Tag Archives: artists

Joker in the pack

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We have all shuffled a pack of cards. Most probably own at least one, just in case we want to practice a couple of magic tricks to entertain guests. You normally take the playing cards from the pack, take out the Jokers and start dealing the cards. But have you ever stopped to wonder where the Joker comes from and why it is there? Well we have the information that you require!

The Joker itself was invented sometime around 1860 by players of the card game Euchre, a trick-taking trump card game for four players. Relying on memory, tactics and good communication, you don’t use the entire deck but somewhere between 24 and 32 cards. It was believed to be introduced to the US by German settlers, though this is in dispute and it may also have been introduced to the American mainland by immigrants from Cornwall and Devon.

In the 1860s, some American card players of Euchre devised some new rules for their beloved game. The problem? It required an extra card. Sure, they could have used one of the spare cards from the deck, but since all the face cards are part of the game, this wouldn’t have been a ‘good fit’. They referred to the new card they came up with as the Best Bower, adding it to the game where it became the highest trump card available.

Looking to make a quick buck from these variation rules, American card manufacturers quickly jumped on the trend by including a couple of extra cards in their decks. The British were a little slower to catch on though, only adding them in during the 1880s.

The Best Bower card was slowly phased out to become the Joker or Jolly Joker that we all know and love today. Like the Ace of Spades, it was typically branded with the company logo or with a unique floral motif that connected it to the manufacturer. It wasn’t until the Joker title for the card became more common that it was almost always represented by a performing jester.

Despite the fact you may think the Joker is connected in some way to the Fool in Tarot cards, you might be interested to know that there is no connection at all. Tarot cards have been around since the 15th century when jesters were still a possible career option and there is no link to the Jokers in a pack of cards.

Go gospel

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Gospel singers are best known for singing worships songs in church, but in more recent years, the exuberant sounds and rich harmonies have been heard on pop recordings and as backing vocals for major artists on tour. Gospel music can be joyful, soulful or romantic and is a great for party and event entertainment with that added wow factor.

Gospel singers and gospel choirs tend to include a wide variety of music in their repertoire, from classical and jazz to soul, rock and contemporary pop. Gospel music however has its roots in the spirituals and work songs sung by 18th century slaves in the US, enabling them to join in religious worship at a time when few could read or write. Most songs were sung ‘a cappella’ (unaccompanied), or with basic rhythm, so over time, distinctive harmonies developed to embellish the sound. By the early 20th century, gospel was going mainstream, with the first gospel recordings made in the 1920s, and gospel songs then taken up by high profile performers such as Elvis, creating the fascination and enjoyment of gospel that continues today.

Today’s gospel choirs usually perform with a piano or keyboard and sometimes a drummer, and can be led by a choirmaster. They sing an infectious mix of music including traditional gospel, plus jazz, blues, soul, classical and Latin sung in the gospel style. For most functions, including weddings, corporate events, flash mobs, product launches, award ceremonies and parties, the best choice is a gospel choir rather than a soloist, as both the visual and sound experience of a choir delivers a real impact.

What to look for in quality gospel singers and gospel choirs?

A quality gospel choir has three key elements; a great sound, a coordinated look, and an infectious sense of enjoyment!

So, when judging the quality of a gospel choir, first of all, listen to their demo tracks, and consider:

• Do you prefer the cleaner arrangements with harmonies, or the more flamboyant vocalizations

• Does the accompaniment (piano or band) add to the overall sound?

• Does one voice/performer dominate, or does the choir share the lead vocal around, for more variety?

This last point is probably not as important if your choir is only singing a few number during your wedding service, but if you then book them to entertain at your reception or party afterwards (a great idea for guests to enjoy more), consider how they will sound in a 30-minute set or longer.

Now, look at their promotional photos :

• Do they perform in matching outfits?
• Do they look traditional or trendy?
• Do they vary their look to fit the performance type? (Hopefully, yes!).

Finally, do they look and sound as if they are enjoying themselves? While every song doesn’t have to be upbeat, the general feel should be one of energy and excitement bubbling under. Gospel music should dance, not amble!

Start Your Event With A Bang!

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A typical illusion show tends to last for around 30-45 minutes meaning it’s a great way to kick start your event being long enough to include a range of laugh out loud comedy moments and astonishing magic but short enough to ensure that there’s still plenty of time for guests to enjoy the rest of the evening you have planned for them.

Interactive, Unique And Amazing!
Suitable for all ages, our Illusion Show is interactive and will have everyone on the edge of their seats!

Featuring epic grand illusions that have been custom designed for you alone, live show offers bizarre, strange, hilarious and unique routines unlike anything you have seen before!

The Illusionists bring you a show you’ll remember forever! Original and exciting, this unique act will leave your guests in astonishment with amazing illusions and laugh out loud comedy!

To book illusionists just look on our Directory where you will see a whole choice to choose from. Booking from Red Masque has never been easier.

Musical Retirement Entertainment

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For almost everyone, music is the key to many wonderful past memories. And it’s one of the easiest ways to host some retirement party entertainment! Take your residents on a walk down memory lane with a musical group.

1. Barbershop Quartet
With perfect pitch and harmony, a barbershop quartet can dazzle any crowd! They generally have a large repertoire of tunes from years past and love singing for older crowds. If your guests have a request, most groups are happy to oblige. And get ready to see the ladies swoon!

2. Boogie Woogie Tribute
The Boogie Woogie is best known for those who lived through World War II. With lively patriotic songs, they entertained troops and kept their spirits up during a tough time in our history! Show your veteran retiree how much their service has meant with a Wartime tribute act. Songs like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Pistol Packin’ Mama” will keep the crowd swaying to the beat!

3. Gospel Group
Depending on the religious diversity of your guest, a Gospel group may be a meaningful performance for them. As people are nearing the end of their lives, faith begins to play a bigger part. Booking a Gospel group guarantees a great show!

4. Crooner
Crooners were king in the ’40s and ’50s, with their smooth voices and sultry songs. Some of the best artists in history came out of this era, including Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby. Your residents are sure to feel some nostalgia with a performer like this! Whether you want an actual Rat Pack show or just a Frank Sinatra tribute, these performers love an older crowd that appreciates their act.

5. Beach Boys Tribute
Gaining popularity in the 1960’s, the Beach Boys launched a new type of musical sound with their “surf songs.” Their killer harmonies and clever lyrics helped them rise to the top of the music charts. Booking a Beach Boys tribute band is definitely one of our more energetic ideas for retirement home entertainment! If you want to see your residents groove to the music, you can’t go wrong with the Beach Boys.

Music to suit all era’s

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If you are a music lover and appreciate all music from all decades, then a tribute band could be just the thing you want to hire for your next event.

Red Masque have a lots of great tribute bands that have extensive experience in dealing with the particular era you are after for example:

60’s Bands

If you remember the swinging sixties where Rock n Roll bands caused a massive stir in that time, then you could have a tribute Beatles band, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd or the Everly Brothers. You could have a mix-up of all these sounds together to really make it authentic

70’s Bands.

With disco fever hitting everywhere and nowadays is a very popular era for dressing up, you will need a band to go with you themed night. With Motown making a big impact, you may want a tribute act to the Supremes and Marvyn Gaye. You can just have fun with this decade it’s all about flower power and sequins!!

80’s Bands and Tribute Acts

Who can forget the 80’s from Wham, Culture Club, Spandau Ballet or Madonna – we can all remember the bouffant hairdos and dodgy clothes, where music became all digitalized. If you want to have a themed party but not sure what it could be, then why not have an 80’s night. We are sure all your friends must have some old 80’s clothes tucked away somewhere?

Your party would not be complete without hiring a perfect 80’s Band or Tribute Act – all the old songs playing will take you back to your old school days.

90’s Bands and Tribute Acts

90’s music was a mixture of all genres, from girl band, boy bands and R&B was massive in this era. It was really a choice of if you loved Indie, Hip Hop, R&B or you were middle of the road and loved cheesy pop music. This era was where you were free to dress however you wanted.

If you remember, Blur or Oasis or ‘do the Bart man’ tune then maybe a 90’s band or Tribute act will be right up your street?
At Red Masque we can cater to you every event need. We believe we have the finest acts advertised within our website where you are able to browse and choose your preferred one. It’s very easy to book, you fill out a form located in our Red Masque website and it will go straight to the act of your choice. The act will then be in contact to arrange dates and any other requirements you may have.

An event well received

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A lot of the time we get feedback on acts that are on our website. This is a great way for other event hosts and planners to hear from the performer’s happy past clients! Sometimes we stumble upon a particularly moving review that makes us proud to connect hosts with extraordinary entertainers. Here’s what somebody hired from our website to liven up their party!

“I was searching for some kind of fun and unexpected entertainment for a birthday party for my wife. We were having live music after dinner but I wanted something to kick off the party with a spark of fun after everyone arrived.’

I wanted to hire something very special for my wife’s Birthday and knowing that my wife adored Fred Astaire I took the opportunity of hiring a celebrity lookalike; and I was very glad I did. I had the opportunity of talking to the act before and to go through all the particulars. The act told me he was rehearsing for a theatrical play in the West End and told me about all the other roles he has been involved with.

When my Wife’s birthday arrived. I was so excited for my hired act to come in. When he walked into the party there was definite ‘stage presence’ he engaged with my wife and his stage act dance was so authentic. She blushed but loved every minute of it.

A group picture was taken with the Fred Astaire lookalike surrounded by all our guests.

A Private Detective event

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Are you a fan of Sherlock Holmes or do you love a good detective series? Whichever person you are; you’ll still love our fabulous ideas to create an un-missable Sherlock Holmes party theme.

CSI

This game basic format allows for a variety of guests to ultimately solve a crime through a variety of teambuilding activities. Do you have what it takes to be a resident of 221b Baker Street or are you resigned to simply writing about the case in a style of Rd. Watson?

Violinist

Aside from cracking crimes, Sherlock Holmes is also known for his love of music, in particular gazing out at London’s clientele whilst playing a good old-fashioned violin. a violinist will no doubt go down a storm at your Sherlock party.

Costumed Character

Now what about putting that violinist into a costume? We can see it now. Deerstalker hat? Pipe? Whether you’re thinking the old fashioned version of Sherlock Holmes or the new Benedict Cumberbatch infused creation, we’re more than confident that tweed will get a look in. But which other characters should be present? Rd. Watson? Mrs. Hudson? An appearance from Moriarty wouldn’t go amiss either.

Silhouette Artist

These amazing silhouette artists can even cut in various props should you desire them. So yes, every guest could be posing with a Sherlock themed prop if you so wanted! All that’s required is paper, scissors and a little time to stand still and your guests can go home with a wonderful original prop to remind them of the evening!

Eyecon Art

Eyecon Art is one of the coolest new acts on the entertainment events circuit. Sitting down with your guests, a photographer will take a photo of your eye, which you can then be sent at a later date. Now in terms of looking for clues, it’s all about seeing the bigger picture…and who hasn’t seen a famous drawing of Sherlock Holmes with a magnifying glass to his eye?

If you’re holding a Sherlock Holmes party or have been inspired by some of the various acts, then do have a look on our website to inspire you even more!

Diwali entertainment ideas

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One of the most important holidays for Hindu is a five-day festival called Diwali: The Festival of Lights. Spiritually, it signifies the victory of light over dark, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair. The first night, Dhanteras, kicks off the festival with new clothes, houses being cleaned, and laying of traditional floor decorations. The second day is Narak Chaturdasi, and includes henna hand tattoos prayers, food preparation, and more decorating. On the third day of the festival, Diwali night, people put out candles in windows and doorways to welcome the goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth and prosperity and is believed to roam the earth on this night. The festival also includes more prayers, fireworks, feasts, and exchanging of gifts. If you’re throwing a Diwali Party, we’ve got some ways to make it great!

Decorations

As mentioned above, lights are a huge part of decorating for Diwali. It’s the Festival of Lights, after all. The traditional candle is called a diya, and is an oil lamp made from clay with a cotton wick. You can also use traditional jar candles, tea lights, glass oil lamps, twinkle lights, or other decorative lighting instead.

Diya lamps.

Another traditional type of decoration is rangoli, which are elaborate patterns made on the floor with coloured flour or powder, or kolam which are made of flower petals. They are placed near the entrance of the home to welcome the goddess Lakshmi and guests.

Kolam floor decoration with flower petals.
Rangoli floor decorations, made with coloured powder or flour.

Food and Drink

Diwali is all about the fried sweets! And there are plenty of them to choose from. Try serving some traditional desserts!

Gulab Jamun: Fried dough rolled in chilled sugar syrup.
Jalebi: Fried wheat flour, twisted into pretzel or swirl shapes, and dipped in sugar syrup. It’s also dyed orange with food colouring.
Laddu: A ball-shaped dessert that’s made from flour and sugar, dyed with orange or yellow food colouring.
Kheer: A South Asian version of rice pudding, made with milk, sugar, and toppings like almonds or cashews.
Karanji: A dough pastry filled with coconut or sugar and fruit.

Dress for Diwali

Diwali is all about “dressing for excess” in order to give thanks to Lakshmi for your good fortune. To stick with tradition, everyone should be dressed in new, brightly-coloured, and elaborate costumes like saris or robes. Also, don’t hesitate to pile on the jewellery, with gold and silver being preferable.

Decorate your hands and feet with henna. Traditions state that body art is to be treated as a blessing that lights up the soul. Hiring a Henna Tattoo Artist will keep everyone looking festive with elaborate designs that will last for a few days after the party ends.

Entertainment

The final touch on a fabulous Diwali celebration is entertainment. Fireworks are a huge staple, so pass out sparklers to your guests, or set up a show to top off the evening.

Take the party a step further by bringing in Bollywood Dancers or Belly Dancers to entertain the guests with an upbeat performance, or hire a Choreographer to teach everyone some traditional dance steps.

The spirit of Diwali is celebrating good fortune, so gather your closest loved ones and throw a party they’ll never forget!

Creative ideas for your next event

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Circus act entertainers have given the world of corporate entertainment a whole new generation of aerial artists, defying gravity to present unique. Even if you haven’t got a skyscraper to use as your stage, these circus-inspired artists can perform in almost any space, for any corporate event.

Aerialists use aerial circus and dance theatre with dynamic lighting and music to create evocative shows using trapeze, ropes and silks. Available as a solo artist for smaller venue, or as large a troupe as you wish, their show can be tailored to create the atmosphere you require, whether humorous, quirky, elegant. With a range of associated acts, including aerial champagne pouring, we are sure you will find your perfect act on our website.

Here at Red Masque we think we are tooled with some of the best party entertainers which will capture your imagination. So, what are the best of the best for corporate entertainment acts for your next corporate event in 2017? Red Masque directory have the hottest trends and acts for corporate, and company parties to ensure your VIPs are very impressed and your boss is very happy.

Offer your guests a total 007 experience: an elegant stately home or iconic venue, set up as a celebrity lookalike James Bond complete with elegant hostesses serving martinis (shaken not stirred by expert cocktail waiters). Then add some party musical entertainment combining iconic Bond movie soundtracks and characters with dance and spectacle, such as a top party function band with a James Bond set.

Add in some more celebrity lookalikes and a John Cleese lookalike the ‘new’ Q, who sets your guests site-specific missions to test their skills.

Bespoke dance groups provide a superb spectacle that transcends language, and can be precisely tailored to your corporate event theme. From ballet dancers to contemporary rock dancers, your guests can enjoy a show full of energy, passion, augmented by state of the lighting and sound systems.

Whatever the occasion, you’ll find a dance troupe to suit; that can offer themed events such as Arabian Nights, Argentinean Tango, Burlesque, Flamenco, Irish Dancing, Ballroom Dancing, and Vegas Showgirls for example.

How does music at events affect people’s behaviour?

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We constantly consume music, whether we are aware of it or not, and we will end up in situations where we participate in subconscious listening every day.

This could be at the supermarket, with music playing over the loudspeakers, during TV ads or programmes, where music often sits in the background to augment a mood. It could also be at an event or conference, where there is either a live band or background music being played in the venue. All of this subconscious or inactive listening has an impact on how we behave.

We mostly think of music as entertainment, but marketers have been using it to influence our behaviour for decades. It’s a particularly prolific strategy in consumer goods industries, but the principles can easily be applied to the event industry.

Using the right type of music can potentially be very profitable, and as such there’s been a lot of research into exactly how different types of music affects behaviour within a specific environment. Certain types of music can make us move through a space faster, linger longer, change our perception of queue times or makes us spend more.

Unsurprisingly, fast paced music makes people move faster, and so does loud music. Slow music generally makes people slow down. It might be basic, but it’s an important factor in creating a specific mood for an event. Do you want people to be energised and buzzing, or relaxed and laid-back?

So if you’re putting on a race or sporting event, you’ll want to increase the volume and get some dance or rock music blasting out to energise your participants. However, if you’re running an exhibition and want people to linger and chat at stalls, you’ll probably want to opt for slower, softer sounds to keep the pace steady and encourage more conversations.

If you like to listen to music, like most of us, you will have experienced how it can impact your mood. This is something the media and marketers know how to take full advantage of. In addition to our emotional reactions, they also play on the associations we attach to different types of music.

Hire Classical musicians, it might be thought of as sophisticated and classy, while Jazz might be thought of as artistic and refined. When putting these general assumptions to the test, several experiments show that playing specific music can impact perceptions too. For example, classical music can temporarily increase the perceived value of an item. In these situations, people projected some of the associations they had with classical music, e.g. sophistication, onto the item itself.

So for your next conference, maybe you want to welcome attendees with a spot of classical music, or introduce your keynote speaker with it playing in the background, inferring sophistication and intelligence on everyone in the room as well as your speakers.