“Do you just
do card tricks?”
Oh, boy,
it’s not going to be fun answering this. It’s a tough question, but reasonable
and you had better develop a tough skin…this is no time to show attitude.
I get this
question from time to time over the phone. I don’t audition for my everyday jobs;
it’s just not financially possible.
What not to
say: “I do not perform card tricks” [indignant tone] “I perform Miracles with
cards!” [Further indignation]
Maybe this? “Yes, I do perform quite a few card tricks; I
think you will find them quite different than what you might have experienced.
In fact, please take a few minutes and see my YouTube videos, they will give
you a good idea of the reactions your guests will have.
[They should see your past clients
having a great time…if not, you don’t need to answer the above question.]
“Also, I do
perform magic with coins, dollar bills and many other everyday articles…people
seem to put it into the card trick category. I understand, but there is a lot
more.”
I’ve been
known to say “Most lay people have never seen a professional Magician.” I mean
in person, up close…know what I mean?
I’m really
talking about our attitude…we don’t need to be insulted by innocent questions.
i.e. “OH you perform magic…the children must love it.”
If you are
insulted by this, remember, as in life, you should not feel you are better than
anyone else. Drop the, “I don’t perform for children.” [Indignant tone again]
For goodness
sake, people choose their fields…”I’m a brain surgeon, not a general
practitioner!” [Indignant tone from a brain surgeon when asked a question about
a hang nail.]
At times I
think I should write a book, not a blog…so much to say. This blog could easily
be about respect, never mind card tricks. And remember, respect is a two way
street.
“Oh, and by
the way…I don’t do kids shows.” [No tone, just sayin’”] J
Joe Ferranti: Strolling/Walk
Around Magician serving Massachusetts
and New Hampshire
