Introduction
Planning an event in Indianapolis and want to make it unforgettable? Hiring the right magician can transform an ordinary gathering into a truly magical experience. This guide walks you through the 10 essential questions every planner should ask before booking a magician—helping ensure your event is engaging, memorable, and perfectly tailored to your audience.
1. Availability & Booking Timeline
Question to ask: Is your date available, and how far in advance should I book?
Why it matters: Popular performers often book up months ahead. According to EventMB, 77% of event planners list attendee engagement as their top priority—so securing your entertainment early ensures you don’t miss out on an engaging act 【EventMB, 2023
2. Performance Style & Audience Fit.
Question to ask: Do you specialize in family-friendly magic, close-up illusions, or comedy-driven acts?
Why it matters: The right style keeps your audience entertained and involved. Research shows that interactive performances like magic can increase participation by up to 65% 【Bizzabo, 2024】
3. Customization & Flexibility
Question to ask: Can you adapt your act for our event’s style, tone, or theme?
Why it matters: Tailored entertainment sticks in guests’ minds. Studies reveal that attendees are twice as likely to remember an event with live performances compared to one without 【EventMB, 2022】
4. Experience & Credentials
Question to ask: How long have you been performing, and what types of events have you worked?
Why it matters: Experienced magicians know how to work a crowd and adapt quickly. Corporate research shows 78% of planners believe professional entertainers increase satisfaction and repeat attendance 【MeetingsNet, 2022】
5. Pricing & Packages
Question to ask: What is included in your base price? Do you offer packages for special occasions like corporate events or weddings?
Why it matters: Clear pricing ensures you maximize your ROI. A customized package may include stage magic, strolling illusions, or emcee duties, giving you more entertainment value for your budget.
6. Engagement & Hosting Capabilities
Question to ask: Can you serve as an emcee or MC in addition to performing?
Why it matters: A comedy magician not only entertains but also keeps the event flowing smoothly, filling gaps and energizing the crowd.
7. Logistics & Venue Requirements
Question to ask: What setup and space do you need for your act? Any lighting, sound, or staging specifications?
Why it matters: Proper staging makes or breaks the performance. Close-up tricks might need an intimate setting, while stage illusions benefit from lighting and audio equipment.
8. Reviews & Audience Feedback
Question to ask: Can you share testimonials or video samples from past events?
Why it matters: Feedback validates your choice. Plus, 81% of attendees share event experiences on social media if the entertainment is unique 【Eventbrite, 2023】—so past success is a strong predictor of buzz for your event too.
9. Booking Process & Payment
Question to ask: How do we finalize, pay, and secure your services?
Why it matters: A clear booking process avoids last-minute stress and ensures your event runs smoothly.
10. Additional Services
Question to ask: Do you offer extras like balloon twisting, mentalism, or photo props?
Why it matters: These add-ons make your event even more shareable and memorable.
Bonus Tip: Hire a Magician as Your MC
A comedy magician can serve double duty: hosting, entertaining, and energizing your crowd between segments. They bring humor, audience interaction, and unforgettable moments—making your event seamless and unique.
Conclusion
Asking these 10 essential questions ensures you choose a magician who fits your event’s tone, entertains your guests, and creates lasting memories. From boosting audience engagement to increasing ROI, the right magician adds more than just tricks—they add unforgettable experiences.
