SleightfulHow to Make Magic a Career with Jason Bird - Penguin Magic Podcast
Jason Bird, a seasoned magician with headline Las Vegas shows and appearances on Masters of Illusion, shares his expertise on building a sustainable career in magic through strolling performances in this engaging podcast. He discusses his new book, Strolling for Dollars, which serves as a practical guide for magicians at any level, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, reliability, and business acumen over just mastering tricks. Bird offers actionable advice, such as focusing on entertainment value, developing a versatile set list, and leveraging marketing and referrals to secure high-paying gigs, aiming to help others avoid common pitfalls and achieve success in the magical arts.
Tricks mentioned
Key points
Jason Bird has decades of experience as a strolling magician, headlining in Las Vegas and appearing on Masters of Illusion.
Success in magic relies on professionalism, reliability, and business skills, not just complex tricks.
Magicians should view themselves as entertainers first, using magic as a tool to engage audiences.
Building a versatile set list adaptable to different environments is crucial for strolling work.
Marketing, branding, and leveraging testimonials and referrals can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
The book Strolling for Dollars consolidates Bird's lessons to help others fast-track their professional development.