Last updated: April 2026
Despite the name, the Last Minute Musicians directory does not just deal in musicians. Often a dry and unimaginative event can be given a new lease of life by including circus acts, caricaturists, dancers or magicians to entertain guests.
Ideal for weddings, private functions and corporate events, entertainers and performers can add a unique quality to any event.
Not only will they add something new, for those who are budget conscious, solo performers will take a smaller proportion of the budget (in comparison to a live band). This will allow organisers to splash out on other aspects, such as the venue or catering.
Below, find some of our picks of the non-musical acts for events…
Circus Acts
Circus entertainment can come in all different shapes and sizes. From stilt walkers and acrobats to fire breathers and fire performers, circus performers can add an exciting edge to events.
Performed either whilst guests are enjoying drinks or as the main part of the occasion, acrobats, a fire juggler or even a tightrope artist will ensure that the event is memorable and some include guests in their performance.
For those holding larger events, a whole circus can be hired complete with lighting, seating and staging… However, this is not for the faint of heart or those with a modest budget!
Magicians
Engaging and exciting, magicians are hired to perform close up magic either at tables or on a stage as the centre of attention. Magicians are able to weave between guests of all ages, conjuring tricks and encouraging them to participate.
Adding a special highlight to any function, magicians can bring people together and ensure everybody is involved. Retaining a sense of class, they also are a common sight at business functions and corporate events.
Party games
Party games can be enjoyed by all and are particularly well suited to gatherings with children. Perfect for weddings or corporate events held during the summer, games such as Four In A Row, Giant Jenga and Giant Chess can be enjoyed outside in the sunshine.
The perfect icebreaker, party games will allow guests to get to know each other whilst also revealing some competitive streaks.
It’s also not unusual for guests to become more passionate about the games as the evening continues, especially if alcohol is consumed!
Photo booths (with props)
The ultimate toy suitable for both adults and kids alike, photo booths often come complete with props such as glasses, hats and scarves to make the photos as entertaining as possible.
Photo-booths are entirely customisable from choosing props, backdrops, green screen and exteriors so that the booth fits in with the décor of the event. Perfect for weddings, birthdays and many other functions!
Caricaturists
A popular favourite at weddings, caricature artists are able to add a sense of humour to every occasion. Mingling with guests ensuring a smile on every face, artists can produce caricatures on the spot not only giving guests a personalised cartoon to take home but also a unique original work of art.
At a corporate level, caricaturists can be used as an effective way of advertising a brand and many are hired for trade shows or exhibitions as a way of luring in potential customers and gives them something to take away.
Multicultural and World Music Performers
One of the most memorable ways to add variety to an event is to book a multicultural or world music performer. From Bhangra drummers and Bollywood bands to Mariachi groups, Samba dancers, African drumming ensembles, Irish folk acts, Flamenco guitarists and Caribbean steel drum bands, international performers instantly transport guests somewhere new. They work brilliantly for themed weddings, cultural celebrations, corporate diversity events and gala dinners where you want the entertainment to feel truly distinctive.
If you are planning a traditional British wedding but want a different flavour, consider booking a world music act alongside your main wedding band for the reception or drinks segment. For something with real energy and colour, browse our selection of Indian and Bollywood bands.
Dancers and Dance Troupes
Professional dancers bring a spectacular visual element to events that musicians alone cannot quite match. Options range from Latin and Salsa dancers and Flamenco performers to Bollywood troupes, Burlesque acts, Charleston and 1920s-style performers and even flash mob style choreographed groups that surprise and delight guests mid-event.
Dance acts work particularly well as a centrepiece after the wedding breakfast, during a themed corporate awards night, or as an icebreaker between dinner and the evening reception.
DJs and Silent Discos
A well-chosen DJ is often the backbone of the late-night entertainment at a wedding or party, keeping the dance floor full long after the band has finished. For something a little different, silent discos (where guests wear wireless headphones and can flick between two or three channels) are a brilliantly social option that also keeps the venue quiet enough for conversation in adjacent areas. This is especially useful for venues with strict noise curfews.
Browse our directory of DJs and mobile discos, or for weddings specifically, take a look at our wedding DJs on Gig Heaven.
Psychics, Mentalists and Tarot Readers
Mingle entertainment that involves a personal element tends to stay with guests long after the event is over. Tarot readers, palmists, mentalists and psychic entertainers set up a small booth or table where guests can drop in for a five-minute reading, creating a steady buzz of conversation throughout the evening. Mentalists in particular, who blend cold reading with genuine skill, tend to leave even the most sceptical guests talking about the experience the next day.
Looking for unusual entertainment? Check out the Other Entertainment category of the Last Minute Musicians directory.
Do you have any top picks of unusual entertainment? Let us know in the comments below…
