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David Thiel Inner circle Western Canada...where all that oil is 4005 Posts |
We're busy people, aren't we? And, if you're like me, you do a variety of things. Sometimes you do large stage shows, sometimes only parlor shows. Sometimes it's close-up...and sometimes it's a combination of all of the above.
I've been doing this a long time, and I thought it might be useful to share a few tips among us for keeping organized and staying on top of the shows we perform. I've always found it fascinating to see how other performers approach the same challenges...so I'm hoping we'll hear lots of voices chiming in with their ideas. Here are some of mine: 1) I pre-plan all of my shows (from the running order of stage shows to what routines I am planning for close-up) using a $5.00 iPad program called "Index Card." I can play around with the order, move various routines in and out until I'm happy. I'll save EACH SHOW with the name of the client so that if the client rebooks me, I'll know which effects they've seen. Each of the shows I do (30, 45, 60 and 90 minutes) is recorded with the routines I like to use most often. The great thing about Index Card is that, while the front looks like...well...an index card, you can access "infinite paper" on the other side for things like scripts and more importantly the usual length of the routine as well as which components I need to pack (chalk, eraser, etc) for each effect so nothing gets left behind. 2) I put each prop I have into a very simple iPad database called "Itemizer." (I think it's also five bucks.) My rule is that as soon as I get the prop/routine/book etc. it goes into the database. It's a very simple database to use and I can record when I purchased it, who I got it from, how much I paid, whether it's active etc. 3) I put each routine -- and its components together inside a resealable bag. This means I can tell at a glance if I am packing all that I need. I ALWAYS reset and repack my props as soon as I am alone with them after a show. You never know... 4) If there's a prop that works for me...a prop I use often...I always buy two or three. This way if one gets lost, misplaced, broken etc. I'm not stuck without a favorite effect. It ALSO means that I can pre-pack for several shows without needing to shift props around. I can just pick up a case and go. 5) Figure out how many batteries (mic, receivers -- that extra stuff) you think you're going to need over the next six months. Now DOUBLE it. I have LOTS of batteries because once -- a very long time ago -- I ran out. Never again. 6) ONLY lock your car door with the remote lock. Trust me on this. 7) Are there things you always take? A table...sound system...mic? Do you have a list of these things? 8) Have several costumes that you're comfortable in. Dryclean them regularly. 9) Carry a razor, spare keys, gaffing tape, velcro, safety pins, a sharp knife, repositionable adhesive ALWAYS in your car. You will only need these things once in a great while...but when you need them you REALLY need them. 10) Mouthwash, sugarless gum (for before and after a show...not during), deodorant -- these make for happy clients. Keep travel sized packages in your props case inside sealed bags...just in case. Those are some of the things I do. What about you? David
Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Except bears. Bears will kill you.
My books are here: www.magicpendulums.com www.MidnightMagicAndMentalism.com |
Stephen Young Inner circle Thought Illusions 3933 Posts |
A very useful insight into how another performer gets organised,
I also use Index Card app. A great piece of kit. |
Mindpro Eternal Order 10586 Posts |
Glad to see that someone else prepares as detailed as myself. Like David I have checklists for each of my shows including everything I need. Each show is packed a specific way so even visually at a glance I can tell if something is missing and out of place.
However David, I'll see your planning and raise it by one. Everything I have, I mean literally everything - from a roll of scotch tape to my $5000 wireless system, to my vehicle, I have two sets of everything. Two copies of everything I've ever purchased, two complete sound systems, all items and accessories I could possible need (I love David's double amount of batteries), first-aid kit, wardrobe and stage clothes, computers, GPS, briefcases, flightcases, etc. Two of everything, each kept in different parts of the country either at two of my homes or at two of my warehouses. To others it sounds much or excessive, but when on the road, it is assurance and piece of mind. At one point my wife believed I probably had another wife packed away somewhere. |
MentalistCreationLab Inner circle 1528 Posts |
David this is a great topic.
Here are a few more things to consider when traveling to a show. “Never wear you performance clothes while driving to a gig.” -John Riggs Now if you do not heed the advice of the great Riggs get one of these Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover sticks. Works well and will help keep the coffee spilled on the shirt down to a minimum. Table wedges Here is a link to one of the many styles of these http://www.acemart.com/prod4180.html All too often I have sat down at a table or had a chair with a bad leg these little helper will fix the wobble and once you start using them you will not leave home for a gig without these. A nice pen. So the client can sign the check. They almost always can not seem to find a pen when its time to pay up. I am starting to think its some sort of test or game that is played out between me and the client. Pack a back up show that is licked in the trunk so if some thing breaks during set up you minutes away from a replacement. |
ApprenticeWizard Regular user Charlottesville, VA 170 Posts |
Mindpro, very good advice. And I'll bet your other wife was suspicious also!
Magically yours,
Tom Olshefski |
Ray Bertrand Inner circle Ottawa, Ontario 1452 Posts |
Great post David. The incidentals you mentioned; (Carry a razor, spare keys, gaffing tape, velcro, safety pins, a sharp knife, repositionable adhesive ALWAYS in your car. You will only need these things once in a great while...but when you need them you REALLY need them.) always break down or go missing at the most crucial point. A first aid kit is also in my arsenal. All you need is a paper cut (Richard's PCT) and finding a simple bandaid two minutes before showtime can put a real damper on things.
Mentalism in Ontario.
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