I am a member of a local magic group, however I normally only perform magic at family get togethers or for friends at work. Because of this, I was recently asked to arrange a show for a school group aged between 6-10 years.

I was let me down at the last minute, so I did the show. As is discussed regulary in these forums, I could not quatify the amount that I learned from the experience, I totally agree one has to get out their to improve.

I have been asked if I will perform again for some young musicians by my cello teacher. I readily agreed especially as I have been offered £60 approximately $90 for 30 minutes work, as this will help fund my hobby. My problem is in order to receive this money I have to produce a receipt for my services and professional public liability insurance.

The receipt is not a problem but will I have to declare this to the Tax man? What do I do about the Insurance as I don't earn enough from my magic to be able to afford the same? So do I give up the gig or do it for free? Anyone else out there experienced similar problems?

You can get PLI very cheap. I was automaticaly insured when I was in BECTU union. insured for up to 2 million
You may get a policy for as little as £10

What you report to the tax man is your business. Technically, you should report all of your income.

In America, liability insurance can be obtained by magic organizations such as SAM and IBM. It is well worth it to have the coverage even if you feel you will never need it. For the low price, there's really no reason to be without it.

What kind of liability can one acquire?

Hopefully we never acquire liability, but insurance against liability such as a child being injured during the course of your show. Typical policies cover the first one or two million dollars of liability, which is probably enough for most of us who don't have our own cadre of lawyers.

I suppose that most of the risk involves stage or parlor performances, I can't imagine how anyone could become injured during my impromptu amateur routines.
Or, am I missing something here?

Sure you are Richard,

This example may not apply but it will at least give you food for thought. You perform an effect with a ladies ring such as Ring Flite and you are accused of switching the diamond, or the device catapaults the ring far into the distance and can not be found, or the stone falls out during performance and you are liable.

Watch steals, using any items borrowed and of value can put you at risk. Like all insurance it is a real annoying expense until you need it and then what a great thing to have.

The odds are of course in your favor of never having to need it and I don't blame any magician/performer for trying to play the odds, but again to quote a famous actor..."How lucky do you feel?"