* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #436 Date: Sunday 6th August 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. FISM Winners 2006 3. SAM Skype Directory 4. IllusionTrader.com Grand Opening! 5. McBride\'s Magic & Mystery School 2007 Schedule 6. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians # 21 - Nick Lewin 7. M.A.E.S Convention 8. Automotons At Vermont's Shelburne Museum 9. Resumption Of The Dice Stacking Articles, #18 In The Series 10. Magic In The Rockies Convention 11. Burns Scandrett's Books And Posters To Be Sold 12. Broken Wand - Don Scudder & James Sherrill 13. The Magic Circle Elections 14. British Ring Convention News 2nd August 15. Ring #129 Of Kansas City Rings Close Up Contest 16. Trevor Lewis Lecture Eustis, Florida 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 -------------------------------------------- The Bernard Reid lecture this coming Friday in Auckland New Zealand is now totally sold out. Bernard celebrated his 65th birthday with family and friends on Friday night and he told us that it was 40 years ago that he last celebrated a birthday in his home country. Tony & Mary Wilson, Jon Zealando & Michele and I thoroughly enjoyed the sit-down birthday dinner with Bernard and his family. ----------------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. FISM Winners 2006 -------------------------------------------- Grand Prix Stage Pilou - France Grand Prix Close-up Rick Merrill - USA Manipulation 1st Dai Binchun - China 2nd David Soysa - Portugal 3rd Arthur Trace - USA General Magic 1st Eun Gyeol Lee - Rep. of Korea 2nd Die Zauderer - Germany 3rd Dion - Netherlands Micro Magic 1st Martin Eisele - Germany 2nd Shawn Farquhar - Canada 3rd David Stone - France Close-up Card 1st Helder Guimaraes - Portugal 2nd Lodewijk de Widt - Netherlands 3rd Kiko - Spain Parlour Magic 1st Gaston -Germany 2nd Shawn Farquhar - Canada 3rd Julia Guilhem - France Stage Illusions 1st Sittah - Netherlands 2nd Hugo Valenzuela - Argentina 3rd Marc & Alex - Germany Mentalism 2nd Timothy Trust & Julie - Germany 3rd Robert & Emiel - Netherlands Most Original Act Stage Hugo Valenzuela - Argentina Close Up Rocco - USA Special Awards Creativity & Vision Award Gaëtan Bloom History & Research Award Eddie Dawes Theory & Philosophy Award Tommy Wonder -------------------------------------------- 3. SAM Skype Directory -------------------------------------------- Message from Kelly Peron (US) Dear Readers, I would like to take this opportunity to post here to let people know how much appreciation and thanks I have for everyone's help in the first few weeks of the SAM Skype Directory Project. In just a few short weeks, since we started the project we have had an overwhelming support from not only SAM members like yourselves, but also have had the support of Past Nat'l Presidents, RVP's, Magic Circle and others. These folks have not only backed the project, but have taken time out of their busy schedules to help us get listings, approvals, & testing of the list. Personally, we have found it not only to be a wonderful tool but a great way to keep in touch with our SAM friends, as well as a way to save money when talking to other SAM officers in regards to SAM projects and initiatives. For those who may be hearing about this project for the first time, let me give you a little background information. For those who may not know what Skype is, allow me to explain a bit more. Skype is a little piece of software that allows you to make free calls to other Skype users (via computer to computer). Basically this means that while at your computer with a simple touch of a button, you can talk directly to any other Skype user. You will hear them in real time over your computer speakers as if they are right there with you. They in turn will be able to hear you just from you talking into your computer microphone. It is just that easy. The best part about this, from computer to computer to anyone around the world is totally FREE. It really is a win-win situation for everyone involved. You also have the ability to do conference calls with multiple Skype users at the same time without costing you anything. For more information on Skype, and to download the free application, please go to www.skype.com It is our intention to create a Skype Directory of SAM members around the world. We hope by doing so, it will boost interaction between SAM members and assemblies and an easy and free way of making new friends and keeping in touch with old ones. However, the success of this project depends upon the help of people like you. If you are already on Skype, and would like to be listed on the directory, please just send me an email (Kelly Peron) at poofersgrl@aol.com. Please put in your email your name, state/country, assembly (if any) and your skype name. If you are not currently on Skype and would either like more detailed information about it, or would like to be walked thru the process of set up please let me know. It would be my pleasure to assist you in any way that I can. Thank you for your time and support of this project. When the project is finished, it will ONLY be given out to those who are listed in the directory and have given their permission to share it with other SAM members. Magically, Kelly Peron www.kyleandkellymagic.com -------------------------------------------- 4. IllusionTrader.com Grand Opening! -------------------------------------------- Dear Fellow Magicians: We are pleased to announce to you the Grand Opening of www.IllusionTrader.com! A live auction in real-time where each auction is only $1.00 and NO hidden fees! Here are just some of the great things IllusionTrader.com has to offer: -Open 24 hours 365 days a year. -No shipping on your items to sell. -See who is bidding and who is selling in real-time. -Rate buyers and sellers after each auction. -Post questions to the seller. -Post pictures -EVERY AUCTION $1.00 NO HIDDEN FEES! Check us out at www.IllusionTrader.com and start buying and selling your unused/unwanted illusion items today. No items too big or too small. Happy Buying and Selling, IllusionTrader.com -------------------------------------------- 5. McBride\'s Magic & Mystery School 2007 Schedule -------------------------------------------- Message from Tobias Beckwith (US) Dear Friends: Jeff and Abbi are safely arrived in Stockholm for FISM, the international championships of magic and probably the world's largest magic convention. They are in for a very busy week, teaching 3 seminars, 2 lectures, and appearing on two gala shows. I understand a large portion of the convention is being video-taped for release in various markets around the world, so you may have a chance to see them, along with some of the other 2,500 magicians participating. Among other things, Jeff is introducing his new Zoom, Bounce & Fly DVD at FISM. This is his long awaited DVD teaching the special techniques he uses to spin cards in the air, bounce them off the stage, and send them sailing into the balconies of so many theatres. The DVD includes a special tool, "The McGrip Tip," which has been amongst the most closely guarded secrets in magic until now. It will be available exclusively from Jeff at lectures and other speaking events, and on our web site for the next several months (Oh.and, through a special arrangement, at the Fantasma Magic Store in New York City!). Our big news this week is that we've just posted our schedule for classes here in Las Vegas through October of 2007. Many favorites are back, including the two extended summer master classes, which have proved to be among the favorites of both the students and Jeff and Eugene. Please visit www.magicalwisdom.com to see what's coming, and register early for your next class! Which reminds me: we STILL have one slot left for the August class. This is the extended class that includes visits to Mac King's show and Lance Burton's show, with question and answer sessions with both Lance & Mac afterwards. We've all developed new things for our various workshops (I've shifted to "Theatre Games & Magical Creativity," myself). The extended class may not be offered again until next summer, so if you think you want to take one, now is the time to register and get your deposit in! Our July class was certainly among our most exciting and successful yet! All the photos with today's Muse Letter were taken at that class. I've been fairly busy myself, writing articles for Magic Magazine (the first one appeared in the August issue, just out!), outlining a book on the creative process for magicians that uses techniques I've discovered since I began studying the art of performance over 35 years ago, and trying to keep up with all of Jeff's varied projects. In addition, I'll be holding my second "Get your Career in Gear" intensive later this month, from August 25-27th, here in Las Vegas. Attendance will be limited to 5 people (or acts). We're including a photo session with Richard Faverty, who shoots so many of the Magic Magazine covers, and our students will be spending most of the month preparing themselves for the weekend by reading short articles, then filling in questionnaires for my comment, in order to develop their sense of just what they really have to sell. The idea is that you'll leave the workshop with the knowledge and materials you need to market and run your own successful business as a magician. You can read more (and register) at: www.yourmagic.com/catalog. Also, check in at the catalog in another week or two to get your own copy of "Zoom, Bounce & Fly." I'd like to wind this up by sharing a single technique you can use to help jump start your own creativity - whether it is in developing a new piece of magic, or in any other aspect of your life. I call it "The Contrarian's Way." Here's how it works. Many magic presentations, or other things we need to be creative about, can be broken out into a series of processes. Imagine yourself doing whatever each process in the sequence just exactly as you have learned it. Then stop yourself and ask "How could I accomplish this in a way that seems the opposite of THIS way?" For example, suppose you have learned a new card trick - one which begins with you asking someone to "please select a card." Can you think of at least two "contrary" ways to achieve what is needed here? Think about it for a moment before reading on. Okay.here are a couple of ways I thought of: You could hand the deck to someone else, ask them to fan it, and YOU could select the card, without looking at it. Another alternative: "I'd like you to take away half the cards. Okay.now another half.take some more" and so on, until you are left with just one. Both of these are different and contrary to the normal, but I'd like to create a trick that is really VASTLY different. Perhaps I could ask someone to take the deck, fan it, and throw the fan high into the air. I would reach into the flurry of falling cards and grab any card out of the air as they fall to the floor. That should create a bit more exciting effect! How many more can you come up with? Imagine you take every moment in developing your new card trick (or whatever you are working on) and create a new, contrary, way of accomplishing the things you need to? Can you think of how this might be effective in other areas of your life? Maybe at work, or in a social situation? One of the jobs we undertake when we become magicians is that of showing people new and different ways of looking at life - so being creative in how we approach things other than our magic tricks might be just as much part of being a magician as learning a new card trick! I hope you've enjoyed this Muse letter. We'll have another one for you later in the month, with a full report on the happenings at FISM, the upcoming extended Master Class, and Jeff and Abbi's trips to the various festivals, including Burning Man at the end of the month. Till then, may all your journeys be magical! Sincerely, Tobias Beckwith -------------------------------------------- 6. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians # 21 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) It was my very first evening at the Magic Castle. Quite an occasion for any magician and to a twenty-one year old Brit it was very exciting indeed. I arrived at the front desk and introduced myself to the receptionist. She was very friendly and said she would page the host and have him give me a bit of a tour. I waited in front of the sliding bookcase and after a few minutes a tall gray haired gentleman wearing a tuxedo arrived and greeted me. That was the first time I met Don Lawton. I didn't know who Lawton was but he quickly introduced himself and told me to walk towards the bookcase and say "Open Sesame" to the small golden owl with the flashing red eyes. Once we stepped through the bookshelf/door I was astounded by the amount of people in the club. Don pointed out the "Close-up Gallery, the "Irma Room" and the steps to the Palace of Mysteries and was about to leave me to my own devices. Then he seemed to think better of it and said that if I waited till after he had introduced the next show he would give me the proper tour. I decided to wait. Five minutes after he left me, Don reappeared with a mug of beer in his hand and the tour began. What a tour! We explored every room at the Castle including the library where Dai Vernon was sitting playing cards with two friends. Everywhere we went Don introduced me to staff and magicians alike and in ninety minutes I was made to feel as welcome as a person could ever feel. About every twenty minutes Don had to dash off and introduce a show, but he always returned with a fresh beer in his hand and picked up where he had left off. I was fully aware that he had other things to attend to but you would never have guessed it from Don's manner. He showed a kindness and consideration for a new member that was way beyond the call of duty. He wanted my introduction to the Magic Castle to be done the right way. I later realized that this was a typical action from one of magic's true gentlemen. I very soon got to see Don Lawton introduce a show at the Castle and realized that this distinguished looking host was also a very funny man. I still remember the way he would stick his head through the curtains in the Close-up Gallery and say "Oh, Porter, which station is this? " instantly letting the audience realize that the showroom really did look a lot like a Pullman coach on an old fashioned railway train. In the Palace of Mysteries Don would notice a drink in the hand of an audience member and ask if he could try a taste as he pulled out a six-foot straw! "My doctor told me to keep away from alcohol!" None of Don's jokes sound as funny in print as they did the way he told them. The jokes were corny but there was a little glint in his eyes that let you know that not only did he realize they were corny but that was the way he liked them. I had plenty of occasions to watch Don Lawton perform his full show at the Castle. I truly believe that I laughed just as hard at each performance. When Don started his act it only took one laugh and you were going to be laughing till the show ended. One-liners, sight gags and some very smooth magic were stacked together in such close proximity that the show had a life of it's own. Don had mastered the art of comedy magic and every time I watched the show I learned something performing. However the fondest memory I have of my friend Don Lawton was the ninety minutes he spent making me feel at home in the Magic Castle. He really didn't need to spend all that time but he did, he was just that kind of a person! -------------------------------------------- 7. M.A.E.S Convention -------------------------------------------- Message from Mike Miller (US) Magicians' Alliance of Eastern States Convention will be held on September 7 - 9 , 2006 at the Radisson Hotel in Trevose Pennsylvania. (Philadelphia suburb) Go to www.maesonline.org to register. (you may use PayPal as well) Reserved Sectional Seating for the First 100 Registrants. Radisson Hotel 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1 Trevose, Pa. 19053 ( Register before Aug. 10th for discount room rate) COME SEE 3 Gala Shows Close up Show Stage Contest Close up Contest 7 Lectures Dealers show Come join us along with: Alain Choquette Joshua Jay Andy Dallas (S.A.M President) Dick Gustafson ( M.A.E.S DEAN) Danny Archer Richard Hughes Tom Jones Tim Sonefelt Glenn Strange ( All Glenn on Thursday Night, Very Funny) Ken Scott Give & Take Jugglers Mike Snyder & Donna Shari Nelson (13 years old Dove act) This is a very laid back and friendly convention. Come see old friends and meet NEW ones. -------------------------------------------- 8. Automotons At Vermont's Shelburne Museum -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Heller You might alert folks visiting New England this summer and fall to an exhibit of automotons at Vermont's Shelburne Museum. I saw it last weekend and was most impressed. Travelers to Vermont should also be aware that Maplecroft Bed and Breakfast in Barre (www.maplecroftvermont.com) offers a discount to magicians. Thanks! Paul Heller Maplecroft B&B -------------------------------------------- 9. Resumption Of The Dice Stacking Articles, #18 In The Series -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony L. Lewis (US) In the prior article, I described my final encounters with Clarke "The Senator" Crandall. After that I went to work full time in the computer field. For the next fifteen years I devoted myself to climbing the corporate ladder. During that period my magic was generally neglected. In the mid seventies I went back out on my own as my kids' college education had been paid for. I also moved to the San Francisco Bay area where I failed to discover a magic community. Then my wife took a business trip to New York City. While she was there, she stopped in at Tannen's magic shop. She bought me back a couple of tricks that had been recommended to her by one of the salesmen there. One of these was the notorious "Washout" by Steve Dusheck. I presume that some of the younger readers may not recognize that name. I will talk more about Steve later on. For now I will just say that many magicians, including myself, believe that Steve Dusheck may very well be the most creative magic inventor of all times. He is often described as the Thomas Edison of magic. I was so intrigued by the ingenious working of Washout, that my interest in magic was instantly rekindled. I studied the Tannen catalog for some time and ordered several more items from it. I talked to Tony Spina, one of Tannen's owners, on the phone several times. He convinced me to attend the yearly Tannen Jubilee. When I started mixing with the magicians there, I really felt that I had come home again. I met a few magicians at the jubilee that I had always admired from afar. One of these was Al Schneider, creator of "Matrix." Another was Al Goshman, who wouldn't give me the time of day. A few years later, when I landed a gig at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, Al started to talk to me. I guess he figured that I had now "made my bones." What is most ironic about this matter is that Steve Goshman, Al's son, is currently one of my very best friends. Al Goshman was a truly great closeup magician, but his son Steve possesses a great warmth that his dad lacked. By the way Steve has done wonders with his Dad's business, Magic by Gosh. He produces about 60% of the sponge items used by magicians around the world. One of these effects happens to have been created by me. It is entitled "Pips a Poppin." It is now in its sixth year of production and is doing quite well. At Tannen's Jubilee, I also got to meet Steve Dusheck. When I first encountered him, he was holding court in the hotel lobby. A group of fascinated magicians, including myself, watched as Steve completely fooled us with several of his original items. His presentation was so good natured, that nobody resented the fact that they were being completely baffled. At the first of the two Tannen's Jubilees that I attended. I made friends with Steve Dusheck. For the next four years after that I was given an opportunity to purchase each of his new items as they became available. He would also throw in a "freebie" now and then. At the peak of his creative period Steve was producing *several excellent magic effects a month*. Furthermore they all bore very low price tags. This drove his competition crazy. Unfortunately in the early 1980's, Steve's health took a severe downward turn. Additionally, his father died. Steve was extremely close to his dad who helped him manufacture several of his tricks. This combination of events caused Steve to completely drop out of the world of magic. He changed his phone number and severed contact with everybody, including myself. One person who maintained contact with Steve is Bob Solari of New Jersey, US. Last November, Bob convinced Steve to come out of seclusion for one last appearance. Steve gave a lecture at a magic get together that Bob was holding and set up a dealer's booth in the afternoon. Bob told me that you had to fight to get to Steve's booth. That didn't surprise me a bit as the same thing occurred at Steve's booth in the Tannen Jubilees. In addition to attending the Tannen's Jubilees, I also went to several PCAM conventions where I got to meet some "comers" such as Daryl, Paul Harris, and John Cornelius. At one PCAM convention I ran a dealer's booth where I sold only Dusheck magic. I did OK, but I learned that no one can pitch Dusheck items the way Steve Dusheck can. His charisma is truly amazing. At that convention the irrepressible Paul Diamond was also a dealer. During a lull, he came over to my booth and explained to me all the things that I was doing wrong. I think Paul was a very entertaining guy. I maintained phone contact with him for the twenty years or so following our first meeting. In all of these magic get togethers I was mostly a spectator, rather than a performer. My magic act is geared towards laymen. I have only about five tricks that I show to other magicians. Of course, the foremost of these is my dice stacking routine. I still get a pretty good reaction when I do my dice act for my fellow magicians. On occasion I still do a dice stacking lecture for one magic club or another. At the end of the lecture, I break out some casino dice and five or six plastic cups. The attendees have a good time trying to master the basic stack. In my next article I will tell about how I took my act to the Magic Castle as a result of a bet that I made with a fellow magician. Regards, Tony L. Lewis Tonylewi@SBCglobal.net (new email address) -------------------------------------------- 10. Magic In The Rockies Convention -------------------------------------------- Message from Tim Pendergast (US) Jeff McBride will be headlining the 13th annual Magic in the Rockies Convention, presented by the Presto-Digitators, Ring 250 of the IBM, scheduled for September 7, 8, 9, & 10, in Fort Collins, Colorado, at the Fort Collins Marriott Hotel. (There are still a few slots open for one of Jeff McBride's two "Secret Sessions.") Other convention headliners include: Ardan James, Charlie Frye & Company, Bob Sheets, Barrie Richardson, Kostya Kimlat, Aldo Colombini, Doc Eason, John Rogers, Garry Carson & Kelsey Kara, and Eric Mead. (Eric will be giving a rare lecture featuring ideas from his new book being published by Stephen Minch.)  In addition, Magic in the Rockies will present a special "Early Bird" two-hour lecture on Thursday night, September 7, featuring one of magic and mentalism's most enigmatic personalities, Bob Cassidy. Magic in the Rockies is the only convention this year where you can see this modern day Annemann. Bob will also be performing in the Late Night Soiree on Saturday night, September 9. For convention information, visit: http://www.prestodigitators.com/ . -------------------------------------------- 11. Burns Scandrett's Books And Posters To Be Sold -------------------------------------------- Message from Ian Bruce (NZ) The family of Burns Scandrett have passed a lot of magic books and souvenirs and posters on to Portobello Antiques 221 Tuam Street Christchurch. Just been looking at a number of the books and posters this morning in their store, but they won't sell anything from the store. Everything is being auctioned on ebay.com seller ID portobello-nz All bids are starting at one dollar with no reserves. With the enormous number of items there to list and put on ebay it is going to take them a very long time. -------------------------------------------- 12. Broken Wand - Don Scudder & James Sherrill -------------------------------------------- Message from Maria Ibáņez Society of American Magicians National President Elect This just in from Joe Vecciarelli from Winter Haven, Florida. James Sherrill and Don Scudder two of our fellow members have passed. You may show your respects by attending the services below: Don Scudder Funeral Services: Wednesday, July 26, 2006, 10AM Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home 994 E, Alamonte Dr. Orlando, Florida 32701 407-831-2626 At the intersection of 436 and 427 (Ronald Regan Blvd) near the R/R tracks James Sherrill Viewing: Friday July 28, 2006, 4pm-7pm (Broken wand at 7:00pm) Mitchels Funeral Home 501 Fairvilla Rd. Orlando, Florida 32808 407-298-0703 Funeral Services: Saturday, July 29, 2006, 11AM Ebaneiser United Methodist Church 1224 26th Street Orlando, Florida 32805 407-244-0433 -------------------------------------------- 13. The Magic Circle Elections -------------------------------------------- Message from Steve Dacri (US) The Magic Circle elections are here once again, and as a service to all member of TMC, we have devoted a section of our website to this exciting contest. In the past, rules prohibited candidates from mentioning their own websites, and statements had to be kept to 100 words... Sometimes 100 words is not enough to effectively tell your story. Heck, here in the States, our political candidates spend millions and devote months on end to getting their message out. We felt the least we could do is provide some free space for candidates to use in their efforts to get elected. Send along your info to me and we will get it posted here within hours. We will also post questions that any member may ask of the candidates, and allow the candidates to post their answers. SO far, a number of progressive and forward-thinking candidates have posted their views, and many more are in the pipeline. You can see them in this "secret" section of www.magicwebchannel.com Look funder the picture of Billy McComb, and click on the "TMC" and you will be transported to this special section. -------------------------------------------- 14. British Ring Convention News 2nd August -------------------------------------------- Message from Bob Hayden PRO to the British Ring 2nd August Still more names have been added to the already impressive list of magical stars who will be participating in this year's British Ring Convention. A profile of four of them is given here together with news of a balloon modelling lecture/workshop. All you close-up workers will revel in seeing his performance in the International Close-up Gala and learning from the lecture to be given by Vanni Bossi. He is not only heralded as a great magician but in addition as an inexhaustible thinker and highly esteemed collector. He is a great classy artiste, well known in the world of magic for both his inventive and creative thinking as well as his continuous research of ancient magic principles to which he always adds his personal touch. His collection of antique Italian magic books is vast, a collection he constantly delves into and consults. In his lecture Vanni covers all types of magic, each routine being filled with an individual touch that makes them so memorable. His approach is highly influenced by the late great Fred Kaps with whom he spent considerable time as is evident in his work. If close-up is your speciality make sure you don't miss Vanni Bossi's lecture and performance Likewise Peter Wardell is not just another magician. For Peter it all begun on the street, when for 10 years he spent making a living performing magic to crowds that didn't know that they going to be a crowd, providing the unexpected to the unsuspecting. It was Shakespeare who said that 'all the world's a stage', which is fine provided the police didn't stop you. Peter's philosophy is that wherever he is in the world and whatever language the people speak, the magic works. A turning point in Peter's career came at the 2001 International Magic Weekend when he won their close-up competition. This moved him into the world of corporate magic. Organisations clambered for services. They found he not only processed a high level of skill in the field of sleight of hand he was also funny with a fascinating charm. As one of his clients, Amanda Witts of Accessorize Ltd, observed 'as a magician he is extremely clever, as a comedian he is outstanding'. You too now have the opportunity to experience the exceptional sleight of hand of Peter Wardell and his endearing charm. With the exception of Pat Fallon and Tanya, in these latter years we have not had the pleasure of seeing an act from the Emerald Isle. (We have adopted Quentin Reynolds, like John Lenahan!) This year, for the first time, Irishman Reuben will entertain us. He claims his act is one that is impossible to describe even the day after you have seen it; it being the most unusual one-man show ever conceived. It is an on stage explosion of simultaneous conflicting personalities. His advice is to enjoy him before the medication kicks in! For those who regularly attend the Easter Parade of the Northern Magic Circle the name of Nicholas Mohammed is familiar. In 1995, with tuition from his mentor Harry Nicholls, Nick soon established himself as a promising junior at the age of 14. Progressing to become a senior member of the N.M.C. by 1998 at the age of only 18 he found himself in demand as a magician at dinner parties, weddings, hotels and corporate promotions. He took an undergraduate degree at Durham University and a postgraduate degree in Cambridge. Whilst in Cambridge Nick became involved with the famous Cambridge Footlights and was part of their national tour 'Beyond a Joke' in 2004, which included an appearance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It was after this tour, following interest shown in him from radio and TV producers, Nick was convinced that his future lay in comedy and bravely he abandoned his academic career. In 2005 Nick returned to the Edinburgh Fringe with his own one-man comedy show 'Back in Town Again: -Waltzing Out of Town', which won the Fringe Report award for the Best Comedy Show. This is what the critics had to say of him. 'Nick Mohammed is a comedy Columbus, finding land that no one's found before...gloriously surreal..brilliantly executed..Go see this exciting awesome talent before he gets on telly' THREE WEEKS Nick is back at the Fringe this year performing his brand new show 'The Forer Factor', a one- man sketch show he has written himself. Nick admits comedy is somewhat taking him over but he is still doing lots of magic, in fact a piece of magic is included at the end of this year's show. Any of you who can receive the Paramount Comedy Channel can currently catch Nick appearing in a number of Talking Head type monologue shorts (written by himself) played between regular programmes. Nick's character is a very bad and eccentric TV presenter Daniel Thornthwaite, who has a co-presenter, a dog-called Katie. As Compere to the Gala Show at this year's Easter Parade Nick received praise for his completely original approach to the task. This exciting performer will be the host to one of this year's Convention shows. We look forward to seeing the work of this up and coming all round entertainer. Balloon Modelling Lecture & Workshop. Those who attended the Balloon Workshop with Playtime Balloons conducted by Mike Stokes at last year's Convention came away from it with an ability to extend their repertoire of balloon models. Not only were they shown how to make models on sticks, there was a 'hands on' instruction and any number of hints and tips on how to obtain the perfect result. There was even time for a Q and A session. Requests have been received for another workshop this year and Mike has kindly agreed to provide one. The creation of a Bowl of Flowers, one of Mike's speciality models, has been the one on which instruction would be most welcome and Mike is pleased to make this the central theme of this year's workshop. So if you are into balloon modelling and wanting to broaden your programme go along to Mike's workshop on Thursday morning. You won't regret it. The 70th Annual Convention of the British Ring will prove to be the greatest ever in every aspect. If you haven't already registered do so today by going on line to www.britishring.org.uk and the payment on line page or getting in touch with the Registration Officer Neville Johnson on 01202 873234 or by e-mail Nevillejohson25@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 15. Ring #129 Of Kansas City Rings Close Up Contest -------------------------------------------- Message from Carl Macan Ring #129 of Kansas City had it's Ring close up contest last night, July 29, 2006, and the following were winners:  lst Place - Dale Hoffman  2nd Place - Chuck Macan, also Pres. of Ring #129  3rd Place - Mike Melito A very nice dinner was with 125 people in attendance. After dinner, the contest was held, and three rooms were set up for the close up competition, and we saw 10 magicians do some tremendous close up magic. -------------------------------------------- 16. Trevor Lewis Lecture Eustis, Florida -------------------------------------------- Message from Sammy Smith (US) Rare U.S. appearance by one of the legends in magic and comedy! Trevor Lewis will charm and delight you as he performs and teaches some of his most amazing magic. You'll laugh and learn as he shares his favorite routines, including hilarious children's magic and astonishing routines for adults. Don't miss your chance to see one of magic's masters while he's on this side of the Atlantic! Date: Friday, August 25, 2006 Time: 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Location: Trinity E. Free Church (in the Common Ground room) 890 Abrams Road, Eustis, Florida Tickets Only $20 in advance; $25 at the door Reservations Recommended To register, call 1-800-810-0722 Or register online at the link below! Tickets $20 -------------------------------------------- 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 Information on the convention Go to: http://www.watson.co.nz/convention.html The Schedule of events Go to: http://www.joel.co.nz/convention/timetable.htm Convention headliners: David Williamson (USA) Lisa Menna (USA) Duane and Mary Laflin (USA) Joel Howlett (Aus) Alan Martell (UK) If you are planning to attend and have not booked - BOOK NOW - as seats are NOW VERY limited. ----------------- 18. The Amazing Orchante Saga ----------------- Message from Tommy Orchard (The Amazing Orchante)(UK ex-pat Kiwi) Page 112 Trevor King - QSM, A Living Legend! {Q S M - 'Queens Service Medal' - For Services Rendered in a Particular Field of Endeavour} If you were to ask the average New Zealander, "WHO IS TREVOR KING?" - More than likely you would get a blank stare, a shrug of the shoulders and a "DUNNO!" in response. YET HIS NAME - THE MAN HIMSELF, is held in great esteem and, is highly respected by some of the biggest names in Show Business throughout the world! In attempting to record Trevor King's entire life-story, I may have bitten off a lot more than I can chew! Only Trevor himself and, several large volumes I would think, could possibly complete it! I've known and have been friends with my 'Uncle' Trevor since 1960 - we met in Christchurch when I was with: 'Joe Brown's Nationwide Search For Stars, Finalists on New Zealand Tour'; I was only 16, going on for 17, years of age at that time. Oh my silvery /grey hairs, that was 45 years ago! Fortunately, Trevor has remained in contact with me over all these years and even more importantly, I have kept every single one of his postcards and letters (carefully stored away in a big box) - most of which are of two or three pages, often more, in length. Each one covers the news of the time and detailed information about WHO IS DOING WHAT IN NEW ZEALAND and, 'juicy' inside information that, I can promise you, many would wish I didn't have! (So, behave yourself - you just never know what I might know, about YOU!) From the 'BEATLES' to the 'VIENNA BOYS CHOIR', he knew them all, and they all - 'loved' him! So much so, than an amazing array of famous (and not so famous) International 'Show Biz' Stars, that reads like a - 'Who's Who', have chosen to remain in contact with him over the years and, continue to do so to this day (except those who have 'kicked the bucket')! Following is a list of Theatrical Shows and 'Internationally Famous NAMES' (in no particular order - that way you don't offend anyone). Everyone has been associated with Trevor in his capacity as Tour, and or Advance Manager - during his 40 plus years with: 'KERRIDGE-ODEON THEATRES LTD'; THE LARGEST THEATRICAL ORGANISATION IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE' (I don't know if that title still holds these days)! Also, 'JCW THEATRES LTD'. Also the - 'TIVOLI CIRCUIT'! The Beatles, Kenneth Mckellar, The Welsh Choir, Rolf Harris, Cliff Richard, Gene Pitney, The Dave Clark Five, Ray Columbus And The Invaders, Chinese Acrobatic Troupe, The Vienna Boys Choir Tours, The Seekers, The Luton Girls Choir, 'Franquin' (New Zealand Hypnotist), Sir Harry Secombe, Kenny Ball, Grahame Bell Jazz Band, Kingston Trio, Ronnie Ronalde Show, Freddie Bell And The Bell Boys, Tex Morton Country Show, Frankie Stevens Pop Show, Patrick O'hagan, The Village People, Andy Stewart, The Platters, Bill Haley And The Comets, Ted Heath Big Band, Nat King Cole, Whirlings All Star Circus, Wirths Circus, Engelbert Humperdinck, Max Merritt And The Meteors Show (NZ), Sir Howard Morrison Show (NZ), Dutch Swing College Band, Louis Armstrong Band Tour, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa (NZ) Tour, Shelly Berman, Roy Orbison Tour, Tom Jones Concerts, Mr Acker Bilk Jazz Band, Maurice Till Concerts (NZ), Nina And Frederik Show, Black And White Mistrel Show, John Rowles Show (NZ/Hawaii), Val Doonican Show, Danish Gym Tours, The Bachelors Show, Everly Brothers Show, Modern Jazz Quartet, The Rolling Stones Tour, The Maori Volcanic Showband, Rodger Fox Big Band Tour, Des O'connor, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs Show, Vera Lynn Show, Eddie Calvert, Roger Whittaker, Alan Jones Four, Yehudi Menhuin, Danny La Rue Show, 'Dormia' (N.Z. - Worlds First Lady Hypnotist), Toni Williams (Nz), Dinah Lee (NZ), Peter Paul And Mary, The Irish Rovers, Herb Alpert Band, Dusty Springfield Tour, The Hollies, Frank Ifield Tour, Dave Clark Five N.Z. Tour, Cliff Richard Tour, Johnny Ray Show, The Trapp Family Tour (Sound Of Music), The Harlem Globe Trotters, Ice Follies, Judith Durham (Seekers) N.Z. Tour.... The list of names and shows is never ending. From the 'few' that I have listed here, it becomes rather obvious - to say the least, that Trevor King's credentials are impeccable! -------------------------------------------- 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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