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For the uninitiated (muggles, as we sometimes call them), selecting the right type of magician to perform at an event is key, because it will help with the process of selecting the absolute best performer for the job. While there are many ways to categorize magic, in this post we will describe the two most common types that event planners look for: Strolling Magic and Stage Magic. Here is a summary of each.
Strolling Magic
When a magician “table hops,” walking around an event, approaching small groups of people at a time and performing more intimate closeup sleight of hand, this is called strolling (or roaming) magic. Sets are typically short, anywhere from 2-10 minutes, because the goal is still to hit as many groups as possible in a given time span, while still offering a personal experience to all. This type of magic is best for weddings, fun corporate events, seances, or private parties where there is a lot happening at once and it would be difficult to get everyone quiet and in one place. For example, a wedding party might have a DJ playing all night, so the magician can offer to put on small performances for those who would rather drink and chat rather than hit the dance floor. Or perhaps a corporate event has booked a speaker but is looking for some light entertainment during the cocktail hour before. In some cases, a venue simply might not have a stage or appropriate sound equipment, but the banquet is still looking to include entertainment. Magicians best suited for this are social, fun, and engaging in person. They should also have a variety of smaller effects that still play big, as they are limited to what can fit in their pockets or purse. Elizabeth of The Cosmic Romantics has mastered this sort of performance style, and typically strolls with her Kate Spade rabbit in a hat purse, filled with a variety of powerful closeup magic effects. Eric also brings his own brand of impressive sleight of hand to these up close performances. When you know what to look for, it will be easier to book top talent.
Stage Magic
When a magician has a more theatrical or comedic act that plays to larger groups at once, that is considered Stage Magic or Parlour Magic. Like a proper theater show, audiences can interact when called upon, but they will more likely be watching and enjoying the show that may last from 20-80 minutes. These shows also provide a higher level of production value, including a proper stage or some sort of sectioned off performance area and audio system (we often bring our own lavalier mics but need a system to plug into for audio cues, which we trigger ourselves if no one is there to run tech for us). These shows can still be fairly simple and require no microphones at all, if it is for a small birthday party at a private residence for example, or it can be very elaborate. Magicians that excel in this area typically bring larger illusions and a more refined stage presence, typically with either acting or standup/improv/sketch comedy training. Eric of The Cosmic Romantics excels in this department, combining a background of sketch comedy from Chicago with original magic effects. Elizabeth also knocks stage shows out of the park with her incredible singing voice that accompany various routines.
There are of course many other ways to categorize magic, for example by style, which may include mentalism, sleight of hand artist, or grand illusion, but for those putting on events, simply understanding Strolling vs. Stage magic will help narrow down the type of magician to look for. Thanks for reading, and happy event planning!
Cosmically,
Elizabeth Messick & Eric Thirstin
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