Seems like a lot of money.
It ain't.
I just got a quote from Rock-it Cargo for SINGLE semi, driver, fuel, lodging for a twelve city U.S. tour.
The price: $64K
That is one semi truck.
An arena p.a. rig can easily cost $15K per night.
A lighting rig will cost more than that.
There is the stage to pay for in arenas.
Local union hands to set stage and work the show (almost 100% of the time.)
Local riggers (always required.)
Price per rigging point ($200, to $500 depending on venue) there can easily be thirty, forty points and I have seen as many as 92 points (Bette Midler '06.)
Power Service charges (easily $1 per amp, but usually more)
Teamsters to un-load trucks (a union requirement in many cities and venues.)
Catering
Tour crew busses and fuel.
Tour crew lodging.
Air fares.
Salaries.
Insurance (a BIG factor.)
I have known members of major tour acts (BIG acts) and they had tours that DID NOT break even.
Did you know that if you record ANYTHING in a union hall there is an AUTOMATIC $4K fee?
Always. 100% of the time.
They don't even assist except to tie in power.
Plus, they won't even tie your power in unless this fee is paid.
If you hired a generator they would either cut your cables (accidently) or not allow the show to be set-up.
Remember that the management of the halls are most likely union as well.
Touring is EXTREMELY expensive.
Unless the act and label have deep pockets they have to borrow start up money for a tour.
There is interest on that.
The p.a. and lighting has to be rented prior to a paying show for tech rehearsals.
There is at least an entire week of production rental (sound, lighting, stage) and associated salaries before any shows bring in revenue.