The Role & Expectations
The work is learning and perfecting tricks, performing close-up or on stage, reading and working a crowd, and the business side of bookings and self-promotion. Showmanship, lots of practice and the confidence to perform under pressure matter, along with the people skills to engage all sorts of audiences and handle hecklers.
Most magicians are self-employed, working weekends, evenings and seasonal events, with income that swings with bookings and reputation and often starts as a side job. You provide your own props and costumes, travel to gigs, and building a name takes years of practice and performing wherever you can.
There are no qualifications - magicians learn through endless practice, watching others and joining magic circles or clubs. You will need public liability insurance for many venues, a polished act, and a steady stream of bookings built through word of mouth and social media.
Daily Responsibilities
- Practise and perfect tricks and routines
- Perform close-up or stage magic
- Read and engage the audience
- Travel to and set up at venues
- Promote yourself and find bookings
- Liaise with clients and event hosts
- Maintain and update your props and act