How Many Magicians Do I Need?
At Magical Memories, we get asked this all the time: “How many magicians should I hire for my event?” The answer depends on your guest numbers, event type, and schedule.
With nearly 30 years of experience organising magical entertainment across the UK, we’ve built teams for everything from a 30-minute living-room party with one magician to four-magician teams covering 500+ guests at corporate galas.
Written by: Magical Memories Team • Reviewed by: Nick (Award-Wining Magician)
Magician Calculator
Select the number of guests and we’ll recommend how many magicians you need:
These are guidelines — final recommendations depend on venue layout and timings. Typical pricing: £350–£800 per magician.
Pro Tips from 30 Years of Events
- Coverage rule of thumb: one magician can cover ~50–70 guests in 2 hours (or 8–10 tables).
- Staggered schedules help at big dinners — e.g. two magicians starting at opposite ends of the room.
- Venue layout matters: multiple rooms or noisy spaces may require extra performers.
- VIP moments: plan a short spotlight trick for award winners or senior leadership tables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Under-booking: some guests never get to see the magic.
- Over-booking: unnecessary spend without extra impact.
- No schedule: confirm timings (arrival drinks, between courses, or after dinner).
When Should I Book?
- Peak Christmas (Nov–Dec): book at least 4–8 weeks in advance.
- Summer weddings: secure 6–12 weeks ahead.
- Short notice: we offer emergency cover — still ask, we often have availability.
Mini Case Study: 500-Guest Corporate Gala
Brief: High-impact entertainment at arrival and full dinner coverage for 500 guests.
Plan: Four close-up magicians for reception → coordinated table magic between courses → short comedy finale.
Outcome: 95% of tables covered, with glowing feedback: “Best entertainment we’ve had.”
Why Book with Magical Memories
- ✔ As Seen On TV: BBC, ITV, Channel 5, Sky, Netflix.
- ✔ Professional bodies: Magic Circle performers.
- ✔ Compliance: Fully insured & DBS-checked.
FAQs
How many magicians do I need?
Use the calculator above. As a guide: up to 35 guests = 1 magician for 1 hour; 36–150 = 1 magician for 2 hours; 151–200 = 1 magician for 3 hours; 201–300 = 2 magicians for 2 hours each; 301–400 = 3–4 magicians for 2 hours each; 400+ = tailored plan.
Why does guest count matter for close-up magic?
Close-up and table magic are experienced in small groups. The right number of performers ensures every guest is covered without overspending.
Can you help with small and large events?
Yes — we cover everything from a single magician for a 30-minute set to multi-magician teams for 300–500+ guest events.
What’s included in the fee?
Agreed performance time, pre-event planning, travel within the quoted radius, and Public Liability Insurance. We’ll always recommend the right team for your guest count.
Ready to get a personalised plan?