Earlier this week, I was asked to perform at an event at the same time as a DJ who would be playing loud music. The plan was that I could go around the outside of the room and entertain the people who didn’t want to dance.
This is a nice thought, but it doesn’t really work.
I’m not talking about a bit of background music. Some quiet music in the background works well! I’m talking about that point in a party when the sound gets cranked up and people start dancing. That’s usually the time for the close up magician to leave. Not the best time to have them performing!
What’s the problem?
If the evening has got to the point where any food is finished and the focus is on the dance floor, then the music volume inevitably goes up.
It’s a nice idea to think about the people who remain seated, but it’s a bit of a lost cause. Your magician can try to shout over the music, but it’s not good for your guests. They will struggle to hear anything. It will also probably be quite dark, with random flashing lights, so seeing anything is also difficult.
A good magician will try their best in any situation, but it’s a waste of your money if your guests can not enjoy the magic.
When can it work? When is it a good idea?
I love music!
As I mentioned earlier, a bit of quiet background music is great. While the atmosphere is relaxed and the focus is on people interacting and chatting, quiet music and close up magic are the perfect combination.
Music can actually make the magic experience better, until the volume gets cranked up!
Even when the sound does go up, magic could still be right for you event! It isn’t usually, but read on for the exception to the rule.
If you have booked a venue which has several different rooms, close up magic can be the ideal addition. You’ll get everyone who is ready to shake their tail feather in one place, the dance floor. Everyone who would rather chat will go to the other room(s). In this environment, an experienced magician will stay in the quieter rooms and circulate amongst the ‘non dancers’. Your guests will feel that they have not been left out and they will get to see some great magic.
So what’s the solution?
It’s almost always best to have your magician perform at a quieter time.
If people will be moving around and chatting, then mix and mingle magic provides the best interactive entertainment. There’s usually a slot for this before any loud music kicks in.
If your guests will be seated for a meal, then table magic will provide each group with their own private mini magic show.
If you’re not sure which time slot would work best, give me a call and we can discuss the options. I’m happy for you to use my experience to help plan the perfect entertainment for your guests.