The most exciting part of hosting an event is hiring live entertainment!
More than any other part of your event, guests will remember the entertainment. They likely won’t be raving about the meal a month later, but you can bet they’ll still be talking about the entertainment – if you choose the right type for your event.
It’s important all of your guests enjoy the entertainment, regardless of their age, race, gender, religion or world view. If you require “clean” corporate-safe entertainment, be sure to mention this upfront. Not all entertainers are experts at pleasing an audience at a company event. Look for entertainers who specialize in performing for corporate audiences, and make sure they have the photos, videos, and testimonials to back up their claims.
Search for entertainers in your local area and see what they have to offer. If you’re not finding the right fit, expand your search radius. In the entertainment industry, it’s common for an artist to travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometers to appear at an event. This is especially true if you’re hosting an event in a remote city where there aren’t any professional entertainers.
You’re smart to compare options. If you call five different entertainers, you’ll be given five different prices and varying levels of service. Amateurs will be eager to perform for a few hundred dollars but will lack the experience to truly make a big impact at your event. The price an entertainer charges impacts everything they do, from their level of customer service to the quality of their performance and props. Do you want an amateur in a cheap suit or a full-time professional who’s dressed to impress?
When speaking to an entertainer, ask them to name some of their clients – ideally in your industry. Experienced entertainers should have no problem naming at least ten billion-dollar companies you’ll instantly recognize.
Types of after-dinner entertainment for company events
- Magician
- Comedian
- Hypnotist
- Hula Hoop Act
- Dancers
- DJ
- Improv Comedy
- Ventriloquist
- Acrobats / Circus Acts
- Fire / Glow Show
- Speed Painter
- Singer
- Live Band
- Classic Musicians
- Tribute Act / Impersonators
- Celebrity / Motivational Speaker