Types of Magic Explained (Magician vs. Mentalist)

Even if you’re a professional magician, explaining the different types of magic can be tricky. When you’re looking to hire a magician, it’s important to understand terms like mentalism, illusion, manipulation, and others that often get mixed up. This article will help clarify what each of these terms really means, along with different formats of magic like strolling, table-hopping, and stage shows.

Here’s what we’ll cover: Sleight of Hand, Mentalism, Illusion, and Manipulation. Remember, many magicians mix these styles and don’t stick strictly to one. Knowing these terms will help you understand what to expect from different magic acts. Later on, we’ll also talk about Strolling, Table-Hopping, Stage Show, and Close-Up magic.

What is a Magician?

Generally, when people say “magician,” they mean someone who does Sleight of Hand. This style is all about quick hands and tricks with small objects like cards, coins, or watches. These objects might be something the magician brought or borrowed from the audience. Sleight of hand is more about showing off skillful tricks than pretending it’s real magic.

What is a Mentalist?

Mentalists do tricks that seem like mind-reading or predicting the future. This style is very interactive because the magician works closely with the audience, which keeps everyone engaged. Ever seen someone on AGT guess the name of a childhood best friend? That’s Mentalism!

After watching a mentalism show, people often wonder if what they saw was real.

What is an Illusionist?

Nowadays, “Illusionist” is another word for “Magician,” but traditionally, it refers to someone who does big tricks like making a car disappear or a person levitate, often with lots of props and helpers. These shows are big and not easy to move, so they’re less common at smaller events like corporate gatherings.

What is a Manipulator?

Manipulation might sound like it’s about mind tricks, but it’s actually about magicians who are really good at handling objects like cards or balls very skillfully. These acts are usually set to music and don’t involve talking, focusing instead on the visual performance.

Honorable Mentions…

While some might associate Tarot or Hypnosis with magic, we won’t be covering those here.

But Which Type is Best for my Events?

It’s important to know how different styles of magic can enhance your event. Here’s a quick guide:

If the entertainment happens as your guests are socializing, it’s “Strolling Magic.”

If the entertainment happens from a stage it is a “Stage Show”

Let’s have a closer look at these 2 types:

What is Strolling Magic?

Also called “Mingling”, “Roaming”, or “Walk-around”, this style has the magician moving around, doing quick tricks for small groups. It’s great for events where guests are up and moving around. The performances tend to be short, at around 5-10 minutes. This is great for creating buzz at an event!

*Table Hopping is just like strolling, but it’s done while guests are sitting at tables.

Benefits of Strolling Entertainment:

  • Helps guests mingle and meet each other.
  • Works well alongside other activities since it doesn’t need everyone’s full attention.
  • Easy to manage, with no need for special setups (e.g. audio, stage, chairs, systems, etc.)

What is a Stage Show?

Also referred to as “Stand-up,” “Group Show,” or “Headline Act,” this format is crafted for the collective enjoyment of all attendees, typically conducted on a stage. Given the focused attention of the audience, the magician can orchestrate an elaborate performance that may involve assistants, music, and stage lighting, tailored to the size of the crowd and the venue. The duration of stage shows can vary widely, from 5 to 90 minutes, with the ideal length tailored to the specific needs of your event and potentially influenced by the magician’s recommendations. This format is particularly effective for post-dinner entertainment, team-building activities, and award ceremonies.

*Close-up: Also known as “Parlor.” This intimate version of a stage show targets a smaller audience, allowing the magician to engage directly with each attendee. It’s a less common format due to its requirement for smaller audience settings, making it less applicable to larger events which are better suited for Strolling or traditional Stage Shows.

Benefits of a Stage Show: (5-90 minutes, fully customizable, suitable for any audience size)

  • Unifies the audience, fostering a shared experience and camaraderie among guests.
  • Provides a platform to highlight special guests or team members, enhancing visibility and interaction with the magician.
  • Delivers a memorable, large-scale event that leaves a lasting impact, often remembered by attendees for a long time.

Conclusion

Navigating the diverse world of magic can be a challenge, even for seasoned event planners. Understanding the distinctions between a close-up magician, a strolling magician, and a stage magician is crucial when making hiring decisions. As you explore potential hires, we encourage you to discuss directly with magicians about the specific types of performances they offer. Armed with this deeper understanding, you’ll be well-equipped to select the right magician for your event.

If you’re interested in a Magician/Mentalist who can do Strolling and a Stage Show, don’t hesitate to fill out the form below! : )