Hey guys, this will be my second and last topic about getting a restaurant gig. I have received much help from various magicians (on here and locally), and I have taken many notes on what they have said. However, the big question that I have been fretting over is: the fee. I have heard from Fallingblood to charge about $200 per night, but my local magician told me that the norm is about $100 for 2 hours. He told me that anything above that just doesn't excite the restaurant, so they aren't as willing to pay. He also told me that some restaurants may offer you things like gift certificates as forms of payment, but he rarely takes them up on those offers. Now, no offense to Fallingblood, because I know he's a great guy, and a great magician, but I tend to trust somebody who I have seen in person perform at a restaurant more than somebody that I just met on the internet. So, right now, I'm leaning towards about $100 for 2 hours, plus tips. Now this is going to sound hypocritical after I just said I can't exactly trust someone over the internet, but what are your guys' thoughts on this?
Also, I have 3 routines planned out, and have been practicing them like crazy. I plan on switching them out between tables, because I've heard that's what most magicians do. How does that sound? If you would like me to list the routines for whatever reason, I would be happy to.
I have yet to buy Live at the Jailhouse, but it's on my list (along with MWCCIM, Jamesjay!). Everyone says it's such a great source, so I will definitely be buying it.
Thanks again for the help!

A. You can't trust anything over the internet so don't worry about that.

B. Fallingblood is located in a different part of the world than you. So he may very well be telling you the going rate in HIS part of the world. However, the important thing for you is the going rate where YOU live. Accept your local mentor's advice and follow what he says. Don't worry what people make elswhere, just what you can charge your local customers.

Thanks. But how can I trust you? lol, just kidding. Thanks again.

Paddy is completely correct. Since I'm in a different part of the country, it does fluctuate. Listen to the local magicians.

Thanks for being honest Fallingblood. I'm sure there are people on this forum who's egos would get in the way or w/e, and tell me to charge some un-Godly amount of money. Thanks again.

QFE

And just out of curiosity, what are your routines like?
Thanks,
Mprush

Routine 1:

-Blindsided

-Biddle Trick

-ACR

Routine 2:

-Trini's Triumph Bluff Style

-Ultimate Transpo

-Invisible Again

Routine 3:

-Fan Mail

-Real Magic

-The Pheonix Effect

Routine 4:

-Not This Card

-Full Lotus

-Shape of Things to Come

Routine 5:

-Practical Joker

-Slow Motion Coins Across

-Close Contact

I know that's more than what I stated at the beginning, but I more than likely won't use them all in the same night. I also know that they don't "flow", but I don't think that's completely necessary in a routine if your patter makes up for it.

Thanks. As of right now, I don't have any problem at all transitioning between effects, but we'll see how it works out. I may have to change it up a little.

Something I noticed on the Live at the J-House DVD was that most of their effects DIDN'T FLOW AT ALL, and the patter only put it all together with the better performers. So I agree with you, adjones, that the patter should make things flow if the effects don't work out all that well together.

I've noticed that as well. I would also still put routines in a "flow" patter.

Its just helpful, and professional.

-MagicTay