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Even without any experience, they may ‘over-market’ or give fake credentials to get jobs. 5 stars reviews can be bought and over-the-top descriptions like ‘Singapore’s Best Magician”. (Like what Jack Ma says, “Even if I knew I am the best in the world, I wouldn’t dare to claim that.)

Screenshot from a beginner magician’s website

Parents who are not savvy may be in for a shock and scar their children for life. This may even affect other entertainers’ livelihood because those parents will likely never book a magician again!

It is a fact that having a lousy entertainer is worse than not having one at all. Some parents may think they are saving a hundred dollars by engaging a cheaper one like on carousell, but in fact, they are losing that money which they are paying the entertainer because the children don’t enjoy it at all! Imagine the forgettable memories for the children and guests.

1. Reputation –

Find companies that have been around for many years. At least you know they are not fly-by-night companies. New magicians or entertainers who are not good would not survive 2-3 years unless they don’t depend on it on income. I am sure good NEW entertainers! The serious newbies will perform for charities, friends, and on the streets to receive feedback to improve, before selling themselves for paid jobs.

• Testimonials – Check out their Google review and check that the customers are real ones in the same area.
• They have reputable paid clients like celebrities. Note that photos with celebrities on the street or filming alongside them don’t count.
• Check out the history of the company and do a verification online.

2. Know your priorities

What do you want for your child’s birthday party? If you just want a magic show to pass the time at a birthday party, then you have many choices. I am sure, many parents want more than that. You probably want the magicians to inculcate and present the right values to the children and be a great example for the kids. Do you want your guests to praise you for the amazing choice of magician and activities?

Markson Singapore Kia Magician in his show

• Perhaps you have a Jungle themed party, you want to find a magician who uses animals in their magic shows. Even Mr Bottle has a dinosaur adventure magic show suitable for your dinosaur themed party.
• Your kids are very young, you probably want a magician who can hold their attention and has with lots of experience working with these kids.
• If you want a magic workshop as well as a magic show at a birthday party, then choose one with experience for both.
• You have a bunch of older children! Perhaps a science magic show will be more appropriate.

3. Book a magician with a real face.

Handsome James in one of his kiddie party shows

Wondrous Neil Magician and his kiddie comedy magic

We noticed that there is a trend of companies selling phantom performers. As they offer low-cost packages, they simply find whoever is available for your party. Nothing wrong with that as long as they use good performers, but you may not have a choice of entertainers as the good ones are subject to availability. I suggest that you get the entertainer’s name and profile before confirming.

4. Get it from curated website listings

Some listings let you do it for free so anyone can list it. Even with a paid listing, anyone with money can still list. Many online websites will do it as long as entertainers pay them money; they will create articles like 10 popular magicians in Singapore.

Asia Magicians Network is a curated listing hence only magicians in Asia who have a good reputation in character, reliability, and experience are allowed to join. We also encourage customers to give a rating after the event.

5. Use Your Own or Your child’s Experience

If you or your child have seen the entertainment before and you enjoyed his magic show or performance, then you have a winner! It’s a no-brainer if your child likes him or her. Don’t risk it by trying to find a cheaper magician. If you are concerned that the magic show is the same, check with the magician if they can vary the show a little.

Rapport is more important!

However, the reverse is true for kids, especially if your children are younger than 8 years old: They WANT to see the same show again! You can also discuss with the magician to change the show a little so the adults can experience something different.

6. Ask for recommendations –

It sounds very logical; but very often we search for magic shows on Google, instead of getting recommendations from our friends.

In summary, the best way to book a good magician is to ask yourself, “if it is my last birthday celebration, which magician do I want to book?”

Here are our choices for Singapore’s Top magicians for birthday parties.

1. Mr Bottle – Children Magic Specialist.

Captivated kids at Mr bottle’s magic show at a birthday party

Mr Bottle has been performing magic for more than 20 years and is a psychologist by training. He is well-known to be able to connect with children very well.

We love his magic because the shows are like a Disney movie, children love it, and the adults enjoy it even more! Being a perfectionist, Mr Bottle prides himself in providing the best for his audience – this can be seen in the other services he and his team provide, like balloon sculpting. (Read his Google Review and you will understand!) Book him once, and you will understand why adults are also queueing for his balloons and enjoy watching his magic show.

2. Joe Yu – Magic Show with animals

Magic with animals

Joe Yu has been performing magic for more than 20 years and he is well-known for his magic with animals; dove and rabbits. He cares for the animals used in the show and passion for his art shines through him.

He often used state-of-the-art elaborate props making it an impressive showcase to children as well as adults.

3. Captain Dazzle – the Human Cartoon

Captain Dazzle is an international award-winning clown who has dazzled (sorry, just had to do this) audiences for more than 15 years. He is well-versed in not only his magic but also other allied arts like bubble acts and juggling.

He is well-loved by young kids and forms amazing connections with them.

4. Alex Tan