“Magic at a Cocktail Hour…Can Rhythm even Exist?”

The Magician at a Cocktail Hour

Strolling Magic at a Wedding Cocktail Hour

I’ve performed “Strolling Magic” in Massachusetts during many cocktail hours for more than 13 years, so I have a little mileage in this arena. Let me just say it is easy, except when it is not. What does this mean? It simply means that a cocktail hour is a “living, breathing event.” Nothing is cookie cutter, although I think they can be broken down into a few different categories. You can see samples of “easy” in videos.

Note: If you have looked at the highlighted video, notice that the audience is enjoying cocktails, however, no one is eating. Yes, there is food, but it is at a central location where guests can take a plate and enjoy various Hors d’oeuvres.

Food trumps everything except…I shouldn’t have to tell you.

I find it surprising when people often request that I perform “magic” during a formal dinner. Never, I mean never interrupt people while they are eating. (This rule extends to dogs as well.) Although I believe my entertainment is “great”. It’s not of greater value than a dinner served at the right temperature. Entertainment during dessert and coffee is usually totally appropriate.

The Blunt Truth About Strolling Magic…From Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti.

Of course, as a Walk Around magic entertainer my job is to provide top quality commercial magic. However, I do not have anyone introducing me, telling people to put down their phones etc. It’s kind of a free for all…”the old west”, if you will. It is my job to introduce myself and gather attention and “Knock ’em dead” with my magical skills. Understand, the way I get attention is by interrupting conversations and convincing strangers that what I offer is of imminent importance. Stop what you’re doing and watch me. I have no idea why, but this essentially works. I am that important…well not quite.

The More Important Interrupter

Picture this, me strolling around, merrily interrupting people and apparently, they enjoy this somewhat rude behavior. (Yes, I am that good.) Just as I couldn’t be doing better along comes a rude waiter or waitress who “interrupts” me with some bacon wrapped scallops…OMG! I must say, I’m tempted myself. (Being a consummate professional, I never eat or drink while I am working.) This inconvenient interruption is simply another person doing their job. I really do understand. Our jobs are quite similar, except they are more important because they are armed with shrimp and bacon wrapped scallops…I even get beat out by cocktail “weenies.”

A Well-Hidden Secret of Close-Up Magic

Close-Up Magic is more than a well-rehearsed performance. It is a conversation or an unrehearsed dance between the “Magic guy” and the audience. In its casual appearance, the guests are tacitly invited to take part… yes, their quips and interruptions add to the entertainment. That’s why they have so much fun…they are involved. My job is to have secret control over the chaos. Occasionally I have to pull in the reins to maintain attention to ensure the resulting impact of the magic effect.

“The Magical “Punch Line”

Just as in comedy, the flow and delivery of our presentation is essential in its success. In this arena there are no guarantees. Sometimes you have to roll with the punches and never take offense, just because somebody else is doing their best to bring a good time to our mutual clients.

Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710