Michael Carbonaro is an American magician, actor, and improviser known for his hidden camera magic series The Carbonaro Effect on truTV. As one of the most popular magicians and illusionists working today, Carbonaro receives many requests to make special appearances and perform at events around the country.
Booking Carbonaro does not come cheaply, but for the right event with the right budget, it can be well worth the price. Here is an overview of Carbonaro’s booking fees, the process for hiring him, and what you can expect when bringing this fascinating performer to your event.
Michael Carbonaro’s Booking Fees
As a headline performer, Michael Carbonaro commands top dollar. His booking fee is said to start at $200,000 and can go up dramatically from there depending on the specifics of the event.
Here are some of the key factors that determine his booking fee:
- Type of event – Corporate events, university shows, and private parties will be on the higher end while charity events may receive discounted rates.
- Location – The number of travel days required and distance traveled will impact the fee.
- Time commitment – Longer performances, rehearsals, sound checks, etc. can increase the rate.
- Production needs – More elaborate illusions and effects require extensive setup and crew.
- Exclusivity – Carbonaro may charge more for an exclusive event where no other performances are booked around the same time.
- Date – Demand impacts fees, with peak seasons like spring and fall costing more.
While the exact fee is customized for each event, as a general rule you can expect to pay at minimum low to mid six figures. The greater the performance requirements and production needs, the higher the fee will climb. His top booking rate for large-scale corporate events can run $500,000 – $1 million.
The Booking Process
To book Michael Carbonaro, you will need to contact his booking agency directly. They handle all inquiries and negotiations for Carbonaro’s appearances.
The process involves these key steps:
- Send the booking request – Contact the agency with key details like the date, type of event, budget range, and requested performance.
- Receive a quote – The agency will assess the request and respond with an initial quote based on Carbonaro’s availability and the event details.
- Negotiate details – Work with the agency to negotiate specifics like the performance length, contract terms, travel arrangements, production advance, payment schedule, etc.
- Formalize the agreement – Once negotiated, a detailed performance contract will be drafted and signed by both parties.
- Put down a deposit – Typically 50% down payment is required when signing the contract to secure the date.
- Make final payments – The remainder of the balance will be due the week of the performance.
It’s important when first making inquiries to provide as many event details as possible, including your budget range, so the agency can advise if booking Carbonaro is feasible. Be prepared for a rigorous vetting process to ensure it is a legitimate event with the resources to meet his booking fee and production requirements.
What to Expect From Michael Carbonaro
Once booked, Michael Carbonaro puts on an unforgettable show filled with his signature style of magic and illusion. Here are some of the key things you can expect when he performs at your event:
A Customized Show
Carbonaro works closely with clients to shape a show tailored to the event’s audience and goals. For corporate events, he’ll incorporate brand messaging and create illusions using company products. At colleges he’ll perform student-focused routines. His team is very flexible in scripting unique programs.
Mind-Blowing Magic
The meat of the performance will consist of Carbonaro wowing spectators with elaborate tricks and stunts designed to shock and amaze. He might make an assistant levitate, saw someone in half, or conjure objects out of thin air. The illusions leverage state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
Audience Interaction
Carbonaro uses a warm, engaging stage presence to connect with crowds and get them involved in the show. He’ll chat with front row spectators as he performs tricks inches away. Several illusions will incorporate randomly selected volunteers.
Comedic Flair
While mystifying people with magic, Carbonaro also entertains them with good-natured humor and comedic interludes between effects. His background in improv comedy shines through.
A Large Production
Carbonaro brings a support team of roughly 10 technicians, producers, and creative magicians to manage the show production. They handle everything from lighting and video displays to music cues and quick-change illusions. The result is a polished, high-energy performance.
Buzzworthy Moments
A big part of Carbonaro’s appeal are the gasp-inducing spectacles he creates, like making a car disappear or conjuring someone’s pet on stage. These jaw-dropping moments get people talking and are a highlight of the performance.
In summary, as one of the most creative magicians working today, Michael Carbonaro puts on an unforgettable show that combines magic, humor, and showmanship. Any event that books him is guaranteed to have a hugely memorable and buzzworthy performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book Carbonaro?
You should book him at least 6 months in advance, ideally 12-18 months out for peak dates. His schedule fills up fast, especially for corporate events and college dates. Give yourself enough lead time to secure your preferred date.
What is included in his booking fee?
The fee covers Carbonaro’s performance, creation of custom illusions, travel and accommodations for him and his crew. It does not cover production costs like equipment rental, lighting, or venue fees.
What kind of stage and production does he require?
Carbonaro’s team will provide a detailed rider outlining the stage, lighting, audio, and power requirements. For large events, a minimum 40′ x 20′ stage is needed to accommodate effects. Budget in the range of $150,000 – $250,000 for production.
What is Carbonaro like to work with?
By all accounts, he is a consummate professional and collaborative partner dedicated to delivering an incredible audience experience. He’s appreciative of event staff and gracious with fans.
Is he available for meet and greets?
Carbonaro will occasionally do meet and greets or photo ops following shows for a small additional fee. This needs to be negotiated in advance based on his schedule.
What happens if I need to cancel the booking?
The performance contract will outline cancellation policies and fees. Typically the initial deposit is non-refundable if you cancel. There are also penalties if canceling within 60 days of the event.
Booking Carbonaro for Your Event
If your event has the budget, booking Michael Carbonaro guarantees show-stopping entertainment and an experience people will remember for years. Work closely with his agency to tailor the ideal show for your audience and negotiate a fair contract. Just brace yourself for the gasps when he makes your CEO disappear!