I have a question for you. I've been asked to give a show for a
group of 12 developmentally disabled adults. According to the person that
hired me, mentally they range in age from about a year to six years old, so
because of that, each person has a counselor that will be present. I took
the job because I thought it would be interesting, but after thinking about
it, I'm wondering what sort of effects I should do? What do you think?
Should I present a kids' show, adult show, or 50/50? Any ideas would be
greatly appreciated. Thanks, Marty the Magic Man (Magician for Kids' Parties)

HI,
I do a lot of this type of show 3 last week
2 gateway clubs and a group staying at a local disabled holiday centre. Strangely a lady rang me the other day and said that they were told that I specialise in Disabled/mentaly disabled groups (I do not but I do do a lot and am happy to get a reputation as a specialist amongst carers)

Now to your question. if they are mentaly disabled I normaly perform my childrens show as is. However my childrens show is not Colouring book, run rabbit run, Fraidy cat rabbit. I do not insult even kids with this type of thing. I use effects like Misers Dream, Edwins rainbow house Rabbit production, Linking Rings, silk vannish / reproduction, Dukes dye version, Clatter box routine. Pom Pon Stick. I suppose what I am saying is use effects which are normally used for family shows. Efects where the routines can be ajusted to suit different ages depending on variations in the presentation. You will find that they love to shout magic words, wiggle there fingers ext. they also like balloon modelling but will all want one they seem especialy fond of balloon hats.
I hope this is of help
Phillip

Marty, be prepared. Carry a couple of broad range effects that can cross different age groups such as the 20th Century Silks, Professor's Nightmare, Miser's Dream, etc.

Also consider having spare tricks so that you can switch to them as you determine how the show is being received.

Having magic done in the hands works well with individuals mentally challenged such as sponge balls and mutiplying rabbits.

Schedule a 30 minute performance, and then give more if all is flowing well.

Good Luck and let us know how it turned out!