What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
. I offer discounts for cash-only payments and package deals (combining stage and walk-around).
. Pricing varies based on the show type, time of year (see the next bullet), and how long I'm requested to perform.
. Some timeframes are my busiest of the year, and thus, I do charge more during that time. These timeframes are most notable during the Holidays.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After receiving your initial information regarding the event, I will message you with some information. I'll also ask when you're free so I can call (via phone or Zoom) to discuss in detail the particulars of your event and what you'd like from me aside from performing magic (such as dress codes), along with any additional questions that you may have.
*If by Zoom, I can perform a sample of what your audience can expect to witness for free!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I attended Tannen’s Magic Camp in Brynn Mawr, Pennsylvania, from 2012 to 2013. At TMC, I received education in parlor & stage magic, stand-up comedy, acting, theater tech (lighting, sound, etc), and business management. Some of my teachers include Michael Carbonaro (star of “The Carbonaro Effect”), Derek Hughes (“America’s Got Talent!” finalist and actor from films such as “Mr. Deeds”), and Harrison Greenbaum (finalist on “Last Comic Standing”).
I was a member of my school’s debate team and drama club in high school. Being involved in both extracurricular activities helped me strengthen my character as both a person and a performer, my ability to feel comfortable in front of a crowd, work under pressure, and adapt to change, no matter the circumstances.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Even though I received a magic set when I was 4, I didn't become overly enthusiastic about magic until I was 13. I decided to "re-learn" the art when I came across magic tutorials featuring Justin Willman (Netflix's "Magic for Humans") teaching basic sleight-of-hand tricks. I was immediately hooked when I showed my classmates what he taught, and they all started talking about how cool they were!
What types of customers have you worked with?
Anyone and everyone: law firms, financial institutions, healthcare... the second I say "Is this your card?" everyone in the room, even the CEO, giggles in disbelief and applauds.
I will say that, in terms of venues, I have experience performing in the following: art galleries, theaters, libraries, private residences (inside & backyards), hotels, catering halls, restaurants, country clubs, street fairs, and colleges.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I'm currently working on a street magic video (possibly a series) akin to that of magician David Blaine's early work.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
1) People get what they pay for. Many shop for the cheapest magician. Reviews should be read to understand what the magician is like beyond tricks (energy, engagement, timeliness, etc.). Many people only see a live magician once in their lives. Don't let it be a forgettable, or worse, negative experience.
2) People often assume that “magician = children’s entertainer”. That’s not always the case. Pretend I'm a finance attorney and you came to me saying you were involved in a hit-and-run. As terrible as that is, I wouldn’t specialize in hit-and-run cases and, therefore, couldn't help you.
What does this have to do with magic and performing for younger audiences? I'm occasionally asked to perform for young children. I'm honored, but I don't* specialize in that area of magic. If that's what you were planning on contacting me about, I appreciate it, but there are plenty of other great magicians in the area who would love the work!
*That said, I do have experience performing for late middle-school-aged children (13-14+) and high school, which is ideal for B'nai Mitzvahs, homecomings, etc.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Have all your ducks in a row. While it's exciting to even think about hiring a magician, make sure that you have the basics for your event covered first: do you have an entertainment budget set? Do you have a venue reserved? How many attendees will be there? Will other acts be present (a murder mystery, a comedian...) that could interfere with the magician's act? The more information you have about your event, the better!
