Hypnotism
If you wish to show, demonstrate or perform a hypnotism act in public you must apply to us for written consent. You will need to comply with a number of conditions.
Performances must comply with the Hypnotism Act 1952.
Eligibility
To obtain a consent you:
- must be competent in the inducement and reversal of a state of hypnosis
- cannot use any one under the age of 18 in an act
- must not direct people to behave:
- in an obscene, indecent, offensive or aggressive manner
- in a demeaning way that is unacceptable to the common person
- must fully reverse the hypnotic state when the performance is over
Posters, advertisements or programmes for the performance should not be offensive to the general public.
How to apply for hypnotism consent
You need to apply for consent in writing. Applications must be signed by the applicant or their agent.
You must:
- apply at least 28 days before your performance (unless you have staged hypnotism at the same venue within the past 3 years without incident)
- give details of your last 3 performances (when and where)
- tell the council about any previous refusals of a hypnotism permit or convictions related to staged hypnotism
- ensure that the premises where hypnotism will take place holds a premises license or a club premises certificate
- hold public liability insurance if the venue's insurance doesn't cover your performance
Once you've completed the application form, please email it to licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk.
We will normally respond to your application within 7 days.
We will notify Gloucestershire Police of any planned performance to which a consent is granted.
Application fee
There is no fee for a hypnotism licence.
If you perform without a licence
You could be fined up to £1000 if you stage hypnotism for entertainment purposes without a licence or break any of the conditions on your permit.