The Magician at a Cocktail Hour

Strolling Magic at a Wedding Cocktail Hour

 

I've performed "Strolling Magic" in Massachusetts during many cocktail hours for more than 13 years, so I have a little mileage in this arena. Let me just say it is easy, except when it is not. What does this mean? It simply means that a cocktail hour is a "living, breathing event." Nothing is cookie cutter, although I think they can be broken down into a few different categories. You can see samples of "easy" in videos.

Note: If you have looked at the highlighted video, notice that the audience is enjoying cocktails, however, no one is eating. Yes, there is food, but it is at a central location where guests can take a plate and enjoy various Hors d'oeuvres.

Food trumps everything except...I shouldn't have to tell you.

I find it surprising when people often request that I perform "magic" during a formal dinner. Never, I mean never interrupt people while they are eating. (This rule extends to dogs as well.) Although I believe my entertainment is "great". It's not of greater value than a dinner served at the right temperature. Entertainment during dessert and coffee is usually totally appropriate.

The Blunt Truth About Strolling Magic...From Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti.

Of course, as a Walk Around magic entertainer my job is to provide top quality commercial magic. However, I do not have anyone introducing me, telling people to put down their phones etc. It's kind of a free for all..."the old west", if you will. It is my job to introduce myself and gather attention and "Knock 'em dead" with my magical skills. Understand, the way I get attention is by interrupting conversations and convincing strangers that what I offer is of imminent importance. Stop what you're doing and watch me. I have no idea why, but this essentially works. I am that important...well not quite.

The More Important Interrupter

Picture this, me strolling around, merrily interrupting people and apparently, they enjoy this somewhat rude behavior. (Yes, I am that good.) Just as I couldn't be doing better along comes a rude waiter or waitress who "interrupts" me with some bacon wrapped scallops...OMG! I must say, I'm tempted myself. (Being a consummate professional, I never eat or drink while I am working.) This inconvenient interruption is simply another person doing their job. I really do understand. Our jobs are quite similar, except they are more important because they are armed with shrimp and bacon wrapped scallops...I even get beat out by cocktail "weenies."

A Well-Hidden Secret of Close-Up Magic

Close-Up Magic is more than a well-rehearsed performance. It is a conversation or an unrehearsed dance between the "Magic guy" and the audience. In its casual appearance, the guests are tacitly invited to take part... yes, their quips and interruptions add to the entertainment. That's why they have so much fun...they are involved. My job is to have secret control over the chaos. Occasionally I have to pull in the reins to maintain attention to ensure the resulting impact of the magic effect.

"The Magical "Punch Line"

Just as in comedy, the flow and delivery of our presentation is essential in its success. In this arena there are no guarantees. Sometimes you have to roll with the punches and never take offense, just because somebody else is doing their best to bring a good time to our mutual clients.

Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710

Comedy Magician Boston, Massachusetts

The Best in Magic...Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

A little over three years ago I received an inquiry from a Recovery/Detox center. They were looking for a "Magic Show" for their clients as entertainment. It happens that the location is less than a mile from my home. Getting gigs in the town where you live is rare, so this was a pleasant surprise. We corresponded via email, so I responded with interest, gave a price, and waited. The response was unexpected. Yes, they wanted my show, and the fee was not a problem...but they asked if I could do a show once a month.

Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

I wrote back and told them I couldn't prepare a new show each month but would be happy to set a date for one show. I was informed that they had new clients each month and they would like a show every month. Of course, I was not opposed to that idea, so I suggested an introductory performance of my magic parlor show, and if it was well received, I'd be happy to come each month. As I expected, it was well received. After all, I am writing this three years later.

The "Stage" in Close-Up Magic is different.

The room where I perform is an all-purpose room, with about fifty chairs. I rearrange the chairs into a semi-circle for the best viewing and as close as possible to see the "magic." I remember my first performance, the clients walking in, not knowing what to expect...many people taking seats in the back row. (It reminded me of being in high school...nobody wants to sit in the front.) I encouraged people to fill in the front seats, these are the best for viewing...After all, it is "Close-Up Magic."

A few staff members are also present, in addition to the clients. Some have since used my entertainment at their events. Now I no longer have to encourage the audience to move to the front seats. The staff began telling the clients about the show before my performance. —they "sold" the show before I even began. The expectations are positive, all I have to do is deliver an entertaining one-hour of "Magic."

Stereotypes and Magicians

On the other hand, magicians deal with stereotypes, despite popular exposure to magic on TV, many feel that magic is for "kids". (Of course, it is, but it is also extremely entertaining for adults.) Magicians are further hampered by expectations that they will be embarrassed. Unfortunately, this is a practice used by far too many magicians. Somehow, they believe this makes them appear clever and witty.

Any reservations expressed by adults will immediately be overcome with a quick "trick" that "knocks them for six." All competent magicians open this way, as it immediately breaks down any barriers and we're off to the races with the simple task of performing "The Best in Magic Entertainment."

Joe Ferranti - Boston Magician 339-927-4710