Yes, it appears pricey, but it's an item that will always get a reaction from and you can perform completely surrounded. Not only that, but the learning curve is small. No one has ever said to me, "I know how that's done." If they do, you can hand it out during the routine, take it back and continue performing. Great for walk around, Office, School and/or close up. You can write with it and if the ink runs out, you can replace it from any BIC pen. It stays in my arsenal.