I have a show coming up that will have people from ages 3 to 80. What type of show would you do? Would you do an adult show with a couple kids show effects? A kids show with a couple adult tricks?

Chichi,

IMO you are looking to do a Family Show. A combination of children's and adult's effects. When possible, effects that are both for young and old.

For my style, I keep the family stuff visual and humourous. For example, adults will often enjoy a children's effect that is humourous and children can follow an adult effect that is visual.

Good luck!

Rob

Yea RJE is completly right, although it depends which age group there is more of. if there are more children, do more children tricks and vice versa

I guess the problem I am having is my stand up for adults is about 90% mentalism. My kids show obvioulsy is not. I am not sure I can mix that up that much.

I agree, children can follow and enjoy an adult effect that is visual.

Rope effects, a milk picture, dove effects, silk to egg, silk productions, 20th century silk routine, paper balls over the head, etc, etc. There’s many, many effects out there that’s fun to all.

It’s ok if one or two of the effects does go over the heads of the smaller children. Just don’t over do them. Don’t expect to completely please a family type audience with only mentalism and cards effects, it will take more.

Tom

I wouldn't do card tricks on a stage. I will have to use some mentalism though.

Adults love kids sucker tricks such as Run Rabbit Run, Die Box etc. Open the last door when the kids are screaming and the parents burst out laughing.

Kids love seeing adults being foolish. Fantasy magician is a great option.

Bill to lemon is also great.

Bill to lemon that is a great idea. I also will do PB & J. I have noticed from most kids shows that adults always talk about that one.

Keep it visual. Classics such as Torn & Restored Newspaper ala Gene Anderson, Cut and Restored Rope or Linking Rings (That not only have the flash but the attention getting sound) are good for family shows. Keep specific kids show props in but to a minimum.

Which type of show did the customer ask for -- children's, family or adult show? Did you ask if they primarily want a show for the children, or for all ages to enjoy?

Do they have any pre-conceived notions about what is in a show? (Some customers do, but we don't know until we ask them.)

Did you ask the customer about how many children will be in the audience, what ages they will be (how many of which ages), and how many adults?

These are good questions to start with, and the answers can help you decide how to proceed.

- Donald