Magician

THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years

The role

The work is learning and perfecting tricks, performing close-up or on stage, reading and working a crowd, and the business side of bookings and self-promotion. Showmanship, lots of practice and the confidence to perform under pressure matter, along with the people skills to engage all sorts of audiences and handle hecklers.

Most magicians are self-employed, working weekends, evenings and seasonal events, with income that swings with bookings and reputation and often starts as a side job. You provide your own props and costumes, travel to gigs, and building a name takes years of practice and performing wherever you can.

There are no qualifications - magicians learn through endless practice, watching others and joining magic circles or clubs. You will need public liability insurance for many venues, a polished act, and a steady stream of bookings built through word of mouth and social media.

Daily responsibilities

• Practise and perfect tricks and routines
• Perform close-up or stage magic
• Read and engage the audience
• Travel to and set up at venues
• Promote yourself and find bookings
• Liaise with clients and event hosts
• Maintain and update your props and act