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I don't perform magic nearly enough. I practice a good amount, but when it comes to going out and performing, I often feel like I just don't have time. I'm only 13, so a lot of places just aren't appropriate for me to go perform.
I was just wondering if anyone had suggestions for where and when a kid could perform (In school I hardly have any time, but I'll try to fit some stuff in if I can sometimes)

Have you enquired at retirement homes, day centres, creches etc?

Any young theater groups in your area? You don't have to act in the plays but you could ask the people in charge if they would be willing to let you perform before shows in exchange for helping them out backstage or during rehearsals.

Thanks for both those tips, I'll see about the day center, I like that idea. My sister works at a theater group, I might check that out.

Places that offer young childrens birthday parties...bowiling alleys, fast food restaurants, pools, rec centres, etc....

I had an interesting conversation with a charity worker at the weekend who was telling me that care homes, hospitals etc. are ALWAYS on the lookout for entertainers who will give up some time. I was surprised to hear that contrary to popular belief, a lot of them will actually pay towards expenses etc.

This could/should be a good source of performers who want to develop their skills before taking the plunge into paid gigs.

HenryHoudini wrote:I don't perform magic nearly enough. I practice a good amount, but when it comes to going out and performing, I often feel like I just don't have time. I'm only 13, so a lot of places just aren't appropriate for me to go perform.
I was just wondering if anyone had suggestions for where and when a kid could perform (In school I hardly have any time, but I'll try to fit some stuff in if I can sometimes)

I was taking my magic seriously about your age. I asked a teacher at school if I could do a show for the class at the end of term, and did that. I also did a few shows for the local old folks home, and for a couple of local childrens playgroups.

I suppose it depends what type of magic you perform really, there's always hospitals and playgroups looking for childrens entertainers, and NHS retirement homes, hospices etc. that are looking for entertainment for the adults there.

You need to obviously take into consideration the type of audience you are performing for - the chances are if your performing for a home or hospice, the audience will have special needs. They might not be able to come up to help as much, and they might not be able to hear you without proper amplification. You also need to speak clearly, and pronounce things properly - these are all things that are very easy to forget when you're excited, and performing live.

If you're doing shows for a playgroup etc. get them to put a poster up for you, or give them a stack of business cards to hand out in return for your services. A good idea is to ask them for some honest feedback, and to perhaps send a questionnaire to them after the event, so they can give you advice for your next show.

What about charity's, fetes, carnivals, try looking out for local fundays in your area and see if they would like a walkabout entertainer?