Mind Reading & Writing

Why Corporate Entertainment is High Pressure (and How to Win)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:17:26 GMT

Choosing the Right Entertainment Solution

To mitigate the high pressure, you need a performer who understands the corporate world as well as they understand their craft. This isn't just about 'doing a show'; it's about being a partner in the event's success. A reliable entertainer will check in weeks before the event, coordinate with your AV team, and be flexible enough to handle the inevitable 'we're running ten minutes behind' announcement with a smile. They should act as a safety net, not another source of stress. When you look at my Bio , you see someone who has spent years perfecting this balance of professionalism and jaw-dropping performance.

Making the Decision with Confidence

When you are ready to move from 'panic mode' to 'promotion mode,' the key is vetting. Don't just look at a highlight reel of someone's best three seconds. Look for testimonials from other corporate planners. Ask about their backup plans. If they are 'always reliable and passionate' about what they do, like a certain mentalist we know, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Your job is hard enough—let the entertainment be the easiest part of your night. By focusing on high-quality, intellectually stimulating acts like mentalism, you ensure that even the most skeptical VP leaves the room wondering, 'How did he do that?'

To recap, corporate entertainment is a high-pressure environment because of the brand stakes, the skeptical audience, and the rigid logistics. You can avoid the major pitfalls by focusing on these core areas:

Vet your entertainer for corporate 'tone' compatibility.
Confirm all AV and technical requirements well in advance.
Ensure the performer is flexible with the event's timeline.
Choose entertainment that engages the mind and the funny bone.
Work with professionals who treat their act as a business, not just a hobby.

If you want to ensure your next event is a massive success without the soul-crushing stress, it's time to book a pro. Check out my Private Events page to see how I turn high-pressure situations into unforgettable highlights. Remember, the goal is to make you look like a genius for hiring us. Let's make it happen!

What are the most common things that go wrong?

When things go south at a corporate event, they go south fast. The most common issues aren't always what you'd expect. It isn't always a 'bad act' (though that happens); it is often a misalignment between the performer and the environment. Here are the top four ways the night can turn into a disaster:

The 'Wrong Vibe' Mismatch: Hiring a comedian who tells off-color jokes for a conservative banking gala is a recipe for a very long walk to the HR office on Monday. Tone is everything in Corporate settings.
The Timing Collapse: The keynote ran forty minutes over, the dinner service was delayed, and now the headline entertainer has to fit a sixty-minute show into a twelve-minute window between the dessert and the shuttle buses.
The Disappearing Act: Not a magic trick, but an entertainer who doesn't show up or is notoriously difficult to reach. Reliability is the cornerstone of professional events, and many 'talent' types forget that a contract is a promise.
The 'Tough Crowd' Syndrome: Some entertainers are great for small groups but crumble in a large ballroom. Without the right stage presence, a performer can be swallowed by the noise of three hundred people talking over their appetizers.

Equipment Fails and Tech Nightmares

Nothing kills the mood faster than not being able to hear the performer, or worse, a feedback loop through the speakers. AV (Audio-Visual) failures are the bane of every event planner's existence. In corporate entertainment, the technical requirements are often overlooked. Does the performer need a wireless lapel mic? Do they need a specific lighting cue? A professional entertainer knows how to pivot when tech fails, but a truly great one has a backup plan for their backup plan. Even if a venue says they have the perfect earset microrphone, the performer should probably bring a back-up anyway. There have been many times where the state-of-the-art mixer I was assured was at the venue ended up looking like this:

Corporate entertainment is high-pressure. The stakes include brand reputation, employee morale, and executive satisfaction, meaning any technical failure or inappropriate tone can result in lasting professional embarrassment for the event planner. In the world of business, your entertainment choice isn't just about a fun night; it's about validating the company culture and proving that the leadership actually knows how to throw a party that doesn't feel like a mandatory HR training seminar.

If you have ever felt your heart rate spike while looking at a seating chart, you are not alone. Event planning is regularly ranked as one of the most stressful jobs on the planet, right up there with air traffic controllers and people who have to explain the internet to their grandparents. But corporate entertainment adds a special layer of 'oh no' to the mix. You are not just hiring a guy to do card tricks; you are hiring a representative of your professional taste. If they are good, you are a hero. If they are bad, you are 'the one who hired the clown that made the CFO cry.'

Why is corporate entertainment so high-pressure?

The pressure comes from the fact that corporate events have very little margin for error. Unlike a birthday party where Uncle Bob can get a bit too enthusiastic about the karaoke machine and everyone just laughs it off, a corporate setting is a professional ecosystem. Every element of the night is being subconsciously graded by attendees. Are the hors d'oeuvres cold? Did the CEO's microphone cut out during the keynote? Was the entertainer actually entertaining, or was it just forty-five minutes of awkward silence and outdated jokes?

Furthermore, you are dealing with a 'captive' audience. At a public show, people paid to be there. At a corporate event, people are often there because it is part of their job. This means the entertainer starts in a 'credibility deficit.' They have to earn the respect of a room full of people who might rather be at home watching Netflix or, for the work-o-holics, finishing their quarterly reports. When the stakes involve internal politics or external brand perception, the pressure on the organizer is immense. You aren't just filling a time slot; you are managing the emotional state of an experience.

The Psychological Weight of the Room

Let's talk about the 'skeptic in the front row.' Every corporate event has one. Usually, it is a high-level executive who has 'seen it all' and thinks they can figure out every trick or see through every mentalist's routine. Once, a CEO had his whole team at his private estate and wanted to appear very smart. I could sense he was ready to call me out in front of everyone if I made a single mis-step.

I knew the way to win him over would be by giving him an emotional connection to the material. Earlier in the event, I had overheard him telling someone about his orchard and how he would go out in the morning and pick apples. While passing through his kitchen, I saw a large bowl filled with apples that had clearly come from the orchard. They didn't look like "perfect" supermarket produce. I slipped one into my pocket and then, during my show, guided him to talk about something he was passionate about outside of work. His surprise when he brought up picking apples and then, "on command", I produced an apple that he clearly recognized as from his orchard, won him over. He was not just on my side for the rest of the event, he had me back year after year, and always brought up that apple each time we saw each other.

Why Perfectionism Can Enhance a Magician's Craft

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:57:00 GMT

What happens when you put too much effort in?

Here's the program that people see on their seat when they arrive at my stage show "Nothing Here Is Real". I put an embarrassing amount of time into the graphic design. The "O" in nothing is the map symbol for "here". The variables of the squiggle below the hotel name. The spacing. Adapting the Algonquin Logo to say "at the" instead of just "the". We're talking many, many hours. Was it worth it? Totally!

In the world of magic, where illusions dance on the edge of reality and imagination, the finest details can transform a simple trick into an unforgettable experience. For magicians, attention to detail is not just a quality but a crucial element that elevates their craft from ordinary to extraordinary. While many might see an obsessive focus on minutiae as a potential pitfall, in the realm of magic, it can be a powerful asset.

Precision in Every Move

Magic, at its core, relies on precision. Each gesture, each sleight of hand, and each piece of equipment must align perfectly to create the illusion of the impossible. An intricate sleight of hand, for instance, requires a magician to master the smallest movements, ensuring that every shift, twitch, or pause is precisely timed. This meticulous attention to the tiniest of details ensures that every performance is seamless and convincing.
Imagine a magician performing a card trick where the success hinges on a perfectly timed misdirection. If the magician's hand wavers or the cards are not held at the exact angle, the illusion can be shattered. Here, an obsessive attention to detail ensures that every motion is fluid and every angle is perfect, allowing the audience to be completely absorbed by the magic rather than questioning its mechanics.

Crafting the Perfect Illusion

Magic thrives on creating illusions that defy reality, and crafting these illusions requires a meticulous approach to every element involved. From the choice of props to the design of the trick, every detail must be carefully considered. A seemingly insignificant element, such as the color of a silk handkerchief or the design of a prop, can significantly affect how the illusion is perceived.

Enhancing Audience Engagement

An obsessive attention to detail extends beyond the mechanics of the trick and into the realm of audience engagement. Every aspect of a performance, from the magician’s attire to the setting and the narrative of the trick, can influence how the audience experiences the magic. A detailed-focused magician carefully crafts every element to create a cohesive and immersive experience.

For instance, the way a magician interacts with the audience, the stories told during the performance, and even the timing of a joke can all be meticulously planned. This level of attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the performance contributes to the overall illusion, keeping the audience captivated and fully engaged. An audience that is drawn into a magician’s world is more likely to be amazed and delighted by the tricks performed.

The Down Fall

Small errors or inconsistencies that might go unnoticed by others can be the difference between a successful trick and a failed one. But this means everything must be examined in detail. Take the photo below. I wanted the box, which is the grand finale of my show "Nothing Here Is Real", to stand out. Originally, the box was too light light and felt cheap, so I stained it darker. Speaking of cheap, I didn't like the curtain on its own, so I bought gold trim and sewed it by hand onto the edges. I also had to add the spot light so the box would have a drop shadow on the back curtain. Suddenly, it felt too serious, so I added the hand written "the box" label for a bit of whimsey. Could it have been typed? Sure! Would that have made the trick better? I don't think so. If so, I would have done it. The point is, that it's so easy to get bogged down in every one of these decisions. Eventually, you just have to look up and see the audience, and trust that everything is as good as it can be.

While some may view such a focus on detail as a limitation, I consider it the key to transforming my craft from mere tricks into mesmerizing experiences. Through the magic of attention to detail, illusions are not only created but perfected, captivating audiences and leaving them in awe of the impossible.

The Magic of Corporate Magicians: Adding Wonder to Business Events

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 15:19:00 GMT

As I gear up for December's busy holiday season, I can't help but think about how most corporate events can often feel dull and monotonous, with the same old speeches and presentations. Thankfully, there is a way to add a touch of wonder and excitement to these events. That's where corporate magicians come in. My job for most of December can bring a sense of magic and entertainment to your business events, leaving your guests amazed and engaged. Here are some ways that I can elevate your next event.

What is a Corporate Magician?

A corporate magician is a professional magician who specializes in performing at business events. We are skilled in the art of illusion and but also at navigating the corporate environment. We work at conferences, trade shows, and company parties. These magicians often have a unique blend of humor, storytelling, and audience interaction that sets them apart from traditional magicians.

The Benefits of Hiring a Corporate Magician

There are many benefits to hiring a corporate magician for your next business event. Here are just a few:

Captivating Entertainment

Corporate magicians are experts at captivating audiences and keeping them engaged. Their performances are interactive and often involve audience participation, making them a perfect addition to any event. They can also tailor their performances to fit the theme or message of your event, making it a unique and memorable experience for your guests.

Networking Opportunities

Corporate events are a great opportunity for networking, but it can be challenging to break the ice and start conversations. A corporate magician can help with this by providing a shared experience for guests to bond over. They can also incorporate your company's branding or messaging into their performance, making it a great conversation starter for attendees.

Boost Morale and Team Building

Corporate magicians can also be a great addition to team building events or company parties. Their performances can help boost morale and create a sense of camaraderie among employees. They can also use their magic to teach important lessons about teamwork and communication, making it a fun and interactive way to improve workplace dynamics.

Finding the Right Corporate Magician

As you can see in the two photos above, different corporate events have different vibes. When looking for a corporate magician, it's essential to do your research and find the right fit for your event. For instance, I don't do large box illusions, which some clients like to book. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect magician:Look for experience: Make sure the magician has experience performing at corporate events and can tailor their performance to fit your specific needs. A lot of time, the word corporate gets thrown up on armature websites, so do a little digging to make sure they are a seasoned pro.
Watch videos of their performances: This will give you a sense of their style and whether it will be a good fit for your event. If your group loves comedy, you might not want to book a super serious mentalist. Finding out how they approach their craft can be very insightful.
Read reviews and ask for references: Check out reviews from previous clients and ask for references to get a better understanding of the magician's reputation and professionalism.

Don't look back.

Adding a corporate magician to your next business event will make it so much fun, that you'll likely end up adding a magical element in subsequent years. I often joke that I sometimes forget that it's possible to have a corporate party that doesn't have a magician. So why not add a little magic to your next corporate event and see the difference it can make?

The Magic Behind Professional Magicians

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:15:00 GMT

Lecturing to the oldest secret magic society in the USA.

A few years ago, I had the distinct honor of lecturing to the Society of American Magicians Parent Assembly #1. This is the oldest magic society chapter in the USA, and Harry Houdini was a previous president. Below are some excerpts from that lecture.

[LATE] INTRODUCTION

I came into professional magic late. I dabbled in middle school, as we all do, and then, unlike you, my equipment sat gathering dust for the next 10 years. I went to school to be a theater director and fresh out of college, I met a girl at an audition who mentioned that she worked for Starlight foundation , which was a non-profit that sponsored visit to pediatric units by entertainers. I said that I knew a few card tricks and pretty suddenly, I was right back in it. Within a year, I was visiting five hospitals a week, performing bedside for sick children, one at a time. This meant I was getting paid to do about fifty very low-stakes mini magic sets every week. The sicker kids were there for multiple weeks and so I quickly had to expand my repertoire. Unlike most magicians, my practice and development didn’t happen locked away in my bedroom, it didn’t happen at magic camp, and it didn’t happen jamming with other magicians. It happened in front of a live audience, day after day. Admittedly, this led to some bad habits, but it also created a very unique opportunity. Some of the children were there with a broken bone, while others were there with terminal cancer. I remember many of them 15 years later. And I rarely knew what I was walking into until I opened the door. I would walk in, listen to them closely, and immediately adapt my material, my patter, and my style based on who was in the room and what it felt like they needed. My magic from day one, was built in collaboration with my audience.

KEEPING IT FRESH

An audience can tell if an act is stale. They can tell if you’re bored. They can tell if you’ve said the patter a thousand times, even if you’re a really great actor. And the only way, (I’ll repeat this because I firmly believe it), the ONLY WAY and audience becomes truly excited during your performance, is if they feel like they are experiencing something that is unrepeatable. Audiences feel a responsibility to watch something if they know it will never exist again. The irony with magic is that you can only get really good at an effect by doing it so often that you get bored by it. By nature, once we’re good at it, we’re already sick of it. So how do I stay excited about routines that I've been performing for 10 years? By allowing for and encouraging the unexpected. It makes it fun for me, which makes it valuable for the audience. There is also tremendous crossover to virtual, which you can read about in my post, How To Be a Fun and Engaging Virtual Performer.

MIND GAMES

I do about four shows a week. The routines are very set and there are certainly times where I suddenly get that feeling of “have I said this to them already?” One way I like to stay present is by adding in challenges that no one is aware of. Some of my favorites include:

I’m not going to move from this spot for a whole trick
I’m going to use synonyms for my entire patter
I’m going to use my face to express more
I’m going to whisper as much of this patter as possible

When apply these limitations, you start to discover new things in your material. And that freshness is displayed to your audience in subtle ways that make them feel like the show is new, like it’s made just for them. And ultimately, your show gets better.

USING VOLUNTEERS

Allowing for and encouraging the unexpected is most easily accomplished by using volunteers. I scan the audience and always make a point to call on people who are weird. If you choose someone strange, i.e. the only person with their shoes off, or the lady who just spilled water on herself, or the guy who looks like Mr. Clean, it makes all the difference. Just one line, one joke that you can think of well in advance of calling on them, turns your performance into a once-in-a-lifetime moment. And people remember those moments.

If there is a child in the audience, you MUST use them. Kids are far less predictable than adults, and you can use this to your advantage. Those boring adult brain patterns don’t exist yet and I've never asked a child an interesting question and received a boring answer. What do you do for a living? What do you think is in this bag? Who’s your favorite person in the world? I know improv isn't for everyone, but it doesn't need to be you doing the work. Just let the kid respond. If you give them space, they will fill it. Which is part of what makes my kids magic show so much fun for me.

It’s worth noting that all of these participants are used for quick moments. I’m not using a child, or someone who might be highly unpredictable, if I’m selecting someone for a complex effect with pseudo-hypnosis or dual reality. For those effects, you really do need to find the right person? The wrong way to do this is to say: “I need a volunteer from the audience.” That’s like looking for a wife at the strip club. It’s just not going to work. Instead, let’s reverse engineer it. What are the signs of an ideal volunteer? Yes, I’m looking for someone dressed well. Yes, I’m looking for someone sitting up and engaged. But the number one thing I need in a volunteer is a picture-perfect reaction. Even if they are a little difficult to work with, I’ll take it. Some people are naturally more expressive than others and nothing is worse than pulling off a major miracle and having your volunteer shrug. The entire audience doesn’t realize it, but they are all living vicariously through that volunteer. And whatever reaction that volunteer has, will magically get send out and live inside every single person that is watching. And that’s extremely powerful. So I use the first few effects in my show to scan the audience and make a mental note of the most effusive people. And when I choose them later in the set, they have no idea that they've already auditioned for the role.

In order to get hands up, I’m a big fan of asking questions. Something that fits the motif of the effect. “Has anyone ever walked into a room and forgotten what they went in there to get?” or “Is there anyone here who has known someone else that’s here for over 15 years?” These questions get people engaged, it provides a graceful transition into their participation, and it supports the general plot line of your effect. There are also ways to guarantee you get who you want. “Who here owns a dog?” can be followed with, “Good, cause I’m looking for someone who doesn’t have one.”

VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT:

I’ve experimented with many different ways of keeping volunteers in check. Here’s what works for me. I find that if there’s no physical contact, the volunteer is much more likely to wander. Give a handshake as they approach. Place a hand on their shoulder. Guide them to the spot I’d like and give their shoulder a little squeeze. It’s a very subtle display of dominance that sets the tone for the performance. I’ll then back up and look at them for a second before saying “perfect”. They don’t know what this is in reference too, and since volunteers generally like to “get it right”, they’ll tend to just not change or do anything. If they seem to be talking over me, I’ll ask them to look out at the crowd and focus on their breathing. No one can breathe and talk at the same time. I end up with a silent volunteer that’s exactly where I want them. I’ve never said, “don’t move”, and I’ve never said, “don’t speak”. Never verbally communicating these instructions is especially useful with child volunteers, as it gives them nothing to rebel against.

VOLUNTEER BEHAVIOR

If a volunteer does something amazing, write it down after the show, and figure out how to duplicate it. There is always a way to get the response you need. As a child, I watched Mac King’s magic show , riveted because I saw all these moments that were unique to those volunteers. My parents let me watch it again, and I was blown away to see that all of those amazing moments were back! It was amazing to see volunteers behave exactly the same each time. I couldn’t believe it. She ALSO signed the card on the wrong side. He ALSO tried to photograph the cloak of invisibility. We all know that Mac’s not really invisible under the cloak, but no one sees the invisible cues he’s giving to his volunteers. That’s the real magic.
It’s worth taking a moment to say that it’s never too late to back out of a volunteer choice. I’ve seen many performers feel trapped in their choice and try to muscle through a routine with a bad volunteer. It’s always awkward and it’s never worth it. Keep in mind that there is no expectation for what you’re going to do with this person, so it’s always fine to cut things short and move on.

STAGE AUDIENCES

CHALLENGES

Audiences like a challenge. Many performers shy away from the “us v. them” approach. And when strolling, it doesn’t work. But a playful battle makes people so engaged on stage. I hint at the battle, giving cues for people to give me a hard time. I perform an “off by two” reveal, that was always the same. But the first time that I was asked what was on the back of my prediction before turning it around, the reveal got the largest reaction it ever had. I decided to try to replicate that as much as possible. I started mentioning that it was a 50/50 chance, right before revealing that there was something in the envelope. This improved the odds that someone would questions what was on the other side, but not enough. I decided to take the index card out and subtly peak at both sides in the first moment, so that people realize on their own that there is probably something on the opposite side of the card. This improved the odds even more. I started to furrow my brow after the first reveal, as if wondering why they weren’t responding that well, which improved the odds even more. I’m now at about 80 percent, and hopefully that can keep improving.

THE EASY WAY

The easiest way to increase a reaction to your effect is to make a trick go wrong and then save it. It’s an emotional roller coaster ride with a cathartic Obviously, you only get to play that card once in a set. I save it for my finale, where a sealed envelope given out at the top of the show, turns out to be wrong. I stretch that moment for all it’s worth. Reinforcing how good the rest of the show was, apologizing to the host, until people would give anything for me to be able to save the moment. And when I do, people’s reactions are about quadruple what they are if the envelope had been right.

Even though you can only do that once, I do play with the theme throughout my show. Little lines of doubt, such as “ohh, I don’t know if I can do it from this far away” really do bring people to the edge of their seats.

APPLAUSE (BUT NOT FOR YOU)

I use the line “give yourselves a round of applause” several times in my show. And I really do mean it because they’re doing a great job. They deserve encouragement. But you, as the performer, don’t need applause. I usually close my PK touch routine with “Thank you. I have goosebumps. That was beautiful. You can both make your way back to your seats.” And as they go back, people watch them, quietly, as they digest the moment and revel in it, in a way they wouldn’t have if I had fallen into the stereotypical “please give both my assistants a big round of applause”. People pay attention if you fight stereotype.

THE END

The audience is very receptive the external factors at the end of a powerful performance. Please remember that the experience does not end at the end of the show. You set the tone and then you have to send it off. I bring speakers to all shows, mainly so that I can play some music right after I finish. Because if the room immediately goes to hush whispers while I awkwardly pack up my things, the mood will drop pretty quickly. But if you can play a song that supports people’s natural emotional response, it will sustain that mood for much, much longer. I use an app for android simply called Audio Cues . If you’re interested in adding more audio into your show, this little app is a great start. It can control fade times, cross fades, song edits, and can easily be operated during your show. The free version generously allows for 2 shows with 10 cues per show.

At the end of your show, you probably have some people who come up to speak with you, congratulate you, etc. I find the most important question to ask them is, “what as your favorite moment?”. First, this gives you excellent feedback for next time. Second, they may have not even considered what their favorite moment was, but by asking, it brings it into focus for them as well. They’re more likely to remember it for a longer period of time. I remember seeing lots of magic shows, but I remember very few of the tricks. By asking people to recall a moment from the show, you’ve cheated by secretly reinforcing that synapse jump in their brain.

STROLLING MAGIC

KEEP IT CASUAL

Approaching with “Hi, how are you?” will almost never get a great answer. And that’s exactly what I want. I love starting with a clean state, as vanilla as possible. It brings me back to my early hospital room days. Don’t offend, just get in the door and analyze. If I’m strolling, I make sure to wear what most of the guests are wearing. Often, the first thing I do when I show up to a gig, is to take off my tie. I want to be relatable. I approach a group with a drink in hand instead of a deck of cards. “Hi, how are you?” doesn’t give a chance for “No thanks”, or “We’re not interested” I start asking questions, nothing crazy, but enough to get them talking and the magic comes in as an afterthought, in a way that is appropriate for the mood of that crowd.

BE AGGRESSIVE

I know this counteracts what I just said, but once you’ve established a relationship with a group, go to town! As a strolling magician, I find I’m mainly hired to help get people’s guards down so they can loosen up and have fun. So I’ll swap people’s drinks around, tell the most bored person that he looks the most bored, and in general start to deconstruct social graces. Of course, you need to read reactions carefully as you do this, especially for corporate event s , but the payoff will be huge if it’s done well and make a work event not feel like "work".

What is the difference between a magician and a mentalist?

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 15:53:00 GMT

Magician vs. Mentalist. Which is right for your event?

Whether you're a casual observer of AGT or Fool Us, or an aspiring magician yourself, you've probably come across the terms "magician" and "mentalist." While they both conjure up images of wonder and awe, they are distinct branches of the magical arts. Especially when looking to book entertainment for a private event, you might be wondering, "What exactly is the difference between magic and mentalism?" Well, there's a huge difference, but it's not what you think.

The Magician: Master of Illusion

Let's start off with "the magician", the enchanting performer known for their sleight of hand, grand illusions, and visually stunning tricks. Magicians are the folks who can make a coin disappear, pull a rabbit out of a hat, or saw a volunteer in half (don't worry, it's just an illusion!). Here are a few clues to know you're watching a magician:Sleight of Hand: Magicians are masters of dexterity. We spend countless hours honing our skills to manipulate objects in a way that deceives the eye.
Props and Gadgets: Magicians often use a variety of props, gimmicks, and secret devices to create their illusions. From magical wands to cups and balls, we tend to carry around a bunch of stuff that we need to make the illusions happen.
Overly Fancy Stuff: Though I don't wear a sequined vest, many magicians do. The stereotype of a top hat and cape exists for a reason. Unlike mentalists, magicians tend to have a lot of fancy outfits, and you're likely able to pick one out of a crowd.

The Mentalist: Mindreader Extraordinaire

Now, let's turn our attention to the mentalist, a unique breed of magician who specializes in the mysteries of the mind. Mentalists appear to possess supernatural powers of clairvoyance, mind reading, and telepathy, but their secrets lie in psychology, suggestion, and keen observation. Here are a few clues to know you're watching a mentalist:Psychological Manipulation: Mentalists are experts at reading body language, facial expressions, and subtle cues from their audience. We use this information to seemingly read minds and predict choices.
An abundant use of volunteers: Ever seen a mentalist conduct a "cold reading" where they seemingly reveal personal details about a stranger? It's a skill that involves making educated guesses based on general observations and human tendencies. Most mentalists material requires a participant in order to work.
A lack of props: Mentalists often engage their audience in interactive mind games, inviting them to participate and experience the sensation of being part of the act. We might use a chalkboard or envelop, but unlike a magician, we can usually walk onstage with just a briefcase and get to work. My show "Nothing Here is Real" has a run time of 1.5 hours and load in only involves a small briefcase, because the content is primarily mentalism.

The Secret: Both of these artforms require the same skill set! In the world of magic, there's room for both magicians and mentalists, because each can do the same thing. If a bartender can make a great old fashioned , odds are they can also make a pretty good mojito. While magicians dazzle us with their visual spectacle and sleight of hand, and mentalists tap into the depths of the human psyche, we use the same tools of misdirection and sleight of hand for both presentation styles.

Should you hire a magician or a mentalist?

While the Ven diagram of magic and mentalism is pretty much this:

there are still reasons to choose one over the other.

Audience Preferences: Consider the preferences and interests of your audience. Do they enjoy visual and physical illusions, or are they more intrigued by the mysteries of the mind? Mentalism can feel more "trendy" at the moment. But if it's a corporate gathering or a wedding , classic sleight of hand can add some old-school charm and an element of sophistication to your event.
Interaction Level: Determine how much interaction you want between the performer and the audience. Mentalists often involve the audience more directly in their psychological experiments, creating a highly interactive experience. Depending on your group, that can be a beneficial or detrimental.
Venue and Logistics: Evaluate the venue and logistics of your event. Some magic tricks may require more space or longer setup time, so make sure your chosen performer can accommodate the venue's requirements.

Let's wrap this up...

There is one school of thought, which is that mentalist tend to be more skilled. Why? Because you can practice magic "tricks" in your room and perfect them, where as practicing mentalism requires an active observer. This means that if you're claiming to have that skill set, you likely have a more robust repertoire and significantly more experience. But in the end, whether you choose a magician or a mentalist, you're already guaranteeing a more enjoyable and memorable experience for your audience than most events. If you're unsure or want to offer a diverse experience, you could consider booking an entertainer like me, who does both. Not having to choose in advance can be a huge advantage, because I can read the room once I arrive and cater to a broader range of interests. If you want more information about booking me for your event, you can request me here .

Nothing Here Was Real

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 03:48:00 GMT

CLOSING A SHOW IS HARD

My public show, " Nothing Here Is Real " ran for over a year at Oxbow Tavern on 73rd and Columbus in NYC. It was one of my favorite projects because I poured way more personal information into it than I do for private appearances. Telling stories about my grandparents while interweaving illusions was an activity that filled me with joy. Then, right when we were about to ramp up the quantity of performances, Covid struck.

It was hard for a while. I would be going through boxes in my dusty garage, and to my surprise, stumble upon a treasure trove of hundreds of old postcards that were once used to promote the show. The memories of the past flooded back, reminding me of the excitement and anticipation that surrounded the show's opening night.
The venue where the show took place, the Oxbow Tavern, no longer exists, a relic of the past, and so the postcards couldn't be reused to promote any potential future runs. So into the garbage they went...
I had a similar experience with RedBull. I hardly ever drink it, but it became a routine to have one on show days. It ended up being over a year before I drank one again, and was instantly transported back to my show-prepping mindframe.
It made me really want to revisit the show, but I knew that finding a new venue would be difficult. I was hung up on one aspect of the show that was deeply intertwined with the venue's essence - a beautiful antique pool table which served as a focal point for a large portion of the show, captivating the audience with its timeless allure and adding an element of sophistication to the performances.
Finding another venue with something like that would be so difficult that I almost didn't want to start looking. But in much the same way that fate led me to the old venue, I was serendipitously thrust into the Algonquin Hotel. Sure, there was no pool table. But the Oak Room had some qualities that I knew would enhance the show tremendously. So here we are, back on our feet. And I'm thrilled to announce that you can get tickets now ! Here's a shot from opening night:

How To Be a Fun and Engaging Virtual Performer

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 18:12:00 GMT

How do you make a virtual event fun?

Being an engaging virtual performer isn't easy. If you haven't considered all the things that might go wrong on a virtual call, check out my post: Navigating Virtual: The Challenges of Corporate Events on Zoom . But here are a few tricks that have led to my success, not just of being proficient in the technology, but of honestly connecting with people. It really comes down to making sure that the show is incredibly fun, every single time you do it. This past week, 7 of my gigs were different departments in the SAME company. Each one hired me after they heard how much fun another department had. So...
Here's a few things that have worked for me to make these events much more fun:
Make it about the audience. Magic is inherently a self-absorbed activity (Look at me!!!), and that's significantly amplified over Zoom. To counteract that, I REALLY swing the spotlight over to the audience. If they want to see sleight of hand in 4k, while on mute, they can all watch a YouTube video together. Let them make the easy jokes in the show, instead of you. Ask them real questions. Let the people talk!
Make it visually interesting. Grab a few random thumbnails from your virtual show. If they all look identical, you should try to mix it up from a visual standpoint. Though it mostly works for in-person events, through a screen we can only look at someone sitting with a pack of cards for so long.
Embrace the awkward. Sometimes, things might go wrong that are out of your control. The spectator you chose to participate might have their Wi-Fi freeze. Or the boss might not be able to unmute to read your intro. You can't hide these moments once they happen, I've found it's best not to ignore them, but to celebrate them. Pivot quickly to find the comedy and you'll leave everyone with an even more memorable experience.
Make it energetic. I've done a large quantity of live gigs over 10 years for every possible kind of audience. I'm quite good at reading a crowd and working a room. I'm shocked how much that skill set transfers over on virtual. You need to be half magician, half social director. You need to run the event. For in person gigs, you're a break from the party. Virtually, YOU ARE THE PARTY.
Make it unique. I've felt a great creative surge through this process and my show keeps getting quirkier. I haven't watched a single other virtual show, out of fear that I would drift to the norm. So I have no idea what any of you are doing. I'm probably doing it completely wrong. But maybe that's what's working.
Make it feel live. My show is intentionally raw and unrefined. During a particular moment, I consistently fumble and drop my camera by mistake. Additionally, I always manage to press the wrong button, resulting in a My Little Pony decal appearing over the CEO, causing me to panic without fail. Every single time. If you're exceptionally smooth and flawless, it's incredibly simple to dismiss and disregard what's happening on the other side of the screen. Audiences need to see you struggle.

A perfect example of all of this is Patrick's Plant . It started because I liked the alliteration of the double P. Patrick then responded well, and people seemed to enjoy it, so it came up a second time, and then a 3rd. I'll usually never push something more than that, because comedy rules indicate that THREE IS FUNNY! But you can see a lot of the techniques described above in that small little clip.
So there are a few of the things that have worked for me. If you have a very different character, they probably won't work for you. But hopefully some of you got something useful from this. And if this sounds too difficult, consider hiring a professional! Here are some Creative Virtual Entertainment Ideas for Your Next Event.

Creative Virtual Entertainment Ideas for Your Next Event

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 18:12:00 GMT

In an increasingly interconnected world, virtual events have become the norm, offering unique opportunities to connect, engage, and entertain participants from all corners of the globe. If you need some ways to captivate your audience, here are some great options that I've come across.
(Spoiler Alert: it's not a PowerPoint deck!)

1: Gamify the Experience:

Transform passive attendees into active participants by incorporating interactive games. From virtual trivia and scavenger hunts to escape rooms and virtual reality experiences, gaming elements inject a healthy dose of excitement and competition. For a basic version, everyone can use their phones and a platform like crowdpurr . Or hire a host for a more bespoke experience.

2: Expand your Mind

Maybe I'm biased, but... Not only do I offer virtual magic shows , but your team can do a virtual workshop. From culinary arts and painting to dance and writing, hosting expert-led sessions empowers attendees to learn, create, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

3: Drag Queen Bingo

This is a hilarious experience. The easiest way to book is through a vendor portal like Confetti . They will arrange the scheduling and payment so you can just sit back and focus on your bingo board.

4: Virtual Fitness and Wellness:

Prioritize well-being by incorporating virtual fitness classes, yoga sessions, and mindfulness workshops. Attendees can refresh their bodies and minds while networking with like-minded individuals. Companies can subscribe to content through a supplier like Fitpros .

5: Showcasing Hidden Talents:

Host a virtual talent show, giving attendees the chance to spotlight their unique skills, from singing and dancing to magic tricks and stand-up comedy. This option may be appealing, since it's free, but I've seen it b be a disaster. The secret? Make sure you have a quick witted and upbeat host. If no one at your company fits the bill, consider hiring someone like Jeff Civillico . Trust me, it will make all the difference.

Personally, I was shocked by the creativity that bubbled up when developing my virtual show. From learning how to use a streamdeck, to programing scenes into OBS, I was able to develop effects that would have never occurred to me otherwise.

So many entertainers went through this process that we are truly living in the golden age of virtual entertainment. By infusing your gatherings with these diverse and exciting ideas, you'll not only keep your participants engaged but also create an event that they'll remember long after they've logged off. So, go ahead and push the boundaries of virtual entertainment.

Navigating Virtual: The Challenges of Corporate Events on Zoom

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 18:12:00 GMT

What can go wrong with virtual events?

In the wake of the digital revolution known as COVID, the way we conduct business and interact has undergone a profound transformation. One of the most significant shifts has been the rise of work-from-home and virtual events, with platforms like Zoom becoming integral to corporate gatherings and functionality. While these virtual events offer unprecedented convenience and accessibility, they also add a unique set of challenges that event organizers and participants must navigate. I've done a massive amount of virtual entertaining (read how I approach virtual fun ), so let's delve into some of the key challenges posed by corporate virtual events on Zoom.

Technical Glitches and Connectivity Issues

Virtual events rely on stable internet connections and functional technology. However, technical glitches and connectivity issues can disrupt the flow of the event, leading to frustration among participants. From audio and video lag to sudden disconnections, I've seen these technical hiccups undermine the overall experience and engagement of attendees.

Solution: To mitigate these challenges, event organizers should communicate technical requirements in advance, encourage participants to test their equipment beforehand, and provide troubleshooting resources. Having a technical support team on standby during the event can also help quickly address any issues that arise. I've often found ways to provide tech support in a humorous way while in the middle of my magic show. Use an ethernet connection rather than wifi, to eliminate the most common cause of laggy video.

Engagement and Interaction

One of the primary challenges of virtual events is maintaining the same level of engagement and interaction that in-person events offer. Without face-to-face interactions, it's easier for participants to become disengaged or distracted.

Solution: Event organizers can employ various engagement strategies such as interactive polls, Q&A sessions, breakout rooms for small group discussions, and gamified activities. Incorporating audience participation tools can create a more immersive experience and foster meaningful interactions among attendees.

Zoom Fatigue

Constantly staring at a screen and participating in back-to-back virtual events can lead to a phenomenon known as "Zoom fatigue." This fatigue is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, burnout, and reduced attention spans.

Solution: It's easy. Switch over to WebEx! (I'm kidding.) To combat Zoom fatigue, organizers should schedule shorter sessions with breaks in between. Varying the format of the event by including different types of content—like videos, presentations, and discussions—can help maintain participants' interest. Encouraging participants to turn off their cameras during breaks and implementing more relaxed, informal segments can also alleviate fatigue.

Difficulty Creating Networking Opportunities

Networking is a crucial aspect of corporate events, enabling participants to connect, share insights, and build valuable relationships. Virtual events can limit these spontaneous interactions that often occur during coffee breaks or social gatherings.

Solution: Though I'm not usually a fan of breakout rooms, they are a great option for participants to discuss specific topics of their choice. I also use my show as a structure to not only entertain, but also to give participants an opportunity to share their stories without feeling like they are dominating the conversation.

Lack of Quality Entertainment and Activities

How much can you do to engage clients or colleagues on Zoom? The answers my surprise you.

Solution: Early in the pandemic, I had a joke in my virtual show that went something like this.... I'd wait till there was a moment of complete mystification, then say "And you know folks, this show isn't even that good. It's just that the year 2020 has set the bar for entertainment so low..." In some ways, it was true. But now that virtual is here to stay, there are a plethora of really high-quality zoom entertainment options to truly entertain your attendees.

Conclusion

Corporate virtual events on platforms like Zoom have revolutionized the way we gather and collaborate. However, they bring with them a unique set of challenges that require thoughtful planning and adaptation. By addressing technical issues, prioritizing engagement, combating Zoom fatigue, facilitating networking, and refining content delivery, organizers can create virtual events that are not only successful but also provide valuable and enriching experiences for all participants. As technology continues to evolve, finding innovative ways to overcome these challenges will be essential in shaping the future of corporate virtual events.