Close-Up Magician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of entertainment, the allure of close-up magicians is more captivating than ever.

As the art of magic evolves, there is a growing demand for skilled practitioners who can devise, perfect, and protect the secrets of close-up magic.

But let’s unravel the mystery: What is really expected from a close-up magician?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring magician looking to understand the nuances of this role,
• A talent recruiter outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of close-up magic,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unveil a comprehensive close-up magician job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or talent websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Close-Up Magician Duties and Responsibilities

Close-Up Magicians perform intricate magic tricks in close quarters such as at a table or in a crowd, and are often hired for private parties, corporate events or in restaurants.

The nature of their work requires a high level of dexterity, creativity and interaction with the audience.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Performing a variety of close-up magic tricks using cards, coins, and everyday objects
• Creating and developing new tricks and routines to maintain audience interest
• Engaging with audience members to create a memorable and interactive experience
• Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of magic tricks and techniques
• Practicing routines regularly to ensure flawless execution
• Setting up and breaking down the performance area
• Ensuring the safety of audience members during interactive tricks
• Keeping props and equipment clean, well-maintained and organized
• Managing bookings and communications with clients
• Adapting performances to cater to specific audiences or event themes

 

Close-Up Magician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a talented close-up magician to entertain and mystify our clients and their guests.

A close-up magician’s responsibilities include performing magic tricks that occur within close proximity to the audience, engaging guests with sleight of hand magic, and potentially teaching basic magic skills.

Our ideal candidate is personable, charismatic, and possesses a deep understanding of magic techniques, psychology and showmanship.

Ultimately, the role of the close-up magician is to provide an unforgettable, magical experience that both entertains and engages audience members.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform close-up magic tricks for guests and clients
• Engage with audience members in a friendly and respectful manner
• Develop and rehearse magic routines
• Customize magic tricks to cater to the specific event or audience
• Ensure all props and equipment are well-maintained and in good working condition
• Stay up to date with the latest magic tricks and trends
• Teach basic magic skills, if required
• Travel to various events and venues

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a close-up magician
• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Strong knowledge of magic tricks and techniques
• Ability to engage and entertain a variety of audiences
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as most events occur during these times
• A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred

 

Benefits

• Flexible schedule
• Travel opportunities
• Performance-based bonuses
• Exposure to various social and corporate events
• Opportunities for professional development and networking within the entertainment industry

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Close-Up Magician
• Work Environment: Varies based on event or venue, may require travel
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Event Manager or Entertainment Director
• Salary: Salary is based on event fees and performance bonuses
• Pay Range: Varies based on event and performance
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
• Employment Type: Contract or Part-time, based on event bookings
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a video of your magic performance, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Close-Up Magician Do?

Close-Up Magicians are entertainment professionals who specialize in performing magic tricks within close range of their audience, often in an intimate setting.

They perform a variety of tricks that can include card tricks, coin tricks, and other small object magic tricks.

These tricks often require a high level of manual dexterity and practice to perfect.

Close-Up Magicians work in a variety of settings, such as private parties, corporate events, restaurants, and weddings.

They often roam around the venue, performing tricks to small groups of guests, providing a personal and interactive entertainment experience.

They also engage and communicate with the audience, using humor, storytelling, and audience participation to enhance the magic performance.

Close-Up Magicians often have to adapt their routines to the specific preferences and requests of clients or venues.

They need to continuously learn and develop new tricks to keep their performances fresh and exciting.

Many Close-Up Magicians work as freelancers, managing their own bookings and marketing.

Others may work for entertainment agencies or as part of a larger show.

Despite the venue or setting, the primary goal of a Close-Up Magician is to amaze and entertain their audience.

 

Close-Up Magician Qualifications and Skills

A proficient close-up magician should have the skills and qualifications that correlate with the demands of the role, including:

• Exceptional dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform complex magic tricks and sleight of hand techniques.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage with audiences of various sizes, ages, and backgrounds. This includes the ability to quickly establish rapport and maintain audience engagement throughout a performance.
• Creativity and originality to develop unique magic routines that are both entertaining and memorable.
• Presentation skills to deliver performances with confidence, flair and professionalism, ensuring that the magic tricks are both visually stunning and hard to decipher.
• Knowledge of the principles of illusion and misdirection, to create an immersive and believable magic experience.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, to effectively interact with the audience, explain the rules of tricks, and respond to their reactions.
• Patience and perseverance to practice and refine tricks until they can be performed flawlessly.
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform for extended periods, and to handle the physical demands of certain tricks.

 

Close-Up Magician Experience Requirements

Aspiring close-up magicians generally begin by learning basic tricks and sleights of hand.

This could be through self-study, attending magic courses or workshops, or under the mentorship of a seasoned magician.

Practical experience is gained through practice and performing for friends, family, or at small events.

For entry-level professional roles, typically 1 to 3 years of experience is expected.

This includes performing in a variety of settings such as private parties, corporate events, restaurants, and weddings.

They should have developed a personal repertoire of tricks and a solid understanding of audience interaction.

Magicians with 3 to 5 years of experience might have performed at larger events, possibly on a regional or national level.

They should have polished their performance skills, developed a unique style, and have a proven ability to engage diverse audiences.

For more senior roles, such as magic consultants or director of magic at a magic theater, over 5 years of experience is typically required.

These magicians should have a broad and deep knowledge of different magic techniques, trick creation, scripting, and directing magic shows.

They may also have published works, won awards, or hold leadership positions in magic organizations.

 

Close-Up Magician Education and Training Requirements

Close-Up Magicians typically don’t have formal education requirements, but many will have undergone a range of training experiences to hone their craft.

Most close-up magicians are self-taught, learning through books, online tutorials, and magic instruction DVDs.

However, structured courses in magic are available, often provided by magic societies, clubs or schools.

These courses cover a range of skills needed in close-up magic, including sleight of hand techniques, psychology, misdirection, and presentation.

Additionally, many magicians attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to learn from experienced magicians and stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends in close-up magic.

As with many creative arts, experience and practice are essential.

Many magicians gain experience by performing at parties, events, and in public spaces to hone their performance skills and audience interaction.

No specific certifications are required to be a close-up magician, but membership in professional magic organizations, such as the International Brotherhood of Magicians or The Society of American Magicians, can provide networking opportunities, access to resources and further training, and lend credibility to a magician’s professional status.

While not necessary, a degree in theatre or performing arts could be beneficial in developing stage presence and understanding audience psychology.

 

Close-Up Magician Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Close-Up Magician is approximately $50 (USD) per hour or around $52,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can significantly vary based on factors such as the magician’s level of experience, location, frequency of performances, and the type of events they are hired for.

Top-rated close-up magicians can earn considerably more.

 

Close-Up Magician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Close-Up Magician need?

Close-Up Magicians need to have excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform intricate tricks effectively.

They should have a strong understanding of human psychology to anticipate audience reactions and to manipulate their attention.

Effective interpersonal and communication skills are also important, as this role involves interacting closely with the audience.

Creativity and a knack for storytelling can add extra dimensions to their performances.

 

Do Close-Up Magicians need a degree?

While there isn’t a specific degree required to become a Close-Up Magician, having a background in theatre, psychology, or performing arts can be beneficial.

More importantly, extensive practice and experience in magic techniques are necessary.

There are magic schools and courses available which provide formal training in various aspects of magic, including close-up magic.

 

What should you look for in a Close-Up Magician’s resume?

When reviewing a Close-Up Magician’s resume, look for a proven track record of performances in different settings such as parties, corporate events, or magic shows.

Any formal training in magic, theatre, or performing arts should also be considered.

References from previous clients can be beneficial in assessing their ability to entertain and engage an audience effectively.

 

What qualities make a good Close-Up Magician?

A good Close-Up Magician should be charismatic, as this helps engage and entertain audiences.

They should also have excellent observational skills to assess audience reactions and adapt their performance accordingly.

Patience and persistence are key, as mastering magic tricks often requires repetitive practice.

A passion for magic and a drive for continuous learning are also crucial, as the field is constantly evolving with new tricks and techniques.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Close-Up Magician?

The difficulty in hiring a Close-Up Magician largely depends on the specific requirements for the event or show.

It’s crucial to hire a magician whose style and expertise match your needs.

For instance, if you’re organizing a corporate event, you’ll need a magician who is comfortable interacting with professionals and can handle a mature audience.

It’s always advisable to watch a performer’s previous shows or ask for a demo to gauge their style and proficiency before hiring.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the true essence of being a close-up magician.

Surprised?

It’s not just about performing magic tricks.

It’s about crafting mesmerizing experiences, one card trick at a time.

With our reliable close-up magician job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone towards meticulously designed listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every magic trick is a part of the bigger illusion.

Let’s create that magic. Together.

How to Become a Close-Up Magician (Complete Guide)

Jobs That Will Make You Envious: Fun Careers with Big Paychecks

Unconventional and Unbelievable: The Weirdest Jobs Out There

Serenity Now, Success Forever: The Best Low-Stress Jobs

Earn Easy, Live Happy: Simple Jobs That Will Enrich Your Life!