Tag Archives: parties

Pirates of the Caribbean party

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Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar’s Revenge. As fans of Captain Jack Sparrow, we thought it might be fun to run through a few pieces of entertainment that are sure to impress at a themed party. Whether it’s hired entertainment for a corporate event or a private party, it’s time to raise the Jolly Roger and look through the spyglass of entertainment on our roster.

Costumed Characters

Of course! The first thing your guests will see upon entering your party are the themed costumed characters meandering amongst your guests. From Jack Sparrow himself to Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, you can rub shoulders with the best of them. Not wanting to be on the side of the goodies? No problem… Captain Barbossa and Davy Jones can be arranged if desired!

Bravo

What sort of Pirates of the Caribbean party would it be without some form of swashbuckling music entertainment? Red Masque can provide a pirate themed entertainment for your event! Bravo have entertained thousands more people . A fab act that combines comedy with wonderful show tunes, Bravo are sure to go down a storm!

Cocktail Stars

“Why is the rum gone?” is perhaps the most famous line from the entire Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. We don’t expect you to be able to enjoy a party without rum and thankfully, you won’t have to if you hire some tremendously talented cocktail shakers! If rums not your thing then that’s just fine – other spirits are available – but personally we think a rum and coconut concoction will certainly fit with the Caribbean theme.

Layla Rosa

Anybody who has seen Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl will be able to tell you that the curse causes an entire crew of pirates to turn into skeletons at night! Argh! Pay homage to this classic of cinema by booking Layla Rosa an aerial hoop circus performers that could don full skeleton makeup to spook out the crowd!

Christmas Entertainment 2017

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Selfridges have already opened their Christmas shop for 2017, Christmas is already at the front of people’s thoughts. Are you looking book your office Christmas party this year? With dates already being booked up it pays to get in early – we thought we’d recommend a number of acts to hire for your corporate event!

Fluxo Acrobatics

A beautiful act and one that is very often the most popular piece of entertainment at parties where it features. The acrobats features two talented acrobats performing inside a giant dome, much like those many of us had as children. As sparkling snowflakes fall around them, the duo deliver a stunning performance that showcases their incredible flexibility, grace and strength. Sure to leave all entranced, this is a must see!

Human Statues

Is there an act that you love as much as Human Statues? We aren’t sure but this hilarious concept is one that causes huge amounts of laughter no matter where the Statues reside! Appearing to all and sundry as normal Statue decoration, the Statues ‘jump’ out at guests as they arrive at your Christmas party and some of the photos are absolutely hysterical. One for those looking to focus on the fun of Christmas!

Barbican Brass

Finally, what would a Christmas party be without any festive tunes? From Jingle Bells to I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day, The Barbican Brass can belt out both carols and classic festive hits alike, so why look anywhere else for your Christmas tunes? Thinking that your staff or colleagues may well prefer a break from yet another outing for Merry Christmas Everybody by Slade? No problem, The Barbican Brass can also deliver a set that simply focuses on pop songs everybody enjoys. Something for everybody then! The true spirit of Christmas.

If you’re looking to book your office Christmas party or corporate event– and we’re sorry that job has fallen to you – do not fear. If you like what you’ve read above or simply want a few more ideas,

Make your party run smoothly

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With these clever tips for your private party / event, you can keep your guests happy and occupied—and make yourself less stressed, from hello to good-bye.

For the smoothest entry, give arriving guests a clear destination. A small table done up with essentials is a friendly gesture, and it frees you to get back to the kitchen if needed. Try to offer bar access from more than one side, to prevent a cue. Stock generously and make sure you chill white wine for two hours in advance so guests won’t need to come looking for anything—ice, glassware, bottle opener, condiments—but reserve some surface area for mixing drinks.

Guests go where the action is, they want to socialise with the host. Be ready to make them feel welcome.

Give over the far end of your kitchen counter or island to appetizers, so people know exactly where they can linger without being too in-your-face.

Welcome help. Reserve certain small jobs for early birds and those who shy away from being chatty. Offer the sorts of tasks you could give to an older child: setting out dishes and cutlery, plating hors d’oeuvres, filling the water jugs, or putting bread rolls in a basket.

Hide signs of stress. If anything makes a guest feel guiltier than watching the host do dishes after the meal, it’s watching her do them before the meal. Use the dishwasher as a hiding spot for dirty dishes even those you’ll ultimately wash by hand.

Go with the sort of low-key nibbles you would find in a classy bar: small bowls of nuts, Bombay mix, and olives.

Spirited conversation is a dinner party’s bread and butter, but sometimes it needs a nudge.
Manage moods. At holiday time, people tend to arrive hungry (and ready to indulge), so don’t make them wait too long for the main event.

Use a white tablecloth, white dishes, and just one or two rich accent colours and centrepieces should be tall enough to talk under or short enough to talk over.

A place card for everyone. Seating plans may seem formal, but they actually make guests more comfortable. Think about who would benefit from particular placement: small children (seat near a parent), couples (split them up to encourage mixing), and hearing-impaired guests (reserve a quiet corner chair or seat them front and centre, depending on personality). Then fill in the blanks.

Turn a table into a convenient, arm’s reach refilling station. Load it with wine, jugs of water, and spare utensils to eliminate supply runs.

Be present. Each time you get up to fetch something, you essentially abandon your guests. A host’s primary duty isn’t to feed people but to spend time with them. Serve family-style, and forget cleaning up mid-event. Carrying plates to the kitchen is one thing; but once you turn on a tap, you’ve dissolved the festivity.

Relocating for sweets and coffee lets guests stretch their legs and switch up conversation partners.
Cheer at the finish line. Champagne after the meal is a nice surprise. It’s one of those delightful little touches that people remember.

Its no joke

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The Joker itself was invented sometime around 1860 by players of the card game Euchre, a trick-taking trump card game for four players. Relying on memory, tactics and good communication, you don’t use the entire deck but somewhere between 24 and 32 cards. It was believed to be introduced to the US by German settlers, though this is in dispute and it may also have been introduced to the American mainland by immigrants from Cornwall and Devon.

We have all shuffled a pack of cards at a private party. Cards are great entertainment for events. Most probably you own at least one, just in case we want to practice a couple of magic tricks or have a game or two of a popular card game. You normally take the playing cards from the pack, take out the Jokers and start dealing the cards. But have you ever stopped to wonder where the Joker comes from and why it is there? Well we have the information that you require!

In the 1860s, some American card players of Euchre devised some new rules for their beloved game. The problem? It required an extra card. Sure, they could have used one of the spare cards from the deck, but since all the face cards are part of the game, this wouldn’t have been a ‘good fit’. They referred to the new card they came up with as the Best Bower, adding it to the game where it became the highest trump card available.

Looking to make a quick buck from these variation rules, American card manufacturers quickly jumped on the trend by including a couple of extra cards in their decks. The British were a little slower to catch on though, only adding them in during the 1880s.

The Best Bower card was slowly phased out to become the Joker or Jolly Joker that we all know and love today. Like the Ace of Spades, it was typically branded with the company logo or with a unique floral motif that connected it to the manufacturer. It wasn’t until the Joker title for the card became more common that it was almost always represented by a performing jester.

Despite the fact you may think the Joker is connected in some way to the Fool in Tarot cards, you might be interested to know that there is no connection at all. Tarot cards have been around since the 15th century when jesters were still a possible career option and there is no link to the Jokers in a pack of cards.

The arts

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If you are a fan of art then you could hire body painted models to recreate some of the finest paintings in the world. The thing about the National Gallery though, is that you have exclusive access to ogle these sensational works of art in complete privacy. Van Gogh, Michelangelo, Vermeer… The gallery holds some of the world’s most famous paintings and in terms of ‘set dressing’ for your event, you can’t get better than that!

When looking to hire a venue for a corporate event, private party or awards ceremony you will want something that is sure to amaze your guests and the National Gallery is a prime example of an events venue that will impress.

You might be thinking that the National Gallery might be a little difficult in which to have a ‘proper’ party because of the art on the walls. Not so. There are so many areas to the venue that music like DJ’s and Party bands fits in beautifully.

We could go on and on about the gorgeousness of The National Gallery by focusing on the interior but what of the exterior as well? Located on Trafalgar Square, you cannot get a more prestigious location in which to hold your event and attendees will remember the evening forever. With a multitude of production and lighting options available, there really is no reason not to enquire about booking an event with the National Gallery today.

Stop searching

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If you’re in the process of planning something big for example like a corporate event, using an entertainment directory uses only the best out there that are reputable and highly acclaimed

We at Red Masque entertainment have a limitless amount of options and inspiration. But what if you don’t have the time, will power or experience to trawl through the 17,500 female solo singers that Google throws up? Well, then it’s time to call in the professionals. And that’s where a party and event entertainment directory can come in handy.

What’s the one thing you remember about a great party, above all else? As a guest, you’re there to have a good time. And if it’s a good time you want your own guests to have, then you need to put a little thought into the entertainment.

You can find party entertainment that keeps your diverse range of guests happy, making the party start with a bang.

The best musicians aren’t necessarily the best hype men; the most amazing magician won’t necessarily be the best web designer – one of the changes in entertainment since the internet has been the focus on promo material rather than word of mouth or reputation. That means the bands with the flashiest websites and the slickest videos often get more attention than their less media savvy counterparts. Consequently, there are plenty of hidden gems out there who, instead of improving their Search Engine Optimisation or video editing techniques, have focused on just being great performers.

We, like many entertainment directory’s, make it our business to know as much about our entertainment as possible. by reading up on new performers and much more. We know the best act for your event and 5 equally brilliant alternatives if the first choice isn’t available.

It just goes to show there’s only so far your own web searches will take you. If you want something a bit different, something to appeal to all the ages and tastes of your guests, something to get your party started as it means to go on, Red Masque is definitely a good way to avoid a headache. After all, it’s your party too.

The year of the Dog 2018

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Chinese New Year celebrations last for 15 days. Fifteen. Now, if you’re anything like us, you just can’t see yourself partying for 15 days without losing your job, so for the sake of having one big celebration, this is how to throw a Chinese New Year party for one night only.

Set the theme

It’s customary to ask your guests to remove their shoes at the door. All of this is said to lead to good luck and a smooth transition into the new year. Once your home is spotless, it’s time to decorate.
Red and gold – that’s your colour scheme. In many Asian cultures, red envelopes symbolize a monetary gift for a special occasion. So, you may consider sending your invitations in red envelopes to go along with your theme (you can include chocolate coins to replace the money). You’ll want to hang beautiful Chinese lanterns throughout your home (and outside, too, so that new guests can easily identify your home). Cover your table with a rich, red table cloth and use gold-trimmed plates or gold napkins, placemats, or other finishing touches. Many choose to adorn their tables with Chinese dragons as centrepieces. However, you can also decorate by placing bowls of mandarin oranges (which represent wealth, luck, and happiness) out for your guests to enjoy.

You can also hire party suppliers, which are great for this type of event. It adds to the ambiance to have some music playing in the background. Consider instrumental, western, pop, or ethnic music to add to your event.

Dinner is served!

Crispy Duck, spring rolls, lettuce wraps, won tons, and crispy orange beef, chicken chow Mein are just a few dishes you can serve at Chinese New Year. If you’re not up for cooking, hire a Caterer to make up delicious traditional Chinese dishes for you and your guests. Your desserts should be orange based or otherwise relate to your Chinese New Year theme. When it comes to alcohol, you should talk to your Bar man about serving drinks that involve oranges. Do not serve anything with cream or that is white in colour, as white represents death and mourning.

Party favours

Buy Chinese take-out boxes and fill them with party favours for each of your guests. Some great favours to celebrate Chinese New Year are chocolate gold coins, fortune cookies, oriental fans, Chinese opera masks, character bead bracelets, mini paper lanterns or dragons, and other traditional Chinese sweets or gifts. If your budget allows, you may also consider booking a Photobooth for your corporate event and laying out themed props. You and your guests can pose with paper dragons, red boas, and other fun props – and the photo strips make great party favours!

Chinese New Year is all about new beginnings, luck, and happiness. So celebrate with your loved ones and have a happy new year!

All night with Michael Buble

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A lot of the time we get feedback on acts that are on our advertised on our website. This is a great way for other event hosts and party planners to hear from the performer’s happy past clients! Sometimes we stumble upon a particularly moving review that makes us proud to connect hosts with extraordinary entertainers. Here’s what somebody hired from our website to liven up their private party!

I was searching for some kind of fun and unexpected entertainment for a birthday party for my Grandmother’s 80th. We were having live party band after dinner but I wanted something to kick off the party with a spark of fun after everyone arrived.

Our family knew that Grandma adored Michael Buble. I took the opportunity of hiring a celebrity lookalike; and I was very glad I did. I had the opportunity of talking to the act before and to go through all the particulars. The act told me he was rehearsing for a theatrical play in the West End and told me about all the other roles he has been involved with.

When my Grandma’s 80th birthday arrived. I was so excited when my party entertainer to came in, when he walked into the party there was definite ‘stage presence’ he engaged with my Grandma and his stage act dance was so authentic. She blushed but loved every minute of it.

A group picture was taken with the Michael Buble lookalike surrounded by all our guests.

One of our guests, who is 70 years old, came up to the hired party entertainer to tell him he had met the real Michael Buble. He was gracious and listened to her story all the while keeping in character. Our friend was delighted and said he was just as charming. He talked about him all night long.

I knew I found someone special in this act. He was not only charismatic, young and talented; he was charming and a delight to work with!

Well done Red Masque and of course Michael!!!

Hire a Ceilidh Band

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Ceilidh music and dancing (pronounced “kay-lee” and meaning “visit”) is becoming more and more popular! More and more people are requesting a Ceilidh band for their party venue. As so many people are asking all about it we thought it would be useful to tell you what it is, where it came from and why it makes an electric party atmosphere with plenty of fizzing excitement!
Where does Ceilidh come from?

Dating back to 1875, Ceilidh originates from Scotland and Ireland although its name comes from Gaelic; it’s a combination of Scottish, Irish and English folk music.
What Line-Up?

A Ceilidh band normally consists of two or three people, a fiddler, an accordionist and a ‘caller’ to help everyone get into the swing of things and learn the dances. But, line-ups may also include guitarists, drums, keyboards and whistles amongst other instruments. Nowadays, the music isn’t always traditional either, it can be very contemporary as there are a number of new-style Ceilidh bands bringing a fresh slant on the old folk songs and even putting a twist on current music. This makes it funky, modern and gives you a brand new sound. There’s plenty of rock and roll influence now as well, so if you really want your guests to get down and groove check out some of Red Masque Directory Party entertainers – they are absolutely guaranteed to get even the most reluctant dancer strutting their stuff!
Why Book a Ceilidh Band?

It’s fair to say that Ceilidh is all about having fun. Its traditional style of being all night dance entertainment is still used today and it’s the best way of getting everyone onto the dance floor and enjoying the music. Ceilidh helps even the shyest people to meet new faces and let their hair down.

The main point of difference from any other entertainment for a wedding, party or event is the band themselves teach everyone how to do the different dances. This is done by the ‘caller’ who will call out instructions to the music so everyone knows exactly what to do next. The following video provides a brief example of a ‘caller’ directing the moves…
Who is a Ceilidh Suitable for?

It doesn’t matter what age, ability or personality type a person is – everyone loves to get involved and no experience is necessary! It is very easy to pick up – just imagine a hoe-down – the Ceilidh caller has similarities to a barn dance caller (although the music is entirely different!).

The dances are all varied and there are plenty of paces available, fast, slow and even mid-tempo – so if some of the dances are hard to keep up with that’s your cue to take a break and perhaps enjoy a glass of champagne or wine before you get involved again. Party-goers love the flexibility of a Ceilidh because you may get moving when you want and take a break when your feet can’t keep up any more.

Lookalikes galore

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Putting a smile on your guests’ faces is guaranteed to make your special day one that stands out in everyone’s memory. When you book a celebrity look alike that’s exactly what you’ll achieve, adding a real wow factor to your event’s entertainment mix. And, there are so many recognisable faces that will get everyone talking at your wedding reception, private party or corporate event…

The beauty of hiring lookalikes is that you can introduce them to your party at various points. There are no rules. How about at the start of the evening, perhaps for a short time while guests mingle with drinks? During dinner service, as part of the music or DJ set, or maybe someone who simply adds an element of surprise midway through your event.

Lookalikes are a brilliant addition to your wedding plans, and they can be the perfect solution for a red carpet event, grand opening or corporate evening.

We say mix it up a bit. If you’re hoping to keep your party or corporate event on the light-hearted side, there are so many possibilities when booking a look-alike that could inject some real fun and creativity into the day, or later in the evening. So here are a few ideas:

The Drinks Reception is a wonderful opportunity for friends and guests to meet-up, chat and remember old times. Throw in the most absolutely fabulous lady to really liven the mood, with a Joanna Lumley look alike who not only looks the part, she can act as well.

How about a real splash of comedy to have your friends, family and guests in stitches? It could be at the hotel when your nearest and dearest meet on the evening before your special day, or how about having the Fawlty Towers team involved in the Breakfast Reception? Madcap fun, a fabulous trip down Memory Lane for lovers of the show, and a polished feel to your celebrations.

Of course one of the key elements to any entertainment mix is the music. That’s especially true at a wedding reception where you want guests to be engaged, feel part of the experience and, ideally, up on the dance floor. So why not hire a hip lookalike artist like Lady Gaga, Madonna, or Whitney Houston?

We love the food theme at Red Masque Directory, so a man who not only cooks up a storm but can serve your guests could be a real winning combination. Hire a Gordon Ramsay lookalike who could offer an impressive menu, either meeting guests over nibbles and drinks, presiding over the main course or maybe remonstrating with diners if you’d like to generate a little harmless drama. He’ll look and sound the part.

And finally, an old favourite sure to remain in the hearts of all Only Fools and Horses fans forever is the Del Boy Lookalike. Now he could hustle with guests if you wanted, offering his amazing range of hooky watches, but how about a dramatic entrance in his clapped-out old three-wheeler yellow van.