Fundraiser Entertainment (Magic) | David Malek
Purpose and Fit
A successful fundraiser keeps attention on the cause while giving guests a reason to talk to one another. My role is to create small, memorable moments that help strangers connect, guide people toward your activations, and return focus to the program on time. Nothing overshadows honorees, auctioneers, or your mission.
Pre-Event Alignment
Before the event, I confirm your goals, preferred language, and any topics to avoid. If there is a theme, it is referenced lightly through wording or imagery rather than props. Sponsor names and recognition cues are noted so I never step on them. If you have compliance or photography rules, I follow them exactly.
Reception Strategy
Most fundraisers begin with check-in and a reception near silent auction displays. I work at the edge of foot traffic, using brief pieces that are easy to understand from a few steps away. Guests who pause are brought into quick interactions that finish in under two minutes. The goal is to warm up conversation and move people naturally toward displays, raffles, or photo areas.
Silent and Live Auction Compatibility
Silent auction hours belong to the bidding tables. I stay clear of them while guests review items, then reappear nearby as windows close to keep energy steady. Once the live auction begins, there is no performance. If the auctioneer plans a stretch break, I can help refill attention with a short, clear visual and hand it back immediately.
Short Program Moments
If you want a single room-wide moment, it should help the program, not become it. A concise segment of five to seven minutes can serve as a reset between remarks or as a prelude to the paddle raise. It is built to read from front tables to the back row, uses house sound when available, and ends with a clean handoff to your host.
Table Touches That Respect Service
During dinner, I visit tables between courses. Each table receives an intimate sequence that is easy to follow over centerpieces and glassware. Nothing begins while plates are being set or wine is poured. Every stop is brief so staff can move freely and conversations can continue.
Tone and Content
Material is courteous, clear, and free of inside jokes. No references to betting or chance. Effects use ordinary items and simple choices so guests do not feel put on the spot. Participation is offered, never required. Names are pronounced carefully, and people are never singled out for laughs.
Sound, Light, and Floor Plan
Fundraiser spaces can be bright, reflective, or noisy. I work at a calm speaking level and select visuals that land without applause prompts. For seated rooms, sightlines are planned so both sides of a round can see the important moments. If the space requires reinforcement for the short program piece, I integrate with house audio at a comfortable level that does not compete with conversation.
Check David’s Availability
Volunteer and Staff Coordination
I check in with your stage manager or banquet captain on arrival to confirm the run of show. Doorways, sponsor step-and-repeat locations, and auction timelines are mapped so I do not block traffic. If volunteers are scanning QR codes or directing guests, I support their flow rather than creating clusters that slow the room.
Sample Timeline
• Reception: quick edge interactions near sponsor displays and raffle areas.
• Seating and Welcome: no performance; the room settles.
• Mid-program reset: five to seven minute segment if requested, then direct handoff to the host or auctioneer.
• Dinner service: short table visits between courses.
• Post-program coffee: light farewells at tables that invite them.
Accessibility and Courtesy
Guests have different comfort levels and needs. I approach from clear sightlines, keep language inclusive, and avoid asking anyone to stand or relocate. For guests who prefer to observe, the material reads cleanly from a comfortable distance.
These companies plus countless more trust David when it comes to hiring the best in class entertainment.
