Bar Mitzvah Magician, Duncan William has been performing his unique, fun entertainment for the Jewish community for over 15 years. His style is very contemporary and appeals to a a broad age range. This is perfect for these wonderful coming of age ceremonies. His Bar Mitzvah entertainment includes his ever popular digital magic. This includes pulling objects out of iPhones and iPads, or demonstrating some incredible close up magic with the combination of technology.
Why hire a Bar Mitzvah Magician?
Duncan has been performing at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and weddings for over 15 years. Recently he was hired for an exclusive Orthodox Jewish event in Newark, New York. Here, he entertained some of America’s most prominent guests. But entertaining in America is an exception to the rule. Duncan mainly performs all over the UK. From London to Birmingham, Manchester to Nottingham.
A Bar Mitzvah magician, like Duncan understands that it’s important for both the adults and children to have a great time and enjoy the magic. Duncan fits perfectly into this category. He is not particularly old (meaning the children can relate to him) nor his he extremely young (and therefore have little professional performance experience).
A Bar Mitvah magician, such as Duncan, will ensure that your party is extremely memorable and fun for all ages. Ultimately, it will be spoken about for years to come.
What makes Duncan’s Bat or Bar Mitzvah entertainment unique?
Unlike a traditional Bat or Bar Mitzvah magician – Duncan has the experience of performing at these events both in the UK and internationally. As a result, he understands protocol, traditions and timings. Not only that, Duncan magic is extremely unique. He combines traditional sleight of hand using technology, iPad and iPhones to show people something astonishing they will probably have never seen before. You can watch his showreel below:
What should you wear to a Bar Mitzvah?
Formal wear is the most appropriate. If you have a Tallis you could wear that, or borrow one from the synagogue. In some communities, people are expected to cover their heads but this isn’t always required. Again, you could wear your own Kippa (Jewish skullcap) or borrow one from the synagogue.
When should you arrive to a Bar Mitzvah?
This is a personal choice. If you want to have the full experience, then arrive early to attend the prayer ceremony at the beginning. Arriving precisely on time is unusual on a Saturday morning (the start of a traditional Bar Mitzvah). Dependent on the hosts or the congregation, it is sometimes completely acceptable to arrive extremely fashionably late. It is worth asking the host what time they would prefer you to arrive. It’s never rude to do this and speaking to many guests as Bar Mitzvahs, it’s standard protocol.
What should you expect at a Bar Mitzvah service?
Some Bar or Bat Mitzvahs have short ceremonies. Others have longer ones. The longer ones may include reading or chanting in Hebrew from the Torah or prophets. This may or may not be followed by a speech by the parents. Here, they will give a blessing to their child and offer up a few embarrassing words or two. Parents will then share some memories with the congregation and then offer up some gifts to their children. The Bar or Bat Mitzvah is then showered with sweets to celebrate reaching this significant milestone within the Jewish calendar. Guests will then move to the social hall or function suite for a kiddish or celebratory lunch.
What is your role at a Bat or Bar Mitvah?
On arrival, it is customary to take a prayer book at the door along with a copy of the Torah readings, and if they are not there they will be on your seat already. An usher may lead you to your seat and there will be plenty of standing and sitting throughout the course of the ceremony. For many people attending; this may also be their first time attending a Bar or Bat Mitzvah so just go with the flow and follow everyone else.
What do the children do to prepare?
Children learn how to carry a Torah, lead a service, and chant from the Hebrew inside of it. They also write their speech called a ‘drash’ and often complete a Mitzvah project such as charitable work, growing vegetables or something similar. In addition, it may take years of work with a cantor, rabbi or tutor to prepare. Turning 12 or 13 signifies the end of this process making them eligible Jewish adults, Bar or Bat Mitzvahs and now they are deemed ‘legal’ in the Jewish sense.
Is there certain etiquette I should consider at a Bat or Bar Mitzvah?
In this modern age we are all keen to take photos or videos on our phones but at many Mar Mitzvahs this is frowned upon, so keep them switched off, certainly through the ceremony. It is always encourage to give a gift too. These should be given at the party and not the service. Presents may include money, gift cards or a book. Sometimes families invite charitable donations in lieu of a present so this is worth considering too.
Is there a really fun party too?
A Bat or Bar Mitzvah party usually gets going after the ceremony has concluded and lasts into the night. It’s usually lots of fun and there are no real official rituals so is the perfect opportunity to let your hair down. This is the perfect opportunity to hire a Bar Mitzvah magician as some guests may not want to dance and the guests are often represented across all ages. Magic transcends any age or language barriers and invites everyone to revisit that infantile state of astonishment and wonder.
To get in touch with Duncan to see how he can make your Bat or Bar Mitvah both incredibly memorable and fun, get in touch via his contact form or give him a call on 07934 856 696.
