Booking an entertainer for your child’s party can be daunting. There is nothing worse than an entertainer who fails to engage with the kids, or who just isn’t, well, entertaining! We’ve come up with some questions to ask your entertainer to help you book the right person for your party.
What experience do you have?
This might seem like an odd question. After all, you’d assume someone who is marketing themselves as a children’s entertainer would have plenty of experience. You’d be surprised how many don’t! Entertaining a group of 30 children is harder than it looks, so don’t be afraid to ask how many parties they’ve done and take a look at reviews and references. At Captain Fantastic all our entertainers come from a performance background and are fully trained to deliver top class children’s entertainment.
What exactly is included in the price?
You’ll want to ask this question not only to check that you are getting value for money, but that you aren’t doubling up on entertainment. You don’t want to hire a face painter if that’s included in your package! Equally, checking what is included means you can add any party extras to make your party one to remember.
How much space do you need?
Check how much space the entertainer will need for their show as this may have an impact on where you are able to have your party. If you’re using a local entertainer, chances are they will have done parties in your chosen venue so will know how everything will fit in.
How much of the party will you entertain for?
When booking your entertainer, check the structure of their show. Most parties are 1.5 to 2 hours long. Will they be entertaining for the whole of that, or will there be breaks for food and cake? Check how much time is needed for them to set up and clear away. Not only does this help with working out how long you will need your venue for and arranging drop off and pick up times for the children, it also helps you to know how much of the party will be parent-led!
How flexible are you with numbers of children?
Often siblings will be brought along and want to join in. Most of the time this isn’t a problem, entertainers will bring extra supplies “just in case”. Letting the entertainer know how many children you are expecting to attend will help them to prepare and plan their show, some tricks work better with larger groups.
What back-up do you have in case the entertainer is unwell, etc.?
There is nothing worse than having an entertainer cancel on you at the last minute. Check what the arrangements are should your entertainer unavailable on the day of your party. Most large companies will have other entertainers on standby, but if it is a smaller company ask what happens in the event that they have to cancel.
Can the show be tailored to my child’s needs?
Does your child have any specific needs that need to be met in order for them to get the most out of the party? Or perhaps there is something that your child would particularly like to be included (or not!) in the party. Have a chat with your entertainer and see how they will facilitate this. Experienced entertainers will have worked with children with different needs and will be able to ensure your child feels special on their birthday.
What do you need to know?
This is your opportunity to test your entertainer. A good entertainer will be asking just as many questions of you as you are of them! They’ll want to really understand your requirements so they can deliver some show-stopping entertainment for your child’s birthday party.
Need more information on booking the perfect party entertainer for your child’s birthday party? Check out our kid’s party packages or contact us today.