Table Magic

Table Magic or “Table Hopping” as it’s called, is a form of magic that is usually done in a bar or restaurant where the magician goes from table to table performing close-up magic.  This actually improves the reputation of the restaurant, brings in more customers, and also provides great exposure (not to mention practice) for the magician.

This is an art that even the youngest magician can get a start with.  The younger you are the more easy your audience tends to be towards you.  However, the older you are, the more credibility you tend to have and your audience will trust you more.  It doesn’t really matter with table magic, in fact it is a GREAT way for young magicians to get the experience and practice they need, and will help you become more confident with your people skills.

Now this is not something you can just walk into a restaurant and begin doing.  Magicians are actually employed by the restaurant.  It’s a good idea to subtly let your table know this as you approach them and ask if you can perform something really cool for them.  It’s also a great idea to wear a name badge.  This improves your credibility.  Both of these points also helps the members at your table to relax and not feel that they have to tip you.  So they can just sit back and enjoy your magic.

Timing is everything with table magic.  Never approach a table right before the food is to be served.  If you do, the waiter at some point will interrupt you.  And face it; the food is the number one priority here.  We find that the best time to approach is right after the meal, after the plates have been cleared, or during coffee, after dinner drinks, etc.  Then you have the most attention on you.

Some magicians wonder if they should do the same tricks at every table or should they mix up their routine.  Doing the same tricks runs the risk of having repeat customers who have seen what you’re doing before. We find that doing a little something different at every table is the best.  It keeps your performance fresh.  Try doing your tricks so that no other table can peek in on what’s happening.  You don’t want to create a large audience.  You want each table to get their own show.

Tagged as: Audience, Best Time, Close Up Magic, Coffee, Credibility, Dinner Drinks, Magic Table, Magician, Members, Name Badge, Priority, Relax, Reputation, Risk, Table Magic, Waiter, Young Magicians