October 2010 in Review

October is the month when the outdoor events begin to wind down.

This month we had Bwana Jim's Wildlife show perform at Mount Wachusett's Apple Fest on October 16 & 17th. The weekend brought chilly New England October weather perhaps a little windy but still nice for getting out and enjoying some foliage in the mountains. Bwana Jim's Wildlife show has a nice assortment of animals such as desert fox, armadillo, alligator snapping turtle, turkey vulture, snakes and more. There is an all day display of animals as well as a hilarious, entertaining and educational presentation by the one and only Bwana Jim.

We spend a lot of time in October looking ahead toward the 2011 season, it seems no matter what month the event may fall in somehow planning begins in October. We spend much of the month gathering updated schedules from performers and getting proposals out to the various fairs and festivals. We also seem to get a lot of new inquiries in October, probably more so than any other month.

For those planning events I though I might take the opportunity to explain some types of entertainment this month that is often underused and overlooked.

Strolling Entertainment - is a versatile entertainer such as table magic, mimes, a stilt-walker, juggler, comedian, original character, etc. They can be used at nearly any type of event but they are especially effect at parades when long breaks between units can become boring for spectators. Street Festivals and downtown events are wonderful places for strolling entertainers since they can move easily and spectators tend to follow they can liven up a section of the street or store front that isn't getting enough traffic flow. Between shows at fairs and festivals when audiences are often waiting for some time for the next show to begin is a great time to show the audience you appreciate their patience by sending in a stroller as a little pre-show warm up. Strollers are also effective at receptions when guests are arriving or between the cocktail hour and dinner to keep the event moving along.

All Day Displays - Attractions such as petting zoos, traveling museums, birds of prey & western attractions. Keep people interested in spending more time at an event and have no down time, actually many all day display offer shows as well such as educational presentations. These are a must have for any fair, but they are also great for a corporate BBQ giving guests an opportunity to visit during activities such as sports and music that may not interest them.

One Man Shows - Shows such as comedy, juggling, magic, etc. with a single person in them can be great for not only smaller events with a smaller budget but also perfect for an opening act for a larger show. One man shows are also perfect for that small stage in a food court area or picnic grove that a band, dance troupe or choir just won't fit on.

Ground Acts - No stage necessary for these acts! But they are great to fill up an open space, lawn or field giving your event a complete feeling. Acts such as large animal acts, circus acts, daredevils, lumberjack shows would all be considered "ground acts".