Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Magician in Sydney
What to know before you book — and what separates pros from part-timers
Hiring a magician sounds simple. But like any entertainment booking, it can go very right… or very wrong. Sydney’s full of performers at different levels — from casual party magicians to world-class mentalists with years of experience. So how do you know who’s the right fit for your event?
Here are the key questions to ask before booking a magician in Sydney — whether it’s for a corporate event, wedding, private party, or gala.
1. What kind of magic do you perform?
Not all magicians are the same. Some focus on kids’ parties, others do stage illusions, and some specialise in close-up or mentalism. Know what vibe you want — slick and sharp for a corporate crowd? Funny and light for a wedding? A stage show or something more low-key?
Pro tip: For corporate events and adult audiences, mentalism, psychological magic, and roving close-up entertainment work best
2. Do you have experience performing at events like mine?
Performing at a 6-year-old’s birthday party isn’t the same as holding a corporate audience of 300 during a gala dinner. Ask for examples of similar gigs they’ve done.
Experienced performers will mention corporate clients, cruise ships, conferences, or repeat bookings. Someone like Andy Nunn, for example, has performed for brands like Google, Amazon, Uber, AMP, and Sony, as well as on cruise ships and TEDx stages.
3. How do you handle different types of audiences?
A good magician knows how to read the room — whether it’s a quiet cocktail crowd or a rowdy awards night. Ask how they adapt to different energy levels, room sizes, and settings.
This shows they’re not just rehearsed — they’re experienced.
4. Is your material clean and appropriate for a corporate crowd?
This might seem obvious, but it’s a big one. What works at a bucks night doesn’t always work in a boardroom. Ask directly whether the content is family-friendly, professional, and tailored for your type of event.
5. What’s included in the fee — and what do you need from us?
Some magicians quote a flat fee. Others add charges for AV, travel, or tech requirements. Make sure you know what’s included, what the setup involves, and whether they provide their own sound, lighting, or support.
You should also ask about arrival time, pack-down, and how flexible they are with the event run sheet.
6. Do you customise the show for our group?
Not all magicians do. Some deliver a one-size-fits-all routine. But the best know how to tailor moments — using audience names, company references, or event themes to make it feel unique.
Andy Nunn, for example, builds custom pieces into his shows that reflect the audience’s beliefs, behaviours, and language — often using real-time mentalism to read the room in ways that surprise even the most sceptical guests
7. What kind of impact can we expect?
This is where you get a sense of value. Are you hiring someone to fill a gap in the schedule… or someone who can shift the energy in the room, leave people thinking, and get them talking afterward?
If you’re after something deeper than just tricks — look for magicians who use storytelling, psychology, or audience interaction in more meaningful ways.
8. Can we see testimonials, videos or references?
Any pro will have a showreel or testimonials ready. Look for Google reviews, client videos, or case studies. Watch for who’s booking them — and how often.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a magician in Sydney can be a great call — if you ask the right questions upfront. You’re not just hiring someone to do tricks. You’re hiring someone to set a tone, engage your guests, and represent your brand or event
Whether you’re planning a product launch, gala dinner, staff party, or leadership retreat — the difference between “good” and “wow” often comes down to who’s holding the mic.
Want a deeper experience than just card tricks?
Learn more about Andy Nunn’s corporate shows or book a mentalist keynote that actually shifts how people think.
