Why is a 30 minute show the same cost as a 1 hour show?

I get this question all the time: “If we only book you for a 30 minute show will it cost less?” Or “why do you charge so much for just one hour of work.”  I actually think it’s a fair question with a simple answer that requires a bit of explaining…  30 minutes or 1 hour, the actual work time is about 3 days. 

As the top rated mentalist for corporate and private events and the #1 entertainer for private clubs, I always do my best to work within someone’s budget, but the fact is, a single show that requires travel takes 3 full days, no matter how long the performance is. Travel time is responsible for two full days and the day of show involves set up, clean up, the show and lots of waiting.  

I never expect someone to know how much goes into their hour-long performance.  It’s not their responsibility to think about my time, and I totally understand the shock at cost per minute charged for a performance.

So, when booking an entertainer with a limited budget what is something you can do to help reduce costs?

The biggest expense is always the cost of travel.  Flights, hotel, and car rental add up quickly, and the closer to show date the entertainment is booked the more these will cost.  When a client can cover any or all of the travel costs it helps me justify their request for a rate more in line with their budget.  Some clients use “points” to cover the cost of a hotel while others work out an arrangement with a local property.  You’ll be amazed how many managers will trade two nights in their hotel for a round of golf and lunch at your club.  

Another thing you can do to reduce your rate is look into what’s called block booking.  By scheduling your event when the performer is already in your area you can piggyback on an existing travel and usually save yourself at the very least the cost of airfare.  Entertainers love when this happens and are usually happy to pass the savings on to you.  You can check out my schedule to see when I’m in your area.  While you might not get the best date for your members or club, you’ll save a bit of money!

In the end, it’s important to remember that your one hour show is actually three full days of work along with the added prep time.  It may seem super easy, but giving you the most incredible experience actually takes lots of work and time… but it’s all worth it.

Michael Gutenplan is the nation’s leading entertainer at private clubs and corporate events.  He is a professional mentalist and magician – rated as the top mentalist in America, the #1 entertainer for private clubs and a in-demand mentalist for corporate events.  His schedule is available at www.MENTALIST.show