The only legal Cannabis consumption lounge in Massachusetts
Early in September, Samantha Taylor contacted me about presenting my strolling magic at the “Grow off”. “At first, I had no idea what the Grow Off was. So, out of curiosity, I Googled it—and surprisingly, the results were pretty interesting.”
Immediately after submitting a quote, she got back to me, asking if I would have any problem performing for their group.
Magician for all occasions …Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut!
Upon reflection, I realized she must have asked if I would find it a ‘problem,’ likely due to the opposing views surrounding the legal use of cannabis. Like politics, the division is likely wide, with little common ground. Since I have no particular view on the subject and recognize that my role is to provide entertainment, we moved forward with confidence and booked the gig ourselves.
The event was an awards party, at The Summit Lounge on Water St. in Worcester Ma.
The event was scheduled for September 25th. As usual, I made sure to arrive about 30 minutes before showtime; that way, I had time to settle in and prepare. However, when I pulled on the door, I found it locked. Instead, I spotted a ‘buzzer’ and pressed it to gain entrance. In that moment, I felt as though I had stepped straight into 1920, walking into a speakeasy. Of course, in reality, it’s just a private club—but still, it’s fun to imagine.
Arriving at The Summit Lounge
Samantha made her way out to greet me.After we exchanged pleasantries, she mentioned that the turnout fell short of their expectations and asked if I could perform a ‘show’ instead of doing walk-around entertainment.”Sure…” I replied. Having a well-received parlor show in my repertoire it was easy to oblige.
Adapting to meet the client’s needs.
No problem Changing the Program to The Intimate Magic Parlor Show.
I always come prepared to perform parlor or strolling magic at all my jobs. It seemed we were ready to proceed. Their food would arrive and after they had eaten, I would go on followed by the awards ceremony. Should be smooth sailing… but the food is late, Samantha is on the phone, and there is little she can do to speed up the delivery.
To Samantha’s credit, she didn’t get angry, at least she didn’t show it. She decided. I would go on ASAP get the show on the road. When the food arrived, she would give me a sign and I would wrap up the show with a finale piece and then step aside so their evening could proceed.
Making the best of a not-so-perfect situation.
Kudos to Samantha. It was a brilliant decision. I started my show and won over the spectators. A lot of laughs and powerful magic. I got 20-25 minutes into the show when Samantha gave me the sign.
Needing to wrap up the show, I performed my seven-card multiple location routine. While it’s not the grand finale I usually close with, even so, it has enough impact to fit the moment perfectly. Wrapping up my show, saying Thank You and good night. Receiving an abundance of applause, leaving the room to the crowd chanting my name… “Joe!”
Waving a “Thank You” to Samantha as I left the room. (We didn’t have time for a face-to-face goodbye). She was busy moving the event to the food portion of the evening.
Because my time ran short, I wasn’t able to perform my full Cabaret act. No one was to blame—it simply felt off not giving the complete show. The following morning, I emailed Samantha to thank her, and she responded with a kind and welcoming note.
A 5 Star review…
“Joe was fantastic! Our schedule was thrown off because of a catering mishap, and Joe stepped right up to fill the time like a true professional. We hired him to do roaming magic but changed things last minute to do a mini-theater show. Joe got everyone involved, and they had the best time. Thank you, Joe!”
Hey, I’m a life member… maybe I’ll return to finish the show.
Joe Ferranti
Boston Magician Strolling Magic and The Intimate Parlor Show
