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I was thinking recently about how useful it would be to have a table for walkaround performances, such as wedding receptions, summer fayres and so on, where normally you would have to perform without one. There's so much magic that needs a table that it would come in really handy. I'm thinking it would have to be ultra-compact so that it could be easily carried from one group to the next, and that it would need to fold up in an instant to allow for quick entries and exits. Does anyone know of such a thing or have any ideas?

In the past some of my colleagues have tried this but eventually gave up the idea. One reason is that it gets in the way of staff and others trying to move around, especially when there is very little space between tables. The same with large close-up mats that some magi expect to be able to place on the dinner table. Just not really practical. Others may disagree of course. Mark.

I actually saw a fellow in Winnipeg doing exactly this. It seemed to work well. The table was on wheels as I recall. However, there is another way of using a table when you don't have one. This idea actually comes from Vernon, I believe. It works if the props are not too heavy. Use a large handkerchief and ask two people to hold one corner in each hand and stretch the handkerchief out. There is your table.

four coins
Deck of cards
Length of rope
sponge balls
TT
Pen

GO!

We don't need no stinkin' table.

Truth is we all want this, most have gone out of their way and paid lotsa money only to come to the conclusion, Perform with less.

Learn to work without a table.

A really bad idea I'm afraid. It will just get in the way. If you're working at tables half the table on the far side won't be able to see and if you're working drink receptions where everyone is standing people will be tripping over it. Most tables, particularly at corporate functions are the big round tables that seat about 10 people. There will be no space to slide your little table in at one of these and most people will have their backs to it.
The fact is in this day an age for the practical close up worker you have to accept that 99% of published magic is useless. Even when tables are available they are usually cluttered with plates and glasses. Get used to working in your hands or the audiences hands.

Ed Wood wrote:A really bad idea I'm afraid. It will just get in the way. If you're working at tables half the table on the far side won't be able to see and if you're working drink receptions where everyone is standing people will be tripping over it. Most tables, particularly at corporate functions are the big round tables that seat about 10 people. There will be no space to slide your little table in at one of these and most people will have their backs to it.
The fact is in this day an age for the practical close up worker you have to accept that 99% of published magic is useless. Even when tables are available they are usually cluttered with plates and glasses. Get used to working in your hands or the audiences hands.

That really says it all in a very large nutshell. Well said that man. Mark.

I can see why the arguments above make sense, but I'm now picturing a magician with a tray like an usherette's slung from the neck ...

Probably hopelessly impractical though!