Of course! Usually they choose the magic words and are invited up to take a starring role in the show. If they are a little shy, they can bring up a friend as well, or help while sitting in the audience.
I present them with a badge or wand during the show as well as a special balloon model and there is a surprise treat for them at the end too.
Joint birthday parties are very popular and, of course, I make both children feel special.
How do you entertain such a wide age group?
I have different shows for different audiences and I vary both the material and my presentation. My youngest audiences are the under-threes and I am happy to entertain children up to the age of ten as Mr Windbags. After that, please feel free to ask about my stand-up Kabaret Show which is for the sophisticated over-tens.
What’s the secret? It’s partly experience, partly listening to the children, but mainly because they like me: I have fun; they have fun. Sounds easy, doesn’t it?
How far do you travel?
Windbags HQ is in Durham City and most of my work is within an hour’s drive, but I am often invited to perform further afield: you can frequently find me up in the Borders, across in Haltwhistle and down around York and Harrogate. Contact me and I’ll tell you if I can come!
How far in advance do I have to book?
Sometimes people like to book a year in advance to get the date they want; sometimes I can take a booking the night before; but most people book about three months ahead. My diary does fill up quite quickly, but I’ll always do my best to help you. I promise never to say “You should have booked weeks ago!”
If you have alternative times and dates in mind it will make it easier for me to find you a slot. Bear in mind that I am always happy to take a provisional booking while you confirm the other arrangements.
Do you perform for adults?
No. I have years of experience entertaining children and family audiences and I am going to stick at what I do best. I can, of course, recommend other people who do specialise in adult magic.
What do you need when you perform a show?
I bring everything I need for my performance, including tables and a PA system. I might ask for a glass of water on a hot day, but other than that you just need to provide an audience.
How much space do you need?
As a professional entertainer, I have the flexibility to perform in any size of venue, from a large hall to a small sitting room; I can adapt my presentation to fill the space available.
The minimum performing area I need is about 4ft by 5ft. Remember: if the children sit on the floor you can squeeze quite a few into a relatively small space.
I once performed in a pub where the show was so popular, and the room so filled with children, that the only free space was on top of the pool table. I would rather not do that again!
My son has recently seen you; will it be the same act?
Don’t worry: I have lots of tricks in my repertoire and if you want I can tailor a different show especially for you. If there is something your son wants to see again, I will make sure I include it for him.
This all sounds wonderful, but what do you charge?
My fees are very competitive, but it really depends on what you want me to do! I am always happy to offer advice and will usually offer a range of options of different lengths and different formats, depending on the audience and the event. It's best to discuss this first and then I can quote you a range of fees on different packages. Feel free to compare what I offer and charge with other entertainers.
My diary fills up quite quickly , so it is a good idea to discuss availability as well. You can contact me by e-mail or on 0191 384 9408 or 07958 125 541.
Is satisfaction guaranteed?
No! A satisfactory show is just an average show. That’s the very least you should expect. I am not an average performer and I want to give you more than you expect. In fact, I guarantee better than satisfaction: I want ‘A’ for entertainment and ‘1’ for effort. What grade did I get? Check with the children and then get back to me with any comments or suggestions.
Do you want complaints?
Yes! It might be the tiniest comment; perhaps you don’t even think of it as a complaint, but I would like to hear it. If you really do have a complaint, please let me know so I can try to put it right. (I like to hear praise as well…)
Do I get a money-back guarantee?
Of course! I offer a full money-back guarantee if you’re not happy. Is there any other way to do business?
Goodness, is there anything Mr Windbags can’t do?
I like a challenge, and I like to work on new projects. But if there is something I can’t do, or I don’t think will work, or if I know someone who could do it better, I will tell you. That way you know that what I do for you will be professional. Remember, I don’t just give you my word: I give you a money-back guarantee as well.
