The belly-laughter, amazement and fun that over 1 million children have experienced during my show can be repeated at your special celebration – just follow these simple guidelines…
Serve food and drinks either before or after the magic show. Wait until the children are finished eating, the dishes are mostly cleared so that everyone can focus, laugh and engage.
Have the show indoors. Bee stings, grass throwing, bad acoustics, wind blowing over props, humidity, inclement weather, and strangers are just a few challenges that can make outdoor shows less enjoyable for the audience.
Schedule the show 30-45 minutes into the event. Give your guests enough time to arrive, settle in and enjoy the entertainment. The “show-time” on the confirmation you received refers to when the show (and not the event) will start.
Have the kids sit either on the floor OR in chairs (not both). Children are like gas molecules: they will expand to fill whatever space you put them in. If there’s a choice between chairs, the floor, laps, couches, etc. then the children will switch places during and throughout the show. Get the children to sit close to the action and pack them in tightly. This reduces potential distractions and unifies the audience.
Designate a separate space for grown-ups to talk I do not bring a microphone, and am not responsible for disciplining either the children or adults for loud, disruptive behavior. Adults are expected to supervise their children and do their best to create a space where everyone can hear, engage and have fun.
Minimize distractions. Keep toddlers on your lap, put pets away in a separate room, and turn off music, television, bouncy castles, loud air conditioning units, etc.
Set the show up opposite, or at least away from, entrances, exits, food tables and bathrooms. This will minimize the distractions caused by latecomers, early-leavers, and bathroom-goers.
After performing for over 3,000 special events over the past 10 years, I’ve found these 7 little tips will make a BIG difference when it comes to the audience’s experience.
I’ll perform any time, of course, and will always do the best show possible under the given circumstances.
I’m Magic Evan, and I’m wishing you the best in the planning and execution of your special event!