I look to see if the patrons have just been seated or busy looking at the menu or perhaps they are waiting to pay their bill, on these times I usually do not attack the unless requested. I will say, hi hows is everyone, I say this a some distance as to not invade their space or make them feel as such, once I get a smile or reaction that tells me they are responsive I then tell the I am Larry Taylor and I am the house magician and I wonder if they have ever seen one of these, (displaying a purse frame), this usually gets their attention. It is at this point I will produce something from the frame, coin or sponge ball.It works well for me.

Chicago opener!

My first trick is usually Roy Johnson's "Snap" (turning a lottery ticket into a £20 note).

I simply come up to the table and say, "Good Evening. My name is Martin Key, and I am here to show you a bit of magic. Does anyone here do the Lottery?" And then in to the first trick which is quick, visual and usually gets a laugh (not sure why).

If they seem to like me (or the trick), I continue otherwise I move on.

Martin

I introduce myself at every table then gauge how much magic should be done. Let's face it. Not everybody wants to see magic. After the first effect, which is usually the sponge bunnies for me, I do a second scan to see if they want to do more magic or if they want to go back to conversation.

I'm just there to make the evening more enjoyable. I'm not there to force magic on anybody.