How to Hire a Magician FAQS
If you’ve never hired a magician before, then you may have a few questions about what’s the best way to go about it. What should you ask to make sure the magician you hire…
- will be a good fit for your event?
- has the skills and experience to perform as a magician?
- will turn up at your event?
- has contingency plans in place in case things don’t run as expected?
And I’m sure you want to know, the most common question – how much does it cost to hire a magician?
Well, on this page, I’ll answer all that and more by going through a few pre-hiring questions I often get asked.
I hope you find this useful in helping you. Even if it’s not me, but you find a quality performer, I’ll chalk that up as a success.
And if you want a more in depth answer about how to hire a magician, have a different question or want to find out more about what I do then please get in touch.
ABOUT THE MAGIC
What style of magic do you perform?
My performing style is interactive, lively, and approachable. My magic grows out of conversations and interactions, which means people find themselves laughing and reacting together without ever realising they’ve “taken part” at all. I read the room, and improvise with people in real time, so the moments feel discovered rather than static or ‘flat’.
How do I know you’re any good at this?
This is a fair question. If you’ve never hired a magician before, how do you judge it?
Well, I’ve been performing magic since 2001 (and at paid events since 2005). In that time I’ve learnt exactly what’s required in order to create incredible events entertainment. In fact, I’ve solved many of the issues that someone starting out hasn’t even considered yet.
If you’re still unsure, take a look at my reviews on google (see below ↓) and at the photos and videos on this site. You’ll see me performing at events like yours and other events.
Can you include magic for the children?
Yes! I perform close up magic that brings adults and children together so everyone feels included. However, if you are looking to hire a magician specifically for a children’s birthday party where kids are the sole focus, that is not my speciality.
Which locations do you cover across the UK?
I am based in Staffordshire and regularly work across Birmingham, Nottingham, and Shropshire. However, I travel nationwide and have performed across the UK, Europe, and the USA. Travel fees may apply further afield, but many clients agree it’s worth it to hire a magician they can rely on.
Can you recommend other event suppliers or multiple magicians?
Yes. Over the years, I’ve built a trusted network of excellent event suppliers. I can also easily source multiple performers if your event requires a specific package for example, if you want to hire a magician and a mind reader, or need extra close up magician performers for a very large event.
ABOUT THE BOOKING PROCESS
How far in advance should I book a magician?
Most clients book three to six months in advance, though key dates like summer weddings and December corporate events often fill up two years early. Having said all that, I sometimes have a space free. It’s always worth checking my availability. If I am already booked, I can happily recommend another trusted, high-quality performer.
Can we see you perform live before booking?
Yes! While most of my bookings are private, I host a regular public magic night in Lichfield, Staffordshire. Find out about my next upcoming shows. Alternatively, we can easily set up a video call or meet up for a coffee to chat face to face and discuss how to hire a magician for your specific event.
How much does it cost to hire a magician?
As a starting guide, most bookings fall between £500 to £1,500, depending on performance date/time, location and the package you choose. When you contact me, I’ll ask just a few questions which will allow me make some recommendations based on what’s worked well in the past. You can request a no obligation quote here and I’ll reply as soon as possible.
Why are some magicians cheaper, and do you price match?
This is a fair question to ask when you’re thinking about how to hire a magician, but the reason I don’t match prices is that it’s usually not an equal comparison – even if we’re both providing X hours of close up magic.
One thing to keep in mind when comparing magicians, is that a lower price usually reflects either less experience or a more generic approach.
Many less confident performers rely on pre-set routines or scripted tricks, rather than adapting to the audience in the moment.
My work is different. Every performance is live, interactive, and improvised. It’s built for your guests and the event you’ve planned.
That’s a skillset I’ve developed over 25 years, and it’s what turns a few tricks into something guests talk about long after the night ends.
How should I compare different magicians for hire?
So much of hiring a magician is about the personality of the performer. Do you want this person at your event? I honestly believe the best way to get a feel for someone’s nature is to speak to them. A phone call only has to take 5 or 10 minutes but it will save you hours of emailing around.
Experience is another very important factor, but pay attention to what kind of experience they have. An experienced professional has honed their performance in real events, not just down the pub or at magic get togethers.
Take a look at websites (including mine) for reviews, photos, and videos – are they from events similar to the one you are holding? Or do they all seem to come from one charity gig / are just studio shots of them holding props?
This all sounds great, how do I book?
It’s a simple process.
CONNECT
Get in touch and tell me the details of your event. It’s really useful to know:
DISCUSS
I’ll reach out to you and explain what I provide and what would work best for your event.
AGREE
Once you are happy to go ahead I’ll collect any other missing details, and email you a booking agreement and my payment information.
CONFIRMED
Once you’ve confirmed paid the deposit, you’re booked in to my calendar! I will always get in touch with you a few days before the event to touch base and double check everything.
What happens if you are ill or can’t make it to the event?
I have not missed a show yet. However, if due to unforeseen circumstances I can’t attend your event, I have a list of excellent magicians who can provide cover. I’ll ask one of those to step in on my behalf and provide similar suitable entertainment for you. Of course, you’ll be kept up to speed on the whole process throughout.
Are you insured?
This is an important question if you are looking to hire a magician. I’m glad you are interested in this one. I have public liability insurance organised for me by Equity (the performing artist’s union). This gives us both peace of mind, in the very rare chance that something unfortunate should happen. If your venue needs to see my insurance certificate, just let me know, and I’ll send it across to you, or to them directly.
