Q: How long does it take for you to set up your props and equipment?

A: I will show up 15 minutes prior to the start of the show to set up my props and equipment. If  that the children are in another room, or are distracted, while I set up so they do not see how some of the tricks work.

 
Q: How much space do you need to perform?

A: I can usually make due with any room, but I do prefer to have a wall to my back (please no mirrors behind me!) and the children can sit on the floor in a semi-circle in front of me. I need an area around 3 feet in diameter. In the living room in front of the fireplace or TV is ideal.

Q: Can you perform outside?

A: We can - but we would rather not for a birthday party (fairs, festivals, picnics etc, we understand the event will likely be outside and are prepared for this). There are a lot of distractions outside for a small group and many factors come into play - a simple bumblebee can disturb the show for five minutes! However, we can do a birthday party outside if you need to. If you would like to do this lease have a contingency plan in case it rains, and please inform me if you are going to have the party outside as there are certain tricks that cannot be performed.

Q: Should we have you perform at the start, middle or end of the party?

A: People always ask me when should I perform during the party. The start, middle or the end? I find the ideal time for me to perform is after food and games but before cake and presents. This way is any kids need to arrive late or leave early, they will not miss the show. Please do not serve food or drinks during the show. I need to keep their attention focused on the show.

Q: What do you do if a child gets too excited and gets out of hand?

A: When I introduce myself to the children I give a fun little speech on how they are to behave during the show. I am not forceful and this works 99% of the time. However, there can be a few children that can get out of hand. It is not proper for the Magician to discipline the children, so please have the host or a parent take the child aside and explain that their behaviours is interrupting the show. This rarely happens but I do like to point this out.

Q: Can all the adults watch too?

A: While I encourage the adults to watch, the children might participate and be more vocal if they know their parents aren't sitting next to them. If all the parents are present for the show I suggest having a few stay as chaperones and the others can either watch from the back of the room of relax with refreshments in another area while I entertain the kids. Please ensure there are at least two adults chaperoning during the show though.

Q: Do you have live animals in your act?

A: I do not perform with live animals. With the abundance of allergies around I find this an uneasy situation. Also the cost of raising a rabbit or bird for my show would then have to be reflected in higher performance costs. Instead of live animals, I perform with two puppets. Either Q-Tip my rabbit or my famous chicken, Rufus. They also do not produce a mess and they listen to instructions. Well, Q-Tip doesn't but I am working on that. An added note - if YOU have animals (mainly dogs) please ensure all pets are kept out of the performing area. They can disrupt the show and compete for attention - hey, everyone loves a cute puppy!
 

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: Once you have booked your time and date for a party you have entered into a verbal contract. If you cancel your party you are subject to the following rules:

    - Cancel with 30 days notice - no penalty.

    - Cancel with 15 days notice  50% cancellation penalty will apply. It must be paid within 30 days. If a deposit has been made, the full amount of the deposit will be kept in lieu of the penalty.

    - Cancel with under 15 days notice of the scheduled start time, payment in full is required.

    - Any cancellations for the Christmas season - November 15 to January 1 will require 60 days notice, otherwise payment in full is required.

Q: What form of payment do you accept?

A: I accept payment in the form of cash or personal/company cheque. I also accept credit card payment of Visa/MasterCard/American Express through a secure online website www.paypal.com - If you wish to pay this way please contact me and I will email you an invoice with instructions on how to pay.

Q: Do I need to pay a deposit?

A: I do not require deposits for small parties. However, if booking for a fair, festival, corporate function, multiple parties, or Christmas / Holiday Events, then a deposit of 50% is required. The deposit is refundable up to 15 days prior to the date booked. Deposits paid for shows booked between Nov. 15th- Jan.1st are non-refundable.

Q: What geographical area do you service?

A: I service all of British Columbia. In the Lower Mainland I travel from Whistler to Hope. Outside of that, prices can be negotiated depending on dates, times and distance.