See what college kids are saying after watching The Dan Sperry show:

DAN SPERRY F.A.Q.

“Amazing! Fantastic!”
-NEU, Boston

Is This A “Scary” Magic Show?

No, not at all.  Dan Sperry is known for his unique and often twisted comedic presentations incorporated with audience participation, music, and of course a sense of wonder and amazement through the use of magic and illusion.  As you can clearly see Dan is not your average magician and this is what has helped him to become so successful as he has never taken the road less traveled, instead he has wondered off and created his own path which is why much of what Dan does is never before seen comedy magic guaranteed to make a lasting impression that is enjoyed by audiences of any demographic.  It is understandable to be a bit shocked at first when you see Dan, but don’t worry; this is all part of the plan.  He is a caricature of himself throughout the show and uses his edgy appearance as a vehicle for much of the comedy in the show by making fun of himself and NOT anybody in the audience.  In all honesty Dan’s mom makes him dress like this, he really doesn’t like it and finds it embarrassing. 

What Do You Mean By “Bizarre Stunts”?

There are a few routines in the show where you won’t know if what you’re watching is magic or if it is real.  The reality is that it is all just an illusion – nothing that Dan does is real.  For example the Lifesaver routine, you can watch this on the VIDEOS page, it seems like the dental floss is really in Dan’s skin – you will swear you see it but the reality is that it is just an illusion.  The title of a bizarre stunt is used very loosely as everything is really just a magic routine but some of it seems so realistic that people have sworn that what Dan is doing is real.  Well, its not.

Why does Dan paint his fingernails black?

It is actually not nail polish, its tar.  Dan’s grandmother used to dip his fingers in tar to make him stop biting his nails.  And it helps the audience focus on his hands during the sleight of hand segments in the show.  The contrast allows audience members to really “burn” his hands by giving them something to focus on to try to catch the secret.

What is the free street magic teaser?

That is strictly for my college campus tours.  The majority of my shows are on college campuses and that option is reserved only for them.  For all other shows and additional “walk around” or “close up” magic segment can be negotiated into the fee of the show package.

What kind of room set up do you need for the stage show?

Preferably I’d like to be in a room or venue that actually has a stage built on premise.  If not and I’m in a banquet room or something similar I need the stage to be up against a wall having all of your guests seated in front of it as much as possible. Guests that are seated directly to either side of the stage or behind, have TERRIBLE seats and therefore I ask that you select an appropriate room. A space that can comfortably seat all of your guests without having them on the sides or behind the stage. Also watch out for those huge annoying beams right in the middle of some rooms. Please take into consideration your guests so they don't get stuck behind one of them and miss out on the fun.

Do we need to provide audio for your stage show?

Yes.  Or I can supply my own sound system at an additional cost.  Many venues have their own built in sound systems.  Please check with the venue to see if they have a sound system, as it's usually best to use their system.  I will need 3 stereo inputs: 2 for microphones and one for my remote music system that I use.  I always carry my own headset microphone and music. I would highly recommend hiring a professional audio/video company to take care of all your technical needs if you do not have anybody “in house”.  Or I can help recommend somebody for you as I’ve worked with many of the top people in the industry.

A key thing to have is a "mixer". This allows us to have more than one mic plugged in at the same time (and different volume settings for each). I usually suggest you request a wireless handheld that you can use for speeches, announcements, introducing me, etc.

Do you need any special lightning?

Yes, only for the Large Stage Illusion Show.  For the Stand Up and Stage shows as long as there is enough light for your guests to see me and what I do, that is enough. You might consider having it brighter in the performance area and dimmer in the audience area but that is completely optional.

Are you able to entertain while people are eating?

Yes, I can but I really don't recommend it and ask that you don't make me do it. By the nature of the entertainment, your guests participate in the magic and are often asked to help out. This is sometimes difficult when people are eating. And also it's hard to "watch closely" when you're enjoying dinner. This applies to all packages, strolling and stage shows.

If our event runs a little late, can we start your performance late?

No. Due to my busy performance schedule, all performances must begin (and more importantly) end on time. Sometimes my busy schedule doesn't allow anytime for flexibility with this so I do please ask for your cooperation. If you have to start me late, I may be forced to reduce the duration of the performance to accommodate my schedule. Please give yourself some cushion when planning your event's timeline. Be realistic on how long it may take to serve all of your guests so that I'm not forced to begin while they are still eating.

Are you going to embarrass or offend anyone?

I'm proud to say that absolutely NO ONE is embarrassed in any way. I've heard many horror stories of how other entertainers have completely offended guests in the audience with off color jokes and remarks. My entertainment never relies on entertaining people by making fun or laughing at people. "We're not laughing at you, we're laughing with you..."

Do you need a table?

No I don't. I bring my own.