Spreading Joy — The Show After The Show (Don’t Ignore The Staff!)
Moments Between the Moments: A Mentalist’s Unexpected Stage
The other day, I had the pleasure of entertaining at an upscale private party for a 50th birthday. These events are always a delicate balance of careful planning and spontaneous energy. The atmosphere was vibrant, the guests lively, and my one-hour show, filled with psychological illusions and mind reading, left everyone amazed. But, sometimes, the most memorable moments happen when the spotlight is offstage.
Impromptu Mentalism for Staff After Private Party
The Unsung Heroes Behind the Scenes
As I wrapped up my performance and prepared to leave, I noticed something. The staff—those invisible architects of every event—had been busy throughout the evening. They had glimpsed moments of my show from the back-of-house but were too busy with their duties to fully enjoy it. Downstairs, they were setting up the space for dancing and the next phase of the celebration.
As I walked past them, one of the staff members called out, “Can we see something?”
Connecting with the People Who Make the Event Happen
This simple request took me back to my younger days, when I worked as a waiter in a private club. I understood firsthand the hard work that goes on behind the scenes—the long hours, the unnoticed service. These people are often the unsung heroes of any event, ensuring everything runs smoothly while rarely receiving recognition.
As I always do, I decided to engage with the staff after my show. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a gesture of respect and connection. I wasn’t just a hired entertainer; I was sharing a moment of magic with fellow service industry professionals.
A Magical Moment with the Staff
What unfolded was magical. I began reading their minds up close. Each revelation sparked excitement, but one interaction stood out. I asked a woman to think of someone important in her life. I focused, and then the name came to me: “RAYMOND!” Her eyes widened in disbelief.
“I’m gonna die right now!” she exclaimed, her reaction met with cheers, screams, and laughter from the staff. It became an impromptu celebration, a moment of joy and connection that felt more real than any scripted performance.
The Power of Connection in Event Entertainment
In that moment, something profound happened. The staff, who had spent the night ensuring others’ experiences were perfect, became the focus of attention. They weren’t invisible anymore; they were part of something extraordinary. Their reactions were genuine, unfiltered, and contagious.
As the moment wound down, the staff exchanged business cards, eager to recommend me for future events at the venue. But the real reward wasn’t future bookings; it was the shared joy we experienced in that instant.
Why Joy is a Happiness Amplifier
This experience reminded me of a powerful truth: Joy is not a finite resource. It doesn’t deplete you when you share it; it multiplies. By taking a few moments to engage with these hardworking individuals, I didn’t just make their night—I amplified my own experience.
In the world of mentalism and event entertainment, the true magic isn’t just in the tricks or illusions. It’s in the recognition of people, the act of seeing them as more than just staff or guests, but as individuals worthy of attention and respect.
Final Thoughts: Creating Real Connections
As I left the venue that night, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose. My job isn’t just to entertain; it’s to create moments of genuine human connection. My performance is not just about mind reading, but about creating memories that linger long after the lights dim.
Remember, joy is a happiness amplifier. And sometimes, the most magical moments happen when the stage lights are off.
