In this member spotlight, we’re shining the lights on Comedy in Motion with Bob Cates. Bob is a long-time GigSalad member known for his high-energy juggling, unicycle stunts, and clean comedy that captivates all ages. As an experienced performer, Bob has gained valuable insights, stories, and knowledge to help inspire and encourage, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just beginning your career.
Becoming a Comedy Juggler
Bob Cates taught himself to juggle at the age of 18. He performed his first gig at his high school’s talent show during his senior year. However, it wasn’t until his final years at university that he began taking performing more seriously. “The first time I saw a comedy juggler do a show at a festival, I realized that I wanted to do that! Why not do something fun to make a living?!” he said. After college and a season of volunteering in Europe, he returned to Canada and began performing full-time. He has been wowing audiences as Comedy in Motion ever since.
Finding inspiration in unlikely places
Bob found inspiration in a variety of performers — ironically, none of them were jugglers. One of his earliest was Michael Carl O’Neil, a busker who performed a spot-on Charlie Chaplin act and modeled grit and perseverance. Comedy magician Stephen Elve showed Bob the power of connecting with the audience personally and by name, adding a new layer to his performance style. Lastly, illusionist Brian Michaels opened his eyes to the financial side of showbiz, encouraging him to pursue higher-paying corporate gigs. “I realized that I needed to get better gigs to pay the bills, and he showed me that it can be done,” Bob recalled.
Setting success in motion
With years of hard work behind him, Bob has developed a distinctive performance style. He encourages others to embrace their individuality, rather than comparing themselves to others. “You have to realize that you are your own person with your own personality, and your comedy and character will be different than others because you are you,” he said. Still, carving out a distinct act isn’t easy. Bob spent years figuring out how to stand out, eventually creating a routine where he changes costumes while juggling on a 6-foot unicycle.
After performing full-time for five years, he took a major leap by joining the cruise ship circuit, eventually performing on 250 ships over 25 years. “Cruise ships are an important step in the growth of your act as a variety act, as they are likely the ‘biggest’ stages you may ever perform on, and you get to see many other acts and learn from them,” he explained.
Looking toward the future
Bob doesn’t plan to stop performing anytime soon, especially since he’s carved out a one-of-a-kind act that fills a unique gap in the Canadian entertainment scene. “In Canada, I cannot even fill one hand counting the number of full-time, Christian comedy variety acts,” he said. His ability to both share the Gospel after a show and deliver clean, corporate-friendly comedy juggling sets him apart in a big way.
He’s also inspiring the next generation of performers, including his 16-year-old son, Hudson, and Hudson’s friend, Cole, who now perform alongside him. “They started juggling 3 years ago and have developed an 11-minute bit that’s so solid I can put them in my show,” Bob shared. He’s excited to support their act as it grows and soak up the time with them before college calls them away.
Bob Cates’s GigSalad Journey
Comedy in Motion with Bob Cates has been a trusted member of GigSalad for over 15 years, bringing laughs and jaw-dropping skills to countless events. With over three decades of performing experience, Bob offers a wealth of wisdom and advice that is useful for a variety of performers.
Using GigSalad
GS: In what ways has GigSalad impacted your career as a performer? Do you have any standout gig experiences through the platform?
BC: GigSalad, first of all, has been a great and important source of my income. Some years are better than others, but it’s always been worth it for me to keep a profile up. I’ve had many fun and great gigs from GigSalad, which have taken me to places that I never would have gone.
GS: What features of GigSalad are the most helpful in managing your bookings or increasing your exposure?
BC: I like the ability to purchase/advertise in different states or locations. Sometimes I’ve tried advertising in a state where I haven’t done many shows, so I could visit there!
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Client Communication
GS: For many performers using GigSalad, responding to leads can be a learning curve. What techniques or communication practices do you use to increase your chances of landing a gig?
BC: Well, I, of course, have templates that I use for responses, as you have to do it over and over again. Replying as soon as you can is helpful, of course, too. In my case, I know that my fees are at the high end of things. So, it’s important that they are able to see my videos and website. I don’t get sad when they don’t book me as I know there is a lot of competition, and that often people are tire kickers, or just don’t have a big budget. If I deem the event would be a good fit, I follow up via the website and/or by phone.
Personally, I feel it’s best for the buyer to see your quote and your info/video first, before speaking by phone, because the price might be an automatic disqualifier. But sometimes you can win them over to your price after they see your high quality. Just calling them 10 minutes after they created their event profile, and telling them a price before they’ve had a chance to “look you over” is not the best way to go, in my humble opinion.
GS: You have many great reviews, and clients often mention how entertained and pleased they were. How do you ensure that you are exceeding expectations for each gig? Are there any questions you ensure you ask before the event?
BC: I’m very organized and ask many questions before the gig, which goes into the contract. Everything, from arrival and setup time to green room needs, meals, and payment methods, is discussed. I try to help them out by giving them my intro in advance, and even recommending room setups for the best experience.
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Words of Wisdom
GS: If you could give one piece of advice to yourself when you were just starting as a performer, what would it be?
BC: It’s hard to pick just one thing! After lots of thought, I think I would advise myself to find a mentor or mentors. Someone, or people, who could help and advise me in both the performing and the business side of things.
I had to learn everything on my own (or by what I saw others do). Reach out and ask other performers whom you see as successful questions about certain things. For example, what customer relationship management software do they use? How do they handle money and payments? Have them watch your show and give advice. Ask them if you could literally spend a few days with them, going to their shows, and see what they do.
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🌟 Looking for more inspiration and tips? Check out last month’s talent spotlight with harpist Sarah Thompson!
Bob Cates’ commitment to originality and his one-of-a-kind approach to variety entertainment make Comedy in Motion a standout in the GigSalad community. From costume changes on a towering unicycle to clean comedy that resonates with all ages, Bob has spent decades refining a style that’s uniquely his own. In this member spotlight, he reminds us that the magic of performance lies in daring to be different. 🤹👏
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.