* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/fezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #581 Date: Sunday 25th May 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. Update On Martin Nash 3. John Gaughan In The New York Times 4. "Magicarama" John Calvert's Magic Spectacular 5. Harry Anderson Confirmed - SEAM Convention 6. Remarkable Magic #52 - Nick Lewin 7. Who Are You? - Kyle Peron 8. Entertaining On The Ocean #28 - Paul Romhany 9. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2008 10. Magicana June/July Issue 11. Sean Taylor's Superday 12. 14th Annual 2-Day Magic Auction 13. British Ring Convention News 14. Magicians And Poker 15. Pyramid Mystery - Help David Ginn? 16. A New Stage Play Showcases Magic! 17. East Coast Fire And Magic Tour 18. Irish Ring's Magic Unites The Generations 19. Shoot Ogawa Information From Fantasma 20. Michael Ammar Helps Kostya Pick A Winner! 21. Thumbs Up 22. 29th New Zealand International Magicians Convention 2008 23. e-zine Archives 24. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- For a virtual tour of FISM 2009 being held in China go to: http://en.cnccchina.com/ Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. Update On Martin Nash -------------------------------------------- Message from Jack Poulter On an Island in the Pacific The following was just forwarded by a member of the Victoria (BC) Magic Circle. I hope that it is not a brave front being put on by Martin. =====================  > I just made a call to Martin Nash to say Hi.  > Marty is resting at home in Parksville (B.C.) now.  > He told me he is "A-OK", the tests showed negative,  > and is looking forward to heading South to the sunshine ASAP.  >  > -rob- -------------------------------------------- 3. John Gaughan In The New York Times -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony Wilson (NZ) An interesting article on John Gaughan in the New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/18/fashion/18magic.html?_r=1&ref=fashion&oref=slogin Highly recommend for viewing especially the audio visual and commentary top left corner of downloaded article. -------------------------------------------- 4. "Magicarama" John Calvert's Magic Spectacular -------------------------------------------- Message from Ricky Childress forwarded on by William V. Rauscher (US) "Magicarama" John Calvert's Magic Spectacular with a cast of 20 opens June 23 for a full week at the Capitol Theater in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The show plays nightly at 7:00 PM from Monday through Saturday, closing on Sunday June 29 with a matinee at 2:00 PM. General admission is $25.00 for adults, $20.00 for seniors (65 and older), children 12 and under $10.00 when accompanied with an adult. Orchestra seating is $35.00 and $30:00 for seniors. $1.8 million dollars has been spent on this grand old theater since John Calvert played it many years ago. This performance will give it another boost of splendor. Magicarama is a full 2 hour dynamic evening of magic and illusion. You will see the Flying Organ, touchdown in the center aisle and drift away into infinity. A girl will be shot out of the Big Bertha Cannon, another produced from the Drum You Cannot Beat. The Temple of Benares, My Ladies Boudoir, Casper the Friendly Ghost and the Levitation are some of the exciting illusions that await you. This show will be the complete world touring show that broke house records from Broadway to Tokyo. This is a rare opportunity for magicians young and old to see this famous legend of magic, before he goes to London for a performance at the Palladium Theater, to celebrate the Calvert Centennial. Magicians far and wide are booking tickets for this landmark presentation of Magicarama," the longest world touring magic spectacular in theater history." This may be your last chance to see this historic presentation of Magicarama. The show features such spectacular illusions as The Super Buzz Saw. John will saw a man's head off and world famous heart surgeon, Randolph Wolf "the doctor with a magic touch" will put it back on. You will have a chance to guess when medical science ends and the art of magic begins in this operation. The Wolf pack, Randy, the magic surgeon, Andrea, Kevin and Travis all accomplished magicians will be seen in Bowling Green. The show will feature different guest stars nightly during the run of the Calvert show. Guest performers include (but not limited to) Jade (San Francisco), Faust (London, England) doing the Debiere act, Martin Preston "Liberace impersonator" (Ottawa, Canada), Vince Carmen (Florida), Michael Woodward (Lexington) and Kevin King (Nashville). The Capitol Theater is located on Fountain Square in the heart of historic Bowling Green. at 416 E. Main St., Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101. (Box Office 270 782-2787). You may contact me if you have other questions or if I can be of further assistance to you. (rchild1052@aol.com) (270 782-9227 Home). Ricky Childress "Your Magic Host" -------------------------------------------- 5. Harry Anderson Confirmed - SEAM Convention -------------------------------------------- Message from Maria Ibâńez National President Society of American Magicians Harry Anderson has just been confirmed at the upcoming SEAM convention August 21-23 in Atlanta, Georgia. Want to see his lecture? Want to buy his products? It is all possible BUT only if you are a registrant at the convention. This is a special lecture open to all convention attendees only so if you don't want to miss this opportunity to see Harry Anderson live and in person, the man whose name is a household name synonymous with magic in the average household, register today or you'll miss that opportunity. I will be there because I know the caliber of Ken Scott's work and because I want to be a part of this very special convention and lecture; will you? www.seam2008.org -------------------------------------------- 6. Remarkable Magic #52 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) Howdy, That's Mac King! When I was working the comedy club circuit back in the 90s one of the names that I heard a lot was Mac King. We never met because we were always playing the same place at different times or different places at the same time. The first time I saw Mac was performing fifteen minutes at the Magic Castle in the Palace of Mysteries and he was very funny indeed. Fifteen minutes just wasn't long enough to really appreciate his carefully constructed act though. You could tell it was a mere magical appetizer. Billy McComb always used to say: "In fifteen minutes I can either have a card selected and not find it OR find a card that nobody selected!" However it was certainly enough to let me realize that all the raves I had heard about Mac were right on target. I got to know Mac a little better after he packed up his Fig Newtons and moved to Las Vegas. He quickly took the city by storm and has ended up with one of the Vegas Strip's most popular shows. He performs twice a day at Harrah's Casino and Resort and I suspect his show will be a popular fixture until he decides to hang up his plaid suit and allow his goldfish to explore the shipwreck in their bowl. The wonderful thing about the Mac King Show is how he has created such an impressive niche in Las Vegas without the trappings that used to be considered essential to success in the neon city. There are no lions, no tigers and not a scantily clad assistant to be seen. Instead there is a highly enjoyable sixty-minute family show that features strong magic and more laughs per minute than most comedians. This is quite an achievement in a city that generally assumes that if 'less is more' think about how much more, more, will be! Mac hasn't even added glitter to his goldfish or sequins to his Fig Newtons. I think that the real key to Mac's success is that he has created a character that is larger than life and it is his persona that fills the stage rather than props. With his extravagantly plaid suit and traveling salesman case Mac looks more like Professor Hill in a production of 'The Music Man' than he does the average Vegas performer. Of course, Mac King's amiable manner and goofy grin don't fool anyone into believing that he is actually the hayseed he portrays onstage. This is part of the fun and helps creates the dynamics that make his subtle and sophisticated magic so successful. It is a very polished and carefully realized piece of image making. It is always exciting to see someone really break through in the world of comedy magic and achieve success by doing things their own way. It shows them in Las Vegas that there are more ways to impress an audience than just borrowing the personality of someone else who is currently 'in vogue.' If you are visiting Las Vegas make a point of catching 'The Mac King Show' and enjoying one of Las Vegas' most carefully crafted shows. As always send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin1@mac.com and check out my website at www.nicklewin.com -------------------------------------------- 7. Who Are You? - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message from Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com Who Are You? Not who do you think you are, but who are you really? Silly little question isn't it? I mean we like to all think we know ourselves pretty darn well as we live in our own skin all our lives. But what I am referring to is the simple notion of who you are when you perform your magic. What impression do you convey when performing? Who do you become and how does your audience perceive you? And, is the personality being shown believable and likeable? I think it is very important to determine who you are when you perform magic. It helps define your character and your style of performance and allows you to create a brand people will remember. It also helps you to always know in what direction your act or routine should go in. If you know who you are, then you also can know who you are not and that is very important. Too many magicians I see these days try to be someone they are not or try and be so many different people that it just flat out confuses the audience. The audience does not get to know you and what you are all about. Even more, folks perform their magic with no thought to personality at all. In this instance the magic becomes about the trick and the prop only. I do not know about you, but I want my audiences NOT remembering the deck of cards I held but I want them to remember ME and the experience I created for them. You do this my establishing who you are on stage. However, a big mistake that many performers make is assuming how WE think we are is 100% how others see us. This my friend is sadly not true. In many cases how we think we are is vastly different then how others perceive us. If we are performing for others, then it is their perception that is most important to us as performers. So how can you find out who you are and how others perceive you to be? Well I always did a simple exercise I learned in art school. It was taught to me many times over the years and is certainly nothing new. It is a great and simple method for really discovering how others see you and then applying that information. The first step is to find around 5-10 people that know you very well and that you trust to be honest. Both of these are important. First, they must know you enough to be able to really know your personality. Second, you must trust them to be honest. Next tell them that you are trying to discover your personality and who you are as a magician. To do this you need them to simply write down 5 adjectives that first come to their mind that BEST defines your personality and how they see you. They are to use just 5 adjectives and nothing more. They are then to circle the one they feel best describes you. It is important that they know from you that you want them to be dead honest and that you will not get mad or upset at all. If they cannot be honest, then it will not help you. Once you receive these papers back, you have a wealth of information. You really have a tremendous tool which you can directly use and apply immediately. WARNING!! What I am about to tell you next may shock you. What you will read from them almost always is a huge surprise. You will be amazed that how you perceive yourself to be is often vastly different. But this is OK. After all you are not performing for yourself. You are performing for your audience. Now you can take these words and start to group them together. If 4 people are saying "funny" then that should get a high rank. Go through them all and categorize the words into which words came up repeatedly and which words are similar. You can then really start to see the big picture. You can see how others view you and can start to use this to really understand who you are and how best to utilize your strong points. As always, I encourage you the readers to let me know your thoughts. So if you have any thoughts on my articles or suggestions or comments, please feel free to e-mail me directly at magic4u02@aol.com. I would love to hear from you. PRODUCTS: - I am very proud to release my newest E-Book "Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic!". It is a 21 page E-book based off my full lecture by the same title. This E-Book is about learning how to be creative, think creatively and how to apply direct exercises and techniques to allow your own creativity to grow with the magic that you perform. Every single person possesses the ability to be creative. These notes teach you direct techniques and exercises that you can use to unlock the doors to your own creativity. I discuss the reasoning behind why creativity is so important, why people have a hard time being creative and how to break down those barriers. I then go on to show you a few brainstorming techniques (derived from also being an artist) and walk you through how these techniques can be used as creativity tools. A wealth of information is shared that anyone can freely apply immediately to the magic that you do. You can order directly by going to the "Encore!" page at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/Encore.html - I am also still excited to be offering my first E-Book, "Tips and Techniques on the Chair Suspension". This has been doing very well and remains one of the only books that really covers off on so much information, tips, techniques and safety tips on the presentation of this fine illusion. You can order this e-book directly by going to: http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html Kyle Peron Magician and Illusionist www.kyleandkellymagic.com Chair Suspension Ebook Author http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html NEW E-Book: Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic! http://magicenhancer.com/Encore.html -------------------------------------------- 8. Entertaining On The Ocean #26 - Paul Romhany -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Romhany World's Largest Cruise Ship I can honestly say that I have now performed on the world's smallest AND largest cruise ship. This past week Natalie and I have been flying back and forth from two ships, both very big, but one was HUGE!! Having worked for pretty much every cruise line out there now, I really haven't seen anything quite so amazing and the new Royal Caribbean Ship The Independence. Where do I start? It was a small city with shopping malls, ice rinks, a specialised burger bar, old English pubs, an old time barber shop to get a shave. The actual shopping arcade was larger than some ships we have performed on! Even though it holds a lot of people you don't really feel it. There is always something going on and you can find a spot to be by yourself if you so desire. The theatre on the ship was perhaps the most advanced I have ever worked on, and I made use of all the technical assistance available to me. We also met another incredible act, again I have to say it was one of the best I have ever seen on a cruise ship. Their names are Jean Claude & Gaby and they did a full 45 minute show of breathtaking artistry and entertainment. They took the audience in to a fairy like dream and transported us through an extraordinary journey. They did a full show of acrobatics that left the entire audience standing on their feet at the end knowing they had witnessed something truly incredible. They were both originally trained Ballet dancers but have developed something truly incredible and original. I have noticed that the calibre of acts on these ships has really been amazing the last few weeks, and the acts that go over the best are those that involve true artists, people who have spent an entire lifetime perfecting their particular skills and use very few props. Jean Claude and Gaby relied on their body and movement to produce a breathtaking show. I was talking to them about it last night and their view was that the audience can sense when a performer has the passion for their art - something to really think about. It is great to see such artists on a cruise ship ... Jean-Claude is also a huge Chaplin fan and we had a lot to talk about and spent an entire night throwing ideas about for a project that they are currently working on and asked if I would like to be involved. It would certainly be an incredible opportunity that would take my own show to levels I never dreamed of, and I'm sure Chaplin himself would love. We spent the day in Paris today before heading to Spain where we fly to the UK then on to our little home, population LESS than the amount of passengers on the ship, before flying to Europe for a month. To see photos of our recent trip be sure to visit my BLOG ... each week I put up photos of the act and entertainers we meet and places we have been. BLOG - http://romhanyreport.blogspot.com New Product: My new Lemon Tree Surprise will be on the market very soon. To see more information on it be sure to check out MAGIC magazine or visit www.hocus-pocus.com -------------------------------------------- 9. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2008 -------------------------------------------- Compiled by David Neubauer - www.dnmagic.com Magic Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 9 pm (Dark Wed. & Thur.), Harmon Theater - Planet Hollywood. David Copperfield Through Jun. 11, Jun. 19-Jul. 16, Aug 21-Oct 1. Select 2:30, 4:30, 7:30 & 10 pm. MGM Grand. www.mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Dixie Dooley - Master Mystifier 7:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Tue.), Royal Resort and Hotel. www.houdiniexperience.com Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist 7:00 pm (Dark Mon. & Tue.), Hooters Casino Hotel. Special Comp tickets for Las Vegas Magic readers: http://comps.mentalist.com/ Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues - Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - The Showroom, Harrah's. www.mackingshow.com Free tickets (buy 1 drink) are usually available at the concierge desk or handed out occasionally by showgirls. Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 4 pm. (Dark Thurs.) Main Showroom - Flamingo. www.nathanburton.com Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html Stars of Magic Showcase of Prestidigitation Dixie Dooley hosts. 7:00 pm Sunday, Royal Resort and Hotel. www.houdiniexperience.com Steve Dacri: Impossible Magic 7 pm, Sat. & Sun. $300 includes gourmet meal. 30 seats only. Six Tables Restaurant at Summerlin. 2110 N Rampart, Las Vegas. www.vegasinsidetips.com/MAGIC_impossible.html Steve Wyrick 7 & 9 pm. (Dark Fri.) Steve Wyrick Theater - Miracle Mile, Planet Hollywood. Will Roya - Master of Variety 4-8 pm the last Fri. each month - Free - Town Square Park. www.townsquarelasvegas.com World's Greatest Magic Show Joseph Gabriel, Dan Sperry, Roy Shank, Jason Baney, Losander, Jeff Hobson hosts. 7 pm each night - Greek Isle. www.greatestmagicshow.com Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) Magic In Production Shows: Bite (Vampire Strip Revue) Antonio Restivo - 10:30 pm (dark Thurs.) Stratosphere. www.bitelasvegas.com Crazy Girls Tony Douglas - 9:30 pm (Dark Tues.), Riviera. www.rivierahotel.com/entertainment_crazygirls.asp Crazy Horse Paris Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/crazy-horse-show.aspx Haunted Vegas Show and Tour Jac Hayden, Robert Allen, Adam Flowers 9:30 pm (Dark Fri.), Greek Isles. www.hauntedvegastours.com The Ultimate Variety Showcase Christopher Karpiak and "S". Roxy's Live - Sam's Town 6 pm - Midnight every Tuesday. Free. www.samstownlv.com/entertainment/event.cfm?EventID=332 V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jason Byrne (most Tues. - Sat.) & various others. 6 & 7:30, Planet Hollywood Resort - www.vtheshow.com Viva Las Vegas Max Clever and Katalin - Plaza. 2 & 4 pm (Dark Sun.) www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/special-events.php X Burlesque Seth Grabel (pre-show) 9:30 pm, Mon. - Wed. - Flamingo. OTHER VEGAS MAGIC: Craig Keith performs behind the bar at various times - Dick's Last Resort, Excalibur. Paul Draper strolls at various times - Grand Canal Shoppes, Venetian. Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Las Vegas Magic Organizations Fantasma I.B.M. Ring #257, 7 pm 1st Monday each month. www.ibm257.com Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. Darwin's Magic Club, meets 10 pm Wednesdays. Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. KIDabra Las Vegas, 7 pm every 3rd Monday. Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. www.kidabralasvegas.com Magic Lunch Club meets every Friday at 11:30 am - Sizzler, 307 S Decatur. Hosted jointly by IBM 257 and KIDabra Las Vegas. YMS (Young Magicians Society) 7 pm every 2nd Monday each month, IHOP Boulevard Mall on Maryland Pkwy. News Beginning Sunday June 1st at 7 p.m., in addition to "Dixie Dooley, Master Mystifier", Dixie will be producing and hosting the Las Vegas "STARS OF MAGIC" showcase of prestidigitation. The show is offered free to magicians and will run for one hour each Sunday at the Royal Resorts theatre and lounge. Those interested in participating need to contact www.houdiniexperience.com Opening night performers are: Rudy Uresti, Tom Frerranti and Scarlett the Deceiver. June, 2008 June 8-10: Las Vegas Magic Invitational "Saluting the Tower Bar" featuring Doc Eason, Eric Mead, Bob Sheets, Jay Scott Berry, Daniel Garcia, Will Houstoun and a special Erdnase Tribute with Jon Armstrong, Jason England and Allen Ackerman - Palace Station www.lvmi.net. July, 2008 July 21-27: Extended Master Class, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride - Eugene Burger www.magicalwisdom.com. August, 2008 August 25-31: Extended Master Class, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride - Eugene Burger www.magicalwisdom.com. September, 2008 September 12: Criss Angel - Believe, opens at the Luxor, previews start Sept. 1. September 12-14: Master Class, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Tobias Beckwith - Eugene Burger www.magicalwisdom.com. September 14: The premier of Jeff McBride's "Wonderground," a once a month magical evening held on the Second Saturday of each month. Jeff McBride and the Mystery School faculty are the creators of the world's most progressive magic events. Working with Las Vegas artist communities they will host a fresh nightclub experience featuring the new faces in the world of magic, mystery, variety. Every month there will be new guest artists, close-up magic, and interactive installations. PUFF is a new nightclub on Flamingo near the Strip. For more info and tickets go to www.mcbridemagic.com/calendar.php. September 16-18: Focus on Martial Artists, McBride's Magic & Mystery School. www.magicalwisdom.com. October, 2008 October 10-12: Focus on Street Magic with Jeff McBride, McBride's Magic & Mystery School. This special 3-day class, Jeff will share his insights and special magic effects the are best suited for today's "STREET MAGIC" venues. Both real "STREET PERFORMANCE" and "STREET MAGIC FOR TELEVISION" will be covered. www.magicalwisdom.com. November, 2008 November 2-4: MINDvention - Palace Station. November 6-9: Magic for Medical Professionals, McBride's Magic & Mystery School - with Eugene Burger. Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger are pleased to offer a special seminar for medical practitioners of all sorts: physicians, nurses, therapists, holistic practitioners, and other professionals who wish to understand how to apply the powerful skills of performance magic to enhance the healing relationship. www.magicalwisdom.com. November 12-14: Master Class for Mentalists, McBride's Magic & Mystery School. Presenting their third annual Master Class aimed exclusively at mentalists, with special guest, Ross Johnson. Jeff McBride's Master Class is the premier program in contemporary magic where YOU and your performance take center stage in a safe and supportive setting. At this Special Master Class all of the performances and all of the talks and breakout sessions will be on the subject of MENTALISM. Eugene and Jeff will share their thoughts on Mentalism for Magicians. www.magicalwisdom.com. December, 2008 IBM 257 hosts its annual Magician of the Year Gala, December 1, 2008 at the Orleans Hotel and Casino. Honoree to be named soon! February, 2009 Seigfried and Roy are set to perform for one show only at the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute's "Keep Memory Alive" Fundraiser in Las Vegas. Details to follow. -------------------------------------------- 10. Magicana June/July Issue -------------------------------------------- Message from Michael Woolf Magicana Editor "Magicana Magazine for June/July is in the mail to subscribers. The front cover features a photograph of mentalist Richard Webster who is the subject of a full interview in this issue. Also featured are Club reports from IBM Ring 160 The Tony Wilson Ring; the Palmerston North Magic Circle and a report on the 50 years celebration of the Otago Magic Circle. There is a guest column by Henrique, a book review from Joel Moskowitz and the regular items from Bernard Reid, David Ginn, Ken Ring, Wayne Rogers, Richard Webster and Roderick Mulgan. For subscription enquiries please visit the Magicana Website www.magicana.co.nz See you at the IBM/SAM Convention in Louisville in July - and then at the 29th New Zealand International Magicians' Convention in Auckland from December 27th! -------------------------------------------- 11. Sean Taylor's Superday -------------------------------------------- Message from Sean Taylor (Aust) Bookings for Superday are gathering a pace and the coloured brochure goes out today. Show tickets are in stock now and we are starting to allocate seating. To ensure the best seats for you and your guests, I suggest you get online and book now. I gather that there are rumours circulating that Bill Malone and Alain Nu will be lecturing interstate. This is positively NOT the case. These guys are contracted to us and will be lecturing and presenting ONLY at SUPERDAY. I can't make it any clearer than that. Here's 5 GREAT reasons to be at Superday. 1. It's the only annual magic convention in Australia 2. It's the only place to see the world class talents of Bill Malone and Alain Nu. 3. The fabulous Zenith Theatre, Mantra hotel, Chatswood train station and Taylor's Magic Shop are all within 5 minutes walk - the ideal convention location. (Not to mention Krispy Kreme donuts!) 4. Close-up Magic, Stage Magic, Mentalism, Kid's Magic, Comedy Magic, Historical Presentations, Dealer Dem - Literally something for everyone. 5. Lunch, tea and coffee is provided. You don't need to think about anything - just come and enjoy the fun! -------------------------------------------- 12. 14th Annual 2-Day Magic Auction -------------------------------------------- Message from Larry McMechan Located at 210 Nation Ave. Eaton, O.45320 Preview May 23, 2008 Auction May 24 & 25, 2008 Starts 10:00 A.M. Each Day Stage-Cabaret-Illusions-Close-Up Books-Tapes-Posters-Collectors Items Items already consigned 2 original posters of Thurston, restored and on linen,- 2 4X8 paintings on Board of Thurston and Keller-Illusions: Smoke Camber-Crystal Casket-Flash Appearance-Kube Zag-Spike thru Girl-Sword thru Body-Queen's Guardhouse-Pole Levitation-Doll House-Arabian Tent- Zig Zag- Productions and Vanishes- Lighting and Sound Equipment  Now Accepting Consignments Call and consign your unwanted items now or Plan to attend this large Auction and add to your repertoire Auctioneers Larry McMechan                    Lysle McMechan 210 Nation Ave.Eaton, Ohio 45320 (937-456-7136) mcmechan@infinet.com Food Available All Day! All Original Posters Alexander Red (one sheet) Blackstone Sr. (3 sheet) Mounted on Linen and framed Fu Manchu Dancing Girls (1/2 sheet) Buddha Escher Geeorge Portrait (one sheet) Carter Cutting Woman in half (one sheet) -------------------------------------------- 13. British Ring Convention News -------------------------------------------- Message from Bob Hayden PRO to the British Ring Convention News 20th May Let us turn the spotlight on four of the headliners who will be at Eastbourne this year, three making a very welcome return and one who surprisingly makes his debut at a British Ring Convention. It was two years ago that we met Las Vegas mega star Jeff Hobson. And what an impression he made on us both as Master of Ceremonies of the International Gala Show and as a lecturer. As Elizabeth Warlock recorded in the Budget of November 2006 'He had the audience eating out of his hands between the acts with his own style of camp pieces with great comedy lines and interplay with members of the audience combined with some wonderful facial expressions and body movements as only he can do them' In his lecture Jeff not only performed some standard magical effects in his own inimitable style but also was able to show that with some innovation it is not necessary to clone presentations of others derived from a D.V.D. But his main theme centred around three main rules he has utilised throughout his career, three rules that have put him at the top of his profession. His rules? Dependability, Reliability and Flexibility, rules that should be emulated by all performers. Jeff Hobson returns this year and we all look forward to be in the company of this gifted performer, astute lecturer and great guy. The last time we had the opportunity of having Gene Anderson with us was in 1998. The majority of magicians throughout the six continents of the world are familiar with Gene's renowned and unique Newspaper Magic, which he both performs and lectures upon. Gene is a natural teacher and like so many great teachers he is not only an expert on his specialist subject but he is an expert in presenting it. When you attend a Gene Anderson lecture you will learn. And you will laugh too. There's no nodding off when he speaks. Right from his opening remarks you will be enthralled by Gene's presentation, his puckish wit and some inspiring magic. You will come away with a fund of knowledge and skills that you can apply to enhance your career as a magician. From his earliest performances Gene quickly realised that laughter is magical by itself and by using his twinkling and often-impish sense of humour he skilfully weaves laughter at all levels of his performance. Watch how in his act he involves delightful audience participation pieces and note how carefully he provides the laughs without embarrassment to his helpers. Welcome back Gene Anderson. We were disappointed last year when Michael Close reluctantly had to withdraw from coming to Southport, as it was imperative that he remained at home. He made a pledge that he would be with us this year and needless to say that pledge has been fulfilled. It is always exciting to see Michael working whether it be at the close-up table, lecturing or behind a keyboard. In Michael's life what came first music or magic? In a conversation with Romany in Las Vegas some years ago he revealed as a child he didn't have any ambitions either way, he just wanted to know everything about jazz. With no teacher available to advise him everything he knows about playing jazz piano he has figured out himself not intuitively but analytically. His library of jazz theory and transcribed solos of jazz players is huge, the same amount of information as in his magic library. He confesses he didn't get going on the piano until he started his master's degree in composition at 22. His magic was learnt from books and developed after a visit to the Magic Castle at 19. He had a wonderful mentor in Harry Riser but what he taught him wasn't going to work in a restaurant as he found out in1978 when he was invited to take over a friends job at Max and Erma's. He was reluctant to do magic as a pro as he was doing music professionally. He developed his own individual style and methods with the reality of the effect being of more importance than being concerned with the technique. To this approach he coupled humorous patter. To Michael comedy is important but has to be injected into any effect so as not to interrupt the normal flow of a trick. There is so much more than just doing tricks. If you haven't seen Michael Close work don't miss this chance to see this captivating magician in action. An international magician who is admired and respected worldwide for his magic is Juan Tamariz. It is therefore astonishing that he has never appeared at a British Ring Convention. This serious omission is now rectified as this year Juan will be giving a solo show as well as delivering a lecture. In addition for those of you willing to pay a fee he will be holding an instructional workshop for a very limited number. If you are interested in joining this class, in due course, we will be advising you how you can apply. Juan with his trademark top hat and sparkling eyes that even his large spectacles cannot obscure he is charismatic cardician, a magician specialising in magic with playing cards. But what makes him so special? By many of his peers he is a true master of his art and is considered to be the authority in the field of misdirection. He is the author of four books in English and many, influenced by his approach, have become winning champions. Some sound advice to all of you fledging cardicians is that you make sure you are in Eastbourne between September 24th-28th and enjoy a master-class by Juan Tamariz in your specialised brand of magic. 400 have already registered including many from around the world. If you haven't done so do it today by using the on line facility or contacting the registration officer Neville Johnson direct on 01202 873234 or by e. mail at nevillejohnson25@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 14. Magicians And Poker -------------------------------------------- Message from Patrick McCullagh (Aust) I don't know if it's a worldwide trend, however, in Melbourne Australia, an ever increasing number of magicians can be seen playing poker at Crown Casino. Among the regulars are Chuck Fayne, Nickolas Nickolas, Mark Myer, Tony Roberts and yours truly. I wish they would just let us shuffle and deal. -------------------------------------------- 15. Pyramid Mystery - Help David Ginn? -------------------------------------------- Message from David Ginn (US) David Ginn: Mystery Of The Pyramids! Long ago in the Tannen Catalog #3 (and others) there was a trick called Mystery of the Pyramids. A stack of loose checkers in graduating sizes on a pole, like a child toy made of wood. You covered these with a metal cylinder and turned all upside-down. When uncovered, the pyramid of checkers was still UPRIGHT. It could be easily repeated. They came in two sizes, large $12.50 and small $6.50. I do not know who made it . . . But the bottom line is that I should have bought it and DIDN'T . . . And now could use one for a show about Egypt! With Alan Watson's E-Zine going out to 13,500 plus magicians world-wide, surely one of you has this old trick on a shelf in the basement and would part with it for someone (ME) who will use it to entertain/educate thousands of children starting in September. PLEASE HELP me find one? Large size really needed. I will pay shipping and a reasonable price, or trade merchandise to you off my ginnmagic.com website. Please respond to me at: ginnmagic@comcast.net OR ginnbooks@mindspring.com. I await your mysterious words! ---  David Ginn, myself in Atlanta, Georgia USA -------------------------------------------- 16. A New Stage Play Showcases Magic! -------------------------------------------- Message R W (Bob) Klamm A new stage play showcases magic! Fly Like A Bumblebee, memoirs of a blind magician, is a new, full-length stage play that tells the story of its author, R W (Bob) Klamm. Born nearly blind, he didn't know he could hardly see until he was eight years old. He just kept bumbling along. Then the teacher caught him cheating on the flash cards. The play is filled with humor, a few tears and more than a little magic. It is so powerful that during rehearsals for its first professional reading, the seasoned actors often broke into spontaneous laughter, and even a few real tears. The action of the play utilizes several standard magical effects, and includes some audience participation. The book from which the play was taken was also written by Mr. Klamm, and has received two national awards, been recorded by Library of Congress Talking Books, and been made into a Braille book. The play is available for community production. To read the first few scenes of the play and/or book check out klammbooks.com. -------------------------------------------- 17. East Coast Fire And Magic Tour -------------------------------------------- Message Jeff McBride (US) You are invited to join us for some hot times ahead! Abbi and I will be going to a few fire festivals this summer, to share some of our Alchemical Fire Circle Magick. June 4-8, Artemas PA - Fires Rising Fire Circle http://www.4qf.org June 9th, Baltimore, MD, Magic at the Edge, Show & Lecture at Barry's Magic Shop. For more info: magic@erols.com June 10th, Baltimore MD, McBride's Secret Session Workshop at Denny & Lee Magic Shop. For more info: Dennymagic@aol.com We'll hope to see you at one of these events. It's time to get back to work. I enjoy my work, and find inspiration in the words of Alex Rodriguez, who said: "Enjoy your sweat because hard work doesn't guarantee success, but without it you don't have a chance." Yours in the art of magic, Jeff -------------------------------------------- 18. Irish Ring's Magic Unites The Generations -------------------------------------------- Message from Brendan Byrne Irish Ring's Magic Unites The Generations By Joe O'donnell Here's a snapshot to hold in your imagination, to warm your heart in the cold inhospitable days of winter. It's late at night and a packed roomful of otherwise adults, some standing on chairs all making intricate origami folds in bills of assorted denominations. The concentration on the work in hand is palpable and the focus is on a personable young man from Canton - Ohio, laid back, ferociously talented, ferociously young as he work-shopped an entire audience through the intricacies of a double bill penetration. To get a few enthusiasts to follow you move by move is an achievement , but to get an entire audience whose ages ranged from fifteen year old to eighty plus requires some very special talent. And Joshua Jay was that special talent. He was the undoubted star of that weekend which was the 58th convention of Ring 85, the Irish Ring, hosted by the Society of Irish Magicians and as befits a true magician he seemed to be everywhere. His late night lecture on Friday pulled a full house when such events normally attract only the hardened veterans. He barnstormed his way through a ninety minute lecture on Saturday morning, after seeing the sun rise at 6.30 having been introduced to Dublin's club scene by a select posse of the Society's youngest and brightest. Then a few hours later he topped the bill in the International close-up show. In between and throughout Sunday he was in the bar, the restaurant and in every nook and cranny of the Plaza Hotel as he swapped moves and 'workers', generously giving of his time and expertise to neophyte and old hand alike. But Joshua Jay was but one name among a host of star turns lined up by the Society of Irish Magicians for the convention bill of fare. It is impossible to list all who performed and what was performed. All that remains after a truly hectic weekend was that lingering sense of enjoyment as after a satisfying meal, plus a handful of snapshots fitfully recalled from a full bill. Here are some such snapshots remembered at random. In the hotel registration queue, a harassed looking punter, pull-on suitcase in one hand, the other obsessively finger-rolling a coin. Magician's worry beads? Trevor Lewis doing a great Miser's Dream in an homage to Irish legend Albert Le Bas. Alan Shaxon looking as though he'd stepped from another century, knocking the younger magicians stone dead ith his Human Gasometer; that awed silence that accompanies the unspoken question: can we really be seeing this? An entire audience doing an impression of an L & L audience for Joshua Jay. The enormous TV Screen constantly updated with edited highlights of the convention, sometimes uploaded so fast that the quickness of the editing hand really deceived the mind. Keith Bennett's spirit rapping box, primarily for the atrocious pun which capped the routine. The Presidents' Table at the Banquet, five Presidents aglitter and a jangle with chains of office. Quentin Reynolds and his five minutes with a pocket mouse And with regard to the latter: Quentin's routine, is now so loved and so familiar that gags and tag lines are practically sung along with, in much the same way as fans sing along with a pop star's hit songs. This signature piece of classical anytime-anywhere magic is now the de rigueur performance anthem of Irish Conventions. Quentin's late night show, THE PSYCHIC GAME SHOW, was a well-judged digestif after the official banquet, and evoked laughter and gasps of astonishment in equal measure. Quentin's contribution to the weekend won him the Murray Trophy for Showmanship. The lectures gave full measure, pressed down and overflowing with practical ideas and insights honed from years of real life experience. Joshua Jay, as we've noted, was like an electric current throughout the three days, sparking talk and emulation. Keith Bennett's coin work got a boost from the close-up camerawork of Ciaran McCormack. FISM winner Trevor Lewis had enough ideas to satisfy both children's entertainers and card workers alike. His lecture, and his close-up and stage shows were an object lesson in audience management and how to get the maximum from every effect. There were two lectures which were certainly outside of the box, if not completely off the wall. Veteran illusionist and now a busy psycho-therapist, Tony Sadar's Saturday morning lecture was intriguingly billed as HOW TO GET TALKED ABOUT. But nothing could have prepared the early morning audience for the whirlwind journey which was an eclectic mix of memoir, manipulating the media, motivational talk, and such feats as electric bulb chewing, shoving six inch nails up one's nose, and dancing on broken glass; yet all were relevantly blended into a coherent whole. Then on Sunday afternoon we had a workshop from Max Marshall entitled SILENT PATTER. This too involved the audience in interactive exercises in energy raising, meditation and non-verbal communication. Not perhaps the usual fare of magical conventions, but certainly a piquant addition to any performer's arsenal. But these were only a few of the surprises that the convention turned up. Young Dara McGrath from Cashel swept all before him, winning award after award for close up and presentation. His ebullient personality marks him as somebody to watch. Remember that name. Another name that seems to be destined for stardom is that of Jack Wise, a polished stand up who did a blistering set, setting the bar for the International close-up show which also included five star performances from Joshua Jay, Trevor Lewis, Alan Shaxon, Keith Bennett, and the irrepressible Peter McLanachan. The Gala show spanned the generations. Alan Shaxon, with incredible aplomb and impeccable address took us through the Human Gasometer, Magical Fishing, his Thumb Tie Routine and his hydrostatic glass. Magic which spanned hundreds of years in his hands seemed fresh and newly minted. Pat Fallon, Ireland's hardest working illusionist book-ended the show with his high energy magic, doves, silks, and rabbits opening the Gala Show, and his illusion act which included an amazing dissection and a sword cabinet done almost in close up. Among the younger performers were Caolin McBride and Nicola who presented an original fantasy involving the Head Twister, a suspension and a diminishing doll illusion. Trevor Lewis' Card Sword with a seven year old volunteer was a delight and Max Marshall in his alter ego of Congo filled two spots with high energy interactive clowning. The entire show was neatly tied together by the many talents of emcee Aonghus McAnally. The stage management of Brendan Byrne, Ciaran MacCormack and Steve Thomson seamlessly set and struck tables, props and many heavy illusions on what was essentially a tiny stage. The numbers of young and very young magicians who attended and participated was commented on by SIM President, John Bowden, in his closing address. It showed, he said, how healthy our art is currently, and was a straw in the wind on the way magic is growing and burgeoning in the green and mystic land of Ireland. -------------------------------------------- 19. Shoot Ogawa Information From Fantasma -------------------------------------------- Message from Matt Wayne (US) Lecture - Thursday, May 29th, 7:00 pm Fantasma Magic is proud to welcome back Shoot Ogawa to our famous magical lecture series. Shoot was just named Hollywood Magic Castle's "2008 Parlor Magician of the Year." This makes Shoot's 3rd Magician of the Year Award since he was awarded Close-up Magician of the Year in 2003 and again in 2006. Acclaimed as one of the finest sleight of hand magicians, he is one of the most sought after and praised magicians in the world today. With his jaw dropping abilities, techniques and creations he is already a legend in the magic community! Blending his own cultural magic style with modern sleight of hand, Shoot has created a distinct form of magic that is mesmerizing to watch. His new Lecture features original coin and card magic never before presented, giving you a chance to be among the first to see his new material before it is released to the general magic community. This lecture includes new Coin and Card routines from Beginner to Advanced that are both simple to master and perform, but delivers a huge impact! Also presented, will be a newly worked out lecture of Magic Wands and a lecture on the Muscle Pass, which Shoot originally made famous. This is one lecture you definitely don't want to miss! Tickets are $25.00 in advance, $35.00 at the door and $50 VIP (for VIP you must call the store for reservations). Muscle Pass & Coin Workshop - Friday, May 30th, 7:00 pm After traveling all over the world performing and perfecting new techniques and routines, Shoot is happy to bring a specially designed Muscle Pass and Coin Workshop, based on the moves he was among the first to introduce and make famous. *Learn new insights and techniques to help develop your own routines *Get one on one help with your muscle pass and coin moves from Shoot *Increase your effectiveness and self-awareness as a performer *Experience up close demonstrations, with tips which you can practice Sign up today for this very special opportunity to learn from one of today's most respected magicians. General admission is $100.00. Seating is very limited, reserve your spot today! 421 7th Avenue - 2nd Floor - Entrance on 33rd Street Above Sbarro 212 244-3633 Order your spot online as well! www.fantasmamagic.com -------------------------------------------- 20. Michael Ammar Helps Kostya Pick A Winner! -------------------------------------------- Message from Kostya Kimlat (US) I think you and your readers are going to get a kick out of watching this video. After weeks of searching for the best way to do it, with a few push-ups and some cards-on-ceilings, Michael Ammar has helped me pick a winner. To watch the video, have a good laugh, and find out who won a trip to Orlando, Fl, go to: http://kostyamagic.com/KostyaMagic/Contest.html -------------------------------------------- 21. Thumbs Up -------------------------------------------- Message from Chuck Crespo (US) The finger chopper evolves to pasteboards! A spectator's thumb is placed into the guillotine stock-playing cards with beautiful art and holes in the middle for the thumb-and a guillotine blade card, also with a hole, is introduced. The guillotine blade is placed in the stock and with a downward thrust and the spectator's breathing stopped, the blade slices through the thumb. The stock is removed from the thumb leaving the blade and the thumb unharmed. Breathing is resumed by all. Thumbs Up is one of the best adaptations to a card effect I've seen in years. Not since Card Toon have I seen something so clever. Jeff Hobson http://90magic.com/90magicFX.html -------------------------------------------- 22. 29th New Zealand International Magicians Convention 2008 -------------------------------------------- The 29th New Zealand International Magicians Convention will be held in Auckland, New Zealand from the night of December 27th 2008 to January 1st 2009, 1.00am. The venue will be the Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre in Mount Wellington where we last ran a successful Convention in 2001-2002. Bookings can be made for convention accommodation by contacting: Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre, 58 Waipuna Road, Mt.Wellington, PO Box 14 164, Panmure, Auckland, New Zealand. Phone: +64 9 526 3000 Fax: +64 9 527 1937 Toll Free Reservations (NZ): 0800 924 786. http://www.waipunahotel.co.nz/ We have been able to secure a very attractive room rate of $NZ110 per night (Incl GST) for single or double rooms with registrants being able to book direct with the hotel. *************************** PLEASE NOTE that 79% of the ALLOCATED rooms have already been booked by conventioneers. If you are planning to attend best to book NOW! This convention will be a SELL OUT! *************************** Seven Confirmed Headliners John Shryock (USA), Marty and Brenda Hahne (USA), Ross Skiffington (Aust), George Schindler (USA), Steve Walker (Aust) and Sean Taylor. The official registration form for the convention can be downloaded from: http://www.ibmring160.com/ If you don't have internet web access contact Ross Harlick, Secretary, 91 Panapa Drive, Meadowbank, Auckland 1072, New Zealand Or by: Phone: +64 (09) 521 3327 Fax: +64 (09) 521 3327 -------------------------------------------- 23. 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) -------------------------------------------- 24. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- Our subscriber list is NOT made available to any other companies or individuals. We value every subscriber and respect your privacy. You can subscribe to or unsubscribe from the Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine at www.watson.co.nz/fezine.html. Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine is published each Sunday. The opinions expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New ZealandŽ. Neither Magic New ZealandŽ nor Alan Watson vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine. Subscribers to this publication and authors who contribute to it by doing so agree they will not hold Magic New ZealandŽ or Alan Watson, jointly or individually liable or responsible in any way for the opinions expressed therein. Magic New ZealandŽ reserves the right to alter, correct or disregard any articles submitted. Readers are encouraged to submit timely articles or news items which may be of interest to subscribers. By submitting articles to this e-zine, the authors grant Magic New ZealandŽ the right to publish such articles and such authors confirm their copyright of the material submitted. All works published by Magic New ZealandŽ are protected by international copyright legislation and articles must not be published for profit by anyone other than the individual authors without the written permission of Magic New ZealandŽ. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this publication may be freely redistributed, but not sold, to other magicians if copied in its entirety, including the copyright notice below and the above disclaimer. Š Copyright 2008 Alan Watson