Master Tour version: PROFESSIONAL
Catch our 5Qs interview with George Thoms, Tour Manager for Marianas Trench, and get a behind-the-scenes look at life on the road with one of Canada’s most iconic pop-rock bands.
5 Qs
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
The post VIP Dinner scheme
Can you share a standout moment that perfectly captures the essence of touring life?
When a tour comes together and the headliner, support, crew and drivers are all hanging out all the time. It’s a rare thing and it’s beautiful when it happens.
From cramped vans to unexpected detours, touring life can be full of surprises. How do you maintain a positive attitude and adapt to the ever-changing demands of life on tour?
This job is an incredible privilege. The obvious downsides are being away from our loved ones and our homes. But we are living someone’s dream. I try to never lose sight of that.
What is the best touring tip you would give to a new TM?
Be over prepared. Do the work before the tour so you can try to enjoy the run. Something will always come up. If you arnt worrying about hotels and advancing etc. You’ll have time for the things that come up.
What future trends in the music industry are you most excited about, and how do you think they’ll impact live events?
Things like Live Nations OTRA program help emerging bands actually afford touring. Less rough around the edges touring people. Just be nice. It’s WAY nicer.
What are your top 3 favorite venues to work with, and what makes them stand out from the rest?
The Van Buren, 9:30, GLC Live at 20 Monroe.
All have GREAT crews, are GREAT rooms and have GREAT backstages. Having local people who care make my day incredibly easy.
What are your thoughts on how touring can be made more eco-friendly for everyone involved?
I honestly don’t know. It’s a consumable industry. Taking personal ownership of reducing waste with single use plastics etc.
How do you cultivate a sense of community and camaraderie among your touring crew?
One of the first camps I ever toured with instilled “Be Sweet or Die” in me. It’s at the bottom of my email signature and I think about it constantly. Just be sweet, your crew will follow. Great positive people attract more great positive people. It starts with your artist and makes its way down.
