David Kwong at ANA Masters of Marketing
Live entertainment is rapidly becoming the greatest incentive for corporate events.

Corporate Mentalists: What are they?

Hiring a world-class mentalist guarantees excitement, intrigue, and an entertaining night for your attendees. In fact, booking entertainment for corporate events has become the latest trend for event planning professionals, and for good reason.

Nearly a third of all HR professionals planned on having live entertainment for their team-building activities in 2022. 

Furthermore, events are now prioritizing entertainment over content, according to event news source Event MB. It’s now clear: corporate meeting planners are beginning to see the benefit of creating experiences for their audiences. 

In this article, we will explore:

  • The benefits of hiring a corporate mentalist
  • What to expect from a mentalist performance
  • How to maximize the impact of a mentalist performance at your event

Additionally, check the FAQ section at the end of the article for more information, or contact the Mollie Plotkin Group directly.

What is a Mentalist and How do they Elevate Corporate Events?

Jon Dorenbos, Corporate Mentalist Performing

A mentalist is a performer who uses a combination of psychology, suggestion, and illusion to create the illusion of mind reading, prediction, and other seemingly impossible feats. 

They are skilled in reading body language, interpreting verbal cues, and using their intuition to create an interactive and engaging experience for their audience. 

Mentalists captivate audiences with their ability to seemingly read minds, predict the future, and perform other mind-boggling acts.

Mentalist David Kwong baffled The Today Show earlier this year using only a dollar’s worth of quarters.

Check out this clip for just a sample of the excitement that corporate mentalists bring to events.

Despite creating the illusion of random selection, Kwong accurately predicted which state quarter Dylan Dreyer would pull from a glass bowl. What’s more, the precise quarter Dreyer selected would be integral to Kwong’s next mind-bending twist.

Whether it’s revealing personal information about a volunteer audience member that they couldn’t possibly know or correctly predicting the outcome of a seemingly random choice, a mentalist can create moments of astonishment that will be talked about long after the event is over. 

By incorporating mentalism into your event, you can create a unique and memorable experience for your audience. 

Why NYC is the Hub for Corporate Mentalists

NYC Skyline

New York City has long been a hub for the performing arts, and mentalism is no exception. The city’s vibrant entertainment scene attracts some of the world’s top mentalists who regularly perform in renowned venues such as Broadway theaters and off-Broadway venues. 

We recently explored the world of NYC magicians, their history, and what sets them apart from their fellow illusionists.

If you want to see examples of the world-class magic that is happening in NYC, we compiled a curated list of NYC’s most exciting upcoming magic shows of 2024.

Mentalism is among the many specialties of NYC’s magicians. What’s more, they have created performances that are tailored to capturing corporate audiences.

Whether you’re a fan of mind-reading, psychic entertainment, or simply enjoy being amazed by the power of the human mind, NYC offers a wide range of mentalist performances to suit every taste.

The Features of Mentalist Performances that Meeting Planners Look For

A Meeting Planner assessing options

Meeting planners that hire Mentalists should look for the following features of their performance:

  • A refined performance from an active Mentalist with successful residencies and tours
  • Performances that involve ample audience participation
  • Branding and messaging that match the Organization or Event’s Goals

When choosing a mentalist for your event, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you should look for a mentalist with experience and a proven track record. A world-class mentalist will have performed at a variety of events and will have testimonials or reviews from satisfied clients.

It’s also important to consider the style of the mentalist. Determine whether it aligns with the tone and theme of your event. Some mentalists specialize in comedy, while others focus on creating a more mysterious and serious atmosphere. Consider what type of experience you want to create for your guests. Then, choose a mentalist whose style matches that vision.

Benefits of Hiring a World-Class Mentalist for Your Event

A cheering team of employees

There are several advantages to hiring a professional mentalist for your event:

  • Boost the attendance of your event by promising exciting, live entertainment.
  • Improve the Image of your brand and company, within your culture or outwardly to clients.
  • Create lasting memories within your organization that bond teams 

First and foremost, a world-class mentalist generates buzz among potential attendees. Engaging live entertainment could be the deciding factor in whether or not they RSVP. 

A mentalist can also boost the image of your organization’s event or internal culture. They  provide a fresh and unique form of entertainment while tapping into trending themes of psychology, marketing, and communications. 

In contrast to the typical music or comedy act, a mentalist will challenge the preconceived notions and perceptions of their audience. These themes are incredibly important to emphasize in companies that prioritize creativity, innovation, and human connection. 

The third benefit of hiring a mentalist is their ability to engage and entertain your guests. Your guests will have the opportunity to be a part of the show, having their minds read or unwittingly reading the minds of others. This level of engagement can create a sense of connection and camaraderie among your guests, making your event more memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

How Much Do the World-Class Mentalists Cost Compared to the Standard Mentalist?

A Man Performing

How much it costs to hire a mentalist heavily depends on the caliber of performance your event requires. 

Standard mentalists charge between $500-$1500 for performances at general events and private parties. However, for corporate events with large audiences, we advise against hiring mentalists at this price point. 

The mentalists of NYC charge greater fees which also take into account the duration, brand customization, and value-add features of their performance.

While world-class mentalists may come with a higher price tag, they often bring a level of expertise and professionalism that is worth the investment. 

Many mentalists offer different packages or options to accommodate different budgets. Be sure to discuss pricing and options with potential mentalists before making a decision.

What to Expect from a Corporate Mentalist Performance

A man performing on stage, facing an audience

A world-class NYC mentalist performance typically involves a combination of mind reading, prediction, and other mind-boggling acts. The mentalist will engage the audience through interactive demonstrations that will leave them amazed and entertained. They may ask for volunteers from the audience to participate in demonstrations, or they may select participants at random. The mentalist will then proceed to reveal personal information about the participants, correctly predict their choices, or perform other seemingly impossible feats.

The Three Types of Mentalism Acts

  • Mind Reading and Telepathy
  • Prediction and Influence
  • Upscale and Light-Hearted

There are different types of mentalism acts that can be performed, depending on the style and preferences of the mentalist. 

Some mentalists focus on mind reading and telepathy, correctly telling the rest of the room what their gracious volunteer is thinking. Others specialize in prediction and influence, using the power of suggestion to unwittingly guide a volunteer to a clearly-planned conclusion. 

Some NYC mentalists even incorporate comedy into their performances, while others create a more serious and mysterious atmosphere.  Regardless of the specific acts performed, a world-class mentalist will create a sense of wonder and excitement that will captivate your guests and leave them wanting more.

Examples of Events That Can Benefit from a Mentalist Performance

The main floor of an expo

A mentalist performance can add value to a variety of events. Corporate events, such as conferences, trade shows, and company parties, can benefit from a mentalist performance by providing a unique and engaging form of entertainment for attendees. 

In a corporate event setting, a mentalist can help break the ice and create a sense of camaraderie among attendees. By engaging guests in interactive demonstrations, a mentalist can create a shared experience that will foster connections and conversations among attendees. 

Tips for Maximizing the Impact of a Mentalist Performance at Your Event

A laptop with graphs, a visualisation of the planning process

To make the most of a mentalist performance at your event, there are several tips you can follow. First and foremost, create a sense of anticipation and excitement leading up to the performance. Promote the mentalist as a special guest or highlight their unique abilities in your event marketing materials. This will create buzz and intrigue among your guests, making them more excited and engaged during the performance.

During the performance, encourage audience participation and engagement. A mentalist performance is interactive by nature, so make sure your guests have the opportunity to be a part of the show. This can be done by selecting volunteers from the audience or by incorporating interactive elements into the performance. Encourage your guests to be open-minded and willing to participate. This will enhance their experience and make the performance more memorable.

After the performance, provide an opportunity for attendees to discuss and reflect on what they have just witnessed. This can be done through a Q&A session with the mentalist. Also, you could provide a space for guests to gather and share their thoughts. By creating a space for conversation and reflection, you can further enhance the impact of the mentalist performance and create a lasting impression on your guests.

How to Incorporate Mentalism into Your Event Theme or Message

Someone holding a light bulb next to a laptop, a metaphor for creating ideas.

Mentalism can be incorporated into your event theme or message in a variety of ways. For example, if your event has a focus on futurism and innovation, you can highlight the mentalist’s ability to seemingly predict the future or read minds. 

If your event has a focus on communication or connection, you can emphasize the mentalist’s ability to interpret body language and verbal cues. By aligning the mentalist’s performance with your event theme or message, you can create a cohesive and impactful experience for your guests.

Another way to incorporate mentalism into your event theme or message is by using it to reinforce key points or concepts of your brand. For example, if your event is focused on innovation and thinking outside the box, you can have the mentalist perform acts that demonstrate the power of creativity and imagination. If your event is centered around personal growth or self-improvement, you can have the mentalist perform acts that highlight the power of the mind and the potential within each individual. By using mentalism to reinforce your event’s message, you can create a more impactful and memorable experience for your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a World-Class Mentalist

Q: How much does it cost to hire a world-class mentalist for an event?

A: The cost of hiring a world-class mentalist for an event can vary depending on several factors, including the mentalist’s experience, reputation, and availability. It’s best to contact potential mentalists directly to discuss pricing and options.

Q: How far in advance should I book a mentalist for my event?

A: It’s recommended to book a mentalist as far in advance as possible to ensure their availability. Popular mentalists may be booked months or even years in advance, so it’s best to start the booking process early.

Q: Can a mentalist customize their performance to fit my event?

A: Many mentalists offer the option to customize their performance to fit the specific needs and theme of your event. Be sure to discuss your vision and requirements with potential mentalists to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Q: What logistics do I need to consider when hiring a mentalist for my event?

A: When hiring a mentalist for your event, you will need to consider logistics such as performance space, sound equipment, and lighting. Be sure to discuss these details with potential mentalists to ensure they have the necessary requirements for their performance.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Event with a World-Class Mentalist

Hiring a world-class mentalist for your event can elevate your event to new heights. A mentalist can add excitement, intrigue, and entertainment to your event, creating a unique and memorable experience for your guests.

Are you searching for the perfect Mentalist to boost your attendance, engagement, and brand image? Look no further than the experts at our agency. Our team represents top-rated entertainers for both corporate and private events. Contact us today to learn more about our professional performers and how we can help you plan your next event, conference, or retreat.

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The Mollie Plotkin Group finds the perfect talent for stunning events. Will your next event be the one?

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