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Performing Outside!
Just a few comments on my show.. and this clip!
I was asked to perform outside for approximately 200 people (the majority of which you couldn't see) at a campground... It's always a challenge performing outdoors as 99% of the time you're battling the elements (wind, rain, ..). This day, there were wind warnings and gusts up-to 50 mph - all day.. right up until I was to perform! Luckily the wind subsided and I beat the elements - this time. When preparing for an outdoor show, you need need to mindful of a number of things, including:
- The set-up of your act; keeping silks, cards, and more safe from the wind
- Can the crowd hear you considering the acoustics are very poor outside - including wind, background noise, etc.
- Crowd control... Is it too easy for the kids to overpower the performer, crowd the stage, etc.
- Visibility.
- Other... Add your own thoughts here!
Also, if you noticed, I like to keep my act real simple! Fancy card flourishes - which I love by the way, elaborate illusions - which I also love, and other more dramatic effects just aren't my style. Keeping it simple and fun - I mean lots of fun - while constantly engaging and building rapport with the crowd are absolute key ingredients in my act! This equation has proven to be quite successful for me over the years!
I was asked to perform outside for approximately 200 people (the majority of which you couldn't see) at a campground... It's always a challenge performing outdoors as 99% of the time you're battling the elements (wind, rain, ..). This day, there were wind warnings and gusts up-to 50 mph - all day.. right up until I was to perform! Luckily the wind subsided and I beat the elements - this time. When preparing for an outdoor show, you need need to mindful of a number of things, including:
- The set-up of your act; keeping silks, cards, and more safe from the wind
- Can the crowd hear you considering the acoustics are very poor outside - including wind, background noise, etc.
- Crowd control... Is it too easy for the kids to overpower the performer, crowd the stage, etc.
- Visibility.
- Other... Add your own thoughts here!
Also, if you noticed, I like to keep my act real simple! Fancy card flourishes - which I love by the way, elaborate illusions - which I also love, and other more dramatic effects just aren't my style. Keeping it simple and fun - I mean lots of fun - while constantly engaging and building rapport with the crowd are absolute key ingredients in my act! This equation has proven to be quite successful for me over the years!
Tags: Magic Show, Ryan Ogaard, Ryan Ogaards Show
Views: 5
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Jordan on -
Thanks for the tips! Well I haven't really performed outdoors before but if ever I will I'll just remember all these tips. Again Thank you very much!
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Permalink Reply by Jim Salabim on -
Hey Ryan,
You are good with the kids and have a lot of energy too. Do you always dress this way when you perform or do you have other clothing for different shows? Performing for kids is probably the toughest part, each time I do, I learn a little bit more...
JimS
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Permalink Reply by Ryan Ogaard on -
Never have enough energy for the kids... keeps me young! :-)
The event I performed at is called Christmas in July... so to answer your question, I try to dress appropriately for the venue.. In this case, I was outside on a hot day (thus the shorts and t-shirt) and the theme was Christmas (thus the antlers and red and green colors)... The jacket I usually always wear for the pockets and at kids shows as a cover for the rolling sun trick I perform. I was quick to remove the jacket at this performance - too hot!
How about you? How do you adapt and adjust your attire to the occasion?
Thanks for commenting!
Ryan
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