Welcome to the Tips & Guidelines Section. Here we will list some things for you to think about
in regard to preparing for your VA Hospital or Center Appearance.
GENERAL SHOW GUIDELINES:
- Show content should be entertaining and not too complex to follow.
- Remember you are performing in a VA hospital or Center so no fire or loud noises.
- If using Music - remember your audience and the environment
- Be prepared to encounter physically handicapped audience members
THE AUDIENCE:
You must remember that you are performing in a VA Hospital, Center, or Retirement Facility. You will come in
contact with a wide range of individuals with an array of
injury types and illnesses. Conditions of each individual/patient will vary - so be prepared to encounter simple to
complex situations.
The morale of those in a VA Hospital or Center can be very diverse - personalities will range from upbeat to not
interested. Just remember you are there for those that show an interest and for those that don't as well.
So an upbeat, positive show persona could be a plus!
To summarize, be prepared and remember some veterans will have been injured in combat while others
are suffering from illnesses.
THE LOCATION:
First and foremost is to remember you are in a VA Hospital or Center. No smoking, no fires, no loud noises etc...
Make sure to ask questions in regard to logistics, such as parking, loading and off loading, who is
your contact point and where will you be performing.
MAGIC CONTENT:
Okay here are a few tips that we hope will help:
- As mentioned no fire - it is a safety regulation due to the use of oxygen in Hospitals.
- No loud noises - blank guns, bang wands etc... not good.
- Animals - Bunnies & Birds, make sure you get approval from the VA point of contact.
- Music - I have found that generation gaps do exist when it comes to the use of music.
If your act uses music make sure you take into consideration your audience and what they would
consider acceptable.
- Patter - Try to be up beat and stay away from politics
- Wardrobe - I think you should always look the part of a magician so the sky is the limit.
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