Most events have a singer, a band or a DJ. Speciality acts and event hire add something different: a surprise, an activity, a talking point. They're the touches guests remember long after the night is over.
Here's a guide to the speciality acts and hire options we offer, and the events they suit best.
Surprise acts
Singing Waiters
The Singing Waiters are one of our most popular acts. They pose as venue staff, serving drinks and chatting to guests, then suddenly burst into song. They work brilliantly at weddings (especially during the wedding breakfast), corporate dinners and milestone birthdays.
Tips: tell the venue so staff are in on it, and keep it secret from guests.
Stage shows
Hypnotists
A stage hypnotist like Grant Saunders creates a hilarious show with volunteers from the audience. Hypnotist shows suit holiday parks, clubs, corporate events and adult parties.
Tips: make sure there's space for volunteers on stage, and that the audience is in the mood to participate.
Magicians
A comedy magician like The Magic Guy can perform close-up magic among guests or a stage show. Magic is perfect for drinks receptions, corporate networking and family parties.
Themed duos
The Gatsby Dreamgirls are a 1920s-themed duo, ideal for Gatsby, art-deco and vintage events.
Event hire
Magic mirror photo booth
A magic mirror is an interactive, full-length photo booth that gives guests instant prints. It's popular at weddings, birthdays and corporate events, giving guests something to do away from the dance floor.
Casino tables
Casino Hire brings professional croupiers and tables for roulette, blackjack and more, played with fun money. Ideal for corporate events, Vegas-themed parties and charity nights.
Crazy golf
Crazy golf works indoors or outdoors and appeals to all ages. Great for fun days, corporate family days and weddings with children.
Carnival stalls
Carnival stalls bring the fun of a fairground: traditional games for children and adults alike.
Matching speciality acts to events
- Weddings: singing waiters, magic mirror, magician during drinks, crazy golf for children.
- Corporate events: casino tables, magician, singing waiters, hypnotist.
- Birthdays: magic mirror, casino, a surprise act.
- Family fun days: crazy golf, carnival stalls, children's entertainer.
- Themed parties: Gatsby duo with casino tables, or a Vegas night.
Practical considerations
- Space: casino tables, crazy golf and photo booths all need floor space.
- Power: photo booths and some acts need sockets.
- Timings: agree when activities will run.
- Supervision: hire items usually come with staff, but check.
Combining with music
Speciality acts work best alongside your main entertainment. A typical pattern:
- Magician during drinks
- Singing waiters during dinner
- Band or tribute act in the evening
- Photo booth or casino running alongside
Why add a speciality act?
Speciality acts solve problems that music alone sometimes can't. At a wedding, the gap between the ceremony and the meal can drag for guests who don't know many people. At a corporate event, colleagues from different departments may stick to their own tables. At a birthday, not everyone wants to dance. A magician moving between groups, casino tables or a photo booth gives people something to talk about and something to do together.
They also create memorable moments. Guests may not remember the exact songs a band played, but they'll remember the moment the waiters started singing, or the colleague who was hypnotised into thinking he was Elvis.
Budgeting for extras
Speciality acts and hire items are often booked alongside the main entertainment, so it's worth thinking about the total budget. If funds are limited, prioritise the element that fits your event best. A photo booth adds a lot at a wedding; casino tables are a natural fit for a Vegas-themed corporate night; a children's activity is invaluable at a family party. We quote every event individually and can suggest combinations that suit your budget.
Questions to ask
- How much space is needed, and is there a minimum ceiling height?
- How long does set-up take, and can it be done before guests arrive?
- How long does the act or hire run for?
- Is a member of staff included to run it?
- What power is needed?
- Is the act suitable for children?
Keeping surprises secret
Surprise acts such as singing waiters rely on secrecy. Only tell the people who need to know, brief the venue manager and staff, and avoid mentioning it on social media or in group chats the guests might see. Agree a cue with the performers so the reveal happens at exactly the right moment.
Quick answers
Can speciality acts run alongside a band?
Yes, and that's often the best approach. A photo booth or casino tables can run in a side area while the band plays, giving guests a choice.
Are hypnotist shows suitable for every audience?
Hypnotist shows are best suited to adult audiences who are happy to volunteer and join in. They're popular at holiday parks, clubs and corporate events. Talk to us about the audience and we'll advise.
How early should we book singing waiters?
As early as possible for popular wedding dates, as they're in high demand on summer Saturdays.
Are there any hidden booking fees?
No Hidden Booking Fees. The price we quote is the price you pay. No additional agency booking fees or unexpected charges. We usually ask for a deposit to secure the date, and everything is confirmed in writing before your event.
Can I check if an act is free before I enquire?
Yes. Most act profiles have a live date checker, and Check your date shows who is available across our roster. Diaries change quickly in busy periods, so we always confirm availability when you enquire.
Ready to book?
Browse our speciality acts and event hire, or request a quote.
Ready to find your act?
Flair Entertainments has been booking entertainers for clients across the UK since 1984. Send us your date, venue and the kind of night you want and we’ll come back with acts that suit.
