How big does the room need to be?

We don’t need a massive space. Depending on the number of children, usually a lounge room or single to double car garage size is big enough. Contrary to what you may think, big halls don’t seem to work as well.

Can I have my party outdoors?

We do prefer indoor parties for disco parties, that way the disco lights have a better effect. We also find outdoor parties don’t seem to work as well as children can get easily distracted, especially if you have a colourful backyard with swings, trampoline, etc.

However, if outdoors is your only option, we do have some regulations to comply with for our Public Liability Insurance. We cannot set up on grass as all electrical cords must be taped down and both the equipment and children must be undercover. If your event is during the day, all the children need to wear hats, sunscreen and have regular drink breaks. Our advice: always have a wet weather plan.

What time will the entertainer arrive?

Your entertainer will arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled party start time (this is with an allocated car spot or parking within 20 meters from the venue). This gives them adequate time to meet yourself and the birthday child and set up the party equipment. This also gives you an opportunity to ask questions, give any song requests or discuss any special requirements.

When do the children have a food break?

The entertainer will pause the disco for a break 45 minutes in for the children to have a 15-minute food break for both our 2hr or 1.5hr disco parties.

The entertainer will use this time to put tattoos on the children. If the children have eaten beforehand or will eat after, we still need to give them a drink break. For the 1-hour dance parties, it’s best to leave the food break till after the party.

When do we do the birthday cake?

We sing Happy Birthday and cut the birthday cake 10 minutes before the end of the disco. Then we take the children back to the dance floor for one final song, this allows you to cut the cake without all the children around you! If you are having a 1-hour party, it is best to do the cake after the disco has ended. In this case the entertainer can still gather the children around the cake to sing Happy Birthday.

How many children should I invite?

We suggest 15 – 30 children is the ideal number to create a disco dance party atmosphere. However, we can do parties with less or more.

Do I need to provide anything for the entertainer?

The only thing you will need to do is get the food ready for the break time. The entertainer will arrange the children around the table and assist with serving the food and drinks.

Do I need to do anything during the party?

The only thing you will need to do is get the food ready for the break time. The entertainer will arrange the children around the table and help serve the food and drinks.

Are the entertainers ‘screened’?

Yes, all the Sydney staff and entertainers of Bop till you Drop have been approved with the ‘Working with Children Check’.

Do I need to provide a parking spot for the entertainer?

Yes. Your entertainer will need an allocated parking spot as close to your house/venue as possible. There is a lot of heavy equipment to unload (and reload) and we want the disco party to run as smoothly as possible and on time. Please note you will need to pay for parking should free parking not be available. Also, please ensure you give the office clear directions on exactly where your house/venue is located. It is also a great idea to stick a balloon on your front gate.

What if someone hurts themselves, are you insured?

Bop till you Drop has $20 million dollars Public Liability Insurance. We are happy to provide you with our Certificate of Currency should you require it for hall bookings, this ensures you will not have to pay extra for insurance.

What decorations do I need?

We provide two fantastic disco lights; these are effective in creating a spectacular disco atmosphere. Feel free to put any other form of decorations, however, please avoid free floating balloons, they are a big distraction. If you really love balloons and streamers, it is best to attach them to the table. Also avoid chairs in the disco space, the children will be dancing and can sometimes feel self-conscious if adults are sitting and watching, especially at the beginning of a party.

Will the children participate in the disco the whole time? Should I hire a face painter or jumping castle as well?

You really don’t need any other entertainment taking place at the same time as the disco party. Children love the disco and will benefit from all the structured activities alone. Should you really want face painters or jumping castles, it’s best to schedule them before or after the disco.

What if my child is shy?

Some kids are naturally shy and may not want to pick up the microphone straight away… That’s perfectly natural! Our entertainers will never put pressure on children or push them into the spotlight before they are ready. We can gently build their confidence by getting shy kids involved in other ways – such as helping with prizes, choosing the next singers, or joining in on games. Our ultimate goal is to have every child enjoying the spotlight by the end of the party, but if they’re not quite ready to take centre stage, we’ll ensure they have a blast either way!