`* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #748 Date: Sunday 18th April 2010 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. 42 Academy of Magical Arts Awards 3. Is John Sterlini A Dodgy Dealer? 4. May 2010 Issue Of Genii, The Conjurors' Magazine 5. More Remarkable Magic - Nick Lewin #32 6. Never Let Them See You Fail - #162 - Kyle Peron 7. Tony Brook In Conversation With Jason Andrews (Part1) 8. Ron Cartlidge Lectures On Houdini In Texas 9. "Masters Of Magic" Series 10. Stats For 4F 2010?? 11. 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention 12. Fantasma News And Events 13. Jay Marshall Auction Part IV - Now Online! 14. Zombie Of Comedy Magic 15. The Melbourne Magic Festival 2010 16. Again Booking Devin Knight For Lectures 17. The Centre For The Magic Arts London 18. British Ring Convention News 19. e-zine Archives 20. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Pleased to say that when we get complaints about Magic Dealers they are usually resolved very quickly when I write to them. But this is not the case with John Sterlini's magic! After a second e-mail to his company I received a reply form his brother Jim who told me he is looking after his business while his brother is away looking after his sick sister. Jim said that there had been problems which he said he would sort out but this has not happened! Refer item 3. Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. 42 Academy of Magical Arts Awards -------------------------------------------- Message by Mel Kientz (US) The 42nd Annual Academy of Magical Arts Awards by BWW News Desk A sold out crowd filled the Avalon Hollywood Theatre on Sunday night, April 11th for the 42nd annual Academy of Magical Arts Awards. The evening was not only hosted, but also co-produced by the popular Neil Patrick Harris. The evenings color commentary was offered by the always-funny Jason Alexander. Often referred to as the Oscars, Grammys or TONYS of magic, the 2009 Academy of Magical Arts Awards (AMAA) are dedicated to honoring the best in the illustrious world of illusion. However, unlike its award contemporaries, the show dedicates a larger part of the evening to entertainment with both jaw dropping and humorous performances by talented individuals such as Rudy Coby, The Great Tomsoni & Co., Armando Lucero, Yo Kato, Andrew Goldenhersh, Jeff Hobson, John Calvert and Ed Alonzo. The evening's honors went to: Lecturer of the Year: Doc Eason; Close-Up Magician of the Year: Doc Eason; Parlour Magician of the Year: Andrew Goldenhersh; Stage Magician of the Year: Jeff Hobson; Junior Achievement Awards were presented to Rmax Goodwin and Aaron Rabkin. The Board of Trustees awarded the following Fellowships: Performance - Close-Up: JC Wagner; Performance - Stage: Pam Thompson; Creative: Michael Weber; Special: Steve Forte; Literary: Todd Karr; Masters: Norm Nielsen; Lifetime Achievement: Chuck Jones; and the highly coveted 2009 Magician of the Year: Ed Alonzo. The presenters for the festivities included: Christina Hendricks, Jeff Probst, Mark Wilson, Max Maven, Mac King, Larry Wilmore and Nigel Lythgoe. Among those in attendance were Magic Castle regulars including Alison Arngrim, Nathan Fillion, Kate Linder, Kelly LeBrock, Lynette Chappell, and Lee Roy Reams (Who is the next Broadway icon to appear at the Castle's Cabaret at the Castle). Formerly known worldwide as "The Palace," the Avalon Hollywood has been restored to its original Hollywood-era glory by Boston-based nightclub impresarios, the Lyons Group. With its historic pedigree and present popularity, it was the perfect venue for the 2009 AMA Awards. The art of illusion has been a favorite form of entertainment since before written history. It has fascinated audiences of stage and screen here in America as a standard in the early Vaudeville houses to today's Broadway hits like Wicked! The Academy of Magical Arts have recognized some of the greatest magicians of all time including Siegfried and Roy, Doug Henning, Lance Burton, David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, and championed the original and the restoration of Harry Houdini's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Academy is housed in the world famous Magic Castle, whose structure (originally the Lane Mansion) celebrated its 100 anniversary in 2009. The private club boasts an equally impressive membership over the years that has included, Cary Grant, Johnny Carson, Carol Channing, Dom DeLuise, Tippi Hedren, Hugh Hefner, Rose Marie, Hugh O'Brian, Florence Henderson, Jason Alexander, Christina Hicks, Johnny Depp, Loni Anderson, Rip Taylor and its recently voted Vice President, Mr. Neil Patrick Harris, to name only a few. Source: http://losangeles.broadwayworld.com/article/Photo_Flash_Avalon_Hollywood_Theatre_Hand_Out_Their_Highest_Honors_20100413 -------------------------------------------- 3. Is John Sterlini A Dodgy Dealer? -------------------------------------------- Message by David P Boyd (Aust) May I ask through Magic New Zealand if any of your readers have had trouble with John Sterlini Magic? Back on the 9th Jan 2010 I put an order into John Sterlini for $145-90 U.S. it was processed on the 11/1/20/10. To date 28/3/2010 I have not received the order despite many emails asking when the order could be expected. I have not even been given the curtsey of a reply. To say the least this has put a soar taste in my mouth and in no way will I be giving any more orders to this dealer and will tell the many magicians I have contact with of my experience with this dealer. If others have experienced the same problems would they contact me on boyddp@hotmail.com If this is the usual way he does business, then the Magic Fraternity should be informed! Dave Boyd (Magic Mountains Mr. Magic) -------------------------------------------- 4. May 2010 Issue Of Genii, The Conjurors' Magazine -------------------------------------------- Message by Richard Kaufman - Editor Gennii Magazine The May 2010 issue of Genii, The Conjurors' Magazine, is now in the mail and starting to reach subscribers. You don't want to miss our cover story on Suzanne, one of the most successful and beloved female close-up magicians in our field. Close-up magic has had few female participants compared to the number of males, and Suzanne, a student of Al Schneider's, is one of the best. Her appearances at The Magic Castle are always widely attended. She has a unique quality as a performer that's captured in our article. Eugene Burger's column "The Showmanship Interviews" reappears after a hiatus, this time Eugene has a revealing and educational talk with Las Vegas star Mac King. Wise words from two wise men. Jim Steinmeyer's "Conjuring" teaches "The Khardova Deck," a sleight-free way of performing "The Open Prediction" that will make you smile. Max Maven explains one of his unique mental miracles in "Lost Horizons." Al Cohen pops in with some more "Memories of a Magic Dealer." Roberto Giobbi's "Genii Session" attacks an oft misquoted and misunderstood maxim of Robert-Houdin's, and in Roberto words, "A magician is NOT an actor playing the part of a magician." This might change the way you think about performing magic. David Acer brings you a "Magicana" of excellent tricks, including the premier of a new column by Canadian mentalist Patrik Kuffs, which reveals a new method for "The Berglas Effect." Jamy Ian Swiss reviews books (including Asi Winds new lecture note/DVD set); Dustin Stinett studies the latest videos (including "Devious" by Mike Close); and David Regal trips through the latest 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. More Remarkable Magic - Nick Lewin #32 -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin (US) Evolution of Magical Performance? I have recently written enthusiastic reviews of several magical productions that focus on short, focused appeal to essentially non-magician audiences. I am speaking of Monday Night Magic and Magical Nights in New York. In Las Vegas we have the highly successful show 'Steve Dacri: In your Face,' and Jeff McBride's monthly extravaganza 'Wonderground.' I am yet to visit Boston's 'Mystery Lounge' but my daughters rave about it and I can't wait to attend their Tuesday night show. Living in Las Vegas it is impossible not to notice the sudden drop in the status and number (and numbers!) of magic shows on and around the strip. It doesn't take a genius to realize that the luster has vanished in magic shows quicker than a dove into Lance's tail suit. Ah, I haven't even mentioned the loss of Lance to the Vegas list of landmarks -because I suspect he will be back as quickly as he wants to. However, I also figure the poor guy needs a break for a while. We are left with Criss Angel, who is considered by most residents as an embarrassment, and has had Cirque pull out their dancers from the show. In all fairness I have heard from many people that the Cirque element of the show was the weakest in their never-ending empire. Let's be honest how many more Russian circus acts, pretending to be French Canadian can there be? They must run out eventually! There are plenty of small 'Four Wall' magic shows that appear and disappear faster than Scarlett can throw a left hook. However, it is a long, sad way from the heyday of magic in the Neon City. I am tempted to say that magic really went into a hospice situation the day they removed the 'Siegfried & Roy' sign from the center of the strip. It was replaced by a billboard for the late Danny Gans and seemed to signal the start of the new era. Nowadays the only non 'Cirque de Same' shows seem to be dominated by impressionists and hypnotists. I think it is a shame, but then I'm a magician. Maybe we had better start thinking of some well executed single night magic shows aimed at the general public. The Magic Castle has always proven an exception to all assumed rules about magic, a lot of this has to do with the brilliant Tom Sawyer 'whitewashing the wall' approach that Milt brilliantly built into the very roots of his brainchild. There really is no other performance venue capable of a seven day a week market. Now, while this may seem a rather negative view of the magical state of the union, I really don't think it is. I remember in the late seventies when my wife Susan and I co-opted the 'Laugh Stop' in Orange County (maybe the first one week/stay in a condo comedy club) and changing it every Monday night into the 'Magic Stop' We carefully replaced the pictures of comedians that adorned the walls with magic posters. We added two close-up tables and it became quite a success. In fact this once a week experiment developed fairly directly into the 'Magic Island,' which was owned by the same businessman. Comedy Clubs came into being nationwide in a big scale in the early 1980s when club owners realized they could replace a relatively expensive band, who needed lighting and sound boards, with a comic, a microphone and a spotlight. Plus they could clear the house and get two (or sometimes three) sets of paying customers a night. It was good business and blossomed spectacularly until the cycle played out. That is the nature of the entertainment business, just slightly more cyclic than the seasons! There is not the same large-scale interest in magic that there was in comedy, mostly because we don't get the TV exposure. However I believe it would be considerably more beneficial for our art form if there were more cities that featured 'professional' regular magic nights in established venues. It would also give the potential pros a chance to perform in front of real audiences, instead of inside the totally unrealistic hierarchy of a local magic club. This would do some good in fact, because it would force the local magical collective to distinguish between real people magicians and magician magicians. It would give a new prospective on the local magic group and teach them more about the actual practicalities of performing professional magic than any amount of lectures where they sit around nodding sagely in agreement as they are told that it is entertainment that matters most. Actually it is the combination of the entertainment factor and good strong magic, but that's another story, Or in the words of Buddy Young Jr; "Don't get me started.." I see signs of the green buds of a new beginning in the magic world. Think small but think quality, and realize that the coma in which magic has arrived in Las Vegas (except the irrepressible Amazing Johnathan!) might be the start of something better for regular high quality magic shows in cities across the country. This is what formed the comedy boom that created a tidal wave through nightclubs/discos in the 1980s, and there are lessons to be learned from that era. I'd love to hear your thoughts.. Nicklewin1@me.com www.remarkablemagic.com www.nicklewin.com -------------------------------------------- 6. Never Let Them See You Fail - #162 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message by Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com poofersgrl@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com Never Let Them See You Fail - #162 - Kyle Peron magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com You're standing on the stage in front of a large crowd who have come to see your show. You are excited and the adrenalin is flowing through your body. The audience loves every minute of it and you know you have them in the palm of your hand. Everything is as it should be when.......SCREECH... everything comes to a halt in your mind because you realize you forgot a move or missed a steal. Your heart starts to pound and that notion of being 1 step ahead of the audience falls by the wayside and is replaced by this fear of "what do I do now?" Many of you may laugh at the above scenario and many of you are probably shaking your head right now agreeing with the entire thing. The reason is that if you perform any style of magic, chances are you have found yourself in this spot on more than one occasion. The problem as to why this happens is varied. It can be from nerves, improper set up, or just plain memory lapse. Why it happens is not so much the main focus of this article. However, what you do when this happens I feel is something worth talking about. No matter how much you practice, rehearse and go over your set up, you will never be perfect. There will always be times when things just go wrong. After all we are only human and that thing called "Murphy's Law" seems to follow us entertainers around a lot more than others. Learning to accept this simple fact is the first step in realizing how to address it when it does happen. There are a couple golden rules that I have come to learn over the years about this very topic. Some come from the knowledge of magicians before me and some come from just the sheer act of having it happen and learning from it. - Never let your audience know you made a mistake in the first place. It is so easy to get this "deer in headlights" look when we realize something has gone wrong or not as we had planned it. However the only way an audience will know you made a mistake is if you actually tell them. If you allow your body language or patter to reflect obviously that a mistake happened, then that is the only reason they will even know. The best advice when a mistake happens is to keep going on with your routine or act and do not let the audience know anything. If you maintain composure, the audience will never know the difference. - The only person who knows what is supposed to happen is YOU. This is a very important concept for any magician to remember. You are the only one who knows in your mind how the act or routine is supposed to play out. The audience only knows based on what you show them as the act unfolds. With this in mind, you can always go off of your normal routine and switch gears anytime you want. If you realize this simple point, it can allow you to change direction in the event something does not go according to plan. - Realize that there is power in improvisation. Some of my best routines have come from the simple fact that I had to improvise when something did not go as planned. By allowing yourself to improvise, you can often create some great ideas that you may never have thought of. - Learn to create "outs" in your routines. By "out" I simply mean to evaluate your routines and realize potential problems ahead of time. By defining these problems, you can create alternative courses of action and learn to use these when a situation presents itself. Remember that failure is never failure unless you fail to learn from it. Even when something does not go according to plan, we can take a step back, evaluate it and gain insight from it. If you even learn one thing from it, then failure really becomes a stepping stone to your success. 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://www.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 -------------------------------------------- 7. Tony Brook in Conversation with Jason Andrews (Part1) ------------------------------------------ Message by Anthony Darkstone Brook - Europe/USA Over the last months of 2009, Nick Lewin and I wrote several words praising the skill and performances of a young Magician in his early 20's. That Magician's name is Jason Andrews. Channing Pollock, Joanie Spina, Jeff McBride, Johnny Thompson and a whole Host of other top names in our business also rate Jason extremely highly. Ordinarily when reference is made to a "young" Magician it can sometimes be interpreted as a mite patronizing but I make the point in this instance to convey the exceptional and outstanding talent that Jason possesses; he has the smoothness of performance and skill that usually only comes from decades of performing experience. His Stage presence is mesmerizing and without a doubt a gift from the Gods of Theater. Jason has taken that gift and honed it into outstanding skill. I lecture, consult and instruct on the Performance and Presentation of Magic. I have had the honor and privilege to be a judge at Magic contests alongside such names as Kendrick "Ice" McDonald, Rod Chow and Jon Racherbaumer. I therefore, do not lavish praise lightly. However, when it is earned and truly merited I do not hold back either; hence my praise of Jason Andrews. I have seen him perform over the last couple years and more recently at The Harmon Theatre in Vegas. Anyone who has been there will know that it is an "in" place and not on the tourist maps. The audiences there are 98% made up of experienced Performers (mostly those working in Vegas). Whoever performs their needs a lot more than sheer courage!!! Christian Doleshall, EJ my Manager and I were there on the Monday night that Jason was on the bill. Jason got a standing ovation. Enough stated. Anything more, in my intro will be superfluous. www.jasonandrewsmagic.com TB: Hello Jason. Thanks for taking time to hang out and converse a while. It was great spending time with you recently in Vegas and hanging out with other mutual Magical friends. JA: Hi Tony. It is always a great pleasure and my thanks to you for featuring me in your series, I'm truly honored. Yes, it was fun seeing you again and getting to spend quality time with you, and all our other Magical friends in Vegas. We did indeed have some great meals and see some great shows. Every time we are able to get together it is truly a privilege. TB: Thanks Jason. Too bad we had to leave. However, our last night in Vegas was a blast at The Amazing Jonathan's party. JA: Yes it was and it is great that we had fun with Joanie Spina, Jeff McBride, Christian Doleshall, EJ, Penny, Nick and Susan Lewin and the huge list of celebs. TB : It sure was. I've been to some great parties in my time but the guest list at this one , the nubile ladies dancing, fire-eating and the haunted house.well, only in Vegas!!! Well, on the subject of Vegas. This is where you live. You were raised here, Right? JA: Yes Tony. I was born in Indiana in 1986. My family followed my grandma to Las Vegas in 1989, 3 days before my 3rd birthday. My Mom raised me and my older brother on her own. She worked long hours even most holidays and my brother took care of me when Mom was at work. TB: You got a very special present one birthday that literally changed your life. Tell us about that..... JA: Yes. You mean my jump-start into Magic. Mom took me to see Lance Burton for my 12th birthday. I was a Las Vegas kid and as most kids do, always liked Magic. After watching Lance's show, I really said to myself that is what I want to do, real magic. My Mom bought me a magic set that very night. I began practicing that same night and practiced over and over for the next 2 years. I then had my first close-up show for family and friends. TB: Another major highlight was via your High School English teacher, Ms Connell. Share some of that with us ...... JA: In 2001, my freshman year of high school, I attended the Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing and Visual Arts High School of Las Vegas. I know, it is such a mouthful, but happily otherwise known as LVA. LVA is a magnet school and you pick a specific area to study, in depth, every school day. I was deeply in love with Magic and was still convinced that's what I wanted to do. I decided to get to know as much about it as possible and so I decided to major in technical theatre. This covered all the aspects of lighting design, audio engineering, stage management, costuming, set carpentry and everything else in-between and attached! During my freshman year, the world famous BOOMERS magic club was having shows on Friday nights; anyone that wanted to perform could come out, get on stage, and show what they had. I invited all of my teachers from LVA to come and watch me perform. Two of my teachers showed up to support me. Fortunately, one of them was my English teacher, Ms. Connell. At that time I had just heard about Tannens magic camp and I mentioned that night, after the show to the table that I was really keen to attend. The following week, Ms. Connell explained to me that her family owned a billboard company and they sponsored one youth per year to do something they love. A community donation. She explained that they wanted to sponsor me in attending Tannens magic camp that summer! I was astounded. My Mom worked out all of the details and I attended the camp in the summer of 2001. At that time I had my first tuxedo, billiard balls, Norm Nielsen cards and a zombie. I brought my props with me, and with the help of the counselors and a dear friend, to this day, Scott Hitchcock, I won first place in the stage competition. This was my first award, and I think in a way that "sealed the deal" for me wanting to be a professional magician. TB: Ah yes! The legendary BOOMERS. I first went there back in 2003 when my son and I opened for Steve Dacri at The Orleans. We had a great night there in the back room and a wonderful time with Gary Darwin and especially two mutual friends of ours, Frank Zak and Ariann Black. I bring this up because both Frank and Ariann have played major roles in your life. JA: Yes Boomers is a great place. I know it holds special memories for you as well. This time, when you were last here in Vegas, I got to be there too and attend your lecture, and let me say, Tony, it was FANTASTIC, I really learned some great effects, so thanks to you! Ariann, as you know was opening for The Amazing Jonathan and could not make it but Frank Zak, Lupe Nielsen, Steve Dacri were there and several other good mutual friends of ours as well. That was a fun night. End of Part 1- More to follow 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 -------------------------------------------- 8. Ron Cartlidge Lectures On Houdini In Texas -------------------------------------------- Message by George Schindler Society of American Magicians Public Relations One of the top experts and collectors of "Houdiniana" Ron Cartlidge joins three special event speakers in Atlanta at the S A M Convention June 30 to July 3. Other speakers are Bruce Walstad (con artist expert); Philip Morris (sideshow connoisseur); and Sandy Marshall talking about his famous dad Jay Marshall. All these, in addition to six superb magic lectures and a few late night hard core sessions. Check them out at our website: http://www.magicsam.com/SAM2010/index.asp -------------------------------------------- 9. "Masters Of Magic" Series ------------------------------------------- Message by James Alan Tickets go on sale on Thursday, April 15, 2010 for the Luminato "Masters of Magic" series. Coming up in June, as part of the Luminato arts festival (www.luminato.com) three of the world's greatest magicians will be performing their full shows at the Panasonic Theatre in Toronto. Go to www.TicketMaster.ca and search for "Luminato" to get your tickets for: Max Maven's Thinking in Person (Friday, June 18) Mac King direct from Las Vegas (Saturday, June 19 & Sunday June 20) Juan Tamariz in Spanish (June 17), English (June 19) and French (June 20) Tickets are $35 or $45, based on seating. There are limited seats available to reserve your tickets as soon as possible. Bob Sheets will also be doing several impromptu performances in Toronto during the festival. Follow on twitter (http://twitter.com/sharingwonder) to find out where. More information at www.magicana.com -------------------------------------------- 10. Stats For 4F 2010?? -------------------------------------------- Message by Obie Obrien (US) Obie's 4F (Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic) has some interesting stats this year. *There are people coming from 5 continents: Asia, Europe, South America, North America and Australia. *Magicians from 31 American States will be in attendance. *18 countries will be represented* Finland, Canada, Spain, England, France, Italy, Sweden, Korea, Hong Kong, The Netherlands, Argentina, Australia, Germany, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan, Venezuela, and the USA *22 FISM winners are coming. Three are Grand Prix winners. As well, Eric Eswin, President of FISM will be joining us. 9 IBM Past Presidents, plus the President Elect & 4 others involved with the Linking Ring magazine will be there. 8 SAM Past Presidents plus the SAM President & the SAM contest chairman are coming. Canada has the biggest group with 28 attendees. 62 people are coming from outside the USA. This represents about 1/4 of the attendees. 20 contest winners from the IBM, SAM, MacMillans, The Magic Circle, CAM, The British Ring 25, Magi Fest, WMS and Blackpool conventions are attending. The dates for the 40th (invitation only) 4F are April 21 to 24, 2010. It will the biggest gathering of award winning close up magicians in the world. Read more about 4F by going to www.ffffmagic.com -------------------------------------------- 11. 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention -------------------------------------------- Message by Mick Peck SCMC President The Incredible 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention Saturday June 5th - Monday June 7th 2010 We're currently hard at work ensuring that the upcoming 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention will be the best ever held in this country! What can you expect from the experience? - Phenomenal lineup of talent that reads like an international magic magazine - Entertaining competitions with lots of new faces and entrants from overseas - Professional tech crew - pro sound and lighting throughout the entire convention - Your chance to win the fabulous "MAGIC 1400s-1950s" book (see Magicana Magazine) - Banquet featuring comedy, magic, music and variety acts - Dealers Den featuring unique magic from around the world, confirmed dealers include Auckland Magic Centre And Supply (NZ), Elgregoe (NZ), Chicane Enterprises (NZ), Whit Haydn/School For Scoundrels (US), j3magic (NZ), Ovation Magic (Aus), Paul Romhany (NZ), Taylors Magic Shop (Aus), TC Tahoe (US), Tricks Magic Shop (NZ) - All-star pro close-up show with Academy of Magical Arts multiple award winners TC Tahoe, John Carney and Whit Haydn - VIP Ticket to our world-class gala show headlined by master showman and household name Paul Daniels! Paying by Installments? A friendly reminder that all outstanding accounts are to be settled by 15th May at the latest please. We want to have all accounts and paperwork settled well in advance so that we can concentrate on running a top-notch event for you. Thanks for your understanding. Souvenir Booklet: The souvenir booklet is now being put together, space is available for advertisements, club notices and greetings. B+W, A4 size and most reasonably priced at NZ$40 for a half page (horizontal), NZ$80 for a full page. High-res JPG artwork to mick@mickpeckmagic.com please. If you need your ad designed send me the text and graphics and I'll lay it out for you free of charge, no problem. Deadline for ads and greetings is the end of this month. Got Your Public Show Tickets Yet? Paul Daniels will be on the Mike Hosking Breakfast Show on NewstalkZB next Thursday morning around 8am to promote the "International Stars of Magic" shows we're running as part of the convention. Have you got your extra tickets yet? http://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2010/jun/international-stars-of-magic/ Or call iTicket on 09 361 1000 Remember your convention registration includes a ticket to the Saturday night show. If you're going to be in town on Friday evening then definitely consider a ticket to the Friday night show - quite a few convention registrants will be taking advantage of both performances. Questions or comments? Mick Peck SCMC President (09) 238 5167 or 027 404 8981 mick@mickpeckmagic.com Bruce Allan (BJ) SCMC Secretary (09) 232 1334 or 027 289 0596 For full event information visit: http://www.scmc.co.nz/convention.html Schedule available at: http://scmc.co.nz/conventionschedule.html The 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention Saturday June 5th - Monday June 7th 2010 The ALL-NEW "Inside the Mind of Paul Daniels" performance and presentation Masterclass, Friday June 4th, 10am-4pm -------------------------------------------- 12. Fantasma News And Events -------------------------------------------- Message by Roger Dreyer CEO Fantasma Friday - 04/16/10 :: Fantasma Magic on PBS @7PM Channel 21 (WLIW NYC) City Magic Go inside Fantasma Magic, a spacious magic shop in midtown Manhattan, to meet the people who are keeping the craft alive. "City Magic" is a warm, loving look at a fascinating world populated by some very young and very accomplished magicians, all attracted to Fantasma Magic by the lure of one of the most ancient and mysterious performing arts. Through revealing interviews and on-location footage the film conveys a sense of how difficult -- and satisfying -- becoming a successful magician can be. Tune in to witness the magic. ------------------------------------------------ Tuesday - 04/20/10 :: Simo Aalto NYC Lecture @ 7PM Simo Aalto NYC Lecture - "Visual Sleight Of Hand Lecture" VIP Seating: $40.00 ~ GEN: $25.000 ~ Youth (under 18) Seating: $15.00 For tickets please call the shop at 212.244.3633 We very excited to announce that master magician Simo Aalto will be in the shop to deliver to you his fantastic "Visual Sleight Of Hand Lecture" Lecture Details: All of this brand new material has been in development for the past two years. For example, you will learn how to do his "Easy Way Matrix" without a close-up pad. or how to vanish a giant coin wearing only jeans and a T-shirt. also, there is his Chop-Cup Routine with a paper-cup and thimbles. he will teach his many advancements and new ideas in card magic. and, from his award winning "Bell Act" - you will learn to produce ice-cubes from between your fingers... and much, much more! ------------------------------------------------ Sunday - 05/02/10 :: 1st Annual Fantasma Magic Auction Starting @ 3pm The Latest. The Greatest. The Oldest. The Rarest. All for sale to the highest bidder! Whether you're looking to buy that elusive illusion. or looking to sell you're one-of-a-kind card trick. Fantasma has you covered! Do some Spring cleaning. Clear out your closets. Unload some magic to make room for more! This is not fundraiser. This is not for a charity. This is for the magic community to spend some time together, collect great magic, make some money and have some fun! Admission is FREE, all are welcome to attend, seating is on a first come-first serve basis - however, this is a PRIVATE event - only members of the magic community will be allowed to bid. or have items up for sale. Phone Bids will NOT be allowed, but bidding by proxy is acceptable. Buyers: a partial catalog of items on the block will be made available one week before the auction. The catalog will include a complete description and a photo. Sellers: We don't care if your items are new or old as long as it is of interest to other magicians. Auction Fees are 20% of price realized or 10% for items over a thousand dollars. To have your item be considered for the auction you must contact Nelson Lugo at 212.244.3633 or nelson@fantasmamagic.com with the Your Name, the Item, Item Name, Your Minimum, Current Value and Condition. To have your item listed in the catalog we must receive it at the shop no later than Friday April 23rd. Items brought after April 23rd and up to the day of the auction will be placed in the second half of the event. Have A Fun Time At Fantasma! ------------------------------------------------ Wednesday - 05/05/10 :: David Roth NYC Lecture @ 7PM David Roth's - Coin Magic Lecture ~ Featuring: Dr. Michael Rubinstein VIP Seating: $40.00 ~ GEN Seating: $25.00 ~ Youth (under 18) Seating: $15.00 For tickets please call the shop at 212.244.3633 We are so very excited to announce that.FINALLY the next three New York coin Magic Seminar DVDs (volume 11, 12 & 13) are going to be available for the first time in the USA. But that is not all... to send off the DVD in style David & Michael have designed a Brand New Lecture to go along with it and Fantasma is the ONLY place to see it. Of course, you will able to purchase the DVDs from Fantasma but you can also have the signatures of these two master magicians - Great Magic, Autographed by the Magicians Themselves! In this lecture David & Michael will be teaching 10 effects from the new set called "Workers". In fact, David said he will finally be tipping a secret he's been sitting for the past ten years. More details will be listed as we get more information from these very magic men. ------------------------------------------------ Wednesday - 05/12/10 :: Shaun Robison NYC Lecture @ 7PM Shaun Robison NYC Lecture - Restaurant Close-Up Magic Lecture VIP Seating: $40.00 ~ GEN Seating: $25.00 ~ Youth (under 18) Seating: $15.00 For tickets please call the shop at 212.244.3633 Shaun Robison is an Award Winning Magician & Mentalist. A true professional, Shaun knows how to please an audience. His award winning sleight of hand and incomparable humor make for exciting magic. His props are ordinary everyday things, such as; Coins and bills, Hershey Kisses, paper, playing cards and most importantly Your Mind!! His gift of laughter and his child like attitude will entertain and enlighten you all the while uplifting your spirit through his ingenious and unique gift. When Shaun is not on the road he can be found at: Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse, Performing walk around and table side entertainment for their guests. His mind reading skills are great on stage but up close it is just astonishing! ------------------------------------------------ Wednesday - 06/09/10 :: Mike Bent NYC Lecture @ 7PM Mike Bent NYC Lecture - Comedy Writing 101 VIP Seating: $40.00 ~ GEN Seating: $25.00 ~ Youth (under 18) Seating: $15.00 For tickets please call the shop at 212.244.3633 Mike Bent started working in comedy clubs when he was 16 years old. While attending Emerson College, he was a member of the comedy troupe "This is Pathetic" along with David Cross, Laura Kightlinger and Anthony Clark. A veteran of comedy clubs and colleges, Mike has appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS, HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, A&E and has appeared at the White House three times. He recently finished his first book "The Everything Guide to Comedy Writing" based on his 20 years of teaching experience at Emerson College and currently holds the Guinness Book of World Record for having the least amount of bees on his face. Mike Bent might not be the biggest name in comedy (Vaudeville comedian Lars Vanderstubendelapatroniskivschoberstavich was the biggest name in comedy) but in his classes at Boston's Emerson College he has taught students that are writing for some of the biggest forces in comedy today, including The Daily Show, The Colbert Report and The Onion. Lecture Description: This lecture will be a hands-on workshop on adding comedy to your act and training your brain to "think funny." Fantasma Magic 421 7th Avenue - 2nd Floor New York, NY 10001 212 244-3633 -------------------------------------------- 13. Jay Marshall Auction Part IV - Now Online! -------------------------------------------- Message by Gabe Fajuri Potter & Potter Auctions, Inc. www.potterauctions.com The catalog of magic memorabilia from the collection of Jay Marshall is now online! Browse a downloadable PDF edition of the catalog by visiting www.potterauctions.com, or purchase a souvenir copy of the catalog. For further browsing and bidding, visit Potter & Potter's live Internet bidding partner, www.liveauctioneers.com. The auction will be held Sunday, May 16th, 2010, at 9:00 am in Chicago at Potter & Potter's auction gallery on the city's north side. This will be the fourth sale of memorabilia and magic material from Jay Marshall's collection. Among the highlights will memorabilia and posters related to Harry Houdini, apparatus of significant historic association, magic sets, rare books, early posters and broadsides, ephemera and props suitable for all levels of collectors. Of specific interest will be: -Props used by famed magician Buatier de Kolta, Eugene Laurant, Frank Ducrot, Imro Fox, Louis "Pop" Krieger, Laurie Ireland, Karl Germain, Jane Thurston, and Fred Kaps (including a prop used on The Ed Sullivan Show the night Kaps followed The Beatles first appearance on that program). -Archives of correspondence and large collections and cartons full of vintage ephemera. -Unusual and scarce apparatus from Martinka, Bland and other early makers. -Collections of foreign-language magic books. -A large scrapbook of material related to famous American illusionist Carl Hertz. -Rare books dating to the 18th century. -Unique posters and early broadsides. -And much more! Items of interest to collectors at all levels will be offered in the sale. Exhibition will be held during the week of May 10th at Potter & Potter's Chicago gallery, with special showings arranged for attendees of the Magic Collectors' Weekend (held in Rosemont, IL on the three days preceding the auction). Additional information is available at the Potter & Potter website. Jay Marshall was an accomplished magician and ventriloquist who appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show 14 times, at the Palladium in London and Radio City Music Hall in New York. His highly successful career on stage was complimented by an active, if legendary collection of showbiz and theatrical material, specifically focused on magic memorabilia, apparatus and posters. This will be the fourth sale from Marshall's incomprehensibly large holdings of magicana. He died in 2005 at the age of 85. -------------------------------------------- 14. Zombie Of Comedy Magic -------------------------------------------- Message by Jarred Fell (NZ) The "Zombie of Comedy Magic" has returned, 2010 Billy T Award Nominee Jarred Fell has decided to up the ante by not only mixing comedy, magic, suggestion and special FX together, but now the element of danger!!! With rave reviews in '09, Jarred and the Joker's favourite pin-up girl Lindsey are back with a brand new show combining comedy, magic and finally danger! Will he survive? Will you survive? Seeing is believing or is it? Don't miss this dangerously comical show. "Exceptional performer, can't be faulted" - TVNZ "Fell is genuinely funny" - THEATREVIEW, NZ Auckland Tue 11 - Sat 15 May, 8:30pm Venues: Limelight Laugh Lounge, Auckland Tickets: Adults $18 Conc. $15 Groups (10+) $15 Service Fees May Apply Bookings: 0800 BUYTICKETS (289 842) Wellington Tue 4 - Sat 8 May, 8pm Venues: BATS Theatre, Wellington Tickets: Adults $18 Conc. $14 Groups (10+) $14 Service Fees May Apply Bookings: BATS Theatre 04 802 4175 -------------------------------------------- 15. The Melbourne Magic Festival 2010 -------------------------------------------- Message by Tim Ellis (Aust) The Melbourne Magic Festival is back, bigger than ever, with over 100 performances of 30 different shows spread over two weeks at the Northcote Town Hall. June 28 to July 10 will see an amazing array of magic shows, classes and workshops. Bookings open on May 1 - call (03) 9481 9500 Group bookings for most shows are already on sale. Go to www.MelbourneMagicFestival.com for full details -------------------------------------------- 16. Again Booking Devin Knight for Lectures -------------------------------------------- Message by Tom Craven (US) I'm again booking Devin Knight for lectures. I have him in Tinley Park, Illinois on May 20th. I need at least one more lecture either on his way there, or on the way home to Pa. Ideally, that/those lectures would be on the 19th, or the 21st. Devin is one of the most creative thinkers I've ever met, and the lecture shows that creativity. I have tons of reviews from his lecture tour last fall, as well as an outline of the lecture for anyone who wants them. Please write me for those, as well as for fees, etc. VIPMagic@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 17. The Centre for the Magic Arts London -------------------------------------------- Message by Henry Lewis (UK) When you visit London enjoy a visit to the house of 10,000 secrets and enjoy a unique experience at the headquarters of The Magic Circle. A Monday morning event for groups or individuals over 14 years of age. Starting at 11.30am and lasting about 2 hours. Magicians and lay persons welcome. The Centre for The Magic Arts provides an experienced Curator member to take you on a tour of the renowned museum and other exhibits throughout the headquarters. You will see a 'close-up' performance in the Devant Room and will then be escorted to our fully equipped modern theatre (which includes a hearing loop' ) to watch a short live magic performance on stage. There a lift to all floors and wheelchair access. The entire cost at the present time is only £13 which includes tea/coffee and biscuits on arrival. Payment may be made by 'Visa'. Bookings by appointment only. For further details and available dates contact The Centre for The Magic Arts between 9am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. Tel: +(44) 0207 387 2222 e-mail CMA@TheMagicCircle.co.uk The Magic Circle, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London NW!2ND is situated within two minutes walk of Euston Square Underground Rail Station. Walking distance from Euston and King's Cross Main Line Stations, Numerous bus routes and within convenient reach of most London hotels. -------------------------------------------- 18. British Ring Convention News -------------------------------------------- Message by Bob Hayden (UK) More names have been confirmed to join those already appearing at Eastbourne in September. Now included is the Illusion act of Andrew Green, the comedy ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, close-up and corporate magician and magical inventor and dealer Peter Scarlett the magical comical genius Danny Buckler and the classy manipulator Stuart Brown. Two of the stars of magic Julius Frack and Martin Eisele appearing at this year's Convention are from Germany and both winners at F.I.S.M in their respective categories, the former in Grand Illusion at Beijing 2009 and the latter in Micro Magic at Stockholm 2006. Additionally they are both members of the Magic Circle Stuttgart ranked the most successful magic club in Germany whose members within the group have over the years created some of the most ingenious magic acts. Three such members are Topaz, Roxanne and Timo Marc. Julius was with us in 2000 when he performed his 'Eccentric Tailor' act in which he combined theatre, mine and magic in a most original act. Just to remind you of this act Julius danced around his attic in an eccentric tail-coat designing an exquisite dress for his mannequin. Reporting on the 2006 Stockholm F.I.S.M. for Magic New Zealand Sue-Anne Webster (Aust) considered the act to be probably the only one in the world that could justify using thimbles that not only moved to the music but appeared on his toes. Silks were produced to create a dress and his scissors mysteriously floated a la zombie. Finally his mannequin turned into a fully dressed girl. His winning act in Beijing won praise for its innovation and creativity from the judges. It contains a totally new appearing girl illusion and his own version of the floating lady when he walks through his partner Cindy Keller. Those in Beijing who witnessed the act say the impact on the capacity audience was to create an instant outburst of enthusiast cheering. This was not the first award that has come Julius's way since he stated performing in 1990. His first was in Dresden in 1996 when he became German Champion of Magic. And it is not only in illusion that he has won an award. For his manipulative skills he took the Bill Band -Neil Foster Award for Excellence in Manipulation in Colon USA 2002. We welcome back Julius Frack to our Convention and are eager to see his F.I.S.M. award winning act. If you want to see Micro Magic at its very best you will see it when Martin Eisele makes his debut at a British Ring Convention and performs in the International Close-up Gala. Martin's introduction to a British audience was at the 22nd Annual International Close-up Competition in 2005. He was persuaded to enter after having two national successes in Europe. He performs a 'character' act played to a voice over narration. The voice welcomes his audience to the German Children's TV programme 'The little Orange Mouse and the Blue Elephant' and introduces the guest performer 'Martin the Magician' Martin enters nervously with his close-up pad and performs a 5 coin repeat but gives up when the coins become cards with which he performs matrix. The cards grow and he repeats the matrix after which the coins grow. His finish is an incredible matrix and reverse matrix concluding with the dice visibly materialising under the cards. His exit provides yet another surprise. Overall Martin has all the ingredients of a successful entertaining act, skill, imaginative, character work and subtle humour. Some have expressed the view that a British audience may not appreciate the character Martin is portraying as the TV programme has not been seen in this country. Having seen the act on You Tube this view can be totally ignored. Martin Eisele will be joined by Charlie Frye, Rich Bloch, Matt Johnson and Manuel Muerte performing a powerful session of modern contemporary close-up magic in this year's International Close-up Gala. Be warned! A rush for front row seats for this show is inevitable. Over the coming weeks we will be profiling not only the magicians who will be at Eastbourne but the specialty acts that often are the antidote for any bout of magical indigestion that we might suffer. This year there are some exciting specialties that have not previously appeared at our Convention. A goodly number of you have already registered for this feast of magic. So why not join them by downloading the registration form of this website or by making contact with the registration Officer Neville Johnson by telephone on 01202 873234 or on his e-mail address nevillejohnson25@aol.com If you have any queries or require further information why not give Bob Hayden a ring on 023 8032 0277 or contact him by e-mail at bobring25@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 19. 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