Getting into the Act
From rock violinists to ventriloquists, find out which entertainers are burning up the corporate circuit today
by Lindsey Getz | Published in April 2008 Focus on Entertainment
Choosing the right entertainment can be one of the best ways to add pizzazz to your next event. “It can be an opportunity for the audience to see headline talent in an up close and personal way and have the feeling that this is a special show,” says Greg Janese, an agent with Paradigm Talent Agency. “Many times an artist can even customize their show to your specific audience, which gives your client the feeling that it’s a private show just for them.”
“I truly believe the right entertainment can make or break your event,” adds Annie Revel, president of Revel Productions and a certified special events professional. “It has to be right to fit for the demographic. If you can achieve that, it can set the mood for the entire event.”
Whether they’re dependable crowd pleasers or up-and-coming stars, here are five ways to do just that.
Alizma
Photo: Rachel Globus
Alizma
the buzz: This group of 23-year-old Polish triplets is gaining popularity for their impressive violin act featuring music styles ranging from pop to rock classics. While the three sisters — Aleksandra, Izabela and Monika — now call Vegas their home, they are often on the road doing corporate events as well.
insider tip: With their choreographed performances, use of pop songs and the fact that they are triplets, these rising stars offer a fresh twist on standard violinist groups.
book ’em: Blair Farrington | Farrington Productions 702.362.3000 www.farringtonproductions.com
Terry Fator
Courtesy: TEI Entertainment
Terry Fator
the buzz: You may recognize him from “America’s Got Talent” — after all, he did walk away with a cool million as the winning contestant — or more recently, “Oprah”. Terry Fator is a ventriloquist, celebrity impressionist, comedian and singer wrapped into one, and what he’s best known for is combining those talents. He consistently wows audiences with his ability to impersonate great singers through his puppets without moving his mouth — all while carrying a tune.
planner review: “He brings the wow to the entertainment field,” says Ray Gosselin, owner, Epic Entertainment, who recently hired Fator to perform at the closing of the Palm Springs Film Festival and has already booked him again to appear at a private corporate event. “He has such a unique act that it simply can’t be duplicated. Unlike a typical ventriloquist, Terry’s act adds impersonation to the mix. This gives it that once-in-a-lifetime feel. Plus he’s corporate clean and an utmost professional.”
book ’em: John D. McEntee or Tammy Jones | TEI Entertainment 714.693.9300 www.teientertainment.com
Blue Man Group
Courtesy: Paradigm Talent Agency
Blue Man Group
the buzz: Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re probably familiar with the blue men who put on a wildly popular theatrical show with elements of music, comedy, multimedia theatrics and a little paint to boot. They’ve been nothing short of a megahit in Vegas. But what you may not be aware of is that they’re now doing corporate events. The addition of BMG at your next corporate gathering is sure to make it one your attendees won’t soon forget.
insider tip: The combination of the Blue Man Group’s unique entertainment with their willingness and ability to customize their act for any audience will make them an increasingly popular act with corporate groups.
book ’em: Greg Janese | Paradigm Talent Agency | 615.251.4400
www.paradigmagency.com
Frank Caliendo
Courtesy: FrankCaliendo.com
Frank Caliendo
the buzz: With the rise of “Frank TV,” Frank Caliendo is quickly becoming a household name, and as a result he’s become a blazingly hot act in the corporate world. Caliendo is famous for his impersonations and does spot-on impressions of everyone from President Bush to John Madden to Al Pacino.
insider tip: Frank is everywhere! It’s hard to miss one of his celebrity impressions now that his face is all over TV. Caliendo has not only made himself a star, but is making the act of impersonation more popular than ever.
book ’em: frankcaliendo.com | www.inn-entertainment.com
David Ferrell
Courtesy: Larry Weaver Entertainment
David Ferrell
the buzz: If you’re looking for clean comedy, David Ferrell is your man. “His performance is 100 percent clean and appropriate, because when you’re performing for corporate audiences, you often can’t take any chances,” says Larry Weaver of Larry Weaver Entertainment. “He keeps the audience involved and can customize his act for each client.”
planner review: “We were looking for a low-key, light-hearted approach to comedy,” says Meg Economy, president, Events Associates Inc., who has booked Ferrell. “Our clients were hospital professionals, so the focus had to be clean and very positive. The response was overwhelming and very positive — just what I had hoped.”
book ’em: Larry Weaver | Larry Weaver Entertainment 919.816.2884 www.larryweaver.com