Hi Tony,

Thanks for the words of wisdom this week. I am hoping to pitch a one man, comedy magic show to a local, small casino, possibly as an afternoon show. How would I go about 'pitching' a casino show. A printed proposal booklet, a live demo etc. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

The hardest part is finding the "decision maker." Then you hit with everything you have. Make it simple, make it easy, don't bore them with too many details.

PROVE YOU CAN BRING IN MONEY.

I remember being in a review show and the star complained about his "billing"... the owner of the Casino said, "Hey, I can put in a big screen TV and make the room into a sports bar and make more money."

Which he did.

Once you find the decision maker (In small Casinos it can be the GM or they may have an entertainment director. I agree with Pete that you have to give them everything you have meaning as you mentioned video, printed proposal plus Nice photos of the cast (of You if it is a one man show) Story boards (Colored drawings of the stage setting and costumes) and press/publicity. I call it stacking or building credibility. You can also stack your staff by having accomplished producers, directors,writers etc.
I also like using lots of visual aids as I mentioned story boards,photos,video. Most people have a difficult time visualizing shows so the trick is to make it simple for them to "get".

You also have to be excited and believe in your own project 110%. The energy you have will be felt by the person across the desk.

Be patient as well. Casinos usually book there shows six to twelve months in advance.

As Pete mentioned, you have to let them feel that people will come and they will make money. You may want to have a couple of advertising ideas printed. Again letting them see a funny ad etc....

Also be sure to build rapport with the person you're pitching because even if they buy your show at that moment, you want to be in good standing to come back again for the next opportunity.

Look good going in. Dress in your best suit and shoes. Look like a successful business man. People tend to gravitate towards successful people.

Just Conceive, Believe and Achieve!