As I write this article, it’s holiday party season, and events are in full swing. I’ve been working almost every night at corporate and private events and I love it!
My bookings during this time of year are about half strolling magic & mentalism with the rest being my full mind-reading show. When I am hired to provide strolling entertainment, I’m also usually asked to give a short stand-up mind-reading performance after the speeches. I love these short shows because they add a little excitement to the normally drab corporate talk.
So here’s what happens: about an hour or two into the event (where I’ve already been performing strolling magic and mentalism) the big boss stands up, everyone pays attention, and they give their speech. After a short introduction, I burst onto the stage area and give a 15-minute performance of high-energy mind reading. And right when I start, half the room leaves, continues their conversations, or make a bee-line for the bar.
The instinct for inexperienced performers is to try to get the attention of the room. They talk louder, jump up and down, or tell everyone to be quiet. The truth is, no one is there for the performance. They’re there because they have to be, to get their bonus, or to network. No one comes to a corporate holiday party for the strolling entertainment’s mini-performance.
The secret to a successful stage performance as a “special treat” (as opposed to a full show where everyone does pay attention) is to understand that it’s for those who want it and for others – live and let live. Don’t quiet down the room, don’t make anyone stop what they’re doing… just let them have fun.
My advice for event planners who are thinking of adding this type of treat at your next corporate event is to do it because it’s really fun and awesome, but remember that half the room will be distracted with other things… and that’s ok. Those who do watch will love it and those who do not will know something special is happening around them, even if they don’t enjoy it themselves.
Happy Holidays and let’s raise a glass to more amazing experiences for our members, guests, clients, and friends!