On With the Show

Hiring a great entertainer for your child's party

By Catherine Rondina

So it's time to begin planning another birthday party for your child. This year you've decided you want to do something a little different and make it one to remember. Why not hire some live entertainment? It's as simple as waving a magic wand, poof! - you've got a magician, singer, puppeteer, or clown, ready to turn your party into a celebration that will delight both children and adults. Here are some tips on selecting the right entertainer for your little one's celebration.

• Match the talent to your child. Think about what type of entertainer best suits your child's personality. If your child has a quite disposition, it might be best to hire puppeteers for your party. If your child is more of an out-going personality, look for a performer that gets everyone involved in his show.
• Check out all your options. When selecting an entertainer ask your friends for recommendations about acts they have seen. Check local parenting magazines, like City Parent, for ads. Be sure to get a least two references from clients who have used the talent in the last few months.
• Select an entertainer with experience. Know-how, in the business of entertaining kids, is an art. Hire someone who understands how to orchestrate a kids' party and is able to handle an unexpected situations that may arise. Entertaining the kids is only part of the job.
• Try to book well in advance. Many parents today are hiring entertainers for their kid's parties and like anything, the best in the business are booked well ahead. During prime season such as the summer months or during December, call a few months ahead. Slower periods require booking 4-6 weeks in advance.
• Be aware of age limitations. Certain types of performers may not be suitable for your child or their party guests. Don't hire a made-up clown for a very young group of kids who may be frightened by the heavy make-up. On the other hand, a singer with a guitar may be too laid-back for a group of 10-year olds.
• Budgeting for the talent. The cost of hiring an entertainer can greatly vary. The fees should be based on a number of factors, the two most important being your location and the level of the performer's experience. Costs are often based on an hourly rate ranging from $60 to $100 per hour.
• Setting the stage. Decide where in your home you'd like the show to take place. Indoors works best. Outdoor locations can add too many distractions. Try to keep the noise level down, very small children and talkative adults should keep clear of the performance. Remove pets from the area and keep the room a comfortable temperature.
• On with the show. Make a follow-up call to the performer a few days before the big event. Confirm all the details such as directions, time and duration of the performance, and costs. Also ask if the entertainer needs you to supply anything. A magician might request a table to use or a singer may want seating arranged, before hand.