I think you're missing the point of busking. It's to perform an ART for tips. This takes TALENT. If you're just into $, stick with begging, go to school, become a lawyer, and make a few million $.

Since the laws change all the time, it's probably best to telephone the cities you're interested in from the link below and ask if there's going to be a problem.

Pitch list

GOOD LUCK!

You're probably creating a psychological barrier effectively separating you from the edge, your beloved customers. This "podium" effect feels safer to stand behind than not.

Since busking is all about the interaction with your audience, I would suggest running completely around and even through them - "searching" for something you've "lost" - making sure to gently move them out of your way as you "search". Women excel at this because it's all psychological.

By embedding yourself right into the interaction, you can leave your table for your grand finale.

JMO

Sometimes, we are forced to re-invent ourselves. Maybe you could get a few Allen St. shops to back a new Western theme. Perhaps a strolling musician dressed as a outlaw singing songs of the era - and livin' on Tombstone Time. There used to be a guy dressed completely in black with spurs, boots, and six-shooters on.

I don't see why you can't at least become a weekend warrior as are most buskers in America. This way, you can ease yourself into the sport.