Understanding My Pricing: Why Small Shows Require Just as Much Investment as Big Ones

When people ask why I charge nearly the same price for a small show as I do for a big one, the question often comes from a place of curiosity or confusion. At first glance, it might seem logical that a larger event with more attendees should cost more, while a smaller gathering should be less expensive. But the reality behind the scenes is more complex. My pricing reflects the time, effort, and expertise I invest in every performance, regardless of the audience size.

This post explains why small shows demand just as much preparation and commitment as big ones, why I charge by the hour, and how travel, setup, and the nature of the performance itself influence my rates.

Charging by the Hour Reflects True Value

I charge per hour because my work is about more than just the time spent performing. It includes:

• Preparation before the show

• Travel to and from the venue

• Setup and reset of equipment

• Customization of the performance to fit the audience and setting

  
  

For example, many shows require about one hour of driving each way, plus an hour of setup time. This means even a short 30-minute performance can take several hours of my time. Charging by the hour ensures I am fairly compensated for all aspects of the job, not just the moment I’m on stage.

Big Shows Allow Repetition of Best Tricks

At large events, I can rely on my top 10 tricks and repeat them for a big crowd. This repetition makes the performance efficient and predictable. The audience is large enough that the impact of each trick is multiplied, and I can deliver a polished show with less variation.

Because the tricks are well-rehearsed and repeated, the preparation time for big shows is often less intensive compared to small shows. The focus is on delivering a high-energy, consistent experience that works well for a large group.

Small Shows Demand More Unique Preparation

Small shows are a different challenge. With fewer people, I cannot simply repeat the same tricks over and over. The audience is more intimate, and each trick needs to feel fresh and personal. This requires:

• Designing a unique set of tricks tailored to the specific group

• More time spent rehearsing new material

• Greater attention to detail to engage every individual

  
  

For example, at a small birthday party or private event, the audience might expect a more interactive and customized experience. This means I spend more time preparing and practicing new tricks that fit the occasion perfectly.

Magician preparing for a small show, focusing on props and setup

Setting up for a small show requires careful attention to detail and personalized preparation.

Travel and Setup Time Are Constant Factors

No matter the size of the event, travel and setup take time and effort. Many shows require about half an hour of driving each way, which adds up to an hour just getting to and from the venue. Setup and reset often take another hour. This means that even a short performance involves a few hours of work.

For example, if I perform a 45-minute show at a small event one hour away, I might spend:

• 2 hours driving

• 1 hour setting up and breaking down equipment

• 45 minutes performing

  
  

That totals nearly 4 hours of work, which justifies charging for the full time invested.

Expertise and Experience Are Part of the Price

My pricing also reflects the years of experience and skill I bring to every show. The ability to read an audience, adapt on the fly, and deliver a seamless performance is built over time. This expertise is valuable whether the crowd is 10 people or 100.

Charging fairly for my time and knowledge ensures I can continue to provide high-quality entertainment and invest in improving my craft.

What are your thoughts?

Derrek Lau | Perth Magician |www.thatmagicdude.com