Some magicians specialize in mentalist tricks, including hypnotism. They're great for loosening up a crowd -- everybody loves seeing the boss act like a chicken in front of the whole company. These shows generally last for 45 minutes to an hour.

Close-up magic is ideal for banquets and large parties. With this variation, the magician goes from table to table, doing card and coin tricks, small illusions, mentalist demonstrations, and similar quick performances. It's a great way for the audience to get into the act.

Cabaret magic acts are great fun, and don't require much space. These are the acts in which the magician might display escape tricks, saw someone in half, or make their assistant disappear -- all the classic tricks that people tend to expect.