Fire Performers for Events: Safety, Licensing & What to Know in Tennessee
Fire performers can create some of the most epic moments at live events including dramatic visuals, elevated energy, and a true “awe” factor that guests remember long after the night ends.
However, fire entertainment is also one of the most regulated forms of event entertainment, especially in Tennessee. Hiring professional, licensed fire performers — and understanding what’s required — is essential for keeping guests, venues, and performers safe.
This guide is designed to help event planners and clients understand how fire performers work, what’s allowed, and how we ensure every fire performance is executed safely and professionally.
What Are Fire Performers?
Fire performers are trained artists who incorporate controlled flame elements into choreographed performances. These may include:
Fire dancers and fire spinners
Fire fans, staffs, swords, or other handheld fire props
Flame bars and controlled flame effects
Proximate pyrotechnic elements designed for live events
Fire entertainment can be performed as:
Stage-style performances
Feature moments
Outdoor spectacle acts
Highly controlled indoor effects (when approved)
Because open flame and pyrotechnics carry inherent risk, professional fire performance requires specialized training, licensing, and planning.
Is Fire Entertainment Allowed at Events in Tennessee?
Yes — fire entertainment can be allowed in Tennessee, but it is not automatic.
Approval depends on several factors, including:
Venue policies
City and county regulations
Fire marshal requirements
Whether the performance is indoors or outdoors
The type of flame or fire effect being used
Some fire elements may be approved easily for outdoor events, while others require additional permits, documentation, or inspections. Indoor fire performances typically require higher levels of approval and stricter safety controls.
A professional fire entertainment company should never assume fire is allowed — it must be planned, reviewed, and approved in advance.
Fire Performer Licensing & Requirements in Tennessee
Tennessee has specific regulations surrounding flame effects and pyrotechnics at events. Depending on the performance, this may include requirements for:
Licensed flame effects operators
Proximate pyrotechnic operators
Fire marshal approval
Site-specific fire safety plans
Permits and inspections
At Goodness Gracious Creative, fire performances are led by experience and credentials:
Grace Good, owner of Goodness Gracious Creative, is a
Licensed Flame Effects and Proximate Pyrotechnic Operator in the State of Tennessee
Licensed fire performer in Las Vegas, one of the most highly regulated entertainment markets in the country
This licensing allows us to:
Communicate directly with venues and fire marshals
Design performances that comply with local and state regulations
Select the appropriate fire elements for each space
Guide clients toward what will actually be approved — not just what looks impressive online.
Working With a Licensed Pyrotechnic Company
For larger-scale flame effects and enhanced fire visuals, we work closely with E1FX - Event One FX, a fully licensed professional pyrotechnic company.
This partnership allows us to safely incorporate:
Flame bars and flame effects
Professionally engineered pyrotechnic equipment
On-site safety oversight
Indoor and outdoor flame effects when permitted
Working with a licensed pyrotechnic company ensures that all equipment, effects, and safety protocols meet industry standards and local regulations. This is especially important for corporate events, large-scale productions, and venues with strict compliance requirements.
How We Keep Fire Performances Safe
Safety is the foundation of every fire performance we produce. Our planning process includes:
Site-specific safety assessments
Pre-event coordination with venues and fire marshals
Clear safety perimeters for performers and guests
Fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment on site
Fire-rated costumes, fuels, and materials
Professionally trained performers with extensive experience
Contingency planning for weather and venue changes
Every fire performance is tailored to the specific venue, layout, and guest experience — no two events are treated the same.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Fire Performances
Understanding the difference between indoor and outdoor fire entertainment is critical:
Outdoor Fire Performances
Generally allow for more flexibility
Often easier to approve
Ideal for festivals, private estates, and outdoor corporate events
Indoor Fire Performances
Require additional approvals
Are subject to ceiling height, airflow, and material restrictions
Often involve flame effects or proximate pyrotechnics rather than traditional open fire
We help clients navigate these differences and recommend options that balance impact, safety, and feasibility.
When Fire Isn’t the Right Fit (And What We Offer Instead)
In some cases, fire may not be approved due to venue or regulatory restrictions. When that happens, we offer visually striking alternatives, including:
LED fire-style props
Flame-inspired choreography
Pyrotechnic-style lighting effects
High-impact visual performances that still deliver drama and energy
Our goal is always to create a memorable experience, even when open flame isn’t an option.
Why Experience & Licensing Matter
Fire entertainment is not a plug-and-play act. Experience, training, and licensing protect:
Guests
Venues
Clients
Performers
Hiring licensed, insured professionals ensures:
Regulatory compliance
Venue approval
Safe execution
Peace of mind
At Goodness Gracious Creative, we believe fire performance should be bold, beautiful, and responsibly executed.
Planning Fire Performers for Your Event
If you’re considering fire performers for your event in Tennessee or beyond, we’re happy to guide you through what’s possible for your venue, your vision, and your audience.
From licensing and approvals to performance design and safety planning, our team ensures that fire entertainment is delivered at the highest professional standard.
Reach out to start the conversation — we’ll help you determine the safest and most impactful way to bring fire to your event. 🔥