Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Comedy stage hypnotism is a form of entertainment where a trained hypnotist invites volunteers from the audience to participate in a hypnotic experience on stage. The hypnotist induces a trance-like state in the volunteers and then proceeds to perform various comedic acts and skitsinvolving suggestions or commands that are carried out by the hypnotised participants.

The process of hypnotising people is called an induction, and for the most part people can only be hypnotised if they follow the hypnotists lead as they perform the induction. This means that people who do not want to be hypnotised will not be.

Shows are often performed for the public at cabarets, venues, clubs and hotels. Gerard V also does many private events for corpoations, trade shows and conferences.

Comedy stage hypnotism is based on the principles of hypnosis. The hypnotist uses various techniques to guide participants into a relaxed state of focused attention, known as a trance. In this state, the participants become more open to suggestions from the hypnotist, allowing them to act in unusual or comedic ways.

For a more detailed description see also: How Does Stage Hypnotism Work?

Yes, stage hypnosis is a real phenomenon. The participants in comedy stage hypnotism shows are genuinely hypnotised and experience the effects of suggestion while under the trance. However, it's important to note that not everyone is equally hypnotisable, and the level of response can vary from person to person. In most shows there will be a small number of people dismissed from the stage having not been successfully hypnotised on that occasion.

No, the participants in comedy stage hypnotism shows are not faking their experiences. While some skeptics may question the authenticity of the hypnotic state, it is generally accepted that those who volunteer and participate in the show are genuinely under hypnosis. However, it's important to remember that the volunteers are still in control of their actions and will not do anything against their personal beliefs or values.

When performed by a trained and responsible hypnotist, comedy stage hypnotism is generally considered safe. Hypnotists who specialize in stage hypnosis understand how to create a safe and controlled environment for the participants. They are trained to manage any unexpected situations that may arise during the show and ensure the well-being of the volunteers.

Not everyone can be easily hypnotised. Hypnotisability varies from person to person, and some individuals are naturally more receptive to hypnosis than others. Factors such as willingness, trust, and the ability to relax and concentrate can influence a person's susceptibility to hypnosis on the occasion.

However as a general rule nearly everyone can be hypnotised under the right circumstances.

No, participants in comedy stage hypnotism shows cannot be made to do things against their will or moral principles. While hypnosis can make people more open to suggestion, they are still in control of their actions. Hypnotised individuals will typically only carry out suggestions that they find acceptable or in line with their own values.

Comedy stage hypnotism is primarily a form of entertainment and should not be confused with therapeutic hypnosis (AKA hypnotherapy). While hypnosis can have therapeutic applications, such as in clinical settings, comedy stage hypnotism focuses on providing amusement and laughter to the audience.

That said, it is common for people who have been hypnotised in a stage setting to report that they sleep better after the experience, and sometimes feel more at ease and have greater self confidence.

Generally, the effects of stage hypnosis are temporary and wear off once the show is over. Participants typically return to their normal state of consciousness and do not experience any lasting effects from the hypnosis. However, it's essential for the hypnotist to ensure that participants are properly dehypnotised at the end of the performance to ensure their well-being.

However sometimes the process of hypnosis leads people to have a greater sense of wellbeing, sleep better or have greater confidence. These can be lasting in nature and occur when the hypnotist deliberately makes those suggestions, as Gerard V does in his show.

Generally though stage hypnotists will ensure that there are no lasting effects other than having had fun.

Comedy stage hypnotism is designed to be light-hearted and entertaining, rather than embarrassing or humiliating for the participants. Skilled hypnotists like Gerard V take care to create a positive and respectful environment, ensuring that the suggestions and acts are within the bounds of good taste and do not embarrass or offend either the volunteers or the audience.

However the attitude and approach of the hypnotist are critical in creating a show that is clean, respectful and even joyful, as Gerard V does. There have been over the years a few other performers less respectful of their guests and more inclined to "take the low road". Those people are best avoided.

This is where choosing the right performer is important, and you should carefully consider whether or not your potential hypnotist has a reputation for respect or otherwise.

There are a variety of training options available by way of books, courses and in person training. Most larger cities have at least one course offereing. But just because it is local does not mean it is good. You'll need to do a bit of shopping around.

While videos and online courses can seem attractive they can miss out the subtleties and personal feedback that can really make the difference. Group courses give you an opportunity to practise while you learn.

For an in depth article on how to learn to be a comedy stage hypnotist you can click this link.

Stage hypnosis can indeed have a positive impact on how people perceive hypnosis overall, depending on how it is conducted.

A classy, clean and respectful stage hypnosis show, while funny and often silly, can convince people that hypnosis is actually real, and frequently leads them to ask about the effectiveness of hypnosis in therapeutic setting.

1. Research and Reviews

• Look for Experience: Choose a hypnotist with a proven track record in performing at corporate events. Experience often translates to better performance and audience engagement.
• Read Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. This can give you insight into the hypnotist’s professionalism and the quality of their shows.

2. Check Credentials

• Certifications: Ensure the hypnotist has relevant certifications or memberships in professional organizations. This can be a sign of their commitment to ethical practices and continuous learning.
• Insurance: Verify that the hypnotist has liability insurance. This is important for protecting both parties in case of any unforeseen incidents.

3. Watch Demo Videos

• Performance Style: Watch demo videos or live performances if available. This will help you gauge their style and see if it aligns with the tone and goals of your event.
• Audience Interaction: Pay attention to how they interact with the audience. A good hypnotist should be able to engage and entertain without making anyone uncomfortable.

4. Discuss Your Plans

• Tailored Content: Talk to the hypnotist about customizing their performance to fit your event’s timing or objectives. A tailored show can make the experience more relevant and impactful for your audience.
• Flexibility: Ensure they are flexible and can adapt their performance based on the audience’s response and the event’s flow.
• The Details: Communicate with them how many guests you expect, where the event will be and if there are other acts or activities planned such as awards or a gala dinner.

5. Understand the Costs

• Transparent Pricing: Get a clear understanding of the costs involved, including any additional expenses like travel or special equipment.
• Value for Money: Consider the value they bring to your event. Sometimes paying a bit more for a reputable hypnotist can lead to a much better experience.

6. Communication

• Professionalism: Assess their communication skills and professionalism during your initial interactions. This can be indicative of how they will handle your event.
• Clear Expectations: Make sure all expectations are clearly communicated and agreed upon in writing, including performance duration, setup requirements, and any specific requests you might have.

The Gerard V Comedy Stage Hypnosis show begins with a brief introduction. The intro looks like standup comedy and is very funny; and it is also setting the scene for what happens next.

After the intro Gerard V asks for people who are interested to come up on stage and give it a go. He uses only genuine volunteers from the audience.

Then follows the hypnotising of the volunteers, which itself involves a few gags, after which Gerard V just keeps the gags going.

You might see someone doing Mary Had a Little Lamb in the style of death metal, or an epic air guitar competition.

Perhaps that teddy bear has passed out and needs resuscitation. . .

The gags are fun, delightfully silly, and joyfully hilarious. All this is interspersed with some great one liners and comedy from Gerard V himself.

Typically, a show can range from 45 to 90 minutes in length. However, Gerard V can customise the show's duration to suit the event or venue requirements, depending on various factors, including the number of participants, the run-sheet for the event, and the specific acts performed.

Generally, Gerard V the hypnotist can work with a minimum of 20 to 30 guests to create an engaging and entertaining show. However shows can involve many more people if desired, up to many hundreds of guests.

It has been noticeable since the covid lockdown that many events have a higher than expected number of no-show guests. And if there are not enough people it may be impractical to have the show. For this reason Gerard V generally will not take a booking for fewer than 30 people.

It is desirable to have 50 or more guests in most cases.

Comedy stage hypnotism shows can be performed in a variety of venues, including theatres, comedy clubs, corporate events, and college campuses. Venues with a suitable stage or performance area, good visibility for the audience, and proper sound and lighting equipment work best for a successful show.

Gerard V can and often does bring his own sound and lighting to events so in many cases a more basic venue such as a hall or function room can work well too.

While comedy stage hypnotism shows are typically performed indoors, it is possible to have an outdoor show under the right conditions. Outdoor shows present unique challenges, such as potential distractions, noise interference, and unpredictable weather conditions. It's important to discuss the specifics with the hypnotist and ensure that the necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a successful outdoor performance.

Hosting a comedy stage hypnotism show at a private residence is less common but can be arranged if the space allows for it. The hypnotist will need to assess the suitability of the space in terms of seating, lighting, and audience comfort.

Additionally, it's important to consider any potential noise restrictions or neighbourhood regulations that may affect the event.

In Gerard V's comedy stage hypnotism show, the participants are always volunteers. Gerard V typically invites audience members to come up on stage and participate after he has given a brief overview of what is involved.

Choosing the Perfect Entertainer for Your Event

Selecting the ideal entertainer for your event can be a daunting task, but a few key considerations can simplify the process.

Understand Your Audience
First, consider the interests and demographics of your guests. Are they predominantly young professionals, families, or a mix of different age groups? Tailoring the entertainment to their preferences ensures a more engaging experience.

Define Your Event's Theme
The theme and tone of your event play a significant role in determining the right type of entertainer. For example:

• Corporate Events: Comedians, hypnotists, magicians or motivational speakers can add value.
• Kids' Parties: Think about magicians or beloved characters from shows that they follow.
• Weddings: A live band or a talented DJ who can read the room and set the perfect mood is essential, sometimes another act like a magician or hypnotist can entertain the guests between the wedding and the reception.

Consider the Venue
The type and size of your venue also impact your choice. A large outdoor space can accommodate circus performers or stunt shows, while an intimate indoor setting might be better suited for acoustic musicians or close-up magicians.

Budget Wisely
Establish a clear budget ahead of time. High-profile acts come with higher fees, but there are plenty of talented local artists and entertainers who can give a memorable performance without breaking the bank.

Get Recommendations and Reviews
Look for reviews and testimonials for the entertainers you're considering. Websites like Google Reviews can provide insights into other people's experiences. Additionally, reaching out to friends or colleagues who have hosted similar events can yield valuable recommendations.

Align with Your Event's Goal
Identify what you want to achieve with your entertainment. Are you looking to boost morale, impress clients, or simply provide a fun atmosphere? The right entertainer will align with these goals and contribute to the success of your event.

Conclusion

By carefully considering your audience, theme, venue, budget, and event goals, you can confidently choose an entertainer that will elevate your event from ordinary to unforgettable. Happy planning!

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Mentalist

Pros of Hiring a Mentalist

Versatile Performance Settings: Mentalists can adapt their acts to nearly any environment, whether it’s a corporate event, a private party, or a stage performance. This flexibility allows them to engage with a variety of audiences and venues effectively.
Unique and Astonishing Routines: Unlike traditional magicians, mentalists blend refined mental skills with psychological illusion, offering a fresher and more modern form of entertainment. Their acts often leave audiences in awe, as they incorporate genuine elements of psychology and human behavior.
Engagement Through Intellectual Stimulation: Mentalists don't rely solely on physical props. Instead, they use the power of suggestion, influence, and mindreading, which can be more engaging for audiences looking for intellectual stimulation along with their entertainment.

Cons of Hiring a Mentalist

Limited Availability: Skilled mentalists are relatively rare, making them harder to find and potentially more expensive to hire. This scarcity can be a significant drawback for planners seeking high-quality performers.
Production Quality Variability: The visual impact of a mentalist’s performance can vary greatly depending on production quality. Some mentalists may not offer high visual spectacle unless they have dedicated production resources, which can affect the overall entertainment value.
Language Dependency: Mentalist acts often rely on verbal communication and understanding of psychological cues. This makes them less effective for audiences that do not share the same language as the performer, which can limit their applicability in multicultural or non-English-speaking settings.

Additional Considerations

• Hypnosis Capabilities: Some mentalists also perform hypnosis, adding another layer to their skillset. However, not all incorporate this into their shows, which means you should check their specific talents beforehand.
• Authenticity: Mentalists often bridge the gap between magic and genuine psychological insight. Those well-versed in human behavior may provide a more authentic experience compared to magicians who simply perform tricks disguised as mentalism.

Hiring a mentalist can provide a unique and intellectually stimulating experience, offering more than the traditional illusions of magicians. However, their rarity and the potential variability in production quality are factors to consider when deciding if a mentalist is the right choice for your event.

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Magician

Pros

Easy Travel and Setup: Magicians typically travel light, packing their props into a few suitcases or small road cases. This makes logistics a breeze compared to larger acts requiring extensive equipment.
Versatility: Magicians come in various styles, from comedy magicians who engage the audience with humor to cardistry experts who amaze with their sleight of hand. This diversity allows you to choose a performer who matches the mood and style of your event.
Solo or Minimal Assistance: Most magicians perform solo or with just one assistant, simplifying the coordination and space requirements.
Broad Audience Appeal: Magic shows can entertain both intimate and large crowds. This flexibility makes magicians suitable for different event sizes and settings.

Cons

Familiar Acts: Many magicians perform classic routines that some audiences may have seen before. While this can evoke nostalgia for some, it may not provide a fresh experience for others.
Specific Performance Conditions: Certain magic shows require specific conditions, like having the audience only in front of the performer. This limitation can be a drawback for venues that don't offer such configurations.
Limited Grand Illusions: Unlike illusionists who use large-scale props and elaborate setups, magicians often lean towards smaller tricks and close-up magic. This means they may not offer the same level of spectacle as more extensive illusionist acts.
Setup Constraints: Classic magicians often need a backdrop or wall behind them and prefer no audience on the sides, which might be restrictive for some event layouts.

Summary

Hiring a magician brings forth a blend of convenience and entertainment versatility, making them an excellent choice for various event types. However, be mindful of the potential limitations regarding the uniqueness of routines and specific performance conditions. Balancing these factors will help ensure the magic at your event thrills and captivates your audience.

Pros and Cons of Hiring an Illusionist

Pros

Highly Visual Entertainment: Illusionists offer performances that are visually stunning, making them accessible and enjoyable for diverse audiences. Their acts usually transcend language barriers, allowing everyone to appreciate the spectacle.
Memorable Experiences: Grand illusions—think levitations, producing doves from thin air, or dramatic vanishes—create unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Engaging and Interactive: These performances often involve audience participation, which can heighten engagement and make the event more interactive, keeping the crowd entertained and involved.

Cons

High Cost: Hiring an illusionist can be expensive. The necessity for large props, elaborate staging, and specialized lighting adds up. Moreover, you may need additional stage crew and technicians, increasing the overall cost.
Logistical Demands: Setting up for a grand illusion show requires significant logistical planning. Adequate space and suitable stage conditions are essential for a smooth performance, which can complicate event planning, especially in venues with limited facilities.
Need for Assistants: Many illusionists require one or more assistants to execute their acts effectively. Coordinating with and potentially hiring these additional performers adds another layer of complexity and expense.
Consider these factors to determine if an illusionist is the right fit for your event, balancing the unforgettable entertainment they provide against the practical and financial investments required.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Hypnotist

Hiring a hypnotist for a corporate event can be a unique and engaging choice. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• Interactive Entertainment: Hypnotists often involve the audience in their performances, making the event more engaging and memorable².
• Boosts Morale: A good hypnotist can provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere, which can help boost employee morale and relieve stress¹.
• Team Building: The interactive nature of a hypnotist's performance can encourage participation and interaction among employees, fostering better teamwork².
• Unique Experience: Many people have never seen a live hypnotist show, making it a unique and standout experience².
• Versatility: Hypnotists can tailor their performances to fit the theme and goals of your event, whether it's for entertainment, motivation, or stress relief¹.

Cons

• Cost: Hiring a professional hypnotist, especially one with a good reputation, can be expensive. Costs may include travel expenses, props, and other performance-related expenses.
• Audience Reception: Not everyone may be comfortable with or interested in hypnotism. Some attendees might find it unappealing or even unsettling which is why it is vital to hire someone who only uses genuine volunteers.
• Quality Variability: The quality of hypnotists can vary greatly. It's important to research and hire a reputable professional to ensure a successful performance.
• Potential for Discomfort: Some individuals might feel uncomfortable participating in or watching a hypnotist show, which could affect their overall experience at the event.

Why Clients Often Mistake Illusionists for Magicians

Clients frequently request illusionists for their corporate events or private parties, but this request often stems from a misunderstanding of what an illusionist actually does.

Misconceptions and Room Constraints
Terminology Confusion:

• Many clients use the term "illusionist" as a catch-all for any performer who does magic tricks, when what they really need is a magician.
• Magicians perform up-close tricks with cards, coins, and other small objects, while illusionists typically require larger stages to perform grand spectacles.

• Illusionists often need elaborate setups with significant space and specialized lighting, which many venues cannot accommodate.
• On the other hand, magicians can easily adapt to various room sizes and layouts, making them a more versatile choice for most events.

Clarifying Entertainment Needs
Performance Style Preferences:

• Clients might envision a performer who can create a sense of wonder and astonishment but might not realize that this can be achieved through different styles of magic.
• A magician can provide close-up magic or a stage performance, both of which create an interactive and engaging experience even in small spaces.

• Some clients believe that an illusionist will bring a higher level of showmanship and surprise, unaware that skilled magicians are equally capable of leaving audiences in awe.
• Many magicians also incorporate elements of illusion into their acts, blurring the lines between the two disciplines.

By understanding these nuances, clients can better determine the right type of performer for their event, ensuring a magical experience suited to their venue and audience.

What is Mental Magic and How Does it Relate to Mentalism and Hypnotism?

Mentalism refers to a form of entertainment where performers use refined mental techniques to create the illusion of having extraordinary mental powers. Unlike magicians who rely heavily on sleight of hand and props, mentalists focus on manipulating perceptions and showcasing apparent psychic abilities.

Mentalists engage in performances that continuously evolve to keep their acts fresh and astonishing. While magicians might use physical tricks and props, mentalists harness their understanding of psychology and human behavior to captivate audiences.

A mentalist can be thought of as a combination of a magician and a psychic. They create powerful impacts through performances that may seem like genuine mind reading.

Hypnotism refers to a form of entertainment where performers use psychological skills and relaxation techniques to induce a high level of suggestibility in a panel of voluteers. Once hypnotised the volunteers are lead by suggestion througha series of silly or funny routines or gags. Hypnosis is a purely mental skill requiring no illusion, deception or props.

This brings us to the concept of mental magic.

The Nature of Mental Magic

Mental magic is essentially a subset within the broader domain of mentalism. It involves traditional magic routines that are cleverly disguised as feats of mind-reading and psychological manipulation. While a pure mentalist might rely solely on psychological techniques, those who perform mental magic blend in elements of illusion typically seen in magic acts.

The Sliding Scale of Mentalism

Visualize a sliding scale where one end represents purists—performers who use only genuine psychological tactics—and the other end represents magicians who incorporate mental magic into their routines. Every mentalist falls somewhere on this spectrum, blending these methods to varying degrees.

• Purist Mentalists: These performers focus intensely on real psychological principles, such as reading body language or influencing decision-making.
• Mental Magicians: These entertainers use the guise of psychological feats but rely on traditional magic tricks to create their illusions.

In essence, mental magic bridges the world of mentalism and traditional magic, offering a versatile and captivating experience for audiences. Whether leaning towards authentic psychological methods or blending in magic tricks, mentalists create extraordinary displays that intrigue and amaze.

What Defines an Illusionist and What Kind of Performances Do They Typically Do?

An illusionist is a type of magician who specializes in creating large-scale visual spectacles that captivate audiences. Their performances often involve dramatic stage setups, intricate props, and multiple assistants to pull off stunning feats that defy logic.

Defining an Illusionist

• Illusion vs. Magic: Although referred to as "magic," the wonders performed by an illusionist are technically illusions designed to amaze and mystify.
• Grand Scale: Illusionists typically use large props and elaborate stage setups to perform their tricks.

Typical Performances

• Large Props: Think grand presentations where illusionists use items like giant boxes, saws, and platforms.
• Spectacles: Common illusions include levitation, where an assistant floats in mid-air, or the classic trick of sawing someone in half.
• Transpositions: This involves making a person or object disappear from one place and reappear in another, adding an element of surprise and wonder.

Pros and Cons
Pros

• Universal Appeal: The highly visual nature of grand illusions means they can be enjoyed by people from any linguistic or cultural background.
• Impressive: The scale and complexity of these performances often leave a lasting impact on audiences.

Cons

• Costly: These shows can be expensive to produce. They require significant staging, advanced lighting, and often the help of multiple assistants and technicians.
• Logistics: The need for sizeable props and specialized equipment can add to the transportation and setup costs, especially for traveling shows.

By combining visual grandeur with technical skill, illusionists create unforgettable experiences that transcend language and culture, making their performances a staple in the world of entertainment.

Why Some Magicians Avoid Performing with an Audience Behind Them

Magicians are masters of illusion, often reliant on precise angles and controlled perspectives to execute their tricks flawlessly. When an audience is positioned behind them, several key challenges arise:
1 Exposure of Secrets: Many illusions and sleights of hand depend on keeping certain elements hidden from view. If people are behind the magician, they could easily spot the method behind the magic, ruining the effect.
2 Stage Configuration: While most audiences sit in front of the performer, some shows might not control the environment as strictly, making performances more susceptible to exposure from different angles.
3 Movement Constraints: Magicians often utilize deceptive motions and subtle body language to misdirect the audience's attention. Having spectators at their backs can limit these movements, as every angle needs to be considered.

For these reasons, many magicians prefer performing with a solid background behind them, ensuring their secrets stay secret and their performances mesmerizing.

"Mentalists are performers who create the illusion of possessing psychic powers. They use techniques from psychology, hypnotism, and magic to create an illusion that they can read or control minds. A mentalist uses a lot of psychology and uses it to make us believe that they can control and read our minds. They act in a dramatic manner that what’s happening is for real and they have some mystical powers.
Unlike traditional magicians who rely heavily on dexterous hand movements and physical props, mentalists employ refined mental skills and what is known as 'Psychological Illusion.' This allows them to create mind-blowing routines that seem almost otherworldly.

Broader Creative Scope

Because their performances aren't bound by physical objects, mentalists have a broader creative canvass. They can incorporate elements like body language, suggestion, and misdirection to craft their illusions. This makes their acts more versatile and dynamic compared to those of traditional magicians.

Mental Magic

Within the realm of mentalism, there's a subset called 'Mental Magic.' These are essentially magic tricks designed to look like mindreading. Each mentalist uses mental magic to some degree, and they often fall somewhere on a sliding scale between purists—who are deeply knowledgeable in psychology and human behavior—and magicians who incorporate psychological elements into their tricks.

Real-World Examples

A good mentalist might also perform hypnosis, adding another layer of psychological complexity to their act. While they may not always showcase hypnosis in their mentalism shows, the skill underscores their deep understanding of psychological principles. This sets them apart from magicians who only perform tricks designed to mimic the appearance of mindreading.

By integrating these refined mental techniques and understanding human behavior, mentalists create performances that are not only entertaining but also deeply fascinating. Their ability to manipulate perception and create the illusion of psychic powers captivates audiences, making them a unique and compelling form of entertainment."

There are different types or genres of magicians like comedy, closeup, dramatic.
For example, Comedy Magicians blend stand-up comedy with magic, offering a dual layer of entertainment that keeps audiences laughing and amazed. They skillfully interweave humor and illusion, making their performances a hit for all ages.

Closeup Magicians, on the other hand, specialize in performing miracles right in front of your guests, often in their own hands. These magicians excel at creating intimate, mind-boggling experiences that leave the audience questioning reality.

In addition to these, Dramatic Magicians focus on creating an atmosphere of wonder and suspense. Their performances often include theatrical elements, dramatic storytelling, and grand illusions that captivate and mesmerize large audiences.

By understanding these subcategories, you can better choose the right type of magician to fit the tone and style of your event.