Any advice on performing to people in bars?

[Ejwhite25]

Going to a bar Friday night and haven’t really approached people in a bar, is it just like approaching people in any other setting?

 

[RealityOne]

It is similar. Just be aware of the social dynamics - who is the alpha in a group of people. Also be aware of people's state of mind (or inebriation) because that will affect how they react (a little relaxed and open is good, one drink away from blotto isn't good). Trick selection is also important -- you won't have the ability to do a lot of talking and you may or may not have any table space to use.

 

[Ejwhite25]

It is similar. Just be aware of the social dynamics - who is the alpha in a group of people. Also be aware of people's state of mind (or inebriation) because that will affect how they react (a little relaxed and open is good, one drink away from blotto isn't good). Trick selection is also important -- you won't have the ability to do a lot of talking and you may or may not have any table space to use.

Performing went well! Did it with a couple sitting nearby, played it well to where it didn’t look like i was hitting on the woman and avoided that mess. Hadn’t done a cold approach like that since back in the day.

 

[ChicagoMagicLee]

One line that works, but only if you have been employed BY the bar, is "Good evening, I'm the house magician and don't worry, I actually DO work here." It usually gets a laugh and lets the table know that you actually work there and are not some psycho rando trying to horn in on their evening out. Also, note which tables, or people at the bar, have taken notice of you and are watching =- they will often be your next stop while making the rounds of the place.