their audience.
 The performer is confident in the delivery of their act and audience engagement.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
6
FAQ
Busking Criteria (Continued):
UNIQUENESS
 The performer possesses a unique quality and skill that makes them interesting.
 Innovation / originality.
ORGANIZATION AND SERIOUSNESS OF MANNER
 Performer has enough material to showcase.
 Equipment is in good working order.
 Repertoire is family orientated.
 Performer is well presented.
Busking Regulations
In order to ensure your performance remains a pleasant experience for everyone, the
following regulations must be followed:
1. All buskers are required to clearly display a current busking permit during their
performance at the busking sites to validate their participation in the program.
2. Permits are valid between the hours of 11am to 7pm on Wednesdays and Sundays
only, starting on Sunday June 14th and running every consecutive Wednesday and
Sunday until Sunday September 13th, inclusive. The permits are valid between the
hours of 11am – 7pm on Saturdays only from July 4th - August 29th inclusive.
3. Busking etiquette:
i. Buskers are limited to a maximum of 60 minutes performance per location. After 60
minutes, you must vacate the performance space to allow for other buskers if they
are waiting. It is possible to re-locate to another busking location for another 60
minute set, providing space is available.
ii. If you are waiting for a performer to finish, please ensure the performer is aware
that you are waiting.
iii. Each 60 minute performance will commence every hour, on the hour. If you are
performing, you should factor in the time it takes to pack any equipment in order to
finish your set on time.
iv. Exceptions: If there is no-one waiting for the location at the end of your
performance hour, you are allowed to continue performing into a second hour. After
a second hour you must end your performance at that location.
4. The permit is only valid in one of the five designated busker’s locations on the
Fitzsimmons Trail/Rebagliati Park area. See section: Busking Sites.
Busking is not permitted anywhere else within Whistler.
5. WAC reserves the right to cancel busking operations and close down the sites at any
time on a busking day if deemed that the weather is highly inclement or if a hazardous
condition poses a danger to the public and/or performers. Based on the nature and
duration for the conditions, the closure may be for part of the day or the full day. Site
closure will be denoted by the lack of site signs during the normal hours of operation on
a Wednesday or Sunday. Due to Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail being a performerunscheduled program, buskers will not be contacted individually in the event of site
closure. Buskers are not permitted to perform if the sites are closed.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
7
FAQ
Busking Regulations (Continued)
6. Buskers are permitted to solicit money from their audiences. There is no minimum
donation. Donations are not obligatory and as such performers must not harass
audiences for money.
7. Busking is not intended for stage like performances. Groups are limited in number of
members which will be assessed on a case-by-case basis during the permit processing
stage. Each member must hold a valid individual busking permit under the Group
Permit.
8. Permit holders are responsible for ensuring that the Fitzsimmons Trail/Rebagliati Park
area is not blocked by your set-up or audience.
9. All buskers must be completely self-sufficient in their apparatus which may include
chairs, music stands, money boxes, etc.
10. No electricity is provided and no electricity or generators are allowed at the busking
sites.
11. Amplification: Only battery powered amplification is permitted and when allowed, is
restricted by the following conditions:
i.
Amplification for voice or instruments is allowed only if approved by the jury
during the audition.
ii.
Sound level must be reasonable, within limits set by Whistler By-Laws and
intended for an audience within 30 feet. Sound level is limited to a maximum of
70 db.
12. The use of sharp or dangerous objects is prohibited (for example juggling knives, chain
saws or flaming objects are not permitted).
13. Musicians/artists are not permitted to sell recordings or copies of their original work
during their performance for a set price. Musicians/artists are allowed to give away
albums/artwork for a donation offered by the public.
14. Portrait artists may use 1 easel, 2 small folding chairs, display up to but no more than 3
pieces of their art including the working drawing. The sale of pre-drawn work or
photocopies is prohibited.
15. Busking permits can be issued to applicants of age 18 or older with valid photo
identification. Applicants between 14 and 18 years of age, will require a parent/legal
guardian to co-sign their Busking Application and accompany them to pick up their
permit – both applicant and parent/legal guardian must present a valid photo
identification. Applicants less than 14 years of age can have their name on a permit
issued under a parent/legal guardian's name - this parent/legal guardian must
accompany the artist/performer at all times during the talent showcase process, permit
collection and performances at the busking sites.
16. The performer understands that this is a developing program and as such the guidelines
may be altered during the program dates.
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
8
FAQ
Enforcement
Busking is designed to add vibrancy to the Fitzsimmons Trail/Rebagliati Park area and
should be a positive experience for the performer and Whistler visitors and residents.
Buskers need to be respectful while performing in consideration of their captive audience.
RMOW staff, WAC Staff or RCMP can warn any performers emitting excessive sound or
causing harassment and ask to lower the sound or stop performing.
Buskers should also respect fellow buskers by abiding to the performance time constraints
in order to give every busker an equal chance to perform.
A member of WAC will be present or available during the busking days and hours to enforce
all of the above. If you are ever in need of assistance please call the number provided on
your permit.
WAC operates a zero tolerance policy. Violation of any of the above regulations will result in
suspended or revoked permits (case by case basis). Note that suspended or revoked
permits are non-refundable.
If buskers are found to contravene any of the above guidelines, the enforcement process is
as follows:
1. Initial verbal warning
2. A second verbal warning + written warning via email
3. Pass revoked
Busking Sites
Busking is permitted only at one of the five designated busking locations on the
Fitzsimmons Trail/Rebagliati Park area as indicated on the map available on the Busking
webpage.
Busking is not permitted anywhere else in the Resort.
How is Busking on the Fitzsimmons Trail promoted?
Busking on the Fitzsimons Trail is promoted by the Whistler Arts Council and Resort
Municipality of Whistler through the following channels:










Whistler Arts Council website
Whistler.com website
Whistler Arts Council newsletter
Pique
Question
Signs displayed at each of the busking sites
Free-standing signs at the trail-heads
Media releases (on special occasions)
Village Host Information Services
Social media outlets
Questions?
Please contact the Whistler Arts Council on:
T: 604.935.8410 | E:[email protected]
Produced by:
MAIL ADDRESS: Millennium Place, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4 | TEL: 604 935-8410 | FAX: 604 935-8413
EMAIL: [email protected]
9