How to Keep a Microphone in Place

Many performers have a stack of tape like this stuck to some case that’s not seen by the audience.

magic show audio

This is mic tape, that’s used to keep a cheek mic in place. Usually, when you take off your mic, there’s not a trash can nearby to throw it away, so you put it on something…then it grows into a mountain over time.

This came in handy the other day, I was setting up a show and putting my mic on and couldn’t find my roll of mic tape. I realized I could peel off one of those squares and it would get me through the show. That works, but I also thought there should be a better way to do this than using old tape.

A Better Way To Be Prepared For An Emergency!

What I did was put a strip of mic tape on across my case, then put a second strip on top of that. That’s going to keep the adhesive on the outermost piece “fresh”.

magic show audio

Now, if there’s an emergency, I just peel off what I need from the outer layer and use that. It’s an easy way to be prepared that takes up no space in my case!

Here’s an example of how I’ve traveled with my audio gear in the past:
https://www.magicshow.tips/magic-show-tips/carry-on-audio-box/
you can see the roll of mic tape in the case!

-Louie

Backstage Props!

When I’m performing a formal show where my show is set up onstage when the audience arrives, I have a backstage set up as well.

stage magic props

These are all the props that end up on my person when I walk on stage. I don’t put these things on until about 15 mins before I need to be onstage. Here’s what you’re seeing:

  • Wireless mic with transmitter
  • Mic tape
  • Glasses with no lenses
  • Two Promystic receivers (one is a back up)
  • Deck of cards
  • Marker
  • Music remote control

Sure I could set up and keep all this stuff on me, but I don’t. I’m worried I’ll accidentally turn on my mic, or play music. The other worry is that something will fall out of my pocket or I’ll use the pen and forget to put it back in my pocket.

For me, having all this stuff on a stool or table, then putting it all where it goes at the same time is the most sure fire way (for me) to not forget or lose anything!

-Louie