* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #414 Date: Sunday 28th May 2006 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com www.Alan-Watson.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. Channing Pollock: A Celebration Of A Magical Life 3. Up Coming Castle Lecture - Don Drake 4. I'm being sold - Bev Bergeron 5. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians #12 - Nick Lewin 6. The Inside Scoop To Cruise Ship Entertainment 7. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2006 8. Columbia Stories Continue 9. Barry Govan's Mother Passed Away 10. Magicomedy In Parramatta 11. Preliminary Programme FISMT 2006 12. Eugene Berger Lecture / May 22 13. Tony Griffith - Creative Magic Lecture/Teach-In 14. 50th Anniversary of the Midwest Magic Jubilee 15. Billy McComb Will Be Missed 16. The Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians Inc. 60th Anniversary 17. 28th New Zealand International Magicians Convention 18. The Amazing Orchante Saga 19. e-zine Archives 20. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- New Zealand author, Richard Webster was surprised to discover he's more prolific than he thought. When his latest book for psychic entertainers, "King of the Small Towns", was published a few months ago, he announced it as his 25th book for magicians. A few days ago, Richard received an email from a customer telling him that it was actually his 26th. He knew because he had all of them! Richard's books can be found at http://deceptionary.com/ ---------------------------- The Academy of Magical Arts had made available to all of Billy McCombs friends the opportunity to view his broken wand ceremony. Go to http://www.magiccastle.com/mccomb/index.cfm ---------------------------- Penn Jillette's wife Emily, 40, gave birth to son Zolten Penn Monday. He weighed eight pounds and 13 ounces. ----------------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. Channing Pollock: A Celebration Of A Magical Life -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) On Saturday 13th May, a warm and heartfelt celebration was held at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas to celebrate the life of Mr. Pollock. The event was beautifully planned and executed to allow Channing's many friends from Las Vegas to share their memories and stories about one of magic's most iconic figures. Many people traveled from Los Angeles to be a part of the event. There was an excellent attendance for the celebration. The celebration began with a video tribute to Channing that reminded everyone present just how unique a legacy he leaves the world of magic. Was there ever a more elegant or sophisticated figure in magic? The magic was dazzling but the charisma with which he performed it placed him in a league of his own. To echo a word that popped up frequently, Channing was quite simply the coolest of the cool. The speeches were hosted by Rich Bloch who set a perfect tone somewhere between respectful and informal. His occasional humorous asides were always on target and were much appreciated by the crowd. Lance Burton performed a broken wand ceremony with a simplicity and dignity that spoke volumes about his respect and affection for Channing. Following the broken wand ceremony there were a series of speakers who shared their personal stories and insights. The speakers included; Johnny Thompson, Diane Zimmerman, Milt Larsen, Luna Losander, Sylvain and Patrick Martin amongst others. A pre-recorded tribute from Marvyn Roy was another highlight of this segment. If there was a single theme that came across from the various speakers it was about the humility and humanity that were always present when you interacted with Channing. When he spoke to you, it was total and focused communication. Several people touched on Channing Pollock the spiritual seeker; who shared his knowledge in a remarkable manner. Some people focused on Channing as the magical perfectionist who changed the magic world forever. There was never any confusion when people talked about these two aspects of Channing Pollock. He was all this and much more. The formal presentation concluded with a few words from Rich Block who thanked Norm and Lupe Nielsen and everyone else who made this, such a special event. A reception followed the speeches and as predicted by Rich there were stories and recollections that were lovingly shared by the attendee's of this; very accurately described celebration of a truly magical life. -------------------------------------------- 3. Up Coming Castle Lecture - Don Drake -------------------------------------------- Message from Don Drake (US) Hi folks, don't forget, I'll be lecturing at the Magic Castle on June 4. It will be downstairs in the far theater at 3 PM. I will be telling you all about the new invention, Moving Wall Technology, as well as some really neat close up magic. The guy who invented the Floating Diamond will be acting as my assistant and partner, Mark Emery of Milwaukee Wisconsin. Mark will demonstrate the Floating Diamond as it should be presented. After that I'll be in San Francisco on June 7, Albany Oregon on June 11 and Spokane WA on June 12. Then it's back home because two weeks later I'm moving to Lompoc CA. Hope to see you all AT the lectures -------------------------------------------- 4. I'm being sold - Bev Bergeron -------------------------------------------- Message from Bev (US) This may interest someone in Australia. A friend sent it to me and I went on the Victoria wet site and found out if I used my own picture -- I'm in trouble with the State of Victoria. Now what am I going to do? Bev Bergeron Bev Bergeron - Rebo the clown picture Date(s) of creation: ca. 19- 1 photograph : gelatine silver; 12 x 9 cm. Reproduction rights: State Library of Victoria. Image Number: al000763 Information about ordering a copy of this item http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/ordering Information about permission to use this item http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/permission Start new search http://catalogue.slv.vic.gov.au/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?DB=local&Search_Arg=al000763&Search_Code=FT*&CNT=15 View record for this item http://catalogue.slv.vic.gov.au/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?DB=local&Search_Arg=al000763&Search_Code=FT*&CNT=15 Information about ordering a copy of this item http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/ordering Information about permission to use this item http://www.slv.vic.gov.au/permission -------------------------------------------- 5. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians # 12 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) The Master of Keeping It Real; Jules Lennier. One of my very favorite magicians from the Magic Castle is Jules Lennier. To call Jules a magician though is to sell him short. He started out in New York as a comedy writer. One of my favorite stories about Jules is how in his early starving artist days he used to go out for breakfast with his equally hungry and cash free friend comedian Jackie Mason. Pretending not to know each other, they would walk into a deli separately and sit next to each other at the counter. One would eat a hearty breakfast and the other would eat rye toast and coffee. The checks would somehow get confused and the hearty eater would depart paying the coffee and toast check. The person left behind would quite rightly argue that he hadn't eaten the gigantic breakfast listed on his bill and insist on an accurate check. This whole routine would then be repeated at another deli! I loved that story every time I heard it and usually believed it. The Jules I want to tell you about is the mentalist and close-up magician. Jules can use the fewest props imaginable and create an effect that stays with you forever. With just one sheet of writing paper and a pen Jules created the ultimate one ahead mind reading effect. Direct, simple and the closest thing to actual mindreading you will ever see, it is a masterpiece of magic. If you don't believe me then look it up and then try it out. I am sure Joe Stevens has a box with a camera in it that would achieve the same effect but it will cost thousands of dollars and look like a box that probably has a camera in it! Jules Lennier with a sheet of paper will make a believer out of you. The high respect I hold for Jules' mentalism is equaled by my regard for his close up magic. A deck of cards and a few silver dollars creates more magic than an audience can handle! His four coins across is a lesson in magic that should be studied closely as it achieves more in minutes than an hours worth of fiddling around. Some close up magicians fool themselves more than the audience. So many brilliant coin workers leave the audience aware when something happened but not always what happened. What matters is what the audience see and believe happens. Last time I saw Jules he was reading Tarot cards for a living. It was the same old story; he was so darn convincing and effortless that the whole thing just had to be real. In the case of Jules it just might be. I hosted a Houdini séance at the Castle in the late seventies for some high executives from Citibank. They were enjoying an evening at the Castle with their spouses and work mates. After the meal the curtain opened and there was Jules our medium for the evening. Now I could be wrong but I do believe our medium had imbibed a touch of the more earthly spirits. Jules gave a psychic demonstration that was amazing. He read minds, he made predictions; he did things that made Max Maven look like a ventriloquist! Unfortunately amongst his predictions he talked about romances and affairs. I didn't hear about it until the next day from my client but Jules was a little too close to home and a fist fight broke out amongst the executives in the parking lot! Now that's mindreading. One of the greatest characters I've ever been lucky enough to know; you are my hero Jules. You can do it all. Send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin@earthlink.net -------------------------------------------- 6. The Inside Scoop To Cruise Ship Entertainment -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Romhany (NZ) Part I - Introduction When I first started working on cruise ships with my act it was a very daunting task. For many years, after watching 'The Love Boat' on television, I would dream of one day becoming a headline act on cruise ships, and finally when it became a reality I was very nervous and didn't know anything about what to expect. I wish there had been a book that could answer all the questions that were lingering in my mind. For me it all happened rather quickly so before I knew it, I was on a ship and thrown in the 'deep end', so to speak. Fortunately in my case, on that first contract there were other guest entertainers on the ship who took me under their wings and showed me the ropes and helped me get my head around the world of cruising. To this day I still work on ships with these wonderful people and I have developed some good solid friendships. Most of the work for variety acts has moved out to sea, with their fully equipped theatres and the ever growing need for good entertainment. Most ships have production shows plus guest entertainers, which usually consist of a magician, a comedian, an instrumentalist (banjo, harmonica, guitar etc.) and a ventriloquist. The production shows on ships today rival any show on land and can have anywhere from ten to sixteen dancers and singers. You will become part of one of the last bastions of entertainment for Variety Artists, a place where we get a chance to have an audience and perform our full evening shows. In the next few weeks I will share some insights on how to get booked on ships as a magician. If you really want the inside scoop including a current list of contacts and agents then I suggest looking at my book "Entertaining on Cruise Ships" which also comes with a free DVD. In my book I have also included excerpts from my personal diary which really gives an inside scoop on what life is really like on a ship. I suggest that you start writing your own journal once you get work because the stories you will collect will last you a lifetime. Invest in a good digital camera and take lots of photos because you will get a chance very few people in this world have, to travel to almost every country on earth and get a taste for other cultures, food and lifestyles. If I was to give one bit of advice it would be this: make sure you are ready! You will only get one chance at working on a ship so don't rush into it before you feel you are ready. Read my book and any other book that may be out there on the subject, talks to people who are in the industry and ask for their honest opinions. Cruise ship work didn't happen for me overnight, I wanted to do it for many years but was glad I took the time and developed an original act that has lasted me well and kept me employed for many years. Ask yourself, are you in a position to be away from home, away from your family for long periods. Are you healthy enough to withstand the travel and lifestyle that comes with working on a ship? Do you have the right type of act to work on a ship? As with any type of performance, know your limits and be prepared. These articles are written from my own personal experience and I am offering information that I have come across and collected over the years of working ships. Included are personal stories and experiences that I hope will shed some light on working on cruise ships and make it a little easier for those of you wanting to get into this industry. Finally, you have one of the best jobs in the world, certainly one of the best and highest paid on a ship. I never take what I do for granted and everyday am thankful for what I have. Cruise ships have been great to me and helped me financially and also the place where I met my wife Natalie. You are a Guest Entertainer, this means you don't have any extra jobs you are simply there to perform your act once a week and entertain the passengers. In the past seven years that I have been working on cruise ships, I have had the privilege to travel around the world at least a dozen times visiting almost every country or port in the world. As I write this I have just left South America in the Amazon Jungle four days ago, and today I am in Dakar in Africa. Next week I will be in St. Petersburg, Russia, how many jobs are there where we can see so much of the world. Paul Romhany is a professional comedy magician who has worked as a Guest Entertainer on cruise ships for the past seven years and continues to work for the top cruise lines as a headline act and also tours the world with his original comedy magic act. He is also author of several books including his new book on How To Get Work on a Cruise Ship. He has performed in over 50 countries and in over 17 National TV specials with his incredible act, considered to be one of the most original and funniest acts in magic today. Visit his website at http://www.paulromhany.com and for more info on his cruising book visit: http://www.magicmasterclass.com -------------------------------------------- 6. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2006 -------------------------------------------- Compiled by David Neubauer (www.dnmagic.com) Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 10 pm, (Dark Thurs.), Sahara. http://www.saharavegas.com/shows/amazingjohnathon.html Beacher's Madhouse Tyas Frantz, Chris Karpiak & Seth Grabel - 10 pm - Hard Rock. Check www.beachersmadhouse.com for dates. Bite (Vampire Strip Revue) Antonio Restivo (magic & fire manipulation) 10:30 pm (dark Thurs.) Stratosphere www.bitelasvegas.com Buck Wild Nathan Burton (as a redneck magician) 7 pm covered shows Mon.-Wed. & Sat. 9 pm Topless shows (Over 18) - Sahara (Dark Fri.) www.saharavegas.com/shows/buckwild.html David Copperfield 7:30 & 10 pm, 4:30 Sat. & some Sun. MGM Grand. June 1-14, 20-July 5. http://mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Haunted Vegas Tour & Show Robert Allen, Jac Hayden & Zamora - Greek Isle. 9:00 pm tour and show (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas 2 & 4 pm, Stardust. (Dark Wed.) http://www.stardustlv.com/site/entertainment/index.cfm?Page=Artist&ArtistID=27 Jason Bird The Shops in Desert Passage - Aladdin. Main stage, near the "V" Theater, Thursday - Monday Various times from 1:15 pm. - 8:15 pm. - Free. La Femme Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. http://www.mgmgrand.com/pages_html/entertainment_lafemme_lafemme.asp Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues-Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. http://www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) Harrah's Clint Holmes Theater. www.mackingshow.com Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 2 pm, (Dark Fri. & Sun.) V Theater in the Desert Passage - Aladdin. Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jeff Hobson, Nathan & Sarah - www.vtheshow.com 7 & 9 pm, Aladdin. 2 for 1 coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponvshow.html World's Greatest Magic Show Kevin James, Joseph Gabriel, The Majestix, Kozak. Derek Roberts, Billy Fergueson & Chris Randall (pre-show). 6 pm Sat. - Thurs., 8:15 Fri., Greek Isle. June Guest Stars: 1-25: Ardan James, 26-30: Shimshe. Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/Coupontropicana_dirk.html Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Restaurants: Eric Allan Outback Steakhouse (Green Valley), Fri. & Sat. Jayden LaCross TGI Fridays, Wed. & Sun. Las Vegas Magic Organizations I.B.M. #257: 7 pm 1st Monday of each month at Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. www.ring257.com June, 2006 June 1-25: Ardan James - Guest Star, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. June 1-14: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. June 11-June 13: Las Vegas Magic Invitational (LVMI) - Palace Station. Guest of Honor: J.C. Wagner. Featuring Lee Asher, Mark Mason, Bob Sheets, The J Team (John Born and Jason Dean) and John Carney. www.lvmi.net June 14: CoinCon. Featuring: Rune Klan, John Born, Mickey Silver and Kainoa Harbottle. - Palace Station www.lvmi.net June 20-July 5: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. June 26-30: Shimshe - Guest Star, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. July, 2006 July 1-5: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. July 17-23: Jeff McBride/Eugene Burger - Extended Master Class. www.magicalwisdom.com August, 2006 August 3-9: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. August 18-24: Jeff McBride/Eugene Burger - Extended Master Class. www.magicalwisdom.com August 24-Sept. 20: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. September, 2006 Through Sept. 20: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. October, 2006 October 25-28: Jeff McBride/Eugene Burger - Magic & Meaning Conference. MAGIC AND THE ART OF STORYTELLING - Special Guest Robert Neale www.magicalwisdom.com October 27: Jeff McBride - Witches & Wizards Ball. November, 2006 November 2-5: Jeff McBride/Eugene Burger - Magic for the Medical Professional. www.magicalwisdom.com November 8-10: Jeff McBride/Eugene Burger - Twenty First Century Mentalism. www.magicalwisdom.com November 9-29: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. December, 2006 December 21-31: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. -------------------------------------------- 7. Columbia Stories Continue -------------------------------------------- Message by Dan Stapleton After spending 23 years at sea (cruise ships) I could write a book on the colorful stories I have encountered...even without mentioning the magic side of it. 1993 I was aboard the Regent Sea (could have been the Regent Star) and we stopped in Columbia. I was riding horses there that day. When I got back to the ship I found that the ship departure had been delayed after security found some cocaine in the hat rim of one of the crew members returning to the ship. I got off the ship a few days later in Los Angeles. I was meeting a friend for dinner and a show that night at Magic Island. It was not to happen. After disembarking, the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agents) searched every item in my luggage, from Thumb Tip to Sub Trunk...every inch. Yes, I had to demo the Lester Lake Guillotine for them, in proving it was not the worlds largest coke cutter! Then we were lined up and the drug sniffing dog made its rounds. I was last in line. The dog hesitated and the radios came out. They started the dog line again and this time, when it came to me...this time the dog raised up on its back legs to sniff me out good. The damn dog! Everyone except me was allowed to proceed through customs. Six DEA took me back onto the ship and tore my cabin (which was empty anyway) apart, mattress, light fixtures, etc. as they were sure they had something on me (or I had something on me)! They all followed me into the bathroom and I wanted so much to ask them if they would have to "hold it" as I went. The short, "Sergeant Carter" guy in charge was sure I had something but he grew irritated as the hours went by. I was paid in cash back then and had not sent money home for a few weeks so there I was with $8,000 in my pocket. We had to call in the crew purser to balance my story along with what I had been paid the last few weeks. It all balanced. Sergeant Carter grew increasingly irritated as it was six hours later and still...nothing. I asked them, "Is it possible, since I'm wearing the same jeans that I wore in 100 degree weather while riding horses, that the dog could have possibly smelled the horse sweat?" He insisted that dogs are trained to distinguish drug odour from other smell. Right.... Anyway, I was allowed to go...my props were still spread out on the dock leading to the customs area. My friend, Larry, had given up and gone home. I could only imagine what was going through my friends mind when he saw me delayed and lead back onto the ship by the DEA. He probably tip-towed away. And I'm sure that there was one or two crew members saying to themselves, "I knew it all the time about him!" When I went on my next ship, a few months later, I asked one of the DEA there if it were possible that a dog would act as it did if it smelled horse sweat. He said...."More than likely...after all..it's a dog!" That damn Sergeant Carter! Moral of the story: Remember when your mother always told you to make sure that you wear clean under wear because you never know when you might be hit by a car? -------------------------------------------- 9. Barry Govan's Mother Passed Away -------------------------------------------- Message from Graham Etherington (Aust) Well known Close-Up performer Barry Govan's mother passed away, peaceably after a short stay in hospital, on Thursday 25th May. His mother Marj was in her 90th year. On the several occasions we were able to meet her she was always a bright cheerful person. Our deepest sympathy is extended to Barry and his family. http://www.mrtricks.com.au -------------------------------------------- 10. Magicomedy In Parramatta -------------------------------------------- Message from Steve Walker (Aust) The Laugh Garage Comedy Club transforms into a Parlour Of Prestidigitation for Wednesday Night Wizardry Magicomedy A Conglomerate yet Cohesive Concoction of Consummate Confidence in Cabaret and Close up Conjuring Completed with Considerable Craft and Carefully Contrived to Captivate the Connoisseur yet Confound, Confuse and Convulse the Castigator Come and C for yourself! Sleight- of -Hand meets Sleight- of- Tongue A Night for all ages from Stone[d]-age to Ice-age ...Eighteen to Eighty National and International Multi-Award Winning Magicians Appearing and Disappearing Nightly June 7th * June 14th (Sold Out) * June 21st * June 28th Close-up Sleight of Hand from 8-00pm Stand-up Sleightly Different from 9-00pm Bar and Doors "Open Sesame" from 7-30pm Tickets $20 per person, Double $15 per person, Parties of 10 [or more] $10 per person Pay On The Door, Book through the Club or tickets from TAYLOR'S MAGIC SHOP THE LAUGH GARAGE COMEDY CLUB 02 8883 1111 Cnr. Church St. & Phillip St. Paramatta -------------------------------------------- 11. Preliminary Programme FISMT 2006 -------------------------------------------- Preliminary Programme FISMT 2006 Sunday, 30 July 13:00-20:00 Rehearsal Stage Competition Monday, 31 July 07:30 Registration Open 09:00 Dealers Open 09:00-13:00 Stage Competition 10:30 Master Class Jeff McBride 10:30-13:00 Close-Up Competition 12:30 General Assembly 14:30 Opening Ceremony 16:30 Nordic Opening Show, Group 1 18:00 Nordic Opening Show, Group 2 18:00-21:00 Reception in City Hall 20:00-01:30 Bar Magic in Kulturhuset Tuesday, 1 August 08:00 Registration Open 09:00 Dealers Open 09:00-13:00 Stage Competition 09:30-16:30 Lecturers 12:30 One Man Show, Tamariz 14:00-18:00 Close-Up Competition 16:00 Paul Daniels - Max Malini Magic /special event/ 19:00 Close-Up Show 23:00-01:30 Bar Magic in Kulturhuset Wednesday, 2 August 08:00 Registration Open 09:00 Dealers 09:00-13:00 Stage Competition 10:00-14:00 Lecturers 11:00 Jeff McBride Master Class /special event/ 12:00 Talk Show, Potassy 14:00-18:00 Close-Up Competition 15:00 Paul Daniels - Max Malini Magic /special event/ 17:30 One Man Show 20:00 Gala Show 20:30 Close-up Show, Group 2 23:00-01:30 Bar Magic in Kulturhuset Thursday, 3 August 08:00 Registration open 09:00 Dealers 09:00-13:00 Stage Competition 09:30-18:00 Lecturers 10:00 Workshop 13:30 One Man Show 15:30-18:00 Close-Up Competition 20:00 Close-Up Show 23:00-01:30 Bar Magic in Kulturhuset Friday, 4 August 08:00 Registration Open 09:00 Dealers Open 09:00-13:00 Stage Competition 09:30-14:00 Lecturers 11:00 Jeff McBride Master Class /special event/ 13:00 Workshop 14:00-17:00 Stage Competition 15:00 Corporate Presentations, Talk Show 15:30 One man show 19:00-00:00 Magic Party - Banquet Show Saturday, 5 August 09:00 Registration Open 09:30 Dealers Open 09:30-15:00 Lecturers 12:00 General Assembly Meeting 15:00 Finale Close-Up Contest 20:00 Finale Stage Contest 23:00-01:30 Bar Magic in Kulturhuset -------------------------------------------- 12. Eugene Berger Lecture / May 22 -------------------------------------------- Message from Jeff Brandon forwarded on by Sam Martin Monday, May 22, 2006 7:00 P.M. Conjuror's Corner Magic Club Four Seasons Golf Center 1350 Lake Street Roselle, Il He's amazed and delighted audiences from Las Vegas to Tokyo. As Stagebill magazine proclaimed, Eugene Burger is "universally recognized as perhaps the finest close-up magician in the world." "Close-up magic" is just that: magic performed right under your nose, where everyone becomes part of the show. And with Eugene Burger it is an unforgettable experience, for as the Chicago Reader noted in an unprecedented eleven-page cover story about him, "Burger adds something extra." His warmth and humor are captivating and his magic is simply amazing. By definition, magicians are pretty special people, but Eugene Burger is considered exceptional even by other magicians. He has written fifteen best-selling books for the trade, starred in eight instructional videos, lectured extensively to magicians' groups in over a dozen countries, and his writings have been translated into several languages. His deep understanding of the psychology and philosophy behind the magic have won him international accolades, cover stories in conjuring magazines, and four awards from the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood. But as much as he loves discussing magic with fellow performers, Eugene's true passion is bringing mystery and enchantment to the public, and at this he is unparalleled. His special presence has led to numerous television appearances in Great Britain, Canada, Belgium, Finland and Japan, and on such highly acclaimed shows as The Art of Magic on PBS and Mysteries of Magic on The Learning Channel. He's been profiled twice on CNN. During the past several years, Eugene has been a featured speaker for top executives of such major companies as Coca-Cola, Williams-Sonoma, Unisys and Pottery Barn, as well as top business schools including Wharton, and the graduate schools of business at the Universities of Chicago and Maryland. His talk, "How Magicians Think," applies his special understanding of deception and perception to the corporate world. When the leading international trade journal Magic magazine compiled its list of the one hundred most influential magicians of the twentieth century, Eugene Burger was included for his ability to "arouse feelings of astonishment, as well as a host of other indescribable sensations." Find out why this engaging entertainer is in constant demand for private parties, corporate functions and special events. Discover for yourself what the Chicago Tribune hailed as the "delightful excitement" that is uniquely Eugene Burger. Members are free, guests are $15.00 at the door. -------------------------------------------- 13. Tony Griffith - Creative Magic Lecture/Teach-In -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony Griffith (UK) Tony Griffith will be holding another of his Creative Magic Lecture/Teach-In Days at his home in Bristol, U.K on Sunday 15th October 2006. Price for the day is £45 (£40 if booked before the 1st September 2006). The price includes morning coffee, lunch, and a light tea before departing. Seating is limited to 10 persons; each one attending also receives a special aide me-moire of the day. Each of the previous such days have sold out well in advance. You can read reports of two such days if you log on to www.magicweek.co.uk and click on reviews. Then scroll down to July 03 and March 06. A profile of Tony's magic can be seen on the same web site. Just click on profiles and scroll down to his name. The material presented in this Lecture/Teach-In places emphasis upon sublety, routining and entertainment. Areas covered include close up magic, (in a variety of venues), trade shows, after dinner entertainment/speaking, promotion, publicity and Organisation. The Creative Magic Lecture/Teach-In uses material that Tony has created - material that has been thoroughly tested in the corporate field over many years. The day starts at 10.30 a.m. and concludes between 5 - 5.30 p.m. There is a Travel Inn only five minutes away from Tony's home for those travelling long distances and who wish to stay overnight. Previous registrants have travelled in from Spain, France, Denmark, Northern Ireland as well as from all parts of the U.K. One person even came from as far a field as New Zealand. He was already over in the UK on holiday but extended his stay so that he could attend. In January of this year Tony presented his creative magic lecture/teach-in day in Raleigh NC and at the SCAM Convention in Columbia SC. Each of these events were billed as a Masterclass and drew a full house each time. Incidentally Tony is more than happy to take this 'magic teach-in day' overseas to any interested group. If you are interested in attending Tony's day on 15th October 2006 please contact Tony as soon as possible on tony@tonygriffith.co.uk. His web site is at: www.tonygriffith.co.uk Phone/Fax is +44 (0) 1275 837017 -------------------------------------------- 14. 50th Anniversary of the Midwest Magic Jubilee -------------------------------------------- Message from Terry Richison 50th Anniversary of the Midwest Magic Jubilee The Convention Where The Stars Meet! August 17-19, 2006 St. Louis, MO 2006 is the 50th Anniversary of the Midwest Magic Jubilee and we want to make it extra special! For those of you that have not yet registered for the Jubilee, for a limited time, we have extended our registration special offer. When you register, you will receive a FREE registration for your spouse. This Jubilee is shaping up to be one of the biggest conventions in the nation! Look who is coming! Jay Sankey, Whit Haydn, Oscar Munoz, Aldo Colombini, Jimmy "Cards" Molinari just to name a few. Besides all the performers and lecturers, there is no telling who you might run into or possibly sitting next to in the shows! This is the convention where the stars meet. If you haven't experienced the Midwest Magic Jubilee, this is one year you definitely don't want to miss! See all the details at www.mmjubilee.com. Register online! Stay tune for more important announcements. Hope to see you there. Terry Richison Midwest Magic Jubilee 314-232-4183 -------------------------------------------- 15. Billy McComb Will Be Missed -------------------------------------------- Message from Nancy Gray (US) I was fortunate to attend the Broken wWand ceremony for Billy Mc Comb today at the magic castle, Terry Seabrook , John Carney, Whit Hayden, Irene and Milt Larsen, Mac King The Amazing Jonathan to name a few  and about 300 other attendees in a very tender, moving and funny. Billy will be missed. -------------------------------------------- 16. The Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians Inc. 60th Anniversary -------------------------------------------- Message from Graham Bennett (NZ) BAM Secretary The Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians Inc. (BAM) invites magicians and friends to join them to celebrate the 60th. There are only 10 tickets left before being totally sold out. There will be NO door sales so if you are planning to attend ring Graham ASAP. Date: Saturday 3rd June 2006 Venue: The Springs Garden Restaurant Address: 956 Great North Rd, Western Springs, Auckland Time: From 6.30pm. Be seated by 7.00pm Cost: $34.95 for non BAM members Dress Formal Buffet Meal - Toasts - Presentations Magical Programme - Reminiscences Tickets available from the Secretary: Graham Bennett, 1 O'Neills Ave., Takapuna, Auckland. Phone: (09) 485 1253 Mobile: 021 778 152 -------------------------------------------- 17. 28th New Zealand International Magicians Convention -------------------------------------------- Hosted by Palmerston North Magic Circle (Inc) Palmerston North, New Zealand. 20th to 23rd of October 2006 For the registration html form to print off Go to: http://www.joel.co.nz/convention/reg_form.htm For more information on the convention Go to: http://www.watson.co.nz/convention.html Convention headliners: David Williamson (USA) Lisa Menna (USA) Duane and Mary Laflin (USA) Joel Howlett (Aus) Alan Martell (UK) ----------------- 18. The Amazing Orchante Saga ----------------- Message from Tommy Orchard (The Amazing Orchante)(UK ex-pat Kiwi) Page 103 Rock n' Roll - The Show - Another Pilot/Adventure Many of the hotels I performed in didn't have a band, and often asked if I could provide dance music after the show. No problem! I had recorded onto my reel-to-reel tape recorder, my entire collection of original vinyl 45's records (which I mentioned back on page P.85). It was a solid - Six Hour, 'Rock n Roll' mix of non-stop 'HITS', starting from the late Fifties - right thro to the end of the Sixties, guaranteed to get everybody up on the floor and 'Rockin'! Played thro the amplifier/speakers that I used for my show - with the volume whacked right up, it sounded like every major Pop Singer(s) and Instrumental Group(s) was there in person! I reckon it was probably N.Z.'s first 'Disco' (before that name had ever been coined), and without all the inane screaming/babble of today's 'Disc-Jockeys'! The 'Orchanté Hotel Show', although about one hour in total length, consisted of three completely different acts, 20 minutes in length apiece, with a 15-minute break between each one. That not only gave us time to set up for the next performance but more importantly, allowed the patrons to replenish their drinks, after all, Pub/Hotels do make their money from selling booze, apart from accommodation of course! Kicking off at 8.15 p m. I started with my 'Sleight-Of-Hand Magic' act, and followed it 15 minutes later with the 'Yoga/Fakir' show, which consisted of, in sequence - Fire-eating, the - Beds of Nails, Sword Swallowing and finishing with the 'Psychic Surgery'. The final 20 minutes was taken up with the 'Mime' act, which may seem surprising because the spectacular 'Fakir Show' without doubt, was the far stronger of the performances! I discovered very early in the piece that by around 9:30pm a rather 'Boozed Up' audience did not really appreciate the more serious 'Fakir style' show, what they wanted by then was a good laugh, and the rather risqué - to put it mildly, Mime Act - was just the ticket, to finish on a high note! Also surprising was the number of people who thought that more than one artist was involved - I guess because each act was so different (as was my stage clothing), from the other, especially the Fakir act, it was easy to mistake me for somebody else, and I only spoke, occasionally, during the magic show. Another thing worth noting is that I played Rock n Roll music before the start of the show and during the breaks of each act, which kept the whole crowd in a happy mood - the atmosphere was more like a great big party! In many of the 'back water' hotels we performed in, especially down on the West coast of the South Is., the Liquor Licensing Laws have been flouted with impunity for years, consequently, 'THE PARTY' and my recorded music would carry on, long after the official closing time - Whoopee! Last episode, I spoke about the two helicopter pilots I met at the Haast Pass Motor Hotel. Well about a week later, we were at a large hotel in Te Anau (for a two night show), a beautiful tourist town on the picturesque lake of the same name. It is situated about 105 miles (168km) southwest of Queenstown (Highways 6/94 - 2Hrs 45min.driving). Anyhow, talk about coincidences, I was chatting to some bloke and his son at the bar - telling him about my helicopter experiences up at the 'Haast' and bugger me if he doesn't floor me with - "I'm a flight instructor out at the local aero club", and that if I wasn't busy he'd take me up the next day! Duly arriving at the airport I'm met by the son, who informs me that his father had unexpectedly been booked to take some tourists on a 'lucrative' scenic flight, but that he, also a qualified pilot, would take me up for a bit of 'jaunt', if that was okay by me. IT SURE WAS! Once we got up in the air he says - "Shall we do the usual tourist thing or, are you GAME for something a little different?" Without hesitation I said, "SOMETHING DIFFERENT"- without a clue of what he had in mind! I can't remember whether we headed southwest to Manapouri, or northwest across Lake Te Anau towards the world-renowned - 'Milford Sound'! Rudyard Kipling described it as the - '8TH WONDER OF THE WORLD'! What I do remember is the most gorgeous, spectacular and unbelievable scenery you can imagine, as my pilot 'friend' flew the little Cessna airplane, over dense forests, thro passes, across river flats, small lakes and up over majestic mountains. Is it any wonder then, that 'Kiwis' (New Zealanders), call New Zealand - 'GODS OWN'! We were flying over some mountain peaks - I'm guessing but I would estimate the height was around six or 7000 ft (213 3.6m), when he suddenly dropped the Cessna's nose as we flew over a crest and then, sharply banking the aircraft, started to circled down; instinctively, I knew that this was the - 'SOMETHING DIFFERENT'! -------------------------------------------- 19. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives -------------------------------------------- Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.watson.co.nz/fezine.html Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. User Name: magic Password: kiwi When you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order and are coded. Eg 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999) -------------------------------------------- 20. 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