Importance of Your 1st Trick In A Show

The first trick of your performance must be a very good one, something that you know from experience will demand the crowd's attention and seriously entertain. Why? This first wave of amazement, laughter, and applause will put you and your audience at ease. That’s the goal.

From the beginning, your audience is sizing you up, and this can cause nervousness. Allowing your nerves to get to you can cause you to fumble, which will only make the rest of your show a struggle. It would best help if you put yourself and the audience at ease from the very start. Doing so is why your first trick needs to be amazing, entertaining, and straight to the point. Let your confidence shine through, because if you're confident, then your audience is, too. From this moment on, your audience will know they're in for a good time. They will relax their suspicion of you and be open to all that you have to share. Making sure you're ready with a strong opener will also push your confidence level even further, and as time goes on, your experiences will make you a more accomplished performer.

Here is an old story I read about that confirms the importance of a good strong opening to any live performance. The famous comedian Jack Benny told a young Frank Sinatra that he (Jack) always started his show with quick, very funny, tried-and-true laugh getters. Doing this upfront would ensure that you and your audience are at ease right from the show's start. From that moment on, Sinatra always started his performance with three of his most loved songs. Good advice from two old pros of the world of entertainment.