The family wanted to book me for New Year’s Eve. We were at their Halloween party, the adults had been having a fantastic time with the magic, and I would have loved to say yes. Unfortunately, I was already booked.
It was a lovely request to receive and a frustrating one to turn down. Being asked back tells you something quite plainly: the hosts enjoyed what you brought to their celebration and can picture you being part of another. I left pleased to have been asked, even though our diaries would not cooperate.
The party was for a British family, and the response had been enthusiastic. “I have never seen any magic like this” was the reaction. I was enjoying myself as much as the guests, which is one of the nicest feelings to have while you are working.
Adult reactions are a particular pleasure. You see people become absorbed in something they cannot quite explain, and for a moment the usual composure falls away. There is room to be surprised and to show it. At this party, the adults gave themselves that room, and their enjoyment made the performance enjoyable for me.
Halloween is a good occasion for a little mystery. People are already willing to entertain the unusual, and magic can fit comfortably into that mood. My aim was to give them something delightful to puzzle over while they enjoyed being together.
What I appreciate about a private performance is the audience’s part in it. I bring material I have prepared, but the people in front of me influence how the experience unfolds. Their curiosity and willingness to join in give me something to respond to. Familiar magic can feel fresh with a different group.
I also know that I am entering someone else’s occasion. The hosts have brought their family and guests together; I want to contribute without making anyone uncomfortable. Taking part should feel easy, and there should be space to enjoy the reaction as well as the magic itself.
That was what I enjoyed about this Halloween. The enthusiasm came from the people there, and it gave the performance a warmth that I could respond to. I knew the material, but I could still enjoy the surprise of seeing how this particular audience received it.
The New Year’s Eve invitation was a generous piece of feedback. It did, however, expose a limitation in my professional abilities: I can create the impression of impossible things, but I remain unable to be at two parties at once. That would be an exceptionally useful skill at the end of December.
I hope another occasion comes along when I can say yes. In the meantime, I have the memory of an enthusiastic Halloween audience and an invitation I was sorry to decline. I would be very happy to see them again.