Answers with Martin Mall

Answer 1

How do you find work as a juggler?

Being in the business with a certain reputation for almost 20 years makes producers and clients get in touch with me, but I'm also always reaching out to new markets.

Answer 2

Is it common to not be paid after performing?

No, not at all. I work mostly with people that I know and trust. Plus - both sides feel bound to the contracts we agree to beforehand.

Answer 3

Is it worth having a home base if you're traveling the whole time?

Absolutely. I love traveling, but one of the best moments of it is coming home and have a place to recharge for the next adventure.

Answer 4

What are some of the craziest gigs you've been offered?

Opening act with my laser-performance for a techno DJ set for 12000 people. My cello juggling brings me to the top concert stages of the world - always crazy. Jump in to a venue with a parachute and do a juggling show right afterwards.

Answer 5

How do you get your foot in the door in the professional juggling world?

If you want to meet lots of jugglers - visit juggling conventions and meetings, there are a lot of them. If you want to start a career as a performer: Create an act and try to perform as much as possible. Perform at circus and theatre festivals. Be seen by producers and agents.

Answer 6

Is the competition cutthroat in the juggling profession?

No. If competition means that more and more creative and unique acts come up and exist , it's a good thing, because it makes the art itself evolve. Original act will always have a market and work, because one cannot copy originality.

Answer 7

How long did it take you to perfect your show?

I still strive for perfection every time I am on stage. There is always something to improve. But even coming close to perfect show is a good feeling.

Answer 8

What are your favorite props to use while juggling?

I started to juggle with diabolos and specialized in them. Later I started to manipulate balls of different sizes. I like both disciplines, but the diabolo will always be my first prop...

Answer 9

What moment were you most proud of so far?

Every good show makes me "proud", but receiving a silver medal at the most prestigious newcomer circus festival in Paris as the first german diabolo juggler was a special moment for sure...

Answer 10

Can you make enough money to support a family as a juggler?

Yes.