`* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #741 Date: Sunday 21st March 2010 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. The Academy Of Magical Arts Award Nominees 3. M-U -M Celebrates the Start of Its 100th Year 4. The April Issue Of Genii Is Now Available 5. Re-Broadcast On www.streetofcards.com 6. More Remarkable Magic #29 The Always Amazing Johnathan 7. Who Are You? - #159 - Kyle Peron 8. Tony Brook In Conversation With Mark Weidhaas (Part 1) 9. Review Of Roberto Giobbi S Card College Lightests 10. WARNING To All Australians And Kiwis 11. "Open Sesame" - A Journey To The Other Side Of Magic 12. British Ring Convention 2010 13. Mystery & History Blog 14. A Little Swindle Film From The Past 15. Bruce Glen's'Magic & Fairytales For Grown-ups 16. Ellis & Webster's - USA Lecture Tour April 17. Magi-Whirl 2010, April 9-10 Near Washington, DC 18. Wanted: Illusions 19. 24th Annual Magic Spectacular 20. e-zine Archives 21. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Magic New Zealand will NOT be published next week as Michele and I will be going south. Next issue of Magic New Zealand will be published on 4th April. Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. The Academy Of Magical Arts Award Nominees -------------------------------------------- Message by Peter Saville (US) The Academy of Magical Arts and the Magic Castle have announced their annual Award Nominees. Close-Up Magician of the Year Jon Armstrong Doc Eason Andrew Goldenhersh Paul Green David Regal Parlour Magician of the Year Chris Capehart Andrew Goldenhersh Paul Green Handsome Jack - John Lovick Rob Zabrecky Stage Magician of the Year Mike Caveney Dana Daniels & Richard Allen Pop Haydn Jeff Hobson Tina Lee - Mystina Lecturer of the Year Jon Armstrong Doc Eason Paul Gertner Losander Fielding West -------------------------------------------- 3. M-U-M Celebrates the Start of Its 100th Year -------------------------------------------- Message by George Schindler (US) Letter from Mike Close: M-U-M Celebrates the Start of Its 100th Year The June 2010 issue of M-U-M will be issue number one of Volume 100, a remarkable milestone for The Society of American Magicians. To commemorate this achievement, you are invited to purchase a non-commercial congratulatory ad at special pricing. Contact advertising manager Mona Morrison at mona@monamorrison.com for special eighth- and quarter-page prices. Please reserve your space in this issue as soon as possible. (The ad deadline is April 15, 2010.) Thanks very much. I look forward to seeing your listing in this historic, collectible issue. Best wishes, Michael Close Editor, M-U-M -------------------------------------------- 4. The April Issue Of Genii Is Now Available -------------------------------------------- Message by Richard Kaufman - Editor Genii Magazine Our March issue with a cover story on the great close-up and bar magician J.C. Wagner is now in the mail. J.C. has led an interesting life that's a real lesson in how to become an artist in your field. Our tricks include "A Session with J.C. Wagner," in which JC explains two recent favorite items plus a long lost trick from his pal Larry Jennings that he uses to this day. Mac King's new book on Campfire Magic has just been published for the public and we have an interesting excerpt for you: an updated version of how to bake a cake in a baseball cap, plus Penn & Teller's Foreword. History buffs will enjoy Chris Woodward's article about The Great Rameses, a forgotten illusionist from the turn of the century. We're pleased as punch to add Jim Steinmeyer's "Conjuring" to our excellent lineup of columns. Jim's wonderful tricks have been a favorite over the years and "Conjuring" will now appear monthly in Genii. The first trick is a great piece of standup mentalism. Also this month, Tom Stone continues his second cycle of "Lodestones" and takes you on the first step toward producing your own show; David Britland's "Cardopolis" sends you through the looking glass; and Paul Osborne presents a new illusion plan for your enjoyment. I let loose in "Genii Speaks" and Jon Racherbaumer writes about our friend Tom Mullica, now undergoing cancer treatment, in "On the Slant." Eric Mead reviews books, including Best of All Worlds; Joe M. Turner reviews videos, including Luis De Matos's new set on Extreme Magic; and Danny Orleans covers the tricks. Hope you enjoy the new issue, only $4.50 (the price when you subscribe for one year and get a free copy of the Harry Anderson/Jon Racherbaumer 32-page Jinx). Please visit the Genii website and subscribe today at www.geniimagazine.com. Visit The Genii Forum, the "smart" online discussion group: www.geniimagazine.com/forum You can also mosey over to MagicPedia, the most complete online encyclopedia of magical information with almost 5,000 entries. It's a living encyclopedia to which you are welcome to contribute! And if you want to buy a book from Kaufman and Company, time is running out to take advantage of the "Buy 2, Get 3" promotion which gives you a free book with every purchase of two: www.kaufman.geniimagazine.com -------------------------------------------- 5. Re-Broadcast On www.streetofcards.com -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin (US) Last night I enjoyed another visit to Jeff McBride's Wonderground here in Las Vegas. It really is a blast and the best magic performance party on the block. Drop by celebrities this month included Siegfried, Amazing Johnathan, Sophie Evans and the world's top pickpocket Bob Arno.If you are organizing a visit to the Neon City, see if you can include the third Thursday of the month and join in the fun. Another great option is to watch Magic and interviews with the participants either live or re-broadcast on www.streetofcards.com If you haven't discovered Street Of Cards yet Last Night Another great option is to watch the Magic and interviews with the participants either live or re-broadcast on www.streetofcards.com If you haven't discovered Street Of Cards yet, it is a really great all-magic channel on the web. It is beautifully planned and run. You should click www.streetofcards.com on your computer and bookmark it. -------------------------------------------- 6. More Remarkable Magic #29 The Always Amazing Johnathan -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin (US) I realized recently that it had been way too long since I caught the Amazing Johnathan show. This decision was possibly related to the opening of the newest franchise of 'Pink's' hot dog stand on the Vegas Strip, located on the sidewalk in front of the Hollywood Planet Hotel. To those in the know 'Pink's' is a legend among hot dog lovers, and best of all, is just a short hop from the Magic Castle in Hollywood. At 2:00AM there are lines that form a block long to buy the best Chili dog in the World, I realize this is a bold statement, however I will fight to the bitter end any debate or disagreement with this statement. Their hot dogs are messy, greasy, sloppy and unbelievably enjoyable. Which is pretty much the case with the Amazing Johnathan's show. While Johnathan's show may, like 'Pink's, be a tad low on the magical nutritional level, it is quite simply one of the funniest entertainments on the strip. It is living proof what can be achieved by a Road Warrior in his prime. There is also a surprisingly high degree of structure involved in the gags, bits, comedy and shtick that comprises his show. As a performer, I LOVE structure, and all the more when it isn't paraded on the surface. Over the years, Johnathan has made his act tighter than most ten-minute silent manipulative acts even dream of. I have seen 'Amazing' perform in all of his Las Vegas showrooms and his current home is the Harmon Theatre, which in spite of its name is less like a theatre than an ultra-cool nightclub. It has a great seating pattern and serves strong drinks. The staff all wear a custom tee-shirts that reads "F@#K YEAH,' which perfectly sums up the spirit of the occasion. Before the show begins, a roving video camera scours the audience and lingers on audience members just long enough to flash extremely politically incorrect statements about the 'victim.' The results are hysterical and get huge laughs; 'A.J.' knows his crowd and this is an audience that looks like it would rather catch H1N1 flu than a dose of political correctness. This way they know they are in the right place before the show even begins. The show officially began with a ten-minute segment by Charlotte Pendragon. She began with a curious card in shoe routine, continuing with a four-ring Linking Ring routine. She closed with a sub-trunk routine, assisted by a stunning female assistant. Big props to Charlotte for being back onstage. The Show really begins with the appearance of 'Amazing' and the party starts along with it. When you laugh once at Johnathan, the rest is history and you won't stop laughing for the next 65 minutes. He can get more comic reaction from a raised eyebrow than most performers can with a trunk full of jokes and props. I've said it before and don't hesitate in saying it again, Amazing Johnathan is the funniest comedy magician in the world, a one of a kind force of nature. If you don't agree, you are probably the kind of person who craves a 'Der Wienershnitzel' hot dog as the finale to a night on the town. I was particularly impressed by how many new one-liners and bits 'A.J.' had seamlessly added to his act. They were perfectly integrated into the show and kept things fresh, without changing the basic format, which works like clockwork. Sometimes it takes a great deal of wisdom not to keep tampering with something that works--- until it doesn't! I did notice that he had dropped any references or jokes about drugs in his show. As a performer, I found this very satisfactory, as their absence did nothing to detract from his impact, he just doesn't need them. One thing I did miss, however, was the opening segment with Psychic Tanya but I suspect that will return after Johnathan films his new TV special. The part of Psychic Tanya is played by the very talented Penny Wiggins. Penny just gets funnier and funnier each time I see her. She has the rather difficult task of playing giddy, blonde counterpoint to 'Amazing's' uber macho/brash charm. I really must catch Penny's solo comedy act ASAP as I have a definite feeling that in the very near future she will be whisked away by a TV producer for a sit-com. What more can I say about the show, I think it is brilliant, and I would be delighted to see it again tonight. Of course, the 'Pink's' chilidog wouldn't be any handicap to that scenario! However in all honesty 'Pink's' would only be the shredded cheese on top of the Vienna Dog (in a bandana) that is the Amazing Johnathan. If you haven't seen this show it's a must see on your next Vegas visit, unless of course you are a prude in which case Donny & Marie are at the Flamingo. Drop me a line at www.nicklewin1@me.com -------------------------------------------- 7. Who Are You? - #159 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message by Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com Who are you? Not the first thing you want to hear upon arriving at any gig. However, too often this becomes a common statement. It results in an awkward moment between you and the person you are meeting. It also wastes time as you try and explain and get the details straight. Even then you often end up having to tell the story to a few more people as they pass you around to others. I call this the "hot potato" principle. No one wants to take responsibility for having to talk and coordinate with you, so they pass you off to someone else as quickly as they can. So why does this happen? Well for starters, it can happen simply because the person who booked you is not at the event yet. It also occurs because of total miscommunication. No one knows anything about you being there except the client you coordinated with. Furthermore, the person who booked you may not even be attending the event in the first place. Whatever the reason may be, it is safe to say that as a performer, you need to address issues like this before they become bigger problems. There are several things I try and make a practice of doing so that I can avoid unpleasant situations like this. - The first thing you have to realize is never to assume that the person you are dealing with to book the show is the same person who will be your contact at the event. In most cases, they will be. However, we can never assume this. Always ask ahead of time who will be your contact at the event. Will it be this person you are dealing with now, or will there be another person? - When I ask for the contact person, I always ask for a cell phone number or phone number that I can use on the day of the event. This is so that I have it in the event I need to contact them. Having this information can be so valuable. - I can also call the contact as I am approaching the venue. This lets them know that I am arriving on time and also gets them in the general area so they are ready upon my arrival. In the event that the person is not around, I can use this phone number to make contact with the person to iron out any changes of plan and to keep things running smoothly. - If the contact at the event is NOT going to be the same person who booked you, I always will ask for the contact's name, email address and phone number. This way I can make contact with the person prior to the show. No one likes to be barraged on the day of the event. By contacting them ahead of time, I can introduce myself and go over any details with them. This saves you both time and ensures things run smoothly upon your arrival at the venue. - Always get things in writing. This means to get the contact information and all arrival details down on paper ahead of time. It means having that contract and agreement signed and approved by the client long before you actually do the event itself. - It also is a good idea to always make a confirmation call or send a confirmation email to the client a week prior to the event date. I always do this because I know details for events do change and this is my opportunity to double check all my facts with the client. I will list what we had agreed upon and ask them to verify it and any changes that may have come up. This is the time to double check your contact. - Always ask where your contact will be upon arrival at the event. Many events have the client running around trying to tackle numerous issues that come up. Trying to find them is often not easy and you simply do not want to waste time trying to locate them. So I will always ask them where I should go to meet them upon arrival. I can also ask them this if I make my phone call to them as I am arriving at the venue. It saves a lot of time and makes things run smooth. - You can also make things easier on yourself by never assuming the people who meet you know you are the entertainment. You may even be dressed to a point where you think it is quite obvious. However, you can never assume they know. When greeting anyone at the event, I will always state my name and that I am the magical entertainment for the event. By doing so they immediately will at least know why you are there and more chance to 1) assist you themselves or 2) hunt down the proper person who can. A lot of these items above are simple tips that can be utilized to really help you to have an event run the way both parties intend it to run. It also makes you perceived as a professional. After all, it is this professional level that you want to carry with you all throughout the client relationship. 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. - I would like to let everyone know that I just released a NEW book and E-Book to the magic Community. "Blue and Gold! The Complete Guide to Working The Scout Market!" is now available as a soft cover printed book as well as an ebook download. http://magicenhancer.com/Blue/Gold.html - "Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/Encore.html - "Tips and Techniques on the Chair Suspension" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html -------------------------------------------- 8. Tony Brook In Conversation With Mark Weidhaas (Part 1) ------------------------------------------ Message by Anthony Darkstone Brook - Europe/USA Mark is an outgoing friendly person with that amazing ability that makes you feel that you are special. In common with many other S.A.M members, I am looking forward to seeing him become President of our wonderful Society at this year's S.A.M Convention. The Convention will be held in Atlanta, Georgia (home to several good magicians and especially Past President and good friend Dan Garrett) I met Mark a couple of years ago at The SAM 2007 Convention in Dallas, Texas. He and I touched base several times during the Convention both formally at the National Council meeting and then informally at other times. One such occasion was at the Dealers Room where we had a fun time together and chatted about various topics and ideas. Mark truly loves Magic and has very good organizational skills. For a goodly while, he was RVP for the North West and when I lectured and performed in Oregon, he took the time to send me a thank you note. He is trying to manufacture 25 hour days to fit around his busy schedule but I managed to catch up with him to chat a while. http://www.inspectormagic.com/ TB: Hello Mark. Thanks for taking the time to chat. As I mentioned in my intro you haven't become President yet but as President-Elect you have a hectic schedule because you are not only preparing yourself personally for the Convention in July but you have another role closely connected with the Convention ...tell us about that and how it came about . MW: Hi Tony. Thanks for the opportunity to take five and converse a while. I am both honored and thrilled to be the President-Elect and I am really looking forward to my inauguration in July. Becoming S.A.M President at the Atlanta Convention is something that is on my mind 24/7. It is a mixture of elation and also concern. Concern in the sense that I want to do my very best for The S.A.M. My other role that you referred to is that of the Convention Registrar. Without going into long details that in itself although enjoyable is also a demanding task. I want this Convention to be talked about as the Friendliest Convention. We have top-class talent - a cutting edge young magician show - you may not recognize some of the names, but once they have performed at the S.A.M Convention, they will be highly sought after for other conventions. See them first in Atlanta where "You have a friend in 2010." TB: That's what I keep hearing .the emphasis is on friendship. Tell us a bit more about, "You have a friend in 2010". MW: I'm glad you brought that up. It was an idea that I had brewing for a while. Basically, "You have a friend in the SAM" began with a collectable Harry Houdini pin that we were giving to new members. Houdini was SAM President from 1917 to 1926. This year, I made a new pin with Harry Kellar. According to the SAM website, www.magicsam.com 100 years ago in 1910, Kellar became the Dean of American Magicians. I have been giving this pin to S.A.M members I meet to celebrate this centennial celebration. Then I found a copy of a letter written by Kellar thanking Houdini and the Council for officially bestowing the title upon him. That letter is dated March 29, 1921. I did some more research and found records and convention bills that referred to him as Dean back to 1907. Apparently, in July 1907, he received the first honorary member in the SAM and the title Dean. So the website was incorrect, and so are my pins!!! That will teach me to investigate and research thoroughly !!!! TB: Well, in my opinion it is a good thing you did .these historical accuracies are important. It also goes to show that your are meticulous and that, in my view, is a good quality for a S.A.M President. In fact, your performing persona is an investigator/inspector type . share some of that background .. MW: Like a lot of good things my character of Inspector Magic sort of fell into place. I am a professional structural engineer and I spent my free time as a volunteer fireman. When my job took me to another state (Cape Cod, Massachusetts), I discovered they had paid full time firemen - I needed a new hobby. I began presenting educational safety programs in my fireman's uniform. A magician is like a spy, sworn to secrecy. The character in my kid show bumbles along and it is the kids that are empowered, yet everything comes to a happy conclusion. Like Maxwell Smart from "Get Smart" or Inspector Clouseau from the "Pink Panther" series. Interestingly, Don Adams played Maxwell Smart and he was also the voice of Inspector Gadget, a favorite cartoon of my kids. So, as I mentioned earlier, Inspector Magic just fell into place. I had an Axtell bird puppet named Brain the Birdbrain; Brain was the dog's name from the cartoon series. I would deliberately make a "mistake" call the birthday girl "my niece Penny" - another character from the series. The birthday girl would say "I'm not Penny, my name is Jennifer." And I'd reply "Oh, that's right, your my niece Jennifer...wait a minute, I don't have a niece named Jennifer." My goal was to entertain with magic but also get the kids to slap their face out of frustration with me - I usually achieved my goal. TB: What a great idea! It really takes "audience involvement" to another level. I know you also perform Magic for adults but I think it is the persona of Inspector Magic that allows you to express yourself in a more creative way . MW: Well..yes Tony ..you are right ..I've never thought about it that way, but if I was only ever allowed to perform as just one character that is the one I would choose. Don't get me wrong I enjoy all the facets of my performances for both children and adults.but yes .I have a special fondness for Inspector Magic. TB: I love the character and especially the Promo photo. The Sherlock Holmes Deerstalker hat, the "giant " eye in the magnifying glass and telephone banana..just great fun and very creative .how did you come up with that look ? MW: I had the large telephone banana prop made special from a clown friend of mine - it looks great and I had to get it in the photo. In the show, I use it to get a chuckle when I answer it, and the caller thinks my act has "a peel." I thank him a "bunch" and then "split." You know, I really do perform magic in my shows somewhere between the one-liners. I've been using the magnifying glass for years. It is part of my logo that Ed Harris made for me. It also acts as a magicians' wand when I want to subtly show my hand is empty. Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed the photo. It was an SAM Assembly program - we have two very good photographers in our club, and they offered to have a photo-shoot night. Many of the members took advantage. End of Part 1 - Check in next week (Hidden in this article are deliberate grammatical & spelling mistakes. After much hard work, my proofreader & I have included these to please those who enjoy finding them.) Send comments & corrections to:- tbrook47@gmail.com -------------------------------------------- 9. Review Of Roberto Giobbi S Card College Lightests -------------------------------------------- Message by Joel Moskowitz (San Diego) When light is heavy Review of Roberto Giobbi s Card College Lightests by Joel A. Moskowitz M D March 07, 2010 Light is a measure of illumination but also of weight. When Roberto Giobbi is said to be a leading light in the field of card magic, the description emphasizes his literary exposition of prestidigitation with pasteboards. What seems to be a contradictory title professional magic without sleight of hand Giobbi tries to appeal to all interested magicians-to be and experienced afficianados Hermetic Press has released this small hardbound 132 page book originally published in 1995. This is the third of the Light Lighter Lightest trilogy The rear dust jacket describes this book for beginners or those who desire to perform truly amazing magic but don t have the time... also to increase the proficiency of experienced students. This is a challenging editorial task which is only successful by violating its promise. The effects are complex, lengthly, and, in many instances, advocate the knowledge/use of sleights: use a buckle (p110), the problem of culling (p124); the turnover pass seek Card College 4 ; or The Glimpse (refer to Card College 2); and many other examples appear in the book. Author/Magician Giobbi in his introduction attempts to analogize the French method of making eggs with the creation and performance? of card marvels. He quotes Gordan Bruce (Glasgow) There may be self working tricks but there are no self working presentations. With this sage maxim in mind, here are some of the tricks: Eighteen effects are offered. - Einstein's Card Trick is a spell a card employing a mathematical control the automatic placement ; - A trick referring to the Alice in Wonderland Looking Glass (Mirror) - creates a spell depending on .? - The Magic Card relies upon the spectator counting to his/her card; - Mental Flushis a variation of a Larry Becker idea (a packet trick); - Follow the Leader how to in 11 pages - Giobbi would prefer to do this with a spread cull ; - Gemini Calling allows predictions on business cards which can serve as your advertisement; - Cardstalt and Cardstalt Plus the author boasts, will astound even the magician performing each of them; - Cheers Mr Galasso utilizes the? familiar Si Stebbins stack; If you can do an overhand shuffle with an injog to retain the top stock, this is enhanced but not, again, sleightless. - Chance by Plan will be even better, the reader is counseled, than as a sleightless production, if you are capable using Lennart Green's rosetta shuffle and/or Paul Curry's spread shuffle; - Posi-Negative Coordination - an advanced performer will know how to do Green's angle separation rather than preparing the deck beforehand. Beginning on page 115 the author describes some of the sleights that this book entitled without sleight of hand which would enhance the tricks offered. The enthusiast who is less knowledgeable may chafe at the complexities. Some of the plots are heavy in this the lightest of Giobbi s trilogy. We tend to forget that sleightless or sleight free magic is not invariably simple magic. It may be as complex and convoluted as the most intricate sleight wizardry. Even, at times, more so. A sophisticated finger flicker may enjoy the mix of effects some of which are performed in the spectator s hands. The author has made earnest effort to educate the student but it is probably not for the totally uninitiated. Dealers may contact Murphy's Magic for copies. Roberto Giobbi's Card College Lightest is prescribed (recommended) as follows: Rx Rx Rx Rx (4/5) -------------------------------------------- 10. WARNING To All Australians And Kiwis -------------------------------------------- Message by Mick Peck - SCMC President 30th New Zealand Magicians Convention: WARNING: ALMOST SOLD OUT! Less than three months to go! Join TC Tahoe, Paul Romhany, Debbie McGee, Whit Haydn, John Carney and the legendary Paul Daniels at the incredible 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention. WARNING! The convention has almost sold out. With a great response from New Zealand and a phenomenal response from Australia, there are currently less than 15 spaces available for the June convention. Competitions: Children's Entertainer: 100% full Stage Magic: 100% full Closeup Magic: 100% full Quick Trick: 100% full MC Competition: 75% full ***SPACES AVAILABLE*** Convention Hotel and Facilities: Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre is one of New Zealand's largest and most comprehensive conference and accommodation venues - all just 15 minutes away from Auckland International Airport. A prestigious four-star venue with a variety of outstanding facilities including 450 free off-street car parks, a 420 seat professional theatre, Wellington's Restaurant & Bar, business centre, pool, spa and gymnasium. Effective use of natural light, views of the lagoon and spacious garden surroundings offer a relaxing and invigorating outdoor environment. The massive Sylvia Park shopping complex is just two minutes down the road. Waipuna Hotel accommodation is typically NZ$160 per night, mention the convention and your special registrant-only rate is just NZ$110, a fantastic saving. Flying to Auckland? Talk to your magic friends and buddy-up on your accommodation! Registration: The convention is just NZ$295 for adults, NZ$195 for those under twenty. This includes all convention demonstrations, lectures, competitions, access to the dealers den, lunches, morning and afternoon teas, and a special VIP ticket to our phenomenal International Stars of Magic evening show, headlined by Paul Daniels. IMPORTANT!: Interested in coming to the convention? We're expecting the event to SELL-OUT before the end of the month. Please register AS SOON AS POSSIBLE so you don't miss out. At the time of writing there are less than 15 spaces left. There are 4 spaces left for the optional Paul Daniels Masterclass. Considering flying to Auckland for the convention? Talk to your magic friends and buddy-up! There are almost fifty confirmed Australian magicians flying to New Zealand for the convention - with our fantastic convention lineup and the current price wars on flights there's simply never been a better time to visit. Registration payment from within NZ can be made via cheque or direct deposit. International payment can be made via direct deposit, International Money Order or PayPal, email mick@mickpeckmagic.com for details. Thanks for your support and we're looking forward to seeing you in June. Questions or comments? Definitely coming to the event and want me to hold your space so you don't miss out? Not a problem, contact me ASAP: SCMC President Mick Peck mick@mickpeckmagic.com +64 (9) 2385167 or 027 404 8981 The Incredible 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention June 5th-7th, 2010 Website: www.scmc.co.nz/convention.html ACT NOW! THIS CONVENTION IS ALMOST SOLD OUT! -------------------------------------------- 11. "Open Sesame" - A Journey To The Other Side Of Magic -------------------------------------------- Message by Luna Shimada (US) "Open Sesame" A Journey to the Other Side of Magic Scheduled to premier on April 18th, 2010 is the new show "Open Sesame" starring Losander, Luna Shimada and Christian Diamond. The show will be playing 3 nights and 5 shows a week (Sun-Tues) at the Royal Resort on Convention Center Drive. A theatrical parlor style show that promises a potent magical experience filled with visually stunning moments combined with thought provoking anecdotes. The concept show, written by Luna Shimada, is a collaboration of talents based on each performers unique character and specialty in their field. Losander, originally from Germany, is a recipient of the Milbourne Christopher Award for outstanding achievements in the art of magic, a highly coveted honor and a 2 time nominee of the Academy of Magical Arts ( the Oscars of magic). Losander, standing over 6 feet tall, is the image of a Nordic Wizard, but this gentle giant manipulates and controls the most delicate of elements, Air. Soap bubbles beckon and dance to his call, inanimate objects fly and move around and defy gravity itself. Losander's light hearted humor carries him through the show like the light-ness of his magic. Christian Diamond has had a colorful background. He has been a Ballroom Dance competitor, a Race Car driver and a U.S. Marine. After a car accident left him with severe nerve damage in his hands, he discovered magic through David Copperfield's "Project Magic" rehabilitation program and began to heal his hands by doing simple close up magic. There, a new passion for magic was born. Now 15 years later, Christian has integrated magic into his life and has been performing professionally ever since. Christian Diamond is a diamond in the rough and as such, portrays the character of one who is seeking his true wealth, or is it his worth? As the dark trickster element of the show, this nomadic gypsy is constantly looking for opportunities to get the upper hand. How will it all work out for him? Well, you'll just have to come see for yourself. He will no doubt, show you things that will question your reality. The third element is the very mysterious and dynamic Luna Shimada. Luna was born into the world of magic. Her father is the world renowned Magician Shimada, from Japan. A magical legend who has inspired the likes of Lance Burton, David Copperfield and many contemporary magicians, past and present. Luna began her training early at the age of 12 and has made her mark in the world of magic as one of the premier female magicians in the world. Luna has created her special brand of magic which has a distinctive style and presence. She is the recipient of the World Magic Award for best female magician in 2007 and has been featured in numerous network specials and documentaries as one of the finest philosophical luminaries in the field of magic. Luna is the embodiment of feminine beauty and power wrapped in a sheer aura of silk and dipped in moonlight! Her magic is in her passion. She is the poet and the artist. Dramatic and emotional at times and whimsical the next, her magic is highly visual and metaphorical. So come one and all and take the Royal path to the edge of the desert and be part of a magical journey of a different kind...but don't forget your password... Its "open sesame". Showtimes are: Sundays 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Mondays 6:30 pm Tuesdays 6:30 pm- 9:00 pm running time approx: 80 minutes Advance tickets on sale now. $29.95 www.OpenSesameTheShow.com 702-809-2243 www.losandermagic.com www.lunashimada.com www.christiandiamond.com -------------------------------------------- 12. British Ring Convention 2010 -------------------------------------------- Message by Bob Hayden PRO to the Britsh Ring The initial list of those who will be performing and lecturing at this year's British Ring Convention in Eastbourne 22nd -26th September has just been announced by the organising secretary John Pye. It is a formidable schedule of well acquainted names and a host of those making their first appearance at our Convention. So how's this for starters to stimulate a need for you to be present at this year's annual get together - Charlie Frye and Company, Rich Bloch, Julius Frack, Richard Forget, Martin Eisle, Wayne Dobson, Cyril Harvey, Mauel Muerte, Flip, Yoganne, Matt Johnson, Richard Cadell, Black Fingers, Derek Lever, Bob Yelland, Jimmy Carlo, Pluck, Graham P Jolley, Ian Keable, The Nardinis and Amethyst. Rest assured there are many more names to come and you will be advised of them as soon as their booking has been confirmed. There will be profiles of these top class Stars of Magic in the forthcoming weeks. As to the format of the convention itself some changes are going to be initiated. You drew to the management Committee's attention that due to the full programme the opportunities to socialise with fellow magicians, which must be one of the underlying purposes for attending a Magical Convention were limited during the formal events. The introduction of the Ali Bongo Micro Magic Marathon had, it was felt, gone some way to address this need. So following this year's M.M.M. which will take place in the Floral Hall, there will be a Comedy Show that having a Cabaret style setting will create a vastly different convivial atmosphere to that would be experienced in a theatre environment. This means the stage competition relocates to Thursday evening. Sadly after 25 consecutive Conventions Eddie Dawes has decided it was time to call a halt to his Friday Afternoon Show. He will however continue to arrange the Collectors Seminar on the History of Mystery which will be moved from its Saturday afternoon slot to Friday. This allows Saturday afternoon accommodating more lectures/workshops which will especially please those who are only able to register for the weekend. It is also planned to provide a lecture on Sunday morning. It is the aim of the Organising Committee to compile a programme that meets the requisites of Conventioneers but with so many facets to magic regretfully there will be some who will be disappointed that their particular interest is not prominently featured. They always strive to cover as many varied aspects as possible within the time available. Neville Johnson is waiting to receive your registration. You can do so on line from this website or you can contact him by telephone on 01202 873234 or by e.mail at nevillejohnson25@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 13. Mystery & History Blog -------------------------------------------- Message by Julie Eng (Canada) Magicana is hosting a new blog called Mystery & History: http://magicol.wordpress.com/ This blog is designed to keep the members of the Magic Collectors Association (MCA) informed on news and updates as well as special offers. Readers may find this week's entry about Owen Clark interesting: http://bit.ly/apwYxz If you have anything you'd like to contribute to Mr. Brinson, please visit the blog and let him know! -------------------------------------------- 14. A Little Swindle Film From The Past -------------------------------------------- Message by Garry Frank (US) Thought subscribers might enjoy this short film on YouTube. The title is "Look Out, Cleveland". It was filmed in the 1970's, but the card work is a testament of those bygone days. The fellow who did the card work is Brick Tilley. When Dai Vernon saw the film in 1975, he commented,"...it will teach you what to watch out for if you're gambling with strangers...an educational picture..." Dai Vernon. Here's the YouTube address: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvyASkj2leg I figured you could show it around to those fellows down there who enjoy card work and an interesting take on gambling swindles. One other addition to all of this, Tilley has created a DVD of the film and put in some additional footage a dice routine. Let me know if you need any details on the DVD. -------------------------------------------- 15. Bruce Glen's'Magic & Fairytales For Grown-ups -------------------------------------------- Message by Bruce Glen (Aust) Bruce Glen's'Magic & Fairytales For Grown-ups (of all ages)' Magic in the Parlour @ The Hughenden Hotel, Sydney, Australia The Hughenden Boutique Hotel, Woollahra - in Sydney's eastern suburbs - will host regular performances by Sydney magician, Bruce Glen. Bruce, who was recently confirmed as a member of The Magic Circle, has created one of his trademark Bespoke Magic shows especially for the Hughenden. It is entitled: 'Magic & Fairytales For Grown-ups (of all ages).' "The intimacy and old world charm of The Hughenden's parlour makes it the perfect venue for magic. "Audiences can sink into the huge leather couches after dinner and enjoy a journey into magic, woven around the hotel's history and inspired by the charm and wonder of some of our greatest storytellers," Bruce Glen said. The historic Hughenden has long been the home of literary associations such as The Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators; The Story Tellers Guild; and The Children's Writers and Illustrators Network. The walls of the Victorian Italianate Hughenden are adorned with original works by local artists and an extensive collection of children's book illustrations. Experience 'Magic & Fairytales For Grown-ups (of all ages)' - on the last Thursday of every month at 8:00PM - commencing Thursday, 25 March 2010 - at The Hughenden, 14 Queen Street, Woollahra. Bookings essential - for dinner and/or show . Dinner & show - $60pp, including two course, a-la-carte pre-show dinner. Show only - $35pp, including a glass of house red or white wine, or tap beer on arrival. Phone: +61 (0)2 9363 4863 Further information: Bruce Glen BESPOKE MAGIC M. 0412 110 959 E. info@BespokeMagic.com.au W. www.BespokeMagic.com.au -------------------------------------------- 16. Ellis & Webster's - USA Lecture Tour April -------------------------------------------- Message by Tim Ellis (Aust) Ellis & Webster's Powerful Stuff - USA Lecture Tour April For those who were enquiring, here is the schedule for our April lectures in the USA Ellis & Webster's Powerful Stuff http://2010lecture.wordpress.com/ Sunday April 18 at 5pm Denny & Lee Magic Studio Contact: Denny & Lee - phone 410-686-3914 Monday, April 19 at 8pm Long Island Mystics, S.A.M. Assembly #77 Contact: Jeff Miller at jmiller@hoflink.com Tuesday, April 20 at 8pm SAM Assembly #168 Contact: Tim Fortune at fortunemagic@gmail.com April 21 to 24 Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic (Show only) Sunday, April 25 Mawny Convention (Show only) Monday, April 26 at 8pm Big Flats, NY Contact: Professor Rem at 4privet@earthlink.net Tuesday, April 27 at 8pm Rochester, NY Contact: Professor Rem at 4privet@earthlink.net Wednesday, April 28 at 8pm Syracuse, NY Contact: Phil Messina at ptthemagi@juno.com April 29 to May 1 CAMaraderie Convention, Canada (Shows & Lecture) -------------------------------------------- 17. Magi-Whirl 2010, April 9-10 Near Washington, DC -------------------------------------------- Message by Eric Henning Secretary I.B.M. Ring 50 www.IBMRing50.org I.B.M. Ring 50 The National Capital Ring Presents Washington Dc's Premiere Magic Convention! April 9-10, 2010 http://www.magi-whirl.org Duane Laflin Jim Sisti Samuel Patrick Smith with Special Guest Darwin Ortiz Bill Wells Buddy Smith Dick Christian Eric Henning Gala Public Show Saturday, April 10 @ 7:30pm 700-seat Whaley Auditorium Bishop Ireton High School 3 Top-Quality Magic Lectures! 3 Close-up Shows! Celebrity Interview Q&A Session! All-Day Dealer Room! Gala Public Evening Show! Time for Sessioning! Once again for 2010, we have secured Bishop Ireton High School 201 Cambridge Road, Alexandria, VA 22314. $50.00 Convention Registration through March 21, 2010. (per person, includes convention, all lectures on April 9 & 10, Dealer Room, Close-up Shows, Q&A session and One Ticket for Gala Public Show.) After March 21, 2010 Convention Registration will be $65.00 at the door. Show Tickets One General Admission, Saturday April 10, 2010: $12.00 in advance, $10 for Students (14 & under) and Seniors (65+) $15.00 & $10.00 at the door -------------------------------------------- 18. Wanted: Illusions -------------------------------------------- Message by Patrick Defesche The Netherlands patj_88@live.nl Hi fellow magician/illusionist, For my new magic show I am looking for new illusions. I am a magician/illusionist living in The Netherlands working on a new show called "Spirit of Magic". I own several illusions already and still searching for some new effects. My budget goes to 1500 euro. If you have effects that could be interesting for me, I would love to hear from you. The effects which I already have in my new show include: - Crystal Casket/Box - Mini Cube Zag - Linking Rings - Assistants Revenge - Modern Art - Losander's Floating Table - Dancing Butterflies - Sub Trunk I am looking forward to your reponse Magical Wishes, Patrick Defesche The Netherlands patj_88@live.nl -------------------------------------------- 19. 24th Annual Magic Spectacular -------------------------------------------- Message by Barry Gitelson, Hawaii Imagine world-class, award-winning illusions appearing within arm's reach. Or better yet come to The 24th Annual Magic Spectacular which will be held at the Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu on Saturday March 27, 2010. Tickets can be purchased at the Kona Wine Market, Sandy's Drive in Kainaliu and at the door. Show times are 2:30 PM matinee, and 7:00 PM evening show. Ticket prices are just $10.00 for children and $12.00 for adults and seniors. The years special guest performer is Kristi Toguchi. Kristi Toguchi is an infusion of MAGIC, DANCE, and CIRCUS ARTS! By combining an eclectic blend of performing arts, Kristi has created a unique style of entertainment that has been recognized throughout the world. Kristi's talent has been recognized with awards from the Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Kristi was also awarded the Lady Magician of the Century Award in Hong Kong and the Outstanding Showmanship Award in Japan. Following in the steps of her father and grandfather, Tengu the Magician, Jimmy Yoshida, Kristi continues the tradition of magic in her family as a 3rd generation magician. Surrounded by magic every second of her life, her love for the craft was inevitable. Simultaneous to her magic career she also pursued a career in dance and circus arts. By the time Kristi received her Bachelor's of Arts, in Dance from the University of California, San Diego, she had also choreographed for the San Diego Opera, and performed professionally with the Fern Street Circus, and San Diego's renowned choreographers. Kristi Toguchi takes miracles and makes them dance. The music starts, she takes the audience by the hand, and before they realize it, amazing things are happening all around them. When Kristi's on stage, magic rocks. It swings. It even does the Samba. Her magic is designed to make your imagination her partner on stage. Kristi has been featured in national and international venues, performing for television broadcasts, corporate clients, and non-profit organizations. Also performing will be the members of the Big Island Magic Club, Arnie (Arneleo the Great) Rabin, Al Gulick, Kim Sweeney and Barry (The Great Barusky) Gitelson, who will be filling the theatre with magic, mystery and laughter. This fun filled family event is a benefit for the Society for Kona's Education and Arts (SKEA) in Honaunau. The Big Islands surf band "Solar Wind" will be providing musical accompaniment. For more information please call 323-9707. Barry Gitelson www.magician.org/member/barrygitelson -------------------------------------------- 20. 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) -------------------------------------------- 21. 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 Zealand® E-zine at www.Alan-Watson.com Magic New Zealand® E-zine is published each Sunday. The opinions expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New Zealand®. Neither Magic New Zealand® nor Alan Watson vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New Zealand® E-zine. Subscribers to this publication and authors who contribute to it by doing so agree they will not hold Magic New Zealand® or Alan Watson, jointly or individually liable or responsible in any way for the opinions expressed therein. Magic New Zealand® reserves the right to alter, correct or disregard any articles submitted. 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