5 Must-Ask Questions Before You Hire a Magician in New York

Hiring a magician in New York for your event is one of the best ways to make any party unforgettable. But not all magicians and mentalists are created equal. Before you sign the contract or send a deposit, ask these five questions to make sure you’re getting a professional magician who can truly elevate your event.

Question 1 – “What Type of Events Do You Specialize In?”

Not all magicians are built for every gig. A magician who crushes at kids' birthday parties might flop at a black-tie gala. Some might be perfect for both. You’ll never know until you ask this question to ensure the performer is a fit for your crowd.

Pro tip: Look for performers who tailor their material based on venue and audience. You can also ask if they've worked in your specific venue before, or something similar.

Question 2 – “Can I See a Performance Video or Demo Reel?”

If they don’t have any video to share, that’s a bit of a red flag. Videos and demo reels not only show you their performance style but also showcase their crowd interaction skills and whether their overall vibe fits your event.

Pro tip: The tricks don’t tell the whole story. Pay attention to how the audience reacts to get a good sense of how the magician or mentalist will fit your event.

Question 3 – “Do You Have Reviews or Testimonials?”

Social proof is powerful and showcases how people just like you benefited from hiring the performer. Google reviews are king, but other resources like Yelp are also helpful. Some magicians will even have video testimonials from real clients.

Pro tip: Ask if they can point you in the direction of reviews that are relevant to your event type (for example, wedding magic reviews or corporate magic reviews).

Question 4 – “What’s Included in Your New York Magician Package?”

Hiring a magician is a unique experience that varies from magician to magician. Some will just show up and do 20 minutes. Others bring sound, lights, do pre-show walkaround close-up magic, and more. Clarify your expectations, length, setup time, and what you’re really getting.

Pro tip: Ask for a recap in writing after you speak with them.

Question 5 – “How Do You Handle Audience Interaction?”

There’s so much more to being a professional magician than just knowing tricks. A true professional knows how to read a room and will never embarrass a guest or push too far. You want someone charming, not cheesy.

Pro tip: Look for answers that show emotional intelligence and talk about the overall experience, not just technical skills.

Bonus Tip: Ask to Hop On a Call With Your NYC Magician "Can We Hop on a Phone Call?"

Booking a magician isn’t like ordering catering—it’s personal, interactive, and full of nuance. Things like vibe, flow, and audience connection often get lost in translation over email. The best way to make sure everyone’s on the same page? Schedule a quick call with them to ask all the questions above. You’ll not only get the answers but also a feel for their personality and professionalism. There’s no better way to determine if they’re a fit.

Pro tip: If you’re talking to a magician and they’re the one who suggests a phone call, it’s usually a sign you’re dealing with a true professional who knows what they’re doing. Answering these questions should be second nature to them.

Ask Smart, Book Smart

Asking these 5 questions helps you book someone who won’t just “do tricks”. They’ll create lasting memories. From unique corporate entertainment to jaw-dropping magic during your wedding cocktail hour, a great New York magician adapts, connects, and makes your event feel one-of-a-kind.

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