Finding A Magician For Hire

Magical thinking won't help you hire a magician for your event, so don't be afraid to hold auditions. Word of mouth and references are a good place to start, so speak to your friends and family about performers they may have seen. Anyone can buy a double-sided deck of cards from the magic or toy store and call themselves a magician, so be sure you know exactly what a performance will entail before you sign a contract or give anyone money. Professional magicians provide fun, magical shows and it can take years for a performer to hone his or her show to the point that it's a great one. Any professional these days should have a web site that offers information about them and their shows. Also, the top professionals feature videos on their web pages that let you clearly see the types of routines that they perform, their presentation and interaction with audiences. Comparing videos is an excellent way to evaluate a performer.

Magicians perform two types of magic shows: stand-up/stage and close-up/strolling. In a stand-up/stage performance, the magician puts on a show that's appropriate for small to large audiences that can include birthday parties and school functions. In close-up/strolling performances, the magician walks around at an event and performs "close-up" tricks using cards, coins and other objects. Strolling magic works well at open houses, cocktail parties and company picnics. A professional magician usually will customize a show for a particular audience to ensure a great performance.

The Yellow Pages is a good resource to find a magician for hire but be wary of party planners and bookers. Many have clients who perform as magicians on a part time basis and the agent may not be clear on what their act entails. On the other hand, a high-end booker will evaluate your needs and match you with a magician that best suits your audience. Even then, insist on references and a video or live demonstration.

A magician for hire may try to pull the wool over your eyes by making a lot of promises, so it's up to you to confirm that they are the right person for your event.

You don't want a mind reader for a children's party or a clown who pulls rabbits out of a hat for a corporate event. References and a reputable agent should conjure up an entertainer who will put on a performance that will leave your guests in awe.