2007-01 When do we start the magic?

I am not a frequent contributor to the news letter…actually, this is my first, so be gentle with me. However, as we start a new year, I am putting together a new magic show for birthday parties. While contemplating which routines to include, I recalled a show from a couple of years ago and wanted to share the experience with my fellow ringers.

The birthday party was for a group of approximately 15 kids, varying in age from about 4-12 years old. The setting: the home’s garage, with kids on the floor…garage door open (at kid’s back)…almost outside.

The show began with a “Happy Birthday” paper tear and restore; followed by various routines, including sponge balls, silk production, a couple of card tricks, and more; closed with a 36-inch clown silk blendo…with lots of interactive comedy mixed in.

Reactions were very good. Kids were paying attention, eagerly volunteering, laughing at the comedy (especially Inky, Stinky and George). In general, they were having a good time, and I was having fun with them…it felt like a good show.

Yes, there is a…but…just as the clown blendo was produced, and I said “it’s been a lot of fun ‘clowning around’ with you”, one boy (about 10-yrs old, and very interactive during the show) said, “When do we start the magic?” This particular kid was entertained, but apparently not impressed. We moved on to the balloon twisting, and he did not elaborate on his expectations.

My performance style is “comedy magic”, with a lot of audience interaction…and no live animals (I keep some grey hair under my hat, in case kids ask for a rabbit…many of the jokes are for the ‘big kids’…code word ‘adults’). Sometimes I perform in clown attire, and sometimes as a straight magician…either way my focus has always been on mixing the ‘magic’ and the ‘comedy’ to leave the audience ‘entertained’.

For the show discussed above, I was performing as a straight magician…and apparently from one kid’s perspective, the expectation for ‘magic’ was different than the comedy routines used in the show. Although that show was the only time anyone ever reacted as that 10-yr old, it influenced me to modify the show then, and it will be a factor as I decide the routines for this year’s show. You may not be able to meet everyone’s expectations, but you should listen to everyone’s reactions.

I still think it is all about ‘entertaining’…but here’s a lesson from a 10-yr old…leave your audience with a little bit of ‘wow’, especially if you are not wearing your red nose.

Here’s hoping you have a great ’07.

Bill Terry (aka PJ)