What's your style of performance?
Ask a Magician, a series of blog posts answering your questions! - Issue I
In this first issue, the question comes from Hollie in Birmingham, who asks:
Do you have a specific style of performance?
Absolutely Hollie! I describe my performing style as lively, upbeat, approachable and conversational.
For me, one of the best things about magic are the connections that are formed when people are a part of something impossible together. Magic is a fantastic way to have a new fun experience with close family, friends or colleagues. And this is true of both my close up magic and my stage performances. In short, I spark the conversations that people will be having during an event:
"Did you see when the ... disappeared?"
"Wait! Do that one more time, but show my friend!"
More than that though, I am able to create the stories people will be sharing long after the party has finished.
Unfortunately, many magicians don't understand the human side of performing magic. They are just showing off the latest trick they have learnt.* That's a shame, because I believe the real secret to magic, isn't in the tricks. It's in the connection (that word again) between the people involved. A professional magician is a people person. They know instantly how to get the best out of people.
When people hire me as a magician, they do so because they don't want their guests hanging around on the edges. That's why my magic is firstly conversational! Guests are able to create the show with me. Just imagine people finding their own card, reading each other's mind or getting the big laugh that makes them the talk of the night! Side note: I never embarrass anyone! As I've said, my performances are lively, upbeat, approachable, conversational AND a whole load of fun. Come along for the ride!
*Of course, the magic needs to be impressive and impossible. I know that it is, because of the reactions I get as shown in the video below.
Got a question to contribute? I would love to hear it! Leave a comment, or click here to email me.
YOUR INCREDIBLE EVENT IS
JUST A FEW STEPS AWAY
1. CONNECT
It's easy to get in touch with me, either:
email ↓
ed@edsumner.com
call ↓
07792 129 828
or fill in an enquiry form.
2. DISCUSS
During a short phone or video call, we'll talk about your event and your initial ideas. Don't worry, if you're not sure. I've helped to plan many events so I can advise on the best use of magic and other events entertainment.
3. AGREE
Once all the details are agreed, I'll send you a booking confirmation and ask you to make the first payment which confirms your date in my calendar. Then it's time to start looking forward to your big event.
4. ENJOY
I'll check in with you in the week before your event, and on the day of the event. All you need to do now is enjoy the magic, mind reading and conversational comedy.
[…] Oooh! This is not nice to talk about, but yes! Occasionally people do shout things out. This is much more common in close up magic than it is with stage magic, but that's because my performance is set up to be conversational. When I'm performing close up magic I actively encourage people to be involved, to interrupt and to share their own jokes. It's all part of my friendly, conversational style. […]