Family and Children's Entertainers, The Podcast

Round Table #2


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Welcome to another episode of Face The Podcast, the go-to vidcast and podcast dedicated to children and family entertainers! In this roundtable episode, hosted by Gordon Drayson, a full-time professional children’s entertainer, we dive into lively discussions with our special guests Kerry Jay, Jelly Kelly, and Paul Longhurst.

This episode is packed with insights as we tackle various topics that resonate with entertainers everywhere. We explore the art of evolving your show—should you overhaul your entire show or just swap out a trick? Discover the heartfelt story of Kelly’s challenging show that left her in tears, and how she transformed that experience into a learning opportunity.

Our panel share their thoughts on the shifting trends in bookings and the impact of advertising strategies in today’s market. We dive into the nuances of gender dynamics in entertainment, discussing how being male or female can affect perceptions and bookings in the industry.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind creating a memorable show, whether it’s through maintaining high energy or weaving a captivating narrative. Our guests also share their personal experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges and embracing the joys and complexities of being a family entertainer.

Whether you’re an aspiring entertainer or a seasoned professional, this episode promises valuable takeaways to enhance your craft and business. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain wisdom from a diverse group of entertainers who are passionate about what they do.

Subscribe to Face The Podcast for more insightful discussions, and join our community of entertainers on our Facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/facethepodcast

Join Gordon as he talks to Kerry, Kelly, and Paul in FACE, The Podcast

Kerry Jay – https://cometomyparty.net
Jelly Kelly – https://www.jellykelly.co.uk
Paul Longhurst – https://www.magicpaul.co.uk
Gordon Drayson – https://www.disbelieving.com

Visit the website: https://www.facethepodcast.com

SPONSOR – Drayson Design – https://www.draysondesign.com

Chapters

[00:00:00]: Introduction and Overview of Round Table #2
[00:01:35]: Introduction of Guests: Kerry Jay, Jelly Kelly and Paul Longhurst
[00:01:55]: Discussion on Seasonal Workload Changes
[00:02:53]: Experiences with Changes in December Workloads
[00:03:29]: Kerry’s Busy Schedule at Centre Park
[00:04:32]: Kelly’s Concerns about Reduced December Bookings
[00:05:17]: Shifts in Booking Patterns from December to July
[00:06:36]: Impact of Economic Factors on Booking Decisions
[00:07:38]: Importance of Advertising and Its Impact on Bookings
[00:08:05]: Kelly’s Advertising Strategy with Yell Smart Performance
[00:11:22]: Paul’s Experience with Google Ads and SEO
[00:13:04]: Discussion on Digital Invitations as a Marketing Tool
[00:15:12]: Custom Digital Invitation System by Gordon Drayson
[00:16:57]: Using Photos and Branding for Marketing at Events
[00:18:01]: Discussion on Performance Banners and Branding
[00:19:13]: Autographs and Memorabilia as Marketing Strategies
[00:20:38]: Anecdote of a Memorable Audience Interaction
[00:21:31]: Impact of Performer Gender on Bookings and Audience Perception
[00:26:09]: Gender Dynamics and Audience Interaction
[00:27:48]: Paul Longhurst on Hugging and Audience Engagement
[00:29:18]: Navigating Political Correctness in Performances
[00:33:09]: Changing Dynamics of Comedy and Audience Sensitivity
[00:34:56]: Focus of Performance: Kids vs. Parents
[00:36:33]: Kelly’s Challenging Experience with a Party Host
[00:41:01]: Handling Difficult Situations and Audience Expectations
[00:44:30]: Balancing Entertainment for Both Kids and Adults
[00:45:01]: Strategies for Engaging Adult Audiences
[00:45:59]: Importance of Setting Up the Performance Space
[00:48:12]: Audience Engagement Techniques and Style Differences
[00:50:51]: Sponsor – Introduction to Drayson Design Reviews
[00:53:05]: Differences in Performance Styles: Chaotic vs. Structured
[00:55:14]: Techniques for Managing Dynamic Performances
[00:57:40]: Performers’ Styles in Children’s Entertainment
[01:00:11]: Advice for New and Struggling Entertainers
[01:02:36]: Importance of Saying Yes to New Opportunities
[01:03:10]: Strategies for Revamping a Show
[01:06:32]: Discussion on Replacing Elements in a Show
[01:11:20]: Audience Engagement and Performance Consistency
[01:14:03]: The Role of Storytelling in Performances
[01:16:02]: Debate on Consistency vs. Fresh Content in Shows
[01:17:05]: Audience Reactions to Familiar and New Material
[01:19:03]: Importance of Industry Conventions for Career Growth
[01:22:24]: Reflections on Starting Out in the Entertainment Industry
[01:26:02]: Experiences and Advice for New Entertainers
[01:28:03]: The Value of Conventions Like Tricks in the Sticks
[01:32:24]: Favourite Age Groups to Entertain and Why
[01:34:13]: Different Preferences for Audience Age Groups
[01:37:45]: Factors Affecting Performance Environment and Success
[01:40:06]: Closing Remarks and Reflections on the Discussion

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Family and Children's Entertainers, The PodcastBy Gordon Drayson