In New York where I live there are different close-up magic shows you can attend. If you attend a magic show as a spectator and sit at a table with others, is it rude or improper and not proper etiquette to show a trick or two for others at the table while waiting for the show to begin?

Yes, it is rude and not proper etiquette.

Thank you very much for your expert and honest opinion. I sincerely appreciate it. I will keep my sponge balls at home.
Michael

It would be 100% wrong......good advice Harrry.

First: thank you, Michael for asking the question, and for taking Harry's advice.

Second: this "rule" should be pinned at the top of the cafe, along with other important rules ie.,
never repeat a trick for the same audience, and don't post exposure videos on Youtube.

I was thinking about this and it has the same vibe as going to a concert or a play and someone randomly stands up and says, "While we wait, let me play you some songs." Or they break out with their rendition of Hamlet, act 2. Lol. That would be super awkward.

It's really a great question though because magic is perceived differently and I could see why someone might want to show their friends some tricks while they wait. I have to agree with Harry. It would be bad etiquette.

Nothing wrong with showing some tricks at home before or after the show though!

Absolutely wrong!

Well said Harry! Plus I don't think even the audience appreciate it, it will seem like a show-off, like "yes I can do this too"

Agreed, I have actually seen this happen and it's totally inappropriate. Even if someone asked me to, I would never perform before or after someone else's show.