John Cerbone ~ The Trance-Master
Overview
When your event deserves unforgettable entertainment, choose John Cerbone—The Trance-Master®: a Forbes-featured entertainer, Broadway headliner, former MTV host, Stage Hypnotist of the Year, and creator of Speed-Trance®. For 35+ years, John has delivered premium interactive entertainment for Fortune 500 companies, casinos, theaters, universities, cruises, fundraisers, and private events. Every show is customized, audience-powered, and designed to create unforgettable laughter, standing ovations, and memories that last long after the event ends. Where your audience becomes the show.
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Write a reviewBooking information
Price range: Starts at $2,000
Languages: English
Gig length: 60 - 90 minutes
Insurance: $ 2,000,000 - Professional Performers Insurance Liability
What to expect
Expect your audience to become part of an experience they won't forget.
The Trance-Master® Comedy Hypnosis Experience™ is a fast-paced, highly interactive 75-minute headline show where John Cerbone transforms willing audience volunteers into the stars of the evening.
The experience begins from the moment John takes the stage. He quickly engages the entire audience with fascinating demonstrations of imagination, concentration and the power of the mind before inviting volunteers to experience his signature Speed-Trance™ hypnosis.
Then the comedy takes off.
Because the show is built around the personalities and spontaneous reactions of your guests, every performance is different. Volunteers may become outrageous performers, dancers, celebrities, athletes or characters in hilarious situations—all while the rest of the audience watches friends, family members, coworkers or fellow students become the unexpected stars of the event.
John's approach is energetic and hilarious without depending on humiliating the volunteers. The volunteers have fun. The audience has fun. And the event planner gets the kind of shared experience people talk about long after the show is over.
With more than 35 years of professional stage experience and 350,000+ people hypnotized, John knows how to read a room, adapt to different audiences and keep a performance moving.
The show can be customized for corporate events, private celebrations, colleges and universities, fundraisers, casinos, theaters, community events and special occasions, with material appropriate to the audience and environment.
Production requirements are straightforward: a professional sound system, wireless handheld microphone, music playback capability and a suitable performance area with sturdy chairs for the volunteers.
Most importantly, expect participation. Expect surprises. Expect a lot of laughter.
Don't just watch the show. Become part of it.
About
JOHN CERBONE — THE TRANCE-MASTER®
Forbes-Featured • MTV Television Host • Comedy Hypnosis Headliner • Creator of Speed-Trance™
What happens when the people at your event become the entertainment?
You get The Trance-Master® Comedy Hypnosis Experience™—a fast-paced, hilarious and completely interactive show starring the most entertaining people in the room: your guests.
For more than 35 years, John Cerbone—The Trance-Master® has been turning ordinary audiences into extraordinary shows at corporate events, casinos, theaters, colleges, private celebrations and special events throughout the United States and internationally.
A Forbes-featured entertainer and former MTV television host, John has headlined and performed at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas, The Orleans, South Point, Hard Rock Atlantic City, Borgata, Harrah's, Turning Stone Resort Casino, and New York City venues including Broadway's Bond 45. His corporate clients have included major organizations such as Whirlpool, NewsCorp, GE, TransAmerica, AFLAC, Dunkin' Donuts, CNBC, HarperCollins, BMG and MTV.
And the results speak loudly: oversold performances at Planet Hollywood, multiple standing ovations in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, and a sold-out stadium performance for the Brooklyn Cyclones.
YOUR AUDIENCE. YOUR EVENT. THEIR SHOW.
This isn't a hypnosis lecture and it isn't a show where the entertainer does everything while your guests simply watch.
Your audience becomes the show.
John begins by involving the entire room with fascinating demonstrations of imagination, concentration and the power of the mind. Then volunteers take center stage and experience John's signature Speed-Trance™ hypnosis.
That's when anything can happen.
Your friends, coworkers, students or guests may suddenly become outrageous dancers, superstar performers, larger-than-life characters or the heroes of hilarious situations created specifically for the audience in front of John that day.
The comedy comes from the people, personalities and spontaneous moments in the room, which means no two performances are ever exactly alike.
And John believes great hypnosis entertainment should never require embarrassing or humiliating the people who volunteer. The goal is simple: make the volunteers look great, make the audience laugh, and give everyone an experience they'll remember.
MORE THAN THREE DECADES OF EXPERIENCE
John has performed professionally since 1988, appearing throughout 34 U.S. states as well as Canada, the United Kingdom and Europe, and has hypnotized more than 350,000 people during his career.
He is the creator of The Speed-Trance System®, an internationally recognized hypnosis instructor, an NGH Fellow and Board Certified Hypnotist, and a member of the International Hypnosis Hall of Fame.
John is also the author of four bestselling hypnosis books, including the three-volume Hypnotic Scripts That Work series and Power Hypnosis.
That depth of experience matters when you're inviting an entertainer to work directly with your guests.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Trance-Master® Comedy Hypnosis Experience™ is typically a 75-minute headline performance combining comedy, audience participation, hypnosis and showmanship.
John works with the event planner beforehand to understand the audience, occasion and environment so the performance can be appropriately tailored to the event.
The production also has a relatively light technical footprint, making it adaptable to everything from private and corporate events to colleges, theaters and casino showrooms.
PERFECT FOR
Corporate Events & Company Celebrations • Conventions & Conferences • Colleges & Universities • Casinos & Resorts • Theaters & Performing Arts Centers • Fundraisers • Alumni Events • Private Parties • Milestone Birthdays • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Sweet 16s • Family Celebrations • Special Events
DON'T JUST GIVE THEM ANOTHER EVENT.
Give them the event they'll still be talking about afterward.
Bring John Cerbone—The Trance-Master® to your audience and discover what happens when your audience becomes the show.
Additional booking notes
The Trance-Master® Comedy Hypnosis Experience™ has a straightforward technical setup. The following helps ensure the best and safest performance for your guests.
1) Sound System / Microphone
A professional-quality sound system with a wireless handheld microphone is required. If sound equipment is not available at your location, please discuss this with John well in advance of the event.
2) Music Playback
John provides his own digital music playback device. The sound system should provide an appropriate audio connection, including RCA or another connection approved in advance.
When a DJ or sound operator is present, John can provide a simple cue list for portions of the show that use music.
3) Volunteer Chairs — Important Safety Requirement
Please provide 15–25 sturdy, stable chairs for show volunteers.
Chairs should be securely linked together and arranged in one continuous row, a slight crescent, or a V formation. Multiple rows should not be used. John can provide additional chair-linking and setup instructions when necessary.
4) Performance Area
A clean, clear and safe stage or performance area is required, with sufficient room for John and the volunteers to move comfortably.
5) Lighting
The performance area should be well lit so the audience can clearly see John and the volunteers throughout the show.
6) Helpful Items
When available, a small prop table, microphone stand and podium/lectern are helpful, but are not required for every performance.
7) Parking / Access
Convenient parking and reasonable access to the performance area are appreciated, particularly when John is bringing show materials or equipment.
8) Before the Show
Please designate one event or venue representative who can coordinate with John regarding sound, seating and the performance area before showtime.
Questions about your venue or setup? Just ask. John has performed in everything from intimate private-event spaces to major theaters, casinos and corporate venues and can help determine the best setup for your event.
Past booked events
October 2026
24
Saturday
Birthday Party
9:30pm - 10:30pm
•
Brooklyn, NY
Set list
No two Trance-Master® shows are exactly alike.
The Trance-Master® Comedy Hypnosis Experience™ features a constantly evolving variety of fast-paced, hilarious and highly interactive comedy hypnosis routines, with the volunteers and their spontaneous reactions becoming the stars of the show.
Routines are selected and adapted to fit the audience, occasion and event, creating surprising moments, huge laughs and unforgettable memories that could only happen with the people in the room that day.
From imaginative transformations and outrageous characters to music, movement and unexpected audience interaction, the show builds in energy and laughter from beginning to end.
Rather than a fixed “set list,” John brings an extensive repertoire and more than 35 years of stage experience—allowing each performance to become its own unique show.
Influences and inspiration
Life itself has always been my greatest teacher and influence.
Professionally, I was fortunate to know and learn from extraordinary people in the world of hypnosis, including my late dear friends Ormond McGill, the legendary Dean of American Hypnotists, and Tom Silver, both of whom remain forever in my heart.
Over more than three decades, I've also been influenced by many pioneering hypnotists, teachers, entertainers, audiences, students and clients—while continually developing my own approach to hypnosis, entertainment and the power of the human mind.
I believe we learn from those who came before us, from those around us, and ultimately from life itself.
Setup requirements
Sound system and chairs
Good Lighting
Safety Space
Stable Area
Testimonials
"Your program was so enjoyable that for the first time, it made me think entertainment should definitely be part of our conference. Thanks for a really amazing show!"
– Neha
I was amazed at your ability to capture the attention of your audience. You are truly the Trance-Master! As a AAEH (The Association to Advance Ethical Hypnosis) Past President and Certified Hypnotist, with many years of experience, I can truly say that I have never seen such thrilling and energetic stage hypnosis as you have performed it. You are truly gifted and talented
– Jack Heller
John (aka Trance), Thank you so much for your mesmerizing performance. People cannot stop talking about how stunning and hilarious it was. You and that "funny" red pen will be forever etched in our minds! Diana Bonaccorsi - Princeton University
– Diana B.
Dear Mr. Cerbone: Thank you for your performances on April 24, 25, 26. Your really had the audience mesmerized!!! The audience members of our Seniors (citizens) who saw and enjoyed your show continued to talk about it long after it ended. We wish you endless success with all of your future engagements. Thanks so much! Very Truly Yours, Pearl Irma Minsky ? Executive Director ? Theater Rehabilitation
– Pearl Irma M.
John, I want to thank you for the phenomenal show you put on at my daughters college during their fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The kids are still talking about it weeks later. To see 20+ kids all lined up in chairs, all in a trance is a sight to behold. While there was nothing you had these kids do that was distasteful, it was hilarious; and just watching you perform was a show in itself. Who would think that this many people could really be put in a hypnotic trance at the same time? This is probably the 5th or 6th time I have seen you perform, and like fine wine, you get better with age. Thanks again. You can count on my recommendation whenever possible.
– Jon S.
Thank you so much for a great show! And thank you for coming... everyone loved it!! Just in case you didn't hear, we've raised over $28,000 so far :o) See you again in May. Tracy & Barie ? Relay for Life ? Lafayette College 2006
– Relay for Life
Thanks for having us as your guests on Sat. eve...your show was outstanding...hope that we can get together soon and you can tell and explain some things to me about the show...you are an outstanding talent!
– John
Dear John: We're still recuperating from your amazing performance. It's a week later and kids are still buzzing about it. You really made our weekend a success. Thanks so much for your great show. They loved the segment where they forgot their homework and had to come up with excuses for the teacher. Thanks!
– Honey
John, Thank you for a wonderful show. Your showmanship and professionalism were outstanding as you entertained our guests under the trying conditions of an outdoor pool party. Our guests had a wonderful time.
– Jay
Hi John--It was a great show! People that cancelled coming to my husband?s 40th Birthday Party are hearing all about it and regretting not being there. I have not watched the video yet. My whole family will get together this weekend to watch it. We will be sending you a DVD of the show tomorrow. Thanks Again,
– Maureen
Hey John, We met at the convention this weekend, it's Matt. We are def. interested in your act at the college and will forward your flyer to our student activities department. But the reason for this email, was a great interest in the copy of the tape from the show at the convention. It was hysterical. You put on "the best damn show". So E-mail me back with price info., and video tape pick up arrangements. Sincerely, Your Fan, Matt
– Matt
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for a job well done. The members of Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity gained valuable leadership advice from our wonderful afternoon motivational program. Furthermore, many of the members enjoyed your delightfully funny Hypnosis Stage Show. The show was entertaining, and with your show routines tailored to Alpha Phi Delta, it was very easy for the members to relate to. I look forward to inviting you to our leadership and business meetings in the future. Thank you once again.
– F.M., Jr
John was a wonderful act, a tremendous person with whom to work, and a great success. The students really liked him. I have had really great feedback. Furthermore, I was delighted to work with you privately to quit smoking the following day and . . . I have not smoked nor had the desire to smoke in anyway!!!! Thank you for helping me to live longer!
– Patrick
Thank you very much for your wonderful performance this past Sunday. We all enjoyed your show very much, and I am greatly looking forward to receiving the video so we can all get together and watch it for a second time. I have created a section in my notebook with all of your information so that next year's Director of New Members can contact you. Thank you for assisting in creating the best ?Bid Day? Delta Gamma Sorority at the University of Florida at has ever had!
– Vanessa
John, I just wanted to let you know that I just got home and already have messages from some of the girls. They loved your show! They are still laughing about it and I?m really happy with the success of the evening. You were a pleasure to work with. I will definitely be telling my friends about you. Thanks again. We'll be in touch
– Zeesy
Thank you for helping to make our first event a huge success! The show was great, full of energy, and received very highly by the audience. This was a perfect show for both college and high school students. We appreciate you putting together such a wonderful performance on such short notice and also customizing the show for us. Whenever we need a hypnotist again, we will be happy to hire you!
– Rachel
John, I just wanted to thank you SO much for the two shows that you performed for us these past few weeks! Aside from the fact that the kids had an amazing time, we truly were able to recognize the difference in quality and ability between you and other stage hypnotists. There was no comparison that your show was in a different ballpark completely as far as quality, entertainment and most importantly enjoyment than the other show! Your professionalism in caring about adhering to the strict rules and limitations of running a show for an orthodox group was greatly appreciated as I saw that it stemmed from a true care about each and every participant both of the show and the audience! Thank you so much for putting on one of the most entertaining things these 6th, 7th & 8th graders AND our staff of college-aged students have seen in their entire lives! I would recommend you again in a second without thinking twice! Thanks once again!
– Jesse
Thank you so much for the wonderful show that you provided our students last evening. The school is buzzing about the fun that our students have and some the thing that they did while Hypnotized. Our new Beauty Queen is getting a lot of ribbing but ?he? is enjoying the fun. I also want to thank you for providing a taping of the show. This is a wonderful surprise for us and will allow me an opportunity to show the students who were Hypnotized what happened during their sleep. It is also valuable to me for my archives of activities on campus. I have no doubt that you and your stage show will be seriously considered in the future to come back to our College. One last thing I must say. I have dealt with numerous speakers and entertainers since I took this position in Student activities. You are by far the easiest entertainer to work with ? your needs were simple and your demands few. Thank you!
– Sue
Thank you very much for an awesome show. People are still talking about it now. I'm definitely remembering things, but not everything. I can't wait to see the video. You were awesome and superb to us and to everyone there. We really appreciate it. Again, thanks for everything. It was a wonderful show, at least that's what I'm being told. Now I can say that I have been hypnotized and it worked. Have a great day!!!! We will be working again in the future!
– Stephanie
John: We can?t thank you enough for your incredible program! Everyone was thrilled with your performance! We greatly appreciated all the time you took to insure it was the very best possible. Everyone will be talking about your show for a long time. Don?t hesitate to call if you ever need a referral. Thank you, You were terrific!
– Jeff and Dawn
I just wanted to thank you so much for your wonderful performance for our group! Everyone enjoyed it and you were a tremendous help to me. And honestly, if I can ever do anything for you, all you have to do is ask. I think you are a terrific performer. I just cannot thank you enough! Sincerely, you were a hit and we all appreciate the entertainment that you provided for us and for our guests. Thank you again ? and many times over ? for not only being a great performer but also for being so accommodating to work with. I am most willing to be added as one of your testimonials!
– Anne
Thank you so much for a wonderful night. The members are still talking about your performance well into the weekend games. Those that missed the meeting are upset and demanding we re-book you. I would have written sooner, but it is hard to type when you are laughing. If anyone is considering booking you for their event, please pass on my recommendation. Outstanding performance! Truly a night to remember! Thanks again, I am sure we will be seeing each other again.
– Tommy M.
John: I attended your show on here at TAMU-CC. I have never been hypnotized before so I wanted to see if it was "real." Well it was! It took a great deal of concentration and the ability to let your body be free. After the session I guess you would call it I was very relaxed but not tired. I am a testament that being hypnotized can be a real thing if you just let your body free. If you have any more questions please let me know. Did you have a good time? Yes! Did your friends in the audience have a good time? Boy did they and they're still having a great time reminding me of everything! Did you feel great after being Hypnotized? I felt very relaxed & wonderful!
– J.B
Thank you so much John! Your show was a hit. The audience had a blast. Quite a few of them came up to me after the show and in the following days and told me how much fun they had. One of the guys said that he had not laughed that much in a long time. It was an unconventional and innovative way for the I. C. A. to recruit. We just had our weekly meeting and we had an increase in member attendance as well as new members. I can?t thank you enough John!
– Bobby G.
Thank you so much for your amazing performance at Georgetown University. Your show was a great kick-off to the school year; we have never had a hypnotist who was so engaging and entertaining, yet educational at the same time! I look forward to working with you year after year!
– GU
Hi John ~ I wanted to say how much we are looking forward to having you back with us this year. You work so well with the students whether it is in the large group setting or with individuals who ask you questions. Your performance is upbeat and professional -- it is a great experience for the students to work with you. Thanks again for sharing your time and talents with the students here at Little Flower High School.
– Ms. ATL
John, You did a great job! The students are still raving about it. I will have them send you some feedback. Thanks!
– Ms. T.S.
?On behalf of the Brooklyn Cyclones Baseball Club, I would like to personally thank you for putting on a wonderful post game hypnosis show. We all enjoyed your show very much and will keep you on file for any possible dates for the 2006 season. From an event organization perspective you were very thorough and the show ran with ease. This is especially important when planning an event in front of 8,000+ fans and doing in-between inning stints. It was a pleasure working with you and I look forward to the next.
– Brooklyn Baseball
Thank you again for helping out at the 2004 Relay for Life at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School. You are an amazing entertainer and both the students and adults were amazed at how you were able to hypnotize so many people! The Relay was a great success, and we were able to raise over $100,000 which was donated to the American Cancer Society in the hopes of finding a cure for cancer. We thank you again and hope that you will come back next year! (The 2005 show raised $110,000!)
– Student Movement Against Cancer
Thank you for the hilarious hypnosis show you gave News Corporation employees for the holiday ?Lunch and Laugh? (as opposed to our regular Lunch and Learn? seminars on serious topics) ? all good clean fun that everyone enjoyed enormously. In the New Year we anticipate inviting you to return to do some serious hypnotizing to help people quit smoking. Sincerely
– Ted E. & Jan R.
Mr. John Cerbone, "The Trance Master" really lived up to his name and then some in the performance he gave to our young adults. The show was filled with energy, life, and flat out amazing stuff that kept everybody excited for a full hour and a half, yet it felt like 15 minutes!! We all didn't want the show to end. John was so co-operative and easy to work with. He complied with all of our organizations religious policies no questions asked. I would recommend John for any corporate, school or social event for all ages. A true master in his field! Looking forward to working with him again.
– . Rabbi Isaac T.
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