Why the "Big" response ?

The reasons for performing magic are many. Although, not the only reason...I enjoy the responses from my audiences.
These are not tales from the imagination, or the fish tale the gets larger each time you tell it. The proof is in the videos. Video footage supports your testimonials, in fact they often are the deal maker.

But how and why the over the top reactions? One would like to believe that there performance is so wonderful that you are solely responsible. If only...even "novice/poor" performances can get laughter and shouting. This is simply the rug factor...pull the rug out from the audience and watch the free fall. It never fails, similar to hiding behind a door and jumping out to surprise your friend. You will get a reaction. Almost every magic trick ends in a surprise...or an anticipation of the "impossible" is looming, as much as you fell, "No Way!"

Now, when you mix in the "cafeteria factor" you will be entering an entirely augmented response. I refer to the cafeteria, as think back at my school days and also my time working in a school environment. Can you remember how many times you were told to quiet down. It is 100% reliable...put 50 or more kids in a cafeteria and the noise level expands like watching a balloon expand. The room just gets louder and louder as everyone competes to be heard from the person they sit next to.
As you grow older, you realize this is universal, and applies to adults as well. See yourself perform table magic at a Wedding. here's what you've got going for you. Everybody is there expecting and wanting a good time. The rest is easy, your only job is to not "F" up the mood.

The next reliable factor is the allowance to let go, (vocally or otherwise) to the magic experience. Notice how loud the room is...your spectators are permitted to make all the noise they want in response to your "tricks."
Most people who see the videos imagine everybody is drunk...an easy audience. thank goodness that is not the case. In my work, I've observed at most people drink less than a typical guest did 30 years ago. That's not to say that no one over indulges. I can tell you about a guy who bit my sharpie in half!

I always remember the advice from Doc Eason. ( A Bar Magician at the time) He warned not to get a fat head from the reactions and things your spectators say to you. "You're the best magician I've ever seen." the reality is often you are the only magician they have seen perform live.

So with ego under control, here's a video of the "cafeteria factor". BTW, there was a band contributing to the noise. Hence, even louder responses.

Best Wishes,
Joe

Joe Ferranti  Walk Around/Strolling Magician  Mass. and Boston Ma.

www.ferrantimagic.com   339-927-4710