What is the difference between being a UK Magician and an American Magician?

Having worked as a UK magician and as a US Magician I thought it might be interesting to discuss the differences between performing in these two countries.

It is true to say that America looks upon magic in a less cynical light than the British. So essentially it is more difficult to be a UKmagician. However magic has always been popular in the UK as can be seen with the huge success of Dynamo. Even on a small cable channel he has been able to gain a large following and is set to break into the States as well.

 The main difference is in expectation. With the British you have to prove yourself first. If you approach a table at a wedding or corporate event your new audience will assume that the performance will not be of a high quality. It is very different in the States where their love of magic and positive outlook makes them much more likely to embrace a performance of magic and see the good in it.

The Magic Castle is a unique environment in which to work. A members club dedicated to the art of magic. Obviously those attending the shows have already decided that they wish to see magic and will be expecting the very best. This is also true as a UK magician at the Magic Circle. The society provides open evenings for the public, those who choose to come are expecting to enjoy and watch the very best in magical entertainment.

These are pretty straight forward places to work. The difference between the UK and the US can be seen more clearly at public events.