Are You Adding Juggling to Your Busking Routine? 3 Tips to Take Your Street Performance to the Next Level
As a street performer, you have an amazing opportunity to connect with new people every day. There is nothing more thrilling than realizing that you hold the audience in the palm of your hand. Now that you've taken up juggling, you have a new bit to throw into your act. Juggling is practically guaranteed to draw a bigger crowd. Yet, you also know that it takes some work to stand out against other street performers, especially at busy festivals and other public events. Once you've gained a few basic skills, use these tips to please audiences as you introduce juggling to your routine.
Find a Good Location
If you've been busking for a while, then you should already be aware of the importance of following the local laws and ordinances regarding public performances. However, there is far more to picking a location than just knowing whether or not you need a permit. Juggling tends to attract a different type of crowd than other acts, and kids are naturally drawn to watching someone toss, flip and catch objects. Consider setting up your shows in an area that draws a mixture of different ages. For example, you'll have far more success performing in front of a city park versus the business district where people are too busy to stop and watch. You'll also find that your tricks look even more impressive if you are able to stand up above the crowd such as on a short wall or raised concrete slab.
Build off of Your Character
Your busker personality should shine through in every show, and you're act depends upon every element blending seamlessly together. For example, you may want to choose juggling sticks that glow in the dark if you tend to do lots of nighttime performances. You may also prefer to use juggling sticks that match your costume. You can also incorporate tricks to go with your routine. For instance, a character that's always down on the luck could fumble a few times. Just make sure to add in a few funny lines so that the audience gets that you are simply building up the role.
Finish with Flair
A solid performance should build gradually to the conclusion, and juggling gives you a way to make a huge impression on the crowd at the end of your routine. As you look for juggling sticks for sale, search for ones that have the weight and grip that you need to perform awe-inspiring tricks. Being able to toss the sticks to an unexpected height and retrieve them is often all it takes to make a show stopping ending.
During every performance, your audience notices your demeanor and abilities, as well as your props. That's why it's so important to talk to professional companies, such as ZNX, when you look for props. Once you've learned a new skill and have the correct props, be sure to get in front of the crowds as much as possible so that you continue to grow as a performer.