Hey guys I just got back from our local Pizza Hut where I did some magic. I had a great time! I had never really done anything like that before, until now I had just done stuff for kids at school. I got 45 dollars in tips in 3 hours and gave away 15 business cards so I think I did pretty good.
I just wanted to ask advice on a couple of things
1. how many tricks would you recommend doing to each table?
2. how do you handle little kids that follow you around?
3. and lastly, how do you point out that theres a tip jar w/out sounding rude?
Thanx for reading this Have a good night
AWESOME JOB! Way to go man! Just remember with those business cards: They are tools. Any time you give one out it is because someone has potential interest in hiring you, so don't give out a card without getting their information or card in return. You should always take the initiative to contact them in a few days, thank them for being at your show, and follow up on the booking interest. If you leave it to them to contact you, then they may never do it, and that's a business card you wasted that could have gone to a booking client. Just food for thought.
To answer your questions:
1) I would recommend doing between five and seven minutes per table. The ideal time to perform is between their order being taken and before their food arrives. That's always an annoying dead time at a restaurant anyway. If you pay close attention to the flow of traffic at the place then you'll start to get the rhythm down. You don't want to perform while they are eating, because their attentions won't be on you. Five to seven minutes for me is usually between four and five effects. However I usually carry two sets of effects on me, that way I can change it up half way through the night and people will see a fresh show even if they seen me before. One thing that works for me, is to have a very visual opening effect that gets their attention and establishes you as their entertainment (Ie: Fire Wallet or similar) and one or two effects on stand by for little kids, such as sponge balls or similar.
2) How to handle kids that follow you around? I would just politely tell them, so as their parents can hear, that you love the attention, but also need to give the same amount of attention to everyone else. Explain that you are trying to work and they need to sit down. Usually, the parent will chime in at that moment to wrangle the kids back. Mom and Dad will understand what you are saying better than the kid, and usually will help aid your escape. Just be polite about it, you'll not have too many issues.
3) How to inform people that there is a tip jar without being rude? That's a good question! There are two usual schools of thought on this. Either you flat out inform the guest that you work for tips, or you don't. Some people think it gouche to ask for tips directly. If you're in that crowed then I recommend closing with a money effect. It sends the message subliminally and usually leaves people reaching for their wallets. If you are going to work with a tip jar, then set it down on the tables edge when you approach. Never call attention to it, but leave it there for a moment while you pack up to move to another table. Most adults who would tip will do so at this time, and without prompting. You can also try using an out line to send the message that you're done with the act and are about to move on.
"Thanks folks, I hope you enjoy the night, I'll be around if you need anything. Have a good evening."
Don't expect or wait for it though. If they aren't reaching for their wallets when your done, they probably won't tip, so just move on. I've also seen magicians walk around with a bright yellow button on their jacket that says "I work for tips." but I think that's a bit tacky personally. However, it should be said, it works.
All the best to you mate.
