Zach Waldman

I started learning magic when I was a little kid. I started earning money from performing when I was about 12.
I’ve been performing magic and comedy professionally for over three decades. It’s not just a job—it’s been my entire life’s passion.

I’ve performed at everything from holiday parties and trade shows to executive retreats and client appreciation events. Whether it’s a small team gathering or a massive corporate function, I customize my act to fit the occasion. Sometimes clients want custom messaging and sometimes they simply want to have fun. I accommodate my clients’ needs, no matter what type of event they’re having.

Absolutely! I’ve had the privilege of working with companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple, UPS and countless others. From Fortune 500 companies to small businesses, I make sure every event is a hit.

Yes! I have tons of testimonials from corporate clients who have hired me for their events. You can check out reviews on my website, where past clients rave about how my performances made their events unforgettable.

That’s a tough one—there have been so many! One standout moment was performing for a Microsoft event that was filled with celebrities. I recognized faces, and knew these people were famous, but I couldn’t place them. I was hanging out with one of the guests after the show, and I mentioned that there were a lot of actors at the party. I asked if he was an actor. He said, yes. I asked him his name. It was Ryan Phillipe. Oops! He was super nice and wasn’t offended at all that I had no idea who he was. That was embarrassing. 

I don’t enter magic contests. I don’t think art should be competitive, which is why I don’t like awards shows such as the Oscars or the Grammys. I really hate America’s Got Talent! Even though I don’t compete in contests, I have a reputation in the magic community as a worker. In other words, I perform regularly for real people in the real world, as opposed to many magicians who predominantly make their reputations trying to impress other magicians.

I’m a member of The Academy of Magical Arts. Our clubhouse is the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA.

I fell in love with magic at around five years old. A lot of kids love magic. However, unlike most kids, it wasn’t a passing phase. The more I learned and the more I practiced, the more my love for this artform increased. My mom was the person who told me I could start getting paid to perform. The rest is history!

I’ve been seen on A&E’s Magic Castle After Dark, The Travel Channel, and local morning news programs.

I always explain to clients how the show needs to be set-up. This includes a discussion, written instructions, and a seating diagram. When there’s an issue, it’s almost always because the directions weren’t followed.
For example, many hotel banquet rooms have dance floors. If the riser is set-up on one side of the dance floor, and all the tables are set-up on the opposite side, it creates a chasm between me and the audience. That arrangement will destroy the show.
Other things that will ruin the show include performing during dinner (I need the audience’s full attention), not having someone introduce me to get the audience’s attention, or a poor seating arrangement.
I always arrive early to make sure everything is set-up correctly. If it’s not, there’s time to correct it. Once it’s corrected, I know everything will be great.
One time, the client did everything right, but the guests were refusing to sit at the tables in front of the stage. The client understood the issue and made people move before starting the show.
The bottom line is that I work with my clients to avoid problems before they occur.

I perform close-up magic, stage magic, and mentalism, all combined with comedy. Unlike many so-called comedy magicians, I am a stand-up comedian. In other words, I perform at comedy clubs, private parties, and corporate events as a comedian (not doing magic). Most comedy-magicians rely on old jokes and gags that they’ve heard from other magicians, who also heard it from other magicians. In other words, their jokes are recycled.
I do not perform illusions, which are the big box-style tricks using assistants. I love that type of magic, but it’s not what I do. Illusionists are guys like David Copperfield and Chris Angel. My style of performing is more like Penn & Teller’s or David Blaine’s (with a completely different personality).

My focus is on entertaining people, not my ego. I do this by combining amazing magic, mentalism, and self-deprecating comedy. Whereas a lot of magicians come off as superior (look what I can do, and you can’t figure it out), I make the audience the stars of the show. I make them laugh so hard; they aren’t even thinking about how the magic happened.

Absolutely! Comedy is a huge part of my performance. It’s not just about the magic—it’s about making people laugh, keeping them entertained, and creating an experience they won’t forget.

My performances are 100% interactive. I bring people on stage, involve them in the magic, and ensure they’re part of the show rather than just watching from a distance. I never make the people helping me on stage uncomfortable. I know most of them aren’t used to being in front of a large crowd, so I focus on their enjoyment. I never embarrass them or make them regret being called up on stage. I make my audience volunteers the star of the routine.

Absolutely! For example, when performing at a trade show, I incorporate the company’s messaging into the routines. I highlight the key features and benefits of their product or service. Because magic is interactive, potential leads get a deeper interaction with the company.

In a way, the whole show involves special effects! I perform modern magic incorporating things like cell phones, making my show feel contemporary.

The storytelling I do is part of the stand-up comedy I perform in the show. I talk about my family, where I’m from, and other personal antidotes related to the magic.

Yes! Mentalism is a big part of my show. Sometimes, potential clients call me, and they want a mentalist. Although I can perform a full mentalism show, I usually talk them out of it. One of the things that makes my show unique is the variety. Some people prefer visual magic, while others prefer the more cerebral nature of mindreading. By combining comedy, magic, and mentalism, the client gets a more dynamic show.

Yes, magic is an interactive artform, and using volunteers from the audience is a big part of my show.

There’s no fluff in my show, just a barrage of jokes and hard-hitting magic!

Pricing depends on the specifics of the event. Contact me with details, and I’ll send you a custom quote.

I charge a flat appearance fee.

When I send a proposal, the client gets one fee. There are no additional charges on top of it. I do not charge for Travel in most cases.

The sooner, the better. My calendar fills up quickly, and I’m often not available if your event is within 90 days of your request.

Every event is different, so the pricing depends on many factors. It’s best to have a conversation with me on the phone to discuss the details.

No, I don’t change my pricing based on the time of the year. For instance, many magicians raise their rates for New Year’s Eve. I don’t do that. Whether you hire me in March or on Christmas Eve, my fees are the same.

Yes. After we talk about your event, I will send a detailed proposal which includes a seating chart and technical requirements.

I charge the full fee upfront upon signing of the performance agreement.

I perform at a lot of sales meetings. For those, I typically perform an hour of close-up magic during the cocktail hour, followed by an hour-long stage show after dinner.
Every event is unique. When working a trade show, I may be performing for eight hours. For a small gathering of 20 people, the show is an hour. It’s best to call me to discuss your event to see how long you’ll need me.

Yes! Strolling magic is perfect for cocktail hours, networking events, and receptions.  This is sophisticated sleight-of-hand magic that will create long lasting memories.  It's best performed while people are mingling.‌

‌Because it's not a formal show for everybody at the same time, your guests can choose when they'd like to be entertained.

‌Many close-up magicians only do card tricks.  I perform a variety of magic, including tricks with coins, fire, and mind-reading.

‌Although I can perform strolling or walk-around magic, it's not always the best option for several reasons.  For example:‌

• Strolling magicians interrupt people and force entertainment on them.

• Strolling magicians get in the way of the servers.

• Strolling magicians can't perform magic that's as good because they're limited by the environment.

‌

I recommend what's called stationary close-up magic:‌

• Stationary magic is in a fixed spot, much like a photo-booth, where people come over when they're ready.

• Stationary magic means I perform for small groups of about eight people at a time.  They choose when they'd like to be entertained as opposed to being interrupted.

• The servers will appreciate that the magician isn't in their way.

You can choose either option, or both.  You are not limited to one or the other.

Yes! For example, I’m often asked to perform close-up magic before and after dinner.

Yes! Let me know if you’d like me to connect you with past clients.

I always dress appropriately for the event. Typically, that means a suit or business attire, but I can adapt my look to match the formality of your event. If your company has a specific dress code or theme, let me know, and I’ll make sure I fit right in.

Absolutely! I have a professional bio and high-resolution headshots available for event programs, press releases, and promotional materials. Just let me know what you need, and I’ll send them over.

Yes, professionalism is extremely important to me. My performances are always appropriate for corporate audiences, and I ensure that my humor, language, and interactions align with the expectations of a business environment. I also value punctuality, reliability, and respect for my clients and their guests.

I take confidentiality very seriously. If your company has any proprietary or sensitive information that’s part of the event, I will never disclose or use it outside of the agreed performance. If needed, I’m happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to ensure your company’s privacy is protected.

Cancellations will not be accepted within 90 days of the performance time and the total performance fee is to be paid. All cancellations must be made by direct contact with a Corporate Entertainment Originators principal in person, by certified mail, or by telephone.‌
‌Acts of God‌
If an act of God, such as a fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural calamity shall cause client to cancel the event, I will provide a make-up show at a future event for the client.‌
If for any reason, I cancel, the client has the choice of a replacement entertainer or a full refund.

Yes, I am fully insured.

I do everything I can to accommodate the client.

I generally don’t provide a sound system, but I can. I provide everything else needed for the show.

I have shows to accommodate any size audience, in any venue. Performing outdoors isn’t ideal, but under the right conditions, it can work.

I’ve been hired to perform for two people, as well as audiences of 2,000.

Yes, corporate events are my specialty!

Yes, I can perform an interactive magic show over Zoom or Teams.

It’s a perfect mix of comedy, audience interaction, and magic that’s designed for corporate events. No generic tricks, just a high-energy experience your guests will love. I can customize my presentation to get your message across or can simply provide a fun show.
My most unique show is called Uh-Oh, It’s Magic, which is a Yacht Rock themed magic show. It’s campy, funny, and you’ll hear all your favorite Yacht Rock music while watching amazing magic!

I’m a member of The Magic Castle, which is a private club for magicians. We collaborate and share the latest and greatest ideas with each other. Also, I attend Magic Live, which is the largest magic convention in the USA. I go every year to improve my skills and to be aware of the cutting-edge magic that’s available.

Yes! My magic is highly visual, making it effective for audiences regardless of language. While I only speak English, I’ve entertained international audiences where body language, expressions, and sleight-of-hand do most of the talking.

For corporate events, my show is designed for professional settings, meaning it's clean, engaging, and perfect for adult audiences. However, if you need a performance that includes a family-friendly element, I can absolutely tailor my act accordingly.

I’m constantly reading the room—watching reactions, listening to audience feedback, and adjusting my pacing to keep energy levels high. If I sense the audience is looking for more interaction, I’ll bring in more volunteers. If they’re more of a sit-back-and-watch crowd, I’ll adjust my approach to keep them entertained without making them uncomfortable.

Yes! I have experience performing during seated dinners, where I can either move from table to table performing close-up magic or put on a full show after the meal. Timing and flow are key, and I ensure that my performance enhances the experience without interrupting conversations or courses. However, I will not perform my stage show while people are eating, as I need their full attention.

I never force anyone to participate if they’re uncomfortable. My goal is to make the audience feel relaxed and excited to be part of the magic. If someone seems hesitant, I’ll shift focus to another volunteer while ensuring they still enjoy the experience from their seat.

Absolutely! I can perform strolling magic during cocktail hours, receptions, or networking sessions to keep guests engaged before or after the main show. This adds an extra layer of entertainment to your event and keeps the energy high.

Yes! Over the years, I’ve developed signature routines that consistently get jaw-dropping reactions. Some of my best effects involve mind-reading, impossible predictions, and visual sleight-of-hand that leaves people questioning reality.

I’m always refining my material, testing new illusions, and staying on top of trends in both magic and entertainment. I incorporate modern themes, cutting-edge techniques, and creative storytelling to keep my act fresh and exciting.

Yes! If your company wants a custom illusion—whether it’s revealing a new product, making an executive appear, or incorporating a key message—I can work with you to design something unique for your event.

Yes! I’ve created tailored illusions for product launches, corporate branding campaigns, and company milestones. Whether it’s incorporating a company logo into a trick or designing a moment that highlights a key message, I love bringing creative concepts to life.

Absolutely! If your company is celebrating an anniversary, a major achievement, or a new initiative, I can weave that into the magic in a way that’s both engaging and memorable.

Yes! If your event includes multiple entertainers, I can collaborate with musicians, speakers, or other acts to ensure a seamless and cohesive entertainment experience. If you need help assembling a full lineup of entertainment, I can also provide recommendations.

Absolutely! I can design a grand finale that will leave your guests talking long after the event. Whether it’s making a CEO appear, revealing a key message in a magical way, or pulling off an illusion tied to your brand, I can make it happen.

The process is simple: Contact me with your event details, and we’ll go over what you need. Once we finalize the details, I’ll email a proposal. If you decide to book me, I’ll email the performance agreement. After that, I handle the rest—making sure you get a seamless, professional, and highly entertaining performance.

Yes! I have performance videos and clips available on my website. If you’d like to see more, let me know, and I can send over additional footage or even arrange a virtual preview.

Yes, I support great causes! I offer special pricing for non-profits and charitable events. Let’s discuss the details, and I’ll do my best to work within your budget.

I’ll need details like the date, location, event type, audience size, and any special requests. The more information you provide, the more accurate and customized the quote will be.

I take pride in delivering an unforgettable experience. If there’s ever an issue, let’s talk. I always work with my clients to ensure they’re thrilled with the show.

Of course! I’d love to chat and go over your event details. We can set up a quick call or Zoom meeting to ensure everything is tailored to your needs.

Flexibility is key! If you need changes, let me know in advance, and I’ll make the necessary adjustments to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Yes! I always provide a contract outlining the performance details, payment terms, and any other key information. This ensures transparency and peace of mind for both of us.

Experience has taught me to be prepared for anything. I always have backup plans in place, whether it’s an alternate routine or adapting the show to the situation.

Reading the room is part of the job. If I notice the energy dipping, I adjust my pacing, involve more audience interaction, or switch to a high-impact effect to re-engage the crowd.

Yes. In the rare case that I can’t perform due to an emergency, I have a network of top-tier magicians I can refer to ensure your event still gets world-class entertainment. If you prefer a refund instead of a replacement entertainer, I will provide you with one in full.

Yes. If for any reason I’m unavailable, I can recommend a trusted magician from my professional network to take my place.

Corporate events don’t always run on time, and I get that. I’m flexible and can adjust my performance start time as needed to keep everything running smoothly.

Safety is always a priority. My effects are designed to be safe, and I never put volunteers in uncomfortable or risky situations.

If your event is outdoors, we should have a backup plan in case of bad weather. I can work in covered areas, tents, or move inside if needed.

Yes. I bring backup microphones, props, and other key equipment to make sure nothing stops the show.

I always do my best to accommodate if things run late. Let me know as soon as possible, and we’ll adjust accordingly.

I’ve seen it all - servers walking through the crowd, unexpected announcements, even fire alarms. I handle it with humor and professionalism, ensuring that the show stays on track no matter what.

Simple—contact me, tell me about your event, and I’ll handle the rest.

I charge the full fee when I’m booked.

Absolutely! Let’s set up a time to chat.