Dear Chums,
I have been a childrens entertainer for over 25 yrs but now find that I don't really like them any more!
My real love is psychological type mentalism and I have a pretty good routine which I have honed at club shows.
My problem is that for childrens work you put an ad in the local paper and wait. This tactic obviously does not work for adult work.
How do I start?
How do I get a toe in the water?
Any advice appreciated.
George Kaye.

Gosh! That's a tough one!

Do you hate kids or kid's SHOWS. (i've found myself hating both at one time or another!)

As a children's performer, you set yourself up with a repuation and an image that almost the exact opposite of mentalism so it is hard to use one as a stepping stone to another.

I would suggest creating a strong character and image for your new act. The key is the create a product that can be advertised and sold clearly. This includes not only your act but your PR material etc. Your image might also include a strong hook, something that only you have, e.g. "a children's magicians who discovered his darker side"

Once you have these elements start to get yourself known with agents, venues and event organisers. Don't worry about selling your show to start with, just sell yourself and your personality. If they like you, they will more likely to book you.

From there start to consider more general publicity. Mentalism allows itself to GREAT publicity stunts.

I hope that helps!

George,

This sounds like a fabulous question for...

http://www.thedean.net/forum

Click that link and may all your dreams come true!

I need some clarification though about what you mean by, "adult work." (No, I'm not thinkin THAT kind of adult work)

Do you mean corporate trade shows?
Business meetings?
Adults only shows for cruise ships?
Company parties?
Etc?

Any and all? (that's fair also)

Some more details about where you'd like to perform this gem would be helpful.

Cheers! And be sure to check out The Dean's List!
Robert Bloor