This book describes how to be a success in the entertainment industry. Included are: clowns, dancers, jugglers, comics, disc jockeys, mimes, magicians, stilt walkers, musicians, balloon twisters, face painters, puppeteers, vocalists, hypnotists, ventriloquists, impersonators, caricature artists, and many more who know they have talent but need help. The author provides first - hand knowledge on how to get started and advance as an entertainer. He shares with you what he has learned the hard way from entertaining in a many types of locations such as streets, restaurants, malls, homes, ships, trade shows, yachts and working with a variety of entertainers to produce successful events. Each chapter will give detailed information on specific topics such as marketing, fees to charge, preparation for your gig, getting and keeping your gig, terminology, and much more.
Magic Mike Stilwell is known for his professional talent, humor, good values and sincere personality. Although he may be best known for his smooth as silk voice and his comedy-magic up close, he has broad experiences in the entertainment field, including developing and marketing magic equipment, owning and operating an entertainment related restaurant, serving as an entertainment producer for a local agency, and teaching magic to a variety of students including some with disabilities. He has the respect of other entertainers and is known to be a team player. In addition to being a highly acclaimed magician and widely known as one of San Diego's most favorite entertainers, he has the respect of other entertainers for his creativity and passion for his profession. Other entertainers appreciate his expertise and he has always been willing to share the knowledge that he has gained the hard way over the last 35 years. One of his greatest strengths lies in the vast variety of experiences such as having long term gigs (one restaurant for 15 years, another for 8 years). Half of his work is from repeat customers. He has performed at a multitude of locations such as restaurants, streets, malls, ships, hospitals, fairs, homes and trade shows. He has entertained at over 700 Bat/Bar Mitzvahs. And of course, hundreds of birthday parties, weddings and graduation parties. Magic Mike Stilwell has received recognition for his years of work with newspapers, magazines, billboards, and TV interviews. He has received thank you letters from all over the world. He received a trophy "Magician of the Year" from The Fellowship of Honorable Magicians in 2005. He is a member of The Society of American Magicians, The International Brotherhood of Magicians, Hollywood's famous Magic Castle, and The Academy of Magical Arts. He was the first costumed character to be a member of The Magic Castle. For several years he did close-up magic in full costume including gloves and limited vision as Bumper the Baffling Bunny. He wants to credit much of his success as Bumper to Donna Stilwell (Mrs. Bumper Bunny) for the physical and emotional support she gave during this time. Magic Mike Stilwell is the proud father of two sons: Scott Michael and James Mark and grand-son, Travis Michael Stilwell
