Preventive Maintenance for a Smooth-Running Show

There are many things that can cause a cat show to experience interruptions or problems. However, many issues can also be nipped in the bud, before they become larger problems, by hands-on, proactive show management. This is, by no means, a complete list, but I hope it will be of great help.

- Mike Altschul

Before the Show 

1. Recruit a great team of experienced show helpers, if possible. This is not always the case, and I addressed that issue with my recent Cat Talk article “How Can I Put on a Show with So Few People?”

2. The show hall layout should be done for ease of exhibitors to get to the rings with a lot of guests in the show hall. My previous article “Critical Show Hall Layout” addresses this. I still see shows with poor layouts, not taking into account where the most room is needed: in front of the judging rings.

3. The judging schedule needs to be thought out well to avoid conflict between the rings. Take into account the different paces of each judge. Have plenty of copies of the schedule printed, both for exhibitors (if not in the catalog), judges, and ring clerks. Spectators may want a copy as well so they can tell when their favorite breed is likely to be judged.

4. The sound system needs to be tested and working. Check it with all the mikes (if cordless mikes are being used, put in new batteries). Remember, once the venue fills up with people, they will absorb much of the sound, so be ready to adjust the volume. I always try to have a backup mike and new sets of batteries ready. Without an effective sound system, the exhibitors will not be able to hear the ring calls, and the show slows down. Placement of the mikes is important, too. If the sound is too loud by the rings, some cats will be scared, making handling them more difficult for the judges, which will slow down the ring.