Magicians in London

Based in Pinner in Middlesex, M A R C O - Modern Magic specialises in close-up magic - a unique and 'powerful' kind of magi, for a range of events from private parties to corporate events, birthday parties and weddings.

What do you need to know from an organiser in order to provide a comprehensive quote?

The most helpful information an entertainer for an event is: the date of the event (this should go without saying, but I've had a few people forget to mention it in the past). The type of event it is (birthday party, anniversary, office/company party, festival/fair, wedding etc.), how many guests are expected to attend and the location of the event. These pieces of information mean entertainers are able to quote accurately from the get-go, as well as discussing with the potential client any relevant details, such as if there is anything of particular importance to them when it comes to the entertainment.

What advice would you give to a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Choosing an entertainer for an event can sometimes be quite overwhelming, as there are a surprising amount of them around. So how does someone organising an event tell who's going to be the best choice for them?
The following list is for magicians, but a few of the points can be used for most types of event entertainer:
1) Are they a member of the Magic Circle? 2) Do they have pictures & videos of them performing? 3) Are they insured? 4) Is their price right for you? 5) Will they be right for my event? Even after you've done this research, and you have a shortlist of a few promising-looking magicians, if you're still not sure which one would be best for you - give them a call. Most will be more than happy to discuss the specifics of your event, how they can best integrate themselves into it, and make sure they work with you so that the event you're hosting is a success.

Please tell us a little bit about how and why you started the business.

I love magic for one simple reason: there isn't enough mystery in the world. Magic is the only form of entertainment I've ever experienced that can reduce a group of adult professionals into giggling children. The effect it has on people is extraordinary, and I just love giving them the same feeling of wonder I had whenever I saw magic on television as a child. Although I've always had a soft spot for magic, I didn't start learning it properly until I was at university. Practising tricks was all I did for three years as a student, and although I graduated and got an administrative job straight out of the gate, I knew I wouldn't be satisfied until I tried doing magic professionally. I left my job after just two years, and decided to pursue magic full-time. I haven't looked back since.

Please tell us about a booking you've had through Add to Event, how did it go? Would you recommend us to others?

I performed close-up magic at an Add to Event booking last week, and it was a fantastic experience. Everybody was very friendly, and the booker was very helpful and accommodating. I managed to entertain all of her 50+ guests and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves; many of them asked me for a personal encore.
Because the event was such a success as a result of her booking through Add to Event, I've no doubt she will be using the service again.