X.Ray Magic & Illusions
- Toronto, ON
- Comedy Magician
Samantha said “I have booked many entertainers over the past couple years for corporate events, my sons birthdays, BBQ 's and more but I have never met an entertainer…”
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*****Stop!! Do You Know The 7 Critical Questions To Ask Before Booking An Entertainer Or Presenter?*****
After performing professionally for 17 years in 36 states and parts of Canada, I have discovered 7 things any event planner MUST find out before booking an entertainer.
These "7 Secrets" that I will share will help you plan the PERFECT event and avoid disappointment...guaranteed! (And I offer the STRONGEST guarantee in the industry!)
I perform 400+ shows each year, presenting customized shows for elementary school assemblies, middle school assemblies, libraries, birthday parties, and company events.
Read on to discover the "7 Things You Must Know Before Hiring ANY Entertainer..."
Cris is a great magician. The kids enjoyed his show. His tricks were different and kept the kids engaged throughout the show.
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Thank you for those kind words Ipsita! I had a great time and hope to see you again.:-)
My girls are still talking about how awesome the magician was at their party! The show was funny but also exciting to see the tricks! I can’t wait to have Chris back here next year!
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Thank you Maria! The pleasure was all mine! Everyone was so kind and your daughters were wonderful too!
So glad I booked him for my sons birthday. Did an excellent job and kept all the kids entertained. Would highly recommend for any kids event.
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Hi Suzanne, thank you for those kind words. I had a great time! 😀
The kids had a blast and an excellent way to kick of the night. He involved the audience even if they were not under hypnosis which kept everyone involved and laughing. Would highly recommend and definately age appropriate.
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Thanks so much for the kind words! Your kids were awesome and I certainly hope to serve your event again next year!
We booked Chris for our senior prom through gigsalad. I read previous reviews and it sounded great. Well, I was not disappointed. He had the whole crowd engrossed in the show. The kids truly enjoyed it. Very entertaining, funny, and never a dull moment. I highly recommend him. I'm even thinking of hiring him for a private party soon.
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Thank you so much for those kind comments! It was such a pleasure working with you and of course I’d love to work with you again.:-)
We had Cris Johnson entertain our guests for Halloween party. Cris was excellent , his delivery was capturing. He had all our attention throughout show. Very talented, not sure how it does it !!! Will definitely book again.
Response from Cris Johnson's Amazing School Assemblies & Library Shows:
Thank you SO much for those kind words! I certainly look forward to working with you again.:-)
Price Range: From $350
Gig Length: 30 - 30000 minutes
Languages: English
Insurance: $1,000,000 - provided through Brown & Brown of PA
Assembly presenter Cris Johnson here. Thank you for your interest in my programs! You’re one step closer to having the school assembly highlight of the year for your school!
When you send me a request, I will personally respond to your inquiry very soon - usually within a couple of hours, depending on my performing schedule. I'm a one-person operation, but I will do my very best to get back to you as fast as possible!
I will list information on the following below...
- school assemblies
- libraries
- children's birthdays
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SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
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My school assemblies are 45 minutes long and the BEST part is that I alter the presentations based on the grade levels. That means if your school’s grades are K-5 (for instance), I can do a presentation structured for K-2 and then a second assembly for grades 3-5 that is specifically structured for those grades.
Currently, my topics include:
Yes I Can - A fun-filled character education program
The No Bully Zone - As the name implies, a bully prevention assembly that teaches students to be H.E.R.O.'s!
Wacky Science - This assembly hilariously reinforces the Scientific Method and loads of scientific concepts with goofy sound effects, experiments, and fun!
A Cat And A Hat - A Dr. Seuss - themed reading assembly that brings classic Seuss stories to life!
Pollution Solution - My fun ecology & conservation program that gives kids easy ways to help the environment!
I Love To Read - This assembly gets kids EXCITED about reading with magic and join-in fun!
The Great Reading Adventure - Classics of children's literature such as Charlotte's Web, Alice In Wonderland, Harry Potter and more brought to life!
Memory Madness - A fun game show that teaches your students fun memory/study techniques!
Spooky Magic - "Spook-tacular" Safe Halloween Fun!
Christmas Magic! - A non-religious Christmas-themed assembly that features fun holiday themed goodness!
The Goofy Kooky Math Show - Get your students excited about math with fun games, contests, and magic!
Uncle Sam's Comedy Jam! - Learning American history has never been so much fun!
I can present the assemblies anywhere: cafeteria, gymnasium, multi-purpose room, or whatever situation your school has. My set-up time is about 30-40 minutes (depending on the topic), meaning minimal disruption in your school’s day.
My assemblies are filled with magic, interactive fun, music, colorful backdrops, sound effects, age-appropriate humor, and much more! Each program has it's own unique 'set design,' with colorful backdrops and banners to provide a fun visual, theatrical experience.
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LIBRARY SHOWS
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My current Children's Programs Include:
- "The Fantastical Imaginarium Spectacular Magic Show" - 2020 Summer Reading Program-Themed Magic & Comedy Show
- "Wacky Science!" - Silly, crazy science experiments that kids love!
- "BALLOON Workshop" - This is SO fun! Kids learn how to make and twist their own balloon animals!
- "A Cat And A Cat' - Fun-filled Dr. Seuss-themed Magic Show
- "Spooky Magic" - Halloween-Themed Family Magic Show
- "Christmas Magic" - Christmas-Themed Family Magic Show (NO religious content)
- "I Love To Read" - Fun Family Magic Show for any time of year!
Children's Programs Details:
- 45 minutes each and are appropriate for ages 4-12 and any fun-loving adults.
- Set-up time is only about 20-25 minutes or so
- Programs need very little space to present
- Each child attending will receive a FREE magic trick!
- I provide my own PA system & microphone for larger audiences
- I provide my own tables and need nothing from the library
- No deposits - payment is due the day of the program
Adult & Teen Programs Include:
- "Mind Control: Fact or Fiction?" - discovers the secrets of influence, hypnosis, deception and more
- "New York Spirits" - ghost-themed presentation exploring several Western New York haunted locations!
- "New York Ghosts & Spirits" - a SECOND ghost themed program featuring Western New York haunted locations!
- "Tales From Beyond" - macabre subject matter from around the world including: Shrunken Heads, Voodoo, Jack the Ripper, Titanic, much more!
Adult & Teen Programs Details:
- 60 minutes each and are appropriate for ages 12 and up, although these programs appeal mostly to adults.
- Set-up time is only about 15-20 minutes
- Programs need very little space to present
- I provide my own PA system & microphone for larger audiences
- I provide my own tables and need nothing from the library!
- No deposits - payment is due the day of the program
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CHILDREN'S BIRTHDAY PARTIES
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I offer 3 different fantastic shows to fit your needs!
The first is the BALLOON WORKSHOP & MAGIC SHOW! This package features a fun 15-20 minute magic show following by a 40 minute BALLOON WORKSHOP! That's right, instead of merely watching me make each child a single balloon, everyone learns how to make several different balloons! This is something different that no one else in the area is offering!
The second package is the DELUXE Magic Show. This package is 45 minute magic show followed by balloon animals for every child attending. The show is filled with amazing, zany magic that will not only captivate the kids but also keep them laughing. the focus on on laughter and involvement - I always get a ton of kids to help out in every show, guaranteeing that they will be riveted to the show from start to finish. The big finale of the show is when I FLOAT in the air! (There are certain age and height restrictions.)
After the show, each child receives a magic book that teaches them how to do 62 great tricks with stuff around the house. Each child also receives ca Fortune Telling Fish, that when placed on his/her hand, will move all by itself!
Finally, I twist one balloon animal for every child present. The balloon animals always fascinate kids, and the added time stretches this package to an hour or so, depending on the number of kids at your event!
The BASIC Package is designed for shorter parties and younger children with shorter attention spans. It's a streamlined show that runs 30-35 minutes and does not include the Floating In The Air trick, or the magic books, or balloons.
Please note, because of the potential damage to equipment, problems with wind, heat, bugs, etc., I am unable to perform shows outdoors. This includes garages and covered pavilions, as well. Thank you for your understanding.
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FEES
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Obviously, what everyone wants to know right away is my fee. I travel all across North America and have performed in 36 states in the U.S. thus far. With that in mind, it's impossible to give you an accurate fee without knowing where your school is located.
1. All fees are all-inclusive (no mileage charges or sneaky after-the-fact- "add-ons"!)
2. For schools and libraries, I will also list multi-building discounts.
3. For schools and libraries, If you need a second (or even a third) performance on the same day, the fee for additional performances is massively discounted, meaning additional performances won't 'break the bank!'
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"What Just A Few Of My Clients Had to Say After They Booked Me…"
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“WOW!!! I have NEVER got feedback like this on an assembly! Cris was the PERFECT choice- directly tied into all we do here. We all really enjoyed his show and the kids loved him too! Thanks so much!!!”
Jennifer Norman, Principal
Goldwood Primary School
21600 Center Ridge Rd.
Rocky River, OH 44116
"Cris was fabulous! He had the students glued to him the entire time and even had the adults laughing. The students completely understood the important message and went home telling their parents how to 'Go Green'"
Alexandra Wahlert, teacher
Andrew Muller Primary School
Miller Place, NY
“Cris’ program ‘I Love to Read’ was incredible. It coincided with Eggert
Elementary Schools month long PARP program perfectly. He not only
captivated the students and teachers with his magic, but he effortlessly reinforced the importance of reading. He had complete control of the audience and even got the students to voluntarily leave silently. He was a pleasure to work with, had an understanding of the school climate and the needs of the teachers. I highly recommend Cris without hesitation.”
Elizabeth Keppler
Library Media Specialist
Eggert Elementary
Orchard Park CSD
Orchard Park, NY
Magician & Entertainer Cris Johnson here. Thank you for your interest in my programs! You’re one step closer to having the entertainment highlight of the year for your special event!
Once you request more information in the GigSalad system, I will personally respond to your inquiry very soon - usually within a couple of hours, depending on my performing schedule. I'm a one-person operation, but I will do my very best to get back to you as fast as possible with a quote for your event!
As promised, here are the...
***************
"7 Questions You Must Ask Before Hiring Any Entertainer Or Presenter...
***************
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Critical Question #1: "How experienced are you?”
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Be aware that with the Internet providing a 'level playing field' for all entertainers, it is crucial that you ask probing questions to determine whether your entertainer is an experienced pro or someone just starting out. Ask your entertainer how long they've been in business, whether they are full-time vs. part-time, and if they can provide promotional material or at least a website to check out. Many entertainers (musicians, comedians, magicians, etc.) don't have a website at all but rather use a free Facebook page for promotional purposes.
I myself have been presenting programs full-time, professionally, for the last 17 years, and I've traveled to 36 states across the country, as well as parts of Canada. I work (and travel) a LOT and most years I put over 50,000 miles on my car, meaning I'm super experienced, and that experience means YOU can rest assured of having a great event!
Additionally, because I'm so experienced, I'm also self-sufficient, meaning I bring all of my own tables, state-of-the-art PA system, wireless microphone, and more! That means a stress-free experience for you!
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Critical Question #2: "Do you have experience with events like mine?"
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Not every performer is right for every venue or event. Just because your child's birthday party puppet performer amused your child and his 10 friends does not mean this same performer can handle a school assembly group of 400+ kids of varying age levels.
I'm an expert at performing school assemblies, library shows, and birthday parties. I've performed literally THOUSANDS of each of those events.
For school assemblies, I currently offer a dozen different assembly topics. They include:
- Yes I Can - A fun-filled character education program
- The No Bully Zone - As the name implies, a bully prevention assembly that teaches students to be H.E.R.O.'s!
- Wacky Science - This assembly hilariously reinforces the Scientific Method and loads of scientific concepts with goofy sound effects, experiments, and fun!
- A Cat And A Hat - A Dr. Seuss - themed reading assembly that brings classic Seuss stories to life!
- Pollution Solution - My fun ecology & conservation program that gives kids easy ways to help the environment!
- I Love To Read - This assembly gets kids EXCITED about reading with magic and join-in fun!
- The Great Reading Adventure - Classics of children's literature such as Charlotte's Web, Alice In Wonderland, Harry Potter and more brought to life!
- Memory Madness - A fun game show that teaches your students fun memory/study techniques!
- Spooky Magic - "Spook-tacular" Safe Halloween Fun!
- Christmas Magic! - A non-religious Christmas-themed assembly that features fun holiday themed goodness!
- The Goofy Kooky Math Show - Get your students excited about math with fun games, contests, and magic!
- Uncle Sam's Comedy Jam! - Learning American history has never been so much fun!
Each assembly is funny, amazing, interactive, with both audience involvement and onstage participants. Each has it's own colorful themed backdrops and banners, custom magic and costuming, and is 100% themed to that particular topic, with supporting teacher materials.
For library shows, I offer a dozen shows, with program options for children, teens/YA audiences, and adult shows. Each year I create a brand new show for that year's Summer Reading Program (SRP) theme, with customized magic tricks, banners, costume, and more.
My children's birthday parties are customized and geared for the age level of the children attending, meaning each show is different and attuned to the kids watching the show.
However, I am NOT experienced in trade shows, weddings, or comedy clubs - I've performed at a few such venues, but I'm not an expert at those kinds of shows so I do not mention myself as an expert at those kinds of programs. No one can be all things to all clients.:-)
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Critical Question #3: "Are you insured?"
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Many entertainers feel insurance is unnecessary - they rationalize it to themselves: 'Well, I'm just singing songs, what can possibly go wrong?' The truth is, in today's uncertain times, you cannot afford to jeopardize your event! Ask your entertainer for proof of their insurance. Not only are you safe guarding yourself, but you'll ALSO be assuring yourself of hiring a true professional!
I've maintained insurance coverage for over 16 years, as not only do I want to protect myself in case something goes wrong but I also like providing my clients with peace of mind! Not only that, but as different carriers change their policies, I change carriers to insure I'm getting the best company. My current company, Specialty Insurance, also makes it VERY easy to add a venue on as an additional insured for even more peace of mind!
Oh, and one more thing - in 17 years of full-time professional work, after 400+ performances per year, I've never had any kind of 'incident' at any show.
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Critical Question #4: "Do you offer clean, 100% non-offensive entertainment?"
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In many ways, this is THE question to ask. It's unfortunate, but too many entertainers feel a need to throw in some 'blue' or 'potty' humor in a sad, feeble attempt to curry favor with the adults in the room. Sadly, I've even sen this for children's birthday parties!
If an entertainer is truly a master at their craft and captivating audiences, they should feel comfortable doing it WITHOUT resulting in low-brow humor. And he/she shouldn't hesitate to guarantee their work! Truthfully, guaranteeing a show is something many entertainers now do. It's important to ask about this, as it's one more way to separate the pros from the amateurs!
Speaking of which, here is my...
*******"DOUBLE Your Money Back" Guarantee!*******
I always pride myself on offering the highest guarantee possible, so for GigSalad clients, I now offer a "Double Your Money Back Guarantee!" This means if I do or say anything 'lewd,' racy,' 'blue' or inappropriate during my show, you get DOUBLE your money back!
Truthfully, I've never even considered doing anything 'adult' in my shows as I just don't feel it's appropriate or necessary. In 17 years, I've never had anyone take me up on my guarantee, nor have I ever had a client complain about any of the content in my shows.
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Critical Question #5: "Do you charge extra for everything?"
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Some entertainers like tacking on extra fees - an extra charge for that really cool magic trick, an extra charge for bringing in their own sound system, an extra charge for additional miles driven (that last one is a biggie!). The truth is, no one likes to be 'nickel and dimed' to death!
When I quote a client a fee, it is an all-inclusive quote, with ZERO surcharges, guaranteed!
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Critical Question #6: "Are you an expert on my topic?"
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Oh, is this one a passion of mine! If you're looking for a library or school presentation on a certain topic, you need to ensure your potential presenter is an expert on your topic AND that the entire show focuses on that topic! Too often, a supposed motivational presenter, such as some of the stunt BMX bike riders out there, will present 40 minutes of entertaining skill in a 45 minute show, with only the final 5 minutes being reserved for the actual content of the topic!
This drives me crazy, and quite frankly puts a black eye on what I do! For me, delivering message-based theme shows are the lifeblood of my business. Every trick, every routine is created with the express intent of getting across the educational/motivational theme of my shows. Guaranteed!
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Critical Question #7: "Do you offer different options?"
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Too often, a performer offers a client one show and that's it, take it or leave it. There is NO show in the world appropriate for all audiences, ages, and sizes!
If you are searching for a school assembly, I have different versions of each show for grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and so on.
If you are searching for the perfect birthday party entertainment for your child, I offer three different packages to accommodate different age groups, budgets, and group sizes. Simply contact me for more info today!
Here's the key: to best serve you, when filling out the GigSalad contact form, please give me as much information as possible. That way, I can send you an accurate fee quote the same day!
Because I perform 400+ shows a year, my schedule is often booked months in advance, so contact me TODAY to find out if your preferred date is open!
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"What Just A Few Of My Clients Had to Say After They Booked Me…"
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“WOW!!! I have NEVER got feedback like this on an assembly! Cris was the PERFECT choice- directly tied into all we do here. We all really enjoyed his show and the kids loved him too! Thanks so much!!!”
Jennifer Norman, Principal
Goldwood Primary School
21600 Center Ridge Rd.
Rocky River, OH 44116
"Cris was fabulous! He had the students glued to him the entire time and even had the adults laughing. The students completely understood the important message and went home telling their parents how to 'Go Green'"
Alexandra Wahlert, teacher
Andrew Muller Primary School
Miller Place, NY
Cris Johnson works hard to ensure he requires very little from you. Most of Cris Johnson's library and children's birthday shows can be done nearly anywhere. His school assemblies require a little more space.
His birthday parties can be performed in most living rooms and family rooms.
His library shows require a space of about 10 feet wide by 7 feet deep. He also needs an electrical outlet.
His school assemblies require a space of about 20 feet wide by 15 feet deep. Audiences should be less than 300 students per show for maximum visibility and success. For school assemblies, off street parking and accessible entry is also a requirement. Cris also requires access to an electrical outlet.
September 28, 2024 • 6:00pm - 6:30pm | Children’s Birthday Party |
November 11, 2023 • 4:00pm - 4:45pm | Children’s Birthday Party |
October 21, 2022 • 7:00pm - 7:30pm | Halloween Party |
October 15, 2022 • 4:00pm - 5:00pm | Children’s Birthday Party |
February 20, 2022 • 2:00pm - 2:45pm | Children’s Birthday Party |
September 02, 2021 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Children’s Birthday Party |
June 23, 2018 • 9:00pm - 10:30pm | Graduation |
May 18, 2018 • 9:00pm - 10:00pm | Prom/After Prom Party |
June 26, 2016 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | Graduation |
April 02, 2016–April 03, 2016 • 6:00pm - 12:00am | Bachelorette Party |
October 24, 2015–October 25, 2015 • 8:00pm - 12:00am | Holiday Party (Halloween) |
May 11, 2015 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm | Corporate Event |
February 27, 2015–February 28, 2015 • 7:00pm - 7:00am | Other |
corporate entertainer, psychic entertainment, college entertainment, comedy stage hypnosis, high school entertainment, post-prom entertainment, corporate magician, comedy magic
For audiences of over 100 people, a riser is recommended for visibility.
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