Do you need a Close up Magician for your event? Take this Quiz to Find Out!

When planning an event, it’s important to consider if you’re going to have any entertainment and what type of entertainment will best suit the atmosphere you’re looking to create.

OK, I said, “if” you’re going to have any entertainment, but the truth is that while the venue and decorations, might make the event look nice, it’s always the entertainment that people are going to remember most. Entertainment, like a close up magician, affects people. It gets them involved either directly, or indirectly by mixing with other guests. It’s these interactions with others that they will remember.

One of the things I often tell my magic students is “people are more interested in people than things.” I don’t know about you, but I put a higher priority on making sure my guests have a great time, rather than what the venue looks like. In fact, I often think that we would have a good time in a more plain venue, provided we were laughing along together.

So, do you need a close up magician? Well, in this post, I’ve designed a quiz to find out what’s best for your event. Is it close up magic, or some other type of magic, or some other type of entertainment?

Jump straight to the quiz here, or continue reading for more of an introduction to close up magic.

What exactly is close up magic?

What exactly is close up magic, and how do you determine if it’s the right fit for your event? Close up magic, is a highly interactive art form, where a magician performs magic in social situations and events such as weddings, parties and corporate gatherings, usually while mingling with guests or at their table. The magic includes tricks with everyday objects such as playing cards, coins, banknotes, keys, pens, smartphones, etc.

For contrast, consider stage magic, which is designed for large audiences, where the audience are sat either theatre style (in rows) or cabaret style (at small tables). This type of magic often requires microphones, speakers, lights, and the props might be more specialised. Although there are lots of stage mind readers (aka. mentalists) who perform with everyday objects such as pens, sketchpads, calculators, etc.

Actually, they say a picture tells a thousand words, so here’s a video of me in action, performing close up magic!

Why choose a close up magician for your event?

The appeal of close up magic lies in its ability to captivate and engage guests in a unique way. It’s not just about the tricks themselves but the interaction and personal connection that comes with them. Close up magic takes place in a shared space, where and so guests are part of the show. This can be as simple as choosing a card, to as involved as reading the mind of your best friend!

A skilled close up magician can seamlessly blend into your event, moving among guests and creating moments of astonishment and laughter throughout.

Note, however that I said a skilled close up magician. That is what it should ‘should’ look like. There are some events organisers who choose to go for the cheap option and book a beginner magician. It might come as no surprise to you, that magicians who are just starting out in magic, are often not as confident in their performing. This is so easy to tell, and when an audience detects this, it can make them feel almost sorry for the performer. That’s just a bit awkward. Also, often in the early stages of magic, beginner magicians tend to perform at the audience, rather than to them or with them. Another big mistake that really spoils what magic can be.

I know all of this by the way because as well as performing magic, I also train other magicians. Anyway, more on selecting the best close up magician for your event later. For now, though let’s think a little deeper about your event.

With so many factors to consider, how do you know if a close up magician is even what your event needs?

The Quiz – Do you Need a Close up Magician?

Here’s the quiz!

To play, just select the question that most fits your event, and a dropdown will appear with more information, and a points score.

The answers are not in any order, and the points are not equally weighted across the answers!

Question 1: What type of event are you planning?

A corporate event: think Christmas party, summer barbeque or conference.Expand

(4 points) This is probably the most common type of event that I perform at. A close up magic would be a great choice here, either as walkaround magic or table magic.A celebration: think wedding, engagement party, anniversary, retirement or ‘big’ birthday.Expand

(4 points) A celebration is the perfect opportunity for close up magic, and I perform at lots of these events.A children’s birthday party.Expand

(0 points) A close up magician doesn’t really fit in with children’s birthday parties or other child focused events. Family events are a maybe/sometimes, but it sounds like you might be looking for a children’s entertainer. If you get in touch with me, I will recommend someone.A dinner for a small group.Expand

(2 points) This is an ‘it depends.’ I personally do perform at these kinds of events, but not all close up magicians do. I refer to these events as grand close up magic, as I perform to the whole group as one, rather than mix and mingle magic.

Question 2: How would you describe the atmosphere of your event?

A corporate event: think Christmas party, summer barbeque or conference.Expand

(4 points) This is probably the most common type of event that I perform at. A close up magic would be a great choice here, either as walkaround magic or table magic.Formal, with structured seating and presentations.Expand

(1 point) While close up magic isn’t usually performed in such a formal set up, you might want to consider either a parlour magic show (for up to about 50 people), or a stage magic performance for larger groups.High-energy and very loud, like a nightclub or disco.Expand

(0 points) These environments make it very difficult for close up magic. You might instead consider something like a dancer / juggler who uses glow props, costumes and body paint.Family-oriented.Expand

(1 point) As I mentioned above, close up magic isn’t ideal for children’s birthday parties, but it can be used at family events and every year I do a few family events such as Christenings, summer fayres and street parties. Note, however that I am there to entertain both the adults and the children. I’m not a kids entertainer.

Question 3: What is the size of your event?

Massive: I’m holding a festival! There will be 1000’s there!Expand

(2 points) If it’s really a festival, then you might like to consider magic for a specific area, eg. a certain bar or VIP area. If it’s just a large event then you might want to consider multiple close up magicians. The great thing is I can organise those on your behalf.Large: A large gathering with 150 to 300 people.Expand

(4 points) This is a great size for a close up magician or, at the higher end, two close up magicians. The general rule is that one close up magician can meet and perform to about 75 to 100 people in two hours.Medium: About 50 to 150 people.Expand

(4 points) This is the perfect size for a single close up magician to take on by themselves. If they attended your event for two or three hours, they would be able to meet and perform to everyone. For me, when it’s on the lower side of this range, I’m able to spend longer getting to know people and making them feel appreciated, as well as performing my tricks.Small: Less than 30 people.Expand

(2 points) For this number of people, you are better off considering grand close up magic, or my parlour show. This is very similar but instead of walking around mixing with guests, I perform a short show for everyone to enjoy together.

Question 4: How much time do you have for close up magic at your event?

I’d like you to be there all day.Expand

(3 points) This isn’t a problem, but remember that you will need to include breaks for the magician. They won’t be performing non-stop. You’ll also have to pay a full day rate.approx. 2 to 3 hours.Expand

(4 points) This is the ‘sweet spot’ and most of the events I perform are for this amount of time. It’s great for events where there are 50 to 150 people. See the question above for more information on that.approx. 1 hour.Expand

(4 points) I tend to find that I often perform for an hour when there is a sit down meal taking place afterwards and they only want ‘cocktail magic’ to welcome guests. That’s fine, but if there are more than 50 guests, you might want to either consider another performer (and I can help to organise that on your behalf), or accept that not everyone will get the chance to see the magic.approx. 30 minutes or less.Expand

(2 points) Where you just want me to make a brief appearance at your event, it’s often more impactful if I perform a short show rather than walkaround close up magic.

Question 5: At what point during your event would you like entertainment?

During a drinks reception or while people are mingling.Expand

(4 points) This is the best approach for what is known as walkaround close up magic. It’s what I specialise in and perform most. The great thing about the way that I perform is that it is upbeat, conversational, and fun. The magic is great, but you’ll be laughing along too. Read more about me here.As the main event, with everyone seated and watching.Expand

(1 point) This isn’t really close up magic, but fear not, I can still provide you with entertainment. It might instead be called parlour magic (for groups up to about 50 people), or stage magic (for very large groups, you might need to provide a stage and tech). If you reach out to me, I will be happy to advise further.Late at night when everyone is already really drunk.Expand

(1 points) I do occasionally provide bar magic for some events, but this is designed as an alternative to those who aren’t so keen on dancing. It’s not a babysitting service for tired children and drunk adults. There might be some magicians keen on doing that, but I wouldn’t recommend it.During a formal sit down meal.Expand

(4 points) For this type of event I perform table magic. It’s very popular and I perform this type of close up magic often. Just one quick thing to bear in mind is that you want everyone to enjoy the meal too, so I’ll take a step back during the main course. For this reason, I advise building in a little extra time to the booking, or asking me to organise a second close up magician performer.

Question 6: How important is audience participation to you?

Very – I want my guests to be part of the show.Expand

(4 points) Perfect. The style that I love to perform is very conversational and interactive. By being involved it brings the magic to life, and no two shows are ever the same. Think magic combined with sharp improvised comedy. That’s what I do. Read more about my style of magic here.Somewhat – a mix of performance and participation would be nice.Expand

(4 points) That’s great. Most close up magicians, myself included, are happy to include a mix of performance pieces and interactive routines.Not much – I prefer them to be spectators.Expand

(2 points) Close up magic is an interactive form of entertainment. If they won’t be interacting then it might not be for you. A stage performance might suit you better and there are some wonderful magicians who can provide a short act of magic to music. I would be happy to recommend someone to you.

Question 7: Budget wise, what priority have you assigned to entertainment?

High – Entertainment is top priority for my event.Expand

(4 points) Entertainment can make or break an event, and if you’re willing to invest just a little bit more then I can help you to create a truly unique experience. It’s best for us to have a chat via phone, video call or in person so we can help bring your vision to life.Moderate – I have a set amount but can adjust for the right act.Expand

(4 points) Perfect. This is a healthy attitude to have, and I’m sure I can help you to find someone who would suit your needs. You can reach out to me here.Low – I need to keep costs down or free, if possible.Expand

(0 points) I believe that people deserve to be paid for the effort they put in, and the costs they incur. That includes the self employed and artists.

How many did you score?

• 0-8 points: A close-up magician might not be the best fit for your event, but that doesn’t necessarily exclude all of magic. One of the best things about magic is that it’s flexible enough to fit into a variety of events. I love to talk magic, so if you reach out to me, I’ll be happy to recommend what would work best for your event, even if it that means recommending another magician or performer.
• 9-18 points: Your event could benefit from a close-up magician, but it might depend on how they’re integrated with other aspects of your event. Let’s have a further conversation and I’ll be able to guide you on how to maximise the entertainment at your event and make sure you get the best value for money from whatever you choose to do.
• 19-28 points: Hiring a close up magician for your event should be an easy win. Your event is the perfect setting for my interactive and engaging style of magic. It could really enhance the experience of your event. Get in touch today and I’ll create the stories you and your guests will be sharing for many years to come.

How do you choose the right close up magician?

So, you’ve done the quiz, and decided that a close up magician is worth booking (or at least considering). Well, choosing the right close up magician for your event is the crucial next part to ensure that your guests have an unforgettable experience.

The magician’s ability to skilfully blend into the atmosphere of your event is paramount. Below, I’ll provide some of the essential qualities to look for in a close up magician and provide a list of critical questions to ask potential candidates

Do remember this key advice. The close up magician you choose will be interacting directly with your guests. It’s always worth talking to them on the phone and getting to know them. I know it’s easier to conduct things by email, but the personality of your performer will affect your event.

Key qualities to look for in a close up magician?

Experience: A magician with a wealth of experience brings a level of professionalism and polish that is hard to replicate. In my case, I’ve been performing magic for over 20 years. In that time I’ve learnt exactly what works in order to make the most of events. And, I’ve made all the mistakes possible, at other less important events.

Look for a magician who has performed for many years, at a variety of events. One way to judge this is to take a look through their website at photos and videos, and check out online reviews.

Adaptability: Events can be dynamic, with changes happening in real time. A great close up magician is adaptable, able to adjust their performance to suit the setting, whether it’s a change in venue layout or the need to engage different types of audiences throughout the event.

Audience Engagement: As mentioned, the essence of close up magic lies in the close up magician’s interaction with the audience. The ability to engage, and entertain guests of all ages is as important as their tricks, and their ability to fool / amaze you! Personality is the ‘secret sauce’ if you like that sets apart a good magician from a great one. Remember what I wrote above, “People are more interested in people, than things.”

Collaborative: It’s worth working closely with your magician to align their performance with the theme and tone of your event. Together we can create something incredible. A collaborative approach ensures that the magic complement the event’s overall vibe and meets your expectations.

Questions to ask potential magicians

When comparing close up magicians, it’s essential to ask the right questions to gauge whether they are a good fit for your event. Here are a few questions you might like to ask: 1. Can you describe your experience performing at events similar to mine?
2. How do you tailor your performance to different audiences and settings?
3. Do you have any video footage of your performances I can view?
4. How do you handle situations where guests are hesitant to participate?
5. Are there any specific requirements or conditions you need for your performance?

Hire a close up magician

So, if you’re pondering the question, “Do you need a close-up magician for your next event?” I’m here to help guide you towards making the perfect choice. Whether you’re looking for an incredible, amazing, mind blowing addition to elevate your event or simply need advice on the best entertainment options, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Even if my close up magic is not the ideal fit for your specific needs, I’m more than happy to recommend other options, including other talented magicians and entertainers who can bring your vision to life.

I’m well connected within the magic community, and would be happy to give you this advice for free.

Contact me today to start the conversation.07792 129 828
ed@edsumner.com

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