(8) Magical Performance Types
The kinds of shows that magicians present are quite varied, so let's review the basics for eight common formats. What is your preference? These are eight types of magic performances that every magician should know and consider when building routines.
Grand Illusion
These are the largest shows done by magicians, usually done in large theaters where hundreds or thousands of people can watch as a live show. Typically, this performance type usually involves other people, such as a magician's assistant in big box cabinet tricks. These shows are sometimes are part of a circus, but most commonly in a Las Vegas showroom.
Examples of tricks for this type include Metamorphosis, Zig Zag, Asrah Levitation, etc.
Often bold and dramatic styles with choreographed music and lighting
Platform / Nightclub Magic
These performances can be similar to the Grand Illusion type of show and involve some smaller magic tricks that can be done with a smaller sized audience. Between the years of 1947 to 1977, there were many nightclubs and supper clubs in cities across the United States. In these venues, you could enjoy dinner, drinks, and a show. These live entertainment establishments often involve magicians as performers, plus a lot of audience interaction and comedy. Very few of these types of performance venues exist today.
Examples of tricks for type include Dove Magic, Chinese Linking Rings, etc.
Styles among magicians vary a lot, from serious and mysterious to bold and comedic (lighting and music, too)
Small Platform / Nightclub / Parlor Magic
The parlor referred to here was also known as "Drawing Room" entertainment, a large room (now commonly referred to as a living room) in a larger residence that guests were received and entertained in. This type of show was typically a private affair. A more intimate nightclub-style of magic is seen in smaller club venues that sit between 40 to 100 guests. The California Magic Club (Martinez, CA) is this type of magic entertainment venue.
Examples of tricks for this type include The Multiplying Billiard Balls, Color Changing Silk Scarf, etc.
Again, styles among magicians vary greatly, and lighting and music are commonly used
Close-Up Magic
This is the most intimate of the formal magic show performance. The close-up magic gallery at the Magic Castle in Hollywood seats just about 22 guests maximum. Sometimes, this performance is done as a show behind a bar where guests are seated in varied settings. The most formal and effective of this performance is where guests (10 to 15 maximum) are seated around a table for the show. The length of the show is usually 30 to 45 minutes. At this close range, the audience is always amazed because of their closeness to the magician.
Examples of tricks for this type include Cups and Balls, Playing Card Magic, etc.
Although styles vary, being funny and conversational is key
Table Hopping Magic
This performance type is done in a restaurant for dinner guests table-side. Magic is performed briefly before or after the dinnertime. The performances appear to be somewhat impromptu for dinner guests. Shorter magic routines are usually performed because of probable interruptions that may occur. Stay tuned for another article on this specific type.
Examples of tricks for this type include Color Changing Knives, The Invisible Deck, etc.
Again, although styles vary, a conversational and/or comedic approach is often used
Home Magic Shows
These are performances done in private at a residence where the magician has been engaged for a private party. These occasions may be dinners, cocktail parties, children's birthdays, etc. This might be a formal parlor show or close-up magic show, or even strolling type magic for guests.
Examples of tricks for this type include The Cut and Restored Rope, Twentieth Century Silks, Card Magic, etc.
Often personable and conversational but complementary to the event vibe
Impromptu Magic
This type of magic is performed spur of the moment in any number of situations. The magic may be performed at someone's request or merely unexpectedly by the magician. This type of performance brought the "street magic" phenomenon into existence. These performances should be kept relatively short, so the audience is left wanting more. Remember, these are unscheduled shows, spur of the moment; the moment should be an unexpected, delightful experience.
Examples of tricks for this type include Coin in the Bottle, Color Changing Knives, Card Magic, etc.
Depends a lot on the mood of the situation
After-Hours Magic
This type of performance allows for more impromptu magic performed in a casual setting after a performance has already taken place. Let me explain a bit further... guests may want to talk with you directly to learn more about you as a performer. It's great to see people show additional interest, and you can choose to capitalize on this excitement if it feels to do so. Seize the chance to perform a little more in a conversational style. Watch out for another article on this type of performance, too.
Examples of tricks for this type of event include Card Magic, Mentalism Routines, Storytelling Tricks, etc.
Longer magic routines fill this time
Remember: There's a proper time, place, and setting for the types of performances I've described. Continue to enjoy your journey through the fine art of magic, and explore what feels right for you as a performer.