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5 Online Entertainment Ideas that Will Help Kick Off Your Digital Event

by

Tim Grable
Tim Grable founded The Grable Group.The Grable Group is an international event and entertainment company.In addition to managing the schedules of our speakers, comedians artists and entertainers, we handle their literary, commercial, film/TV, social media and licensing opportunities.
Latest posts by Tim Grable (see all)

Much work goes into planning a virtual event -- and it deserves to kick off with a massive bang. So why not start things off with an entertainment segment which is customized for your company and event?

Regardless of which platform you are using to host your digital event, there are many opportunities to engage remote viewers with fun, high-energy entertainment acts.

Digital Deception, 5 Online Entertainment Ideas that Will Help Kick Off Your Digital Event

Keep reading to discover 5 online entertainment ideas that will set the right tone for an engaging virtual event.

1. Virtual Magic

How about starting your video conference with a visual magic effect that incorporates your meeting’s topic or theme?

Digital Deception is a duo of top entertainers whose acts combine technology and virtual magic to create a shared, interactive experience for your virtual attendees.

It’s a great way to add something memorable to your digital event.

What’s more, multiple elements in the act can be customized to fit your exact needs. You can include a personalized message, names, and pretty much anything else that comes to mind.

Learn more about Digital Deception’s available programs here.

2. Acrobatic Dance and Shadow Act

If you’re looking to spruce up your virtual meeting with a unique and unforgettable act, then Eclipse is right for you.

A leading, acrobatic, and dance-based performance group, Eclipse will make your event stand out by creating a custom video opener. 

Jaw-dropping motion graphics, impeccable music, and complex movements of the human body come together to create a magical experience that will dazzle your guests, even virtually.

This is one of the most online entertainment ideas you can book for your online event. If you’re interested in booking them for your event, you can get started here.

3. Custom Music Intro

Kick your event with a custom intro or shot-out, courtesy of Alter Ego.

Alter Ego is a renowned music group whose repertoire includes the best of 70’s disco, 80’s rock, and 90’s Pop, plus the top songs of today. They know how to put on a memorable show which fills guests with enthusiasm and elevates their mood.

Their electrifying energy will set your event up for success.

If you want to add the wow factor to your event, give us a call at 615 283 0039 to find out more about how Alter Ego can make your digital event better.

4. Enhanced Presentation from the CEO

When it comes to virtual meetings, you need content that locks in the attention of your attendees right from the beginning.

And this is where you stand to benefit from working with someone like Freckled Sky.

They are innovative visual storytellers who mix projection, dance, lighting, and special effects to create highly interactive new forms of content that also have substantial entertainment value.

Holograms, animations, voice-overs, and other enhancements, all can be used to develop special effects which add extra sizzle to an opening speech.  We think you will agree that this is one of the best online entertainment ideas.

Of course, Freckled Sky’s abilities can be used for many other things, such as to enhance a product demonstration or any other presentations which are on your event’s agenda.

Learn more about them by watching the video below:

Freckled Sky: Demo Reel

5. Virtual Mind Reading Show

Virtual Mentalist Eric Dittelman predicts people’s actions and figures out what they are thinking. Drawing on his background in improv and comedy, Eric incorporates a unique blend of humor and surprise into his online mind-reading act. Eric has been sharing his unique talents and entertaining audiences for both corporate and private events for years and has appeared on America’s Got Talent, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and Live with Ryan and Kelly. He has also been featured in “Entertainment Weekly” and “Rolling Stone.” Now, he has made the pivot to Virtual Events as well and with tremendous success. Of course, if you were also a mind reader, you would have already known that!

Virtual Mind Reading Show: Mentalist Eric Dittelman

We Can Help You Kick off Your Digital Event with Online Entertainment Ideas

Just because an event takes place in a virtual environment doesn’t mean it needs to lack excitement. Use the ideas included in this article to stand out and create a memorable experience for all those involved.

You can also reach out to us online for more virtual program ideas, which will take your event to the next level. We’re always happy to help.

How Online Fundraising Is Thriving In Times Of Crisis

by

Tim Grable
Tim Grable founded The Grable Group.The Grable Group is an international event and entertainment company.In addition to managing the schedules of our speakers, comedians artists and entertainers, we handle their literary, commercial, film/TV, social media and licensing opportunities.
Latest posts by Tim Grable (see all)

Many charities and organizations have had their events postponed or canceled as a result of the pandemic. And as an effort to salvage their fundraisers, many have turned their efforts towards an online environment.

While the change may have been abrupt, it also came as a blessing in disguise – as online fundraisers specifically are seeing a rise not only in popularity but also in ineffectiveness.

In the following article, we will present to you some of the reasons why online fundraising is seeing such significant growth.

How Online Fundraising Is Thriving In Times Of Crisis

Still Doing Business in Times of Crisis

One of the reasons why virtual fundraisers are so prevalent right now is because they are the only solution for some organizations to continue their operations.

Many of them may have had an in-person fundraiser planned before the shutdown. And for some, going online may have been the only alternative for raising funds.

The shift to an online fundraising event meant that all their resources and planning wouldn’t have gone to waste.

And on top of that, going online also means they can explore avenues in which they can extend their fundraising efforts.

The Benefits of Going Online

By going online, you can get more out of it. Online events come with advantages, which in-person events do not have in times of crisis.

For starters, everyone can tune in from almost anywhere around the world. This means that a large portion of your potential audience can reach you since physical limitations no longer bar them.

searching on a computer

Also, an in-person fundraising event would have had high costs because of all the props and logistics, which needed to be set up. While on the other hand, with online fundraising, you are no longer conditioned to spend as much money.

People Are More Generous

Troubled times tend to bring out what’s best in people, and during the pandemic, many of those who have financial possibilities have shown to be more willing to offer their support during these times of crisis.

Many people’s livelihood has been impacted having lost jobs, businesses or someone close to them may have been affected.

How Online Fundraising Is Thriving In Times Of Crisis

This has awakened a sense of empathy in many citizens, and they feel more inclined to do something about the situation. People become more trusting if they see their donations have brought some positive change to the world.

Virtual fundraising can be a way of showing their support in this dire situation. It provides reassurance for many donors to see their money is going to an organization that has the power to do something.

Solutions for Online Fundraising

We know these are troubled times for everyone, but there are many lights at the end of this tunnel, and charity is one of them.

If you have considered doing an online fundraiser, then now it’s the best time to put your plan into action.

We can help you set up your online event and provide you with virtual entertainment solutions to enhance the event’s experience.   Find out how you can have a successful fundraising in times of crisis.

The Grable Group is the leading booking agency for virtual events in the world. Reach out to us at (615) 283-0039, and we will find the right entertainer, host, emcee for your online event!

4 Creative Ways to Keep Your Virtual Attendees Engaged and Happy

by

Tim Grable
Tim Grable founded The Grable Group.The Grable Group is an international event and entertainment company.In addition to managing the schedules of our speakers, comedians artists and entertainers, we handle their literary, commercial, film/TV, social media and licensing opportunities.
Latest posts by Tim Grable (see all)

Last updated on May 23rd, 2020 at 02:35 pm

It’s challenging enough to keep guests engaged and happy at in-person events.

Transition to digital, and it becomes even more challenging, as you’re suddenly competing with all kinds of different at-home distractions, which are all just one click away.

But does that mean there’s nothing you can do than to accept that low engagement is unavoidable when hosting events online?

Not at all.

Instead, you could use the following tips to put together an interesting, memorable digital event.

4 Creative Ways to Keep Your Virtual Attendees Engaged and Happy

1. Design Engagement Points Throughout Each Session

To keep your virtual attendees engaged and happy, make use of technology to create an environment that encourages audience participation.

Audience polling, short Q&As at the end of each session, even quizzes -- all of these can be built into your event’s agenda to make guests feel directly involved.

The important thing is to have small audience engagement activities throughout your event, so guests don’t lose interest.

2. Have a Professional Host Moderate the Conversation with Virtual Attendees

When it comes to digital events, a professional moderator can play a huge role in boosting engagement, especially if we’re talking about large-scale events with many participants.

A virtual host or moderator can help keep the energy up at your event and ensure there’s a specific flow to it so that the conversation doesn’t drag.

Furthermore, part of a moderator’s job is to interact with the speaker(s) at your event and draw the audience into the session by addressing them directly and strategically incorporating Q&As.

If this is an idea you want to implement at your event to keep your virtual attendees engaged, we recommend Amy McWhirter.

Known for her charisma and warmly energetic approach, Amy brings enthusiasm to any event. She is also adept at emphasizing essential points from speakers and improvising with humor to keep audiences focused and engaged.

Get to know her better by watching the presentation video below:

Your Virtual Event Host Emcee Partner - Amy McWhirter

3. Help Attendees Connect

Low engagement at digital events is often the result of losing that sense of community and connectivity, which builds up naturally when people interact with one another in-person.

However, it’s possible to address this challenge and keep your virtual attendees engaged and happy. How to do that?

An excellent idea is to include a fun activity guest can do together to make them feel connected despite the physical distance.

Jeff Civillico is an excellent entertainer. You can book for that.

A world-class juggler and comedian, he will deliver an action-packed program where guests can unwind, laugh, and learn together.

Check out the video below to get a better sense of the kind of experience Jeff can create at your event.

Jeff CIvillico: Virtual Team Building Workshop for Dscoop

4. Book a Comedian to Keep Your Virtual Attendees Engaged

A charismatic entertainer delivering a fast-paced high-quality comedy act will keep your audience from tuning out of the event. Here are two engaging comedians you can count on to captivate your guests’ attention:

  • Bob Stromberg blends stand-up comedy with powerful storytelling to deliver a memorable act that has the power to inspire and delight your guests, even virtually.
  • Marcus Monroe. An award-winning comedian and juggler, Marcus will surprise your guests with an act that incorporates innovative juggling and in your face comedic banter.
Bob Stromberg: Virtual Demo

Want More Ideas?

As time goes by, the world of remote events is likely to keep on growing. So, event planners’ ability to design events that keep virtual guests engaged needs to develop as well.

We hope this article has provided you with some inspiration on how to put together an effective virtual audience engagement strategy. For more tips, be sure to check out this article, as well.  

For help planning your online event, give us a call at 615 283 0039.  The Grable Group is the top booking agency for virtual events in the United States.

Virtual Magic Show: How it Works and How to Include It In an Online Event

by

Tim Grable
Tim Grable founded The Grable Group.The Grable Group is an international event and entertainment company.In addition to managing the schedules of our speakers, comedians artists and entertainers, we handle their literary, commercial, film/TV, social media and licensing opportunities.
Latest posts by Tim Grable (see all)

Last updated on May 23rd, 2020 at 02:37 pm

In a time of physical distancing, a virtual magic show provide an opportunity to bring people together through shared experiences that are filled with wonder and joy.

But how does it all work for an online event?

It’s pretty straightforward. Every segment of an act -- be it close-up magic, mind-reading, sleight-of-hand demonstrations -- is done online via video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams.

Multiple people from all over the world can join in the fun. Family members, friends, colleagues, associates can experience everything together. Plus, they get to see each other’s reactions, which makes things even more entertaining.

Virtual Magic Show: How it Works and How to Include It In an Online Event

Technology has made it possible for magic shows to be hosted online in front of large groups of people.

But it’s thanks to the creative power of talented magicians that a virtual magic show can exist without compromising engagement, interactivity, or that element of surprise, which makes this type of entertainment so great.

So, unlike watching magic tricks on YouTube, for example, the experience is unique for guests, as they don’t just sit and watch a show, but take part in it.

If you want this type of experience at your event, keep reading to discover four top acts that have been designed for an online event with remote audiences in mind.

Digital Deception

Experts in creating highly-interactive acts in which tech meets magic, Digital Deception have built a diverse repertoire of powerful illusions to help you create a shared experience for your virtual audience.

Doug and Ryan, the two tech-savvy magicians who make-up Digital Deception, have much experience with creating digital experiences that can engage guests through their screens.

It’s not by coincidence that they put digital in their name.

Plus, there are numerous magical moments to choose from if you decided to book Digital Deception for your online event -- many of which can be customized according to your event’s details.

Digital Deception – Interactive Blend of Magic and Technology

Colin Cloud

A top cyber-mentalist, Colin Cloud has been dubbed the real-life Sherlock Holmes thanks to his incredible mind-reading abilities.

At your digital event, Colin will captivate the attention of your guests through unique, immersive mind-reading demonstrations. Plus, he will also share actionable takeaways, which will help remote viewers gain precious insight into how the human mind works.

Check out the video below to see Colin in action and gain a better understanding of how he can make your next event stand out from the rest.

Colin Cloud - The Cyber Mentalist

Ben Seidman

A regular at corporate events across the country, magician Ben Seidman has now created a live digital magic show, which is perfect for times such as this where in-person events are no longer possible.

His focus when designing the show was to make it as interactive as possible. As part of the show, your guests will have their minds read by Ben. Plus, they’ll have a chance to learn a few quick magic tricks, with Ben as their guide.

Watch Ben Seidman tell you more about the fantastic virtual magic show he’s created to wow remote audiences in the video below.

Ben Seidman Virtual Magic Show

Eric Jones

Eric Jones is one of the big names in magic right now.

Known for his sleight of hand and his ability to use everyday objects to create mind-blowing illusions, Eric Jones has wowed some of the biggest celebrities from all over the world.

Your virtual attendees can be next, as you can now book Eric Jones to perform an interactive magic act at your online event.

Audience participation, incredible demonstrations of sleight-of-hand, high-impact tricks which engage guests through their screens; Eric Jones is a specialist in all these areas.

Learn more about him and his approach to online magic by watching the video below:

Eric Jones: Virtual Meetings & Events

The Virtual Magic Show from Simon Pierro

A brand new online experience, created and customized for conferences and business events. 
Interactive, visual and individually fitted to your company, ‘World Wide Wonders’ is an unforgettable online event, performed live and with your guests, which is sure to keep them glued to their screens. 
The Walt Disney Company was the first to book ‘World Wide Wonders’ brand new virtual entertainment from Simon Pierro for their guests. And it became a mutually unforgettable and interactive experience.   
World Wide Wonders: The Virtual Magic Show from Simon Pierro

 

Paul Wilson

When casinos suspect they have a con-artist at the poker table, they turn to one man for help… Paul Wilson.  Star of the BBC hit show, The Real Hustle, History Channel’s Scammed, and Court TV’s The Takedown, Paul’s expertise in fraudulent gambling methods is frequently tapped by agencies such as the FBI as well as movies and TV shows including Shade, Smoking’ Aces, Hustle, and Now You See Me.  Now you can see Paul in this live demonstration where he will deal from the bottom, switch decks, mark cards, switch in loaded dice, and share the psychology behind how anyone might get suckered. In this unique, interactive presentation, Paul will reveal top-secret techniques used by today’s card cheating pros and answer your questions, proving that anyone who thinks they can’t be taken… is the perfect target.

Paul Wilson - The Expert at the Card Table

Ready to Add a Virtual Magic Show to Your Online Program?

If you’re looking for a way to engage people at your virtual event, you should consider hosting a digital magic show for a unique and powerful experience.

You can quickly get started with booking any of the acts mentioned in this article by reaching out to us at (615) 283-0039 and telling us more about your event.  We are the top booking agency for virtual events and virtual magicians.

Let’s work together to bring the best magic acts in front of your virtual attendees.

7 Tips for a Successful Online Fundraising During COVID-19

by

Tim Grable
Tim Grable founded The Grable Group.The Grable Group is an international event and entertainment company.In addition to managing the schedules of our speakers, comedians artists and entertainers, we handle their literary, commercial, film/TV, social media and licensing opportunities.
Latest posts by Tim Grable (see all)

Last updated on May 23rd, 2020 at 02:38 pm

7 Tips for a Successful Online Fundraising During COVID-19

The bar for successful online fundraising continues to be moved higher and higher.  Recent years have forced nonprofit organizations to produce fresh fundraisers, and fun, so that prospective donors would want to attend and ultimately donate to their charities.  With COVID-19, your job is more complicated because of the restrictions of large gatherings in many parts of the country. 

What is the solution?  Offer a online fundraiser!  This is a fun and engaging medium that has proven to be successful for fundraising during a pandemic. Countless organizations have offered virtual fundraisers with enormous success.   For some, their result is more significant because they can reach more people in different locations than a local meeting.  Because The Grable Groups has been partnering with nonprofits holding virtual events longer than any other agency, here are our top 7 tips for virtual fundraising during Covid-19.

1. Offer an online silent auction

Silent auctions are great to help draw people into any virtual event.   During periods of downtime, prospects have numerous choices of where to spend their time.  An online auction should include something for everyone’s interest.  No service or produce should be overlooked.  Especially during times like these, people are looking for unique opportunities to buy.  Make your online silent suction special by appealing to all ages, diverse interests, and price ranges. 

Also, schedule your online silent auction to run for a couple of days to create a buzz and build-up to your actual fundraisers.  Advertise in local newspapers, radio, and other media networks.  Online silent auctions are entirely profitable for your charity because they are all donations.  It is an easy way for local services and vendors to support their community without making a cash commitment.

successful online fundraising during Covid-19

2.  Use a virtual host for a successful online fundraising during Covid-19

A virtual host is similar to an emcee but has more skill and experience with virtual events.  During an in-person fundraiser,  it is easier for your audience to remain focused during the program because they are actually in attendance.  Virtual fundraisers have more distractions.  Therefore, the probability for donors to “go somewhere else” online is more likely. 

A online host reduces this risk and increases your fundraising potential.  An experienced virtual host is the conductor that keeps the program on the tracks and holds everything together.  Your online program feels less sporadic and more complete because of the virtual host keeping your donors engaged.

Using a virtual host makes the difference between your donors staying and listening to your message or becoming disinterested and bored.  Virtual events require engagement.  An interactive host is a perfect match to keep your event moving in the right direction for the greatest outcome.

3.  Use a variety of talent

Successful fundraising events need to make a difference, and successful online fundraising during Covid-19 is no different.  Virtual events must be more compelling and entertaining than local events.  Using more than one talent, like a virtual host and another entertainer, ensures your fundraiser is interactive and captivating, just as if your audience was sitting in the same venue. 

Bob Stromberg: Virtual Demo

Don’t risk the outcome of your virtual fundraiser to hang on the performance of one single talent.  Using more than one person/group keeps the audience engaged.  It is easy for your audience to become overwhelmed and fatigued by watching something on a screen.

Your virtual event should incorporate more than one viewing option to prevent someone from losing interest and start to surf the net in the middle of your program.  By using more than one person or group in your event, the people taking the time to attend are participants rather than viewers because they are engaged rather than watching.

4.  Use powerful testimonials

Nothing communicates the influence that your organization has more than someone sharing their personal experience.  Testimonials are one of the main reasons people attend any fundraiser.  We all like a good story and listening to a positive narrative.  Powerful testimonials make donors want to partner with an organization because donors intend to help make a difference in someone else’s life.  Philanthropy drives a donor base.

Choose your testimonials wisely.  Make sure they are current and not repurposed old stores from previous years. Testimonials that capture the heart of what you do without overwhelming the audience is a good balance.

5. Offer virtual VIP experiences

VIP tickets and experiences are an essential part of any fundraiser.  Offering additional ways to have a good time during a fundraiser is inviting to donors that are willing to pay for VIP tickets.  The virtual VIP experience is something that is intended for donors to enjoy at home with a few friends.  They can have friends over and still have a fun social gathering while they interact virtually with your fundraiser. 

Online fundraisers can offer the same VIP participation with a VIP basket that is delivered to their home before the event.  The basket may include special snacks provided by a local company or caterer.  Perhaps a gift card for a local restaurant the delivers can be placed inside.  A bottle of wine is another idea.  This is also a place to use your organization’s swag.  If you have unique apparel or glasses, put them in this basket as well.  Finally, add a personalized handwritten note thanking them for partnering with your organization.

6. Thank your sponsors in all online advertising

Businesses sponsor local charities for marketing and to show they care about their local community.  Participating in local fundraising in COVID 19 enables a company to partner with in-kind sponsorships that are meaningful and affordable.  For example, a local web designer may not be able to make a considerable contribution. Still, they can help with developing a website or social media marketing for your virtual fundraising.   Listing your sponsors’ logos on all online advertising and press is an easy way to express your gratitude and help promote their business at the same time.  This small effort goes a long way for future business involvement at your next fundraiser

7. End with a virtual call to action

The “call to action” is when the virtual host will invite your participants to support your nonprofit organization financially.  A virtual call to action is unique because your locality does not limit it.  Instead, your virtual ask can be shared with other people that might not be aware of your organization.  It can also be shared on social media and via email to people that were not able to attend. 

A successful call to action is too overpowering or manipulative.  On the contrary, it incorporates your mission with an invitation to help your audience make a difference. 

Successful online fundraising during COVID-19 lends a voice to your mission in a fun manner that engages your donors regardless of location and circumstances.  As the leading booking agency for virtual events and fundraisers in the world we welcome your call at 615 283 0039.

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