Your Ultimate Guide to Hiring an Amazing Boston Magician!
Magic entertainment for your event
Joe Ferranti, Boston Massachusetts Magician
I get many inquiries from people who think they might like to try magical entertainment for their event, celebration, wedding, cocktail party… and more. Additionally, as is often the case, many are unsure of what will fit their program best. Moreover, most haven’t thought about or understood their options. However, it is my obligation to help them understand what is available; ultimately, it is not about selling my services.
I am a Close-Up Strolling Magician, and I also perform a Comedy Parlor Show. If the services I provide meet your requirements, then let’s talk. On the other hand, if my services don’t serve you, I will do my best to guide you towards other entertainers. In fact, I am friends with some excellent Magicians who provide services that I don’t.
Stage Magic
Let’s look at Stage and Parlor Magic… First and foremost, most often, people pay to go to a show. Additionally, everyone has a good idea of what to expect. For example, there are seats available to watch the show. Moreover, applause is acceptable, and we owe our attention to the performance. It is important to note that cell phones are not allowed during the show. Lastly, you should refrain from having conversations with people next to you.
Inform your Guests Before They Arrive.
If this is the style of magic you want to host for guests at a private or corporate event, it is important that you inform your guests that they will be part of an audience. Furthermore, responsibilities come into play when sharing such an experience. Therefore, it is not a good idea to surprise your friends after they arrive by revealing that you are hosting a formal magic show. Instead, it is highly recommended that you let your friends know in advance that you are inviting them to a show.
Tips on Hiring a Magician
Strolling Magic entertainment is a different animal. Many think that what they do is Helter Skelter, unplanned or improvisational. Nothing could be further from the truth. The professional strolling magician presents structured and rehearsed entertainment. I paraphrase, but being well rehearsed is the best improvisation.
Where are the strolling Magicians’ best venues? There are many, cocktail parties, Holiday Parties, weddings… your imagination limits the list only. I always suggest you inform your guests that you are having a magician to provide entertainment. It makes my job easier, abbreviating introductions. I can start the entertainment almost immediately.
On Making Cold Introductions
When performing at events when the guests do not know that “magic is on the menu. ” I have a personal approach to introduce myself. In these situations, I am a “professional ” interrupter. I have to work my way into groups where their conversations are in progress.
Being Polite.
It is important not to have an ego. I am invading their space. Perhaps “Old Friends” are reconnecting, so they may decline my invitations to “delight them with my magical expertise… “This is a time to move on politely, with an offer to return at a later time.
Experience has shown that when I entertain my first group, the reactions act as a magnet to everyone in attendance. After this, the welcome mat is out for the rest of the evening.
When not to have entertainment
What are problematic times for entertainment? When people are dining! The only entertainment that will work during dinner is quiet background music. Perhaps anything in the background is not entertainment. True, entertainment takes center stage.
An exception to the “food” rule.
Cocktail parties where appetizers are being served is an excellent environment for Walk Around Magic entertainment. It’s not that you will not have your challenges. Again, put your ego aside. You are not the only person working. They require servers to enter groups and offer them drinks and food. Don’t take it personally.
Cell Phones
Let’s face it, the cell phone is front and present, and serves as personal entertainment for some. This is a challenge we have to deal with. There is no secret solution… let me know if you do. Some people want to record the “trick.” I tell them how boring it is to watch a trick on video, and they will enjoy it more by watching it live. This is true. I always allow them the freedom to record if they want.
Joe Ferranti
339-927-4710
