* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* Magic New Zealand®
* Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment
* www.magicnewzealand.com
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Issue Number: #999
Date: Sunday 10th March 2013
Editor: Alan Watson
www.watson.co.nz
E-mail: editor@magicnewzealand.com
================================
Hi here is the latest news
================================
1.
Editor's Message
2. Magician Gone Missing
3. Teller Sues Belgian Magician For Theft - Then Magician
Vanishes
4. Ghost Hunting In Texas
5. Broken Wand - Maurine Brooks Christopher
6. The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
7. Remarkable Magic #291 - Nick Lewin
8. Festival Marketing: What They Look For - #291 - Kyle
Peron
9. Magic - Art, Craft Or Neither - Part 11
10. 2013 March Magic Castle Schedule
11. 4F People Coming In April 2013
12. Update About John Giordmaine Tribute (Canada)
13. Review Of Inscrutable DVD Set
14. "Magicseen 49"
15. Sightseeing At S A M Convention
16. Blackpool Magicians' Club's 61st Annual Convention
17. Illusion Dream Team Set To Thrill Auckland, New Zealand
18. 2013 New Zealand Lectures - Diary Now
19. Magic New Zealand App
20. e-zine Archives
21. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice
--------------------------------------------
1. Editor's Message
--------------------------------------------
Michele and I are really looking forward to seeing the fabulous
magic show The Illusionists which opens in Auckland, New
Zealand 22th May - 2nd June. Tickets are now on sale, go
to: www.buytickets.co.nz
We
hear magicians from all over New Zealand are planning to
come to Auckland to see the show and also attend the joint
Kevin James and Jeff Hobson lecture on Monday 27th May.
For
more information on "The Illusionists" show go
to item 17.
For those who would like to read Magic New Zealand in a
HTML format go to:
http://www.magicnewzealand.com/ezine-archive/2013-Jan-to-Dec-2013/999-Mar10-2013.html
Remember
if you have any magic news drop me a line:
Editor@MagicNewZealand.com
--------------------------------------------
2. Magician Gone Missing
--------------------------------------------
Message by Geoffrey Hansen (US)
I
have just forwarded you an e-mail with a Media Release regarding
a Missing Person.
What
the Police Bulletin does not mention - He is a longtime
member of the IBM in San Jose, CA. He has been missing since
February 7, 2013. His photo appeared last year in Linking
Ring Magazine.
Well
known as Mysterious Stan, Jr. (Stanley F. Jacobson Jr.),
is missing along with his car. All of his belongings including
his wallet were found in his apartment. Hiscredit card(s)
have not been used.
Any
help you can offer by posting this would be greatly appreciated.
Article
go to:
http://www.mercurynews.com/crime-courts/ci_22672994/san-jose-police-seek-
help-finding-missing-man
--------------------------------------------
3. Teller Sues Belgian Magician For Theft - Then Magician
Vanishes
--------------------------------------------
Article forwarded by Peter Sevens (US)
Digital
Journal
By
Richard Mccallum
Las
Vegas - As a teenager Raymond Teller created a signature
illusion which he called The Rose and The Shadow, but when
a Belgian magician named Dogge recreated it on YouTube and
offered to sell the method the silent magician decided to
bring him to court.
When
court officials tried to serve Dogge with a summons, the
Belgian magician took flight.....
Read
more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/345028
--------------------------------------------
4. Ghost Hunting In Texas
--------------------------------------------
Message by Scott Wells, A.I.M.C. with Silver Star
I
had my first, real, honest to goodness ghost hunt this past
weekend. Really.
It
was complete with use of all the necessary equipment including
EMF meters, digital voice recorders, infrared cameras, IR
thermometers and more. This equipment was provided by the
Southern Paranormal Investigators (S.P.I.) for a group of
about nine people who stuck it out all night in the Haunted
Historical Ott Hotel in Liberty, Texas, located about an
hour southeast of Houston.
Jamie
Salinas (http://houstonseance.com) and I were joined by
the S/P.I. team as we were divided into three teams then
had "sweeps" of the hotel meaning that we spent
an hour at a time in different parts of the hotel looking
for paranormal activity.
In
the latest podcast of The Magic Word, I chatted with the
founder of S.P.I., the owner of the Ott Hotel and also with
a Medium. The podcast also includes some basic information
about what you should know as well as the do's and don'ts
of ghost hunting. This episode may not be for everyone,
but it is interesting. Even if you visit The Magic Word
to see the photos and watch the five minute video, I think
you will find it interesting.
See
and hear it all now on The Magic Word at http://TheMagicWordPodcast.com
and be sure to "Like" us on Facebook so you are
the first to learn about the updates and latest news. Like
us at http://facebook.com/themagicwordpodcast/ You can listen
to the podcast online on the website or through iTunes or
download it through other online podcasting files.
--------------------------------------------
5. Broken Wand - Maurine Brooks Christopher
---------------------------------------------
Article forwarded by David Haversat Magic
As
agent, publisher and friend of Maurine Christopher, it is
with deep sorrow that I announce her passing.
Maurine
Christopher of New York City died at home surrounded by
her friends on February 28, 2013. She was 92 and the beloved
wife of the late master magician, author, collector and
performer, Milbourne Christopher.
Mrs.
Christopher had a distinguished career in journalism as
a reporter for the Kingsport Times before becoming a reporter
for the Baltimore Sun newspaper from 1943 to 1945. She was
the daughter of John Davis Brooks and Zula Pangle Brooks
of Russellville, Tennessee. She was a graduate of Tusculuim
College in Greenville, earning an A.B. degree in English
and political science and held an honorary Doctor of Letters
from St. John's University in New York. She married the
distinguished Milbourne Christopher on June 25, 1949.
Her
many articles appeared in consumer magazines in the U.S.
and abroad. In N.Y. she gained prominence as Deputy Executive
Radio-TV Editor of Advertising Age. Mrs. Christopher was
instrumental in coordinating national newspaper marketing
and produced the weekly syndicated radio program called
"Adbet" and "Stars of Advertising."
In 1971 she became nationally known for her book America's
Black Congressmen, published by Thomas Y. Crowell Co., New
York.
Following
her husband's death in 1984, she continued his avid interest
in his vast collection of magic memorabilia and established
the "Milbourne Christopher Foundation" sponsoring
awards for exceptional people in the art of magic. She wrote
articles for magic magazines, appeared at magic conventions,
arranged auctions of her husband's enormous collection and
republished many of her husband's magic history books.
Arrangements
are private. In lieu of flowers it is asked that donations
be made to The Milbourne Christopher Foundation.
Maurine
will be greatly missed.
--------------------------------------------
6. The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
--------------------------------------------
Message by Stan Allen, Editor of MAGIC Magazine
About
a year ago, I received a call from Gina Soliz, a senior
publicist at Warner Bros. She told me about a movie in production
starring Steve Carell as a magician, and she asked what
it would take to get a feature article in MAGIC and possibly
even a cover. Next thing I know, my son and I are visiting
the set in Los Angeles. Warner Bros. was generous in supplying
us with some exclusive photographs and access to the filmmakers.
Shawn McMaster's behind-the-scenes story appears exclusively
in the March 2013 issue of MAGIC Magazine, available both
in print and on the iPad and Kindle Fire.
Also
this month, we have "Major League Pitcher," the
tale of master pitchman Mark Mason; plus a profile of New
York's Doug McKenzie and "That's How It All Began,"
stories of how well-known magicians developed their signature
routines. There's also news of television shows in Spain
and Italy, magic at the Inauguration, a benefit for David
Oliver, a reunion of Magic Castle Juniors, remembrances
of Imam Hossain and Kees Schoonenberg, as well as columns
by Joshua Jay, Mark Kornhauser, Ian Rowland, Mike Bent,
Payne, Milt Larsen, Tracy Atteberry & David Parr, Lee
Asher, and Rick Lax.
All
this and more in the March 2013 issue of MAGIC Magazine.
Visit
www.MAGICmagazine.com.
-------------------------------------------
7. Remarkable Magic #291 - Nick Lewin
--------------------------------------------
Message by Nick Lewin (US)
The
'Pop' Haydn story transcends time, all over again!
If
you had the opportunity to be at 'Magicopolis' in Santa
Monica on the 7th of March you have my full permission to
skip this week's column. You already know how cool 'Pop
Haydn in the 21st Century!' is! If you weren't there then
I advise you to get your tickets and catch magic's favorite
time traveler when he returns there on April 4th.
'Pop'
is a creation from the fertile mind of one of magic's most
innovative and accomplished performers---Whit Haydn. At
a time where everybody in magic seems to have his own theatrical
show this one is a little different. It isn't just a performer
doing an extended version of his show in a hired venue,
but is both theatrical and a fully-fledged show. That's
a neat touch isn't it?
Prior
to his current incarnation as time-traveling showman, Whit
has been widely acclaimed as one of the top performers in
the magic world and has won six 'Magician of the Year' awards
from the 'Academy of Magical Arts.' He also served as Vice
President of the AMA from 2006-2010. Another of Haydn's
creations that has become a Magic Castle favorite is his
'School for Scoundrels,' a project to educate fellow enthusiasts
in the art and practice of 'scam' and 'flim-flam.'
'Pop'
will be familiar with many magicians for his 'Post Modern
Medicine Show' which has made numerous appearances across
the United States and delighted audiences with its whimsical
approach to a time honored and specialized style of entertainment.
His new show 'Pop Haydn in the 21st Century!'' has taken
many of these ideas and reformatted them into a delightfully
textured and unique piece of show-biz hokum that delights
audiences of all ages.
Along
with Whit on his time travel extravaganza are some other
fine performers who assist in turning this event into a
well rounded and not to be missed occasion. The ever-adorable
Sophie Evans will be presenting her uniquely fiery sorcery
and also acting in the capacity of 'Tesla Girl.' If you
haven't seen Ms. Evans weave her special brand of magic
then this is the chance to enjoy her delightful talents.
What
is a magic show without music? Oh, it is just a magic show!
Never fear--- there is some mighty fine music accompanying
the prestidigitation at this event, those attending will
be serenaded by the Magic Castle's own delightful Louisiana
Songbird Ms. Bonnie Gordon. The musical director is none
other than Prof. Dave Bourne and his '21st Century Boys.'
I have been a huge fan of the Prof. since first appearing
with him at Milt Larsen's 'Mayfair Music Hall' in the 70s.
During
the program, Pop Haydn will be demonstrating some of his
most popular flights of fancy including his 'Teleportation
Device' 'Magnetized Water' and introducing his astonishing
new 'Sphere of Destiny.' It will be a treat for magicians
and steampunk lovers alike. No two performances by Pop Haydn
are identical, so buckle up your seat belt, as there might
be some radical surprises in store.
Tickets
for the show are available via www.pophaydn.com where you
will find a great many more details about the upcoming show.
'Magicopolis' is the extremely successful brainchild of
magic's original bad boy---Steve Spill, and its intimate
style seating for a mere 150 people almost insures a sellout.
Take my advice and book your seats early, you never know
if Pop will get it into his mind to skip back in time a
century or two and re-invent history all over again, for
the first time!
I
have some great products and videos online. Check them out
on my web site.
www.nicklewin.com
--------------------------------------------
8. Festival Marketing: What They Look For - #291 - Kyle
Peron
--------------------------------------------
Message by Kyle Peron (US)
magic4u02@aol.com
http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com
http://www.kpmagicproducts.com
https://www.facebook.com/perondesign
With
selling any magic or entertainment related show, you really
need to lock in on the needs and concerns of the festivals
you work for. If you can tap into knowing what they are
after and what they want, then you can solve their problems
with killer solutions that surpass any other entertainer
they have ever had before.
By
doing this, you start to change their perceived value of
you. If you increase your value in their eyes, you become
much more to them then an entertainer. You start to become
a problem solver. Problem solvers are in demand and constantly
work year after year.
Festival's
want several things I have noticed over the years. I have
compiled a list of some of them below:
-
someone who is self-contained. If you can come in there
and do your show with little they have to do or provide,
then your a huge savings for them.
-
they want to see happy faces and they want people to be
kept at the festival. With this in mind, if you can offer
different shows, then your going to meet this need and create
more interest for people to want to stay at the festival
longer. This means a more successful festival for them.
-
they want someone who is experienced and knows about a festival
and how they run. The more you know about festivals, the
more you will understand their processes and can understand
what they must go through. These people go through a lot
and have a lot to juggle. If you can understand them, you
can be better off to offer solutions that make their entertainment
decision an easy one.
-
They LOVE if you can offer any help at the festival and
alleviate a problem of theirs even if it is not magic related.
By this I mean you can offer up suggestions that not only
solves their need but markets you. For example you can ask
to host and MC a beauty contest or a talent show. You can
host and judge a coloring contest for the kids. Use your
talents and offer other ideas to them, and you build upon
your value to them.
The
less they have to do to have you at their event the better.
They have many different problems to deal with before and
during the event. Try not to have any additional needs once
you are there, they really do not have the time during the
event to try to fix the paid entertainment's problems when
the vendors are giving them trouble about a million and
one things, the power goes off, there are not enough tables
or chairs etc. etc. The list truely does go on and on. Festivals
in general are often way understaffed and so you often have
one person trying to tackle the job of several folks.
I
say this from the experience of being both an entertainer
and a vendor at fairs and festivals for many years. I know
the grumblings and trials that any festival can create.
Learning to make your show as self-contained as possible,
not only will save you time, but will save them a lot of
headache. If you can come self-contained and ready to go
in any staging situation, then that will only act to empower
them to want to use your services.
There
really is a big void out there in the entertainment market
at these festival events. Mostly because those that run
these events are mostly volunteers from the local community.
When it comes to entertainment, the first thing they think
of is a band. They are not even thinking about anything
else. If you can mention to them magic, or other forms of
entertainment, and the draw that it would have on their
event, they tend to smile a lot and show interest. The key
is to research them and start asking around. I am sure you
will find there are many more festivals and events out there
then you might be aware of. I certainly know this was the
case when I started looking into this market myself.
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.
Entertainers,
please visit:
http://www.kpmagicproducts.com
--------------------------------------------
9. Magic - Art, Craft Or Neither - Part 11
--------------------------------------------
Message by Anthony Darkstone - USA/Europe
At
the beginning of this series, I mentioned that I would be
including thoughts and musings from various guests who have
kindly shared their perspectives. If you have been following
the series each week, you will have seen excellent words
by Paul Draper, Jason Andrews and Ivonne Montijo. This week,
I am delighted to have my good friend, Ray Parker from Canada
share his thoughts on the topic. Regular readers will be
familiar with his name as he has been a guest on my series
"Anthony Darkstone In Conversation With .." .
If you missed it or an installment go to :- http://www.cbrookmagic.net/magwords/index.html
I
met Ray, a few years ago when I lectured in Canada, and
we became firm friends. Town Crier, Comedian, Vaudeville
performer, Actor, Magician etc., etc., - it truly would
not be an exaggeration to state that he has been there,
done that. and then some! To refer to him as Mr. Versatility
would be an understatement. He is, as the parlance goes.
a real trooper, and the most amazing, outstanding and courageous
person I have met. A true iconic Entertainer, he is more
than qualified chronologically and empirically to make several
interesting observations on the topic. A visit to his page
will not only be educational but also proof and confirmation
of my foregoing words.
I
am happy to publicly state that I am a friend, admirer and
a huge fan .
http://rayparkermadhatter.ca/
MAGIC
- An Art, Craft or Neither
Ray Parker
Is
it an art, craft or neither? Well yes in a sense it is a
craft, any skill one acquires is a craft and the way one
develops that craft, determines whether they become a master
craftsman, one of many proficient exponents or reaching
whatever level of expertise they desire.
There
are many variations of what Robert-Houdin is supposed to
have said, "A magician is an actor playing the part
of a magician." Perhaps this is not what he said or
even what he actually meant, but I really believe this version
is a valid statement.
The
better the magician's ability as an actor, the more convincing
and entertaining the performance.
I
have many and varied things that I get pleasure from, the
theatre, music, the arts and sometimes I will go through
my library and look at paintings by a favorite artists,
listen to a recording of a vocalist or musician, or thanks
to Youtube find a clip of a favorite entertainer and enjoy
watching that performance again.
Regarding
magic, there are certain clips I return to over and over
again, each representing a master craftsman, each in his
own way emphasizing the fact that the acting, besides the
skill, is what makes the performance so special.
Any
Tommy Cooper performance, Shawn Farquhar - Shape of my Heart,
and Jérôme Murat - The Statue. All fine examples
of what I mean.
Tony
when you asked me this question, I immediately thought of
the fact that in my twenties, I was creating effects, that
to the spectator, would appear to be magic tricks, although
to me they were just props or bits of material to make the
act I was performing at that time, entertaining for the
audience.
In
fact it was around that time, that while appearing on a
bill with a magician, on a break in the dressing room I
confided in him, "I would love to be a magician, but
my hands are too small."I guess not wishing to add
to his competition he answered "Yes they are."
I
have told you the story before, of how it was almost 30
years later, that Jack Mellor answered the same statement,
with the words that persuaded me to take up magic, sold
me Professor Cheer, taught me the routine and began my career
as a magician.
I
had been an entertainer for almost 40 years, when I created
my first magic act. I was certainly unaware of the Robert-Houdin
quote, but that was exactly what I did. I took advantage
of what I had learned in my years of performing, created
a character, built a theme, added jokes, wrote a script
in the same way as any new act I had ever written, and then
became an actor playing that part.
I
think above everything else, the creation of a magic effect
or a complete act is no different than an artist creating
a painting, or an author writing a story. It is a creation.
It could be a masterpiece, something that gives pleasure
or just something that entertains an audience. The success
depends on the level of ability the creator has achieved.
-------------------------------------------
10. 2013 March Magic Castle Schedule
--------------------------------------------
Message by Jack Goldfinger
Director Of Entertainment
Academy of Magical Arts, Inc.
March
11-17th
Close-Up
Gallery
Early: Paul Green
Late: Mike Pisciotta
Parlour
of Prestidigitation
Early: Adam London
Late: Stoil Stoilov
Palace
of Mystery
Ken Scott
Hillel
Skilldini
Peller
Theatre
Georges-Robert
Tom Ogden
W.
C. Fields Bar
Ron Bell
Friday
Luncheon
Mike Pisciotta
Saturday
& Sunday Brunch - Parlour
Stoil Stoilov
Lecture
Sunday 17th
Tim "Skilldini" Wright
March
18-24th
Close-Up
Gallery
Early: Francis Menotti
Late: John George
Parlour
of Prestidigitation
Early: Joel Bauer
Late: Will Fern
Palace
of Mystery
Derek Hughes
Chris Randall
David & Dania
PellerTheatrre
Joe Skilton
Lou Serrano
W.
C. Fields Bar
Tom Frank
Friday
Luncheon
Francis Menotti
Saturday
& Sunday Brunch - Parlour
Denis Forel
Lecture
Sunday 24th
Chris Randall
March
25-March 31st
Close-Up Gallery
Early: Eric Jones
Late: Andost
Parlour
of Prestidigitation
Early: George Schindler
Late: Joe Monte
Palace
of Mystery
Mark Kalin & Jinger
Peller
Theatre - "McMaster & Mad : Mystery and Mayhem".
Mad Tad
Shawn McMaster
W.
C. Fields Bar
Alfonso
Friday
Luncheon
Eric Jones
Saturday
& Sunday Brunch - Parlour
Kim Hallinger
Lecture
Sunday 31st
Eric Jones
Performers
are subject to change due to circumstances and availability.
--------------------------------------------
11. 4F People Coming In April 2013
--------------------------------------------
Message by Obie Obrien
I
have the following coming: Coming to 4F in April: 22 from
Canada, 7 from Japan, 2 from Germany, 2 from Taiwan, 1 Korea,
24 France, 12 England, 1 Holland, 1 Sweden, 6 Italy, 5 Spain,
2 China, 1 Scotland, 1 Switzerland, 1 Australia, 1 Argentina,
1 Wales, 138 USA. 5 Continents, 18 Countries, 15 FISM winners
of which 2 are Grand Prix champions, 40 Winners from big
conventions through the world, 28 1st timers, 10 IBM Past
Presidents, 9 SAM Past Presidents. A great cast for the
43rd 4F close up convention April 24-27 2013 being held
in Batavia NY.
--------------------------------------------
12. Update About John Giordmaine Tribute (Canada)
--------------------------------------------
A message from its curator...
Update
- March 2013
Hello!
This marks the fifth anniversary of our online tribute to
Canada's most beloved children's magician, Johnny Giordmaine
(1898-1974). Many thanks to those of you who have already
visited us in the past. Here's news about our eleven new
pages of updates that might bring you back for another visit
this month.
"Reprints"
and items of special interest include:
*
Johnny featured in MUM;
*
Johnny featured in The Linking Ring;
*
Rarely seen home movie footage of Johnny at the 1930 IBM
Convention;
*
Feature stories about Johnny in The Magic Magazine and The
Gen from theUK;
*
Heartfelt obituaries from The Linking Ring penned by Sid
Lorraine and
Elizabeth Warlock;
*
And more!
All
copyrighted material used with permission.
If
you remember Johnny you will certainly want to rekindle
your happymemories with a visit to the site. If you never
met him, or if you have noidea who he was, please come and
discover all about one of Canada's most memorable figures
in 20th century magic.
Personal
memories about Johnny are always still very welcome. Contact
information is on the site...
http://www.johngiordmaine.com
--------------------------------------------
13. Review Of Inscrutable DVD Set
--------------------------------------------
Reviewed by Quentin Reynolds
Since
the Elmsley count was introduced in the mid-fifties there
has been a trend to add moves and counts to card magic,
as well as complicating the effect to such an extent that
a layman will be unable to describe what happened.
Some
modern published routines are more akin to lessons in juggling
than lessons in magic. I will call this the new school of
card magic which has given birth to the move monkeys.
The
old school of card magic (as I would describe it) had clear
direct effects that were easy to understand and had a good,
surprising climax. Most importantly the magician appeared
to do nothing. The magic just happened.
The
old school was influenced by people like Erdnase and Victor
Farelli amongst others and their influences are found in
later classics like Royal Road, Expert Card Technique and
Greater Magic.
Can
you name a card DVD or book published in the last ten years
that does not include ace assemblies, collector or sandwich
tricks, multiple false counts etc? Difficult, yes?
Well,
here is one ....
Inscrutable
is definitely old school. Strong direct effects that will
fool magicians and laymen. And most of them are technically
easy to do. Easy technically, yes (though there are some
advanced techniques on Disc 2), but they do require audience
management skills and a confident performer. Advanced beginner
and upwards.
Joseph's
routines remind me of the direct presentations of Dani daOrtiz,
frequently mixing devilishly simple methods to create miracles.
Yet their styles are completely opposite. Dani is extrovert
and in your face. Joe is quiet and unassuming. Yet both
use their personalities and characteristics to maximum effect.
If
you have seen disc 3 of Dani's DVD set you will find some
similar work on Disc One of Joe's set. By studying both
you will see two contrasting styles use similar methods
and help you develop your own natural rhythm.
So
what of the routines? Most are done from a shuffled deck
in use - and shuffled by the audience too. A few require
a set-up, most times you can do this in a previous trick
or during down-time.
My
favourite is the Math trick. From a shuffled (by the audience)
deck you deal some cards in front of three participants.
They each decide how many they get. You then toss small
bunches of cards onto the table until someone shouts STOP.
These are now counted, by you or an audience member. You
announce that the total number of counted cards will equal
the sum of the top cards of the three piles. These cards
are turned over and their values added. The totals match.
To a layman this appears totally impossible. This routine
would work well with the effect where a participant cuts
the deck in three piles, you turn over the top cards of
two of the piles and can deduce the value of the top card
in the third pile.
Disc
Two features a number of gambling routines and demonstrations.
Some are simple in method and some require advanced skills.
All are direct and best suited for sitting down around a
table with clients after a gig.
The
downside for a working professional is that most of the
routines require a table. Most close-up pros prefer routines
that can be done in the hands both for strolling and visibility
reasons. Having said that I have a number of routines that
require minimal table space and a few others that do require
more space. The latter I keep until after the meal when
tables are less cluttered.
Aged
thirteen, young Master Barry bought, at a local bookshop,
Expert at the Card Table, Expert Card Technique and Scarne
on Card Tricks. These were his only influences for the next
few years and their theories and advice permeate through
his work.
I
highly recommend this two DVD set, for the overall directness
of effects and the devastating miracles you will create
for your audiences.
Available
from www.alakazam.co.uk and all good dealers
--------------------------------------------
14. "Magicseen 49"
--------------------------------------------
Message by Chris Wasshuber
Vol.
9, No. 1, March 2013; 64 pages
Cover: Andy Nyman
http://www.lybrary.com/magicseen-no-49-p-264014.html
Welcome
- editor's letter
Letters
News
Ten For Tyneside - Martin Duffy: The Boss - interview
Focus On South Tyneside
Sylvester The Jester: That's Not All Folks! - interview
Paul Daniels: Crowd Pleaser! - interview
Charlie Frye: Genius at Work! - interview
Hypnotism: Entertainment or Science? - Mark Leveridge
The Magic In The Cupboard - What Collectors Bring to the
Art of Magic - Mark Leveridge
S.A.M.P.A. Does The Trick [Society of American Magicians
Parent Assembly] -
talk with Richie Magic
20 Magic Headlines We'd Like to See in 2013
Andy Nyman; Ass Kicker! - cover article/interview by Graham
Hey
Masterclass
Trapped Prediction - Alexandr Erohin
Roll and Slide Vanish - Radek Makar
Interview with Singer-Songwriter Jason Mraz
Smoke and Mirrors - Bristol Opens Its Second Magic Bar!
- interview of Mark
Bennett by Paul Preager
In Focus with Steve Gore - interview
It's The Magicseen Poll Results
Reviews
DVS - DVD - Mark Calabrese
The Evolution Deck - gaffed deck - Bob Solari
Eastern Moves - E-Book - Radek Makar
Salt & Silver - effect DVD - Giovanni Livera
The Triskadequadra Principle - book or E-Book - John Hostler
Nine Uneasy Pieces - limited edition book - Robert E. Neale
Deep Mental Mysteries - book - Lawrence Hass
Moonshine Playing Cards - designer deck - Lloyd Barnes
Hot Spot - hypno heat - Carl de Rome
Scam Wallet + Mastercheat - wallet & DVD - Lee Thompson
Seeking The Bridge - book - John B. Born
Array - cards & DVD (Peter Nardi) - Baz Taylor
The Dice Is Right - props & audio CD - Practical Magic
ILC - card effect - Lawrence Turner
Index-terity - book & Kit materials- George Parker &
Lawrence Hass
The Wallet Transformer - DVD & gimmick - Cameron Francis
Next Time .
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Listings Section
Back Issues
--------------------------------------------
15. Blackpool Magicians' Club's 61st Annual Convention
--------------------------------------------
Message by Walt Lees (UK)
February
22nd - 24th 2013
Blackpool
continues to go from strength to strength with a new all-time
high
attendance this year of over 3,400 registrants, maintaining
its place as the world's largest, most star-studded and
action-packed convention.
Friday
22nd February saw lectures by Jay Scott Berry, Nicholas
Einhorn, Dirk Losander, Colin McLeod, Johan Stahl and Matthew
\Wright, as well as a blistering display of close-up hosted
by Steve Evans, which included performances by Phil Cass.
Nicholas Einhorn, Patrick Lehnen, Jan Logemann, Simon Lovell,
Mark Mason, Joe Monti and Anthony Owen.
Apart
from compere Vittorio Marino, whose stilt-walking gags and
assorted caricature cameos added a touch of European humour,
the entire evening show was a South Korean affair. That
country's principal magical coach and mentor, Yuji Yasuda,
opened the bill in full Samurai costume, with an act featuring
parasols. As always, with the current batch of young Korean
maestri, there were striking levels of skill, creativity,
originality and enthusiastic energy.
Highlights
included: Haon Gun's work with T-shirts and drink cans;
Ted Kim's remarkable act incorporating projected lighting
and graphics combined with manipulative skills; FISM winner
Yu Ho Jin's stylish card productions and Lee Hun, whose
manipulation act brought the house down when it suddenly
went into high-speed rewind mode at the finish - everything
that had taken place being rapidly done in reverse (all
the discarded items floated back into his hands, and vanished),
Others taking part were: Kim Hyun Joon, Lukas, Nicky Yang
and Yang Jae Yeong in a show that was going to take some
topping on the subsequent nights.
Saturday
brought lectures by: Jan Logemann, Simon Lovell, David Merry,
Anthony Owen, Michael Webber, David Williamson, Yuji Yasuda
and Zeki Yoo.
The
morning's main event was The British Children's Entertainer
National Championships hosted by Colonel Custard aka Paul
Megram. Competitors were Captain Calamity, Colin Dymond,
Mr Banana Head, Puzzling Paul, David Tricks and Zoobee.
The last-named was the winner, having wisely chosen to work
in front of the tabs, keeping the stage area as small as
possible and generating a sense of intimacy.
Colin
Dymond, who was runner-up, did the same. A couple of the
performers elected to work on the vast full stage, which
generally meant being too far back and "losing contact"
with the audience. In 3rd place was Captain Calamity, who
really lived up to his name when a number of unplanned mishaps
forced him to rework his entire running order and make changes
on the spur of the moment. To his credit, he refused to
be fazed, soldiered on and won over the audience.
Lunchtime
brought The Wayne Dobson and Friends Show to the Pavilion
Theatre,
where, with the assistance of Michael J. Fitch, Wayne introduced:
Simon Lovell, Colin McLeod, Mel Mellers and Joe Monti. The
accent was heavily on comedy, with the biggest laughs coming
for Simon, who had been "persuaded" to resurrect
his one-time signature straitjacket routine, complete with
Sooty puppet and a rubber hand gag.
The
afternoon saw Magic Speed Dating where the audience sat
around 10 tables and that number of stellar performers spent
10 minutes with each group either answering questions or
demonstrating one of their specialities. Those taking part
were: Jay Scott Berry, Phil Cass, Simon Lovell, Colin McLeod,
Mark Mason, Joe Monti, Harry Robson, Johan Stahl, Michael
Webber and David Williamson.
The
International Gala that evening was emceed, somewhat surprisingly
by Jay Scott Berrry, who admitted that this was a novel
experience for a usually silent worker. The opening act
was Antje Pode, whose foot juggling with suitcases garnered
tremendous applause. Then came Dirk Losander, who seems
to have appeared on one show or another at every Blackpool
convention in living memory, with his bubble and table-floating
act as known.
Phil
Cass, on the other hand, was a new face. With his assistant
Philippa, he put the accent firmly on comedy, garnering
much laughter and applause. In complete contrast, Natalie
& Eli, a female duo from Switzerland, combined dance,
multiple quick change and massive stage-filling feather
flower productions in what must be one of the most colourful
spectacles currently on the magic scene.
The
second half opened with Philip Hitchcock's manipulations
and dove productions, leading up to a remarkable (and applause-pulling)
twist on the usual cage vanish with which most such acts
finish. Mel Mellers, who followed, was on top form and provided
the comedy high-spot of the whole convention. In complete
contrast, The Laserman (Theo Doré) of France, gave
a spectacular display of manipulating light beams, which
combined technology with magical skill, in an act which
is unlike anything else around at the moment (until the
inevitable copyists begin to crawl out).
The
show closed in spectacular manner with Holland's Prince
of Illusions team in a mind-numbing plethora of high-speed
mysteries, which even had those, who do not usually appreciate
this kind of magic, applauding and cheering.
During
the show, Joe Monti and Lorenzo Clark made unbilled appearances
to "instruct" the compere in the art of being
funny, while the latter, at one point sang live, one of
the songs he has recorded.
After
the show, Magic Sam and Andrew James ran their late-night
Beat the Wand gong-contest, which has now become an established
feature. Boozy, vulgar and raucous, this event probably
reflects the true face of stand-up magic as seen in pubs
and clubs around the country. Competitors included: John
Carey, Daniel Carmel, Craig Davis, George Firehorse, Liam,
PJ and Doc Strange. Only 2 acts failed to beat the wand
and were accompanied to the junkyard by the Steptoe &
Son theme (Geoff Love's Old Ned).
The
winner was George Firehorse, whose "Monkey of Truth"
feature caused a near riot; in 2nd place came PJ with his
disastrous attempts to perform standard effects while in
full Mickey Mouse costume, which were very funny and frequently
accompanied by language emerging from the rodent's mouth
that would have had any Disney suits hotlining their corporate
lawyers. 3rd was Liam, whose work with yoyos really thrilled
the crowd - no laughs, just pure skill.
Sunday
brought lectures by: Phil Cass, Gary Dunn, Michael J. Fitch,
Patrick Lehnen, Mark Mason, Mel Mellers, Joe Monti and Natalie
& Eli (assisted by Ritonio).
The
Master Class in the Pavilion, hosted by Jeremy Guest, allotted
Phil Cass, Colin McLeod, Mark Mason, Joe Monti, Johan Stahl
and Michael Webber 12 minutes each to teach one item. While
Michael Webber stuck to this, demonstrating one potential
of an electronic homing device when combined with the classic
Invisible Deck, most of the others did more than one thing
and some, like Joe Monti, with a brilliant impression of
Slydini, just entertained and had fun.
Steve
Evans hosted the International Close-up Magic in the afternoon,
introducing: Jay Scott Berry, Dirk Losander, David Merry,
Johan Stahl, Michael Webber, David Williamson, Matthew Wright
and Zeki Yoo.
The
final International Gala Show was emceed by David Merry,
who could probably pass himself off as Joe Monti's brother,
if he so wished. Plenty of comedy to keep the show moving
along. The incredible diablo juggling and acrobatic skills
of Tony Freebourg got things off to a lively start. Then
followed the black-art magic of Les Chapeaux Blancs, who
can be baffling at times, even though you know the underlying
principles of what they do.
David
Williamson went down a storm with his raccoon and a handful
of children from the audience. Only he could get away with
roughly manhandling the youngsters as he does; anyone else
would probably find themselves in court. But with him the
audience and the kids love it. A complete contrast was Galina's
balletic Linking Ring act, where the magic is very much
secondary to the movement, dressing and lighting. To close
the first half was Yann Frisch with his FISM-winning close-up
which combines Cup & Ball magic with comedy, mime and
juggling - plus a surprise finish that caught us all out.
After
the interval, Derek Lever presented the Murray Award to
Gay Ljungberg (the regular FISM stage director for many
years), who in turn brought on the entire Blackpool stage
crew, whom he described as "the best in the world".
Then octogenarian (and still working) comedy veteran Ken
Dodd OBE presented his trophy to Mel Mellers, before launching
into a 20-minute routine of rapid-fire gags, as only he
can.
Mark
& Alex plus an unnamed woman, were a team of illusionists
from Germany, who kicked off the magic proper. Then came
Sonny Hayes & Co (the "& Co" being Galina
who had appeared earlier) with a well-worked-out, ultra-slick
act of graceful comedy, which started low-key but got progressively
funnier.
To
close the show, came Marko Karvo and partner, yet more FISM
winners, who have taken bird magic to new heights producing
not only doves, but budgerigars, cockatoos and an enormous
parrot, together with appropriately-sized cages. A spectacular
feature is the way in which the birds fly over the audience
and return to the stage; something that helped generate
the excitement which contributed to their standing ovation.
For
those who were still hungry for yet more magic, the After
Gala Show Party followed with cabaret compered by Karl K
and featuring: George Kovari Junior, High Jinx and Matthew
Wright, plus close-up.
Throughout
the convention, some 120 dealers were showing and selling,
while caricaturist Robert Ormesher was on hand to draw portraits
for those who wished. And Kenny Bowe exhibited a display
of his collection of vintage playbills.
For
all the stage shows, Dave Windle handled the music, Duncan
Jump stage managed and Russ Brown was stage director.
Derek
Lever was the overall organiser of the entire convention,
assisted by: Arthur Casson (registrations), June Casson
(resgistrations), Annette Claire (media co-ordination),
Jeremy Guest (after show party and joint chief steward),
Pat Guest (after show party), Danny Hunt (media co-ordination),
Karl K (assistant security officer), Anne Lever (organiser's
PA), Russ Lowe (lecturer's sales), David Plant (assistant
organiser, close-up and joint chief steward), Les Pybus
(security), Harry Robson (close-up and dealers), Christine
Shepherd (treasurer's PA), Mike Shepherd (treasurer) and
Russ Stevens (assistant organiser).
Next
year's dates are 21st - 23rd February 2014.
--------------------------------------------
16. Sightseeing At S A M Convention
--------------------------------------------
Message by George Schindler (US)
Blue
Line or Yellow Line? Both of these DC Metrorail trains come
directly into Crystal City in Arlington just down the ramp
from the Marriott Crystal Gateway Hotel where you will be
staying when you come to the Society of American Magicians
Convention this July. (3-4-5-6).
Leave
the car at the hotel and get to see all of Washington DC.
The Arlington Cemetery is just three stops away on the Blue
line. The Yellow line takes you into the center of town
where you can visit the White House, or the Capitol. See
the Mall, Lincoln Memorial, or the Washington Monument.
Visit the museums, the Smithsonian or the Viet Nam Memorial
or all the other memorials on the mall. Come in a day early
or stay a day later to add these highlights to the magic.
See the DC Information Convention page on www.magicsam.com
If you are not registered yet, do so before the rates change.
--------------------------------------------
17. Illusion Dream Team Set To Thrill Auckland, New Zealand
--------------------------------------------
We hear magicians from all over New Zealand are planning
to come to Auckland to see one of the biggest selling magic
shows on earth today. The Illusionists.
22th May - 2nd June | The Civic, Auckland
Tickets: www.buytickets.co.nz
Or 0800 Buytickets
Performance Times
Wed to Sat 7.30pm, Saturdays 2pm,
Sundays, 11am & 3pm. Tues 28 May, 6.30pm
If
you are planning to see this fabulous magic show make sure
you also attend the Kevin James Auckland only lecture on
Monday 27th May.
The
Illusionists:
* The Anti-Conjurer aka Dan Sperry - Shock illusions
* The Enchantress aka Jinger Leigh - Skills of grace and
gravity defiance
* The Escapologist aka Andrew Basso - Death defying escapes
* The Gentleman aka Mark Kalin - Classic magic reimagined
* The Inventor aka Kevin James - Magic inventions and ground
breaking illusions
* The Mentalist aka Philip Escoffey - Master of the unexplained
* The Trickster aka Jeff Hobson - Comedy magic
The biggest selling magic show on earth will appear on The
Civic stage in May for a two week season featuring seven
world grand master magicians in The Illusionists: Witness
the Impossible.
The
Illusionists: Witness the Impossible launched in January
2012 with a sell-out season at Sydney Opera House reaching
an audience of 31,000 in nine days, followed by a Mexico
City eight-day season with an audience of 42,000. More recently
the show packed out Adelaide Festival Centre and Queensland
Performing Arts Centre, and willvisit Auckland before a
launching world tour from London's West End.
The
hand-picked cast of internationally renowned illusionists
together create a blockbuster stage show featuring a stunning
mix of their most outrageous and unbelievable optical illusions
including nail-biting Russian roulette, jaw-dropping acts
of levitation, mind-reading, disappearance and escapes.
This
show sees the magicians take their cue from the showmanship
of the great illusionists of the past - such as Houdini
- and combine it with contemporary sets, costume design,
technology and live band Z, best known as touring band for
Hip Hop legend NaS, to create a spell-binding family-friendly
blockbuster. Creative Producer Simon Painter says the show
is a world first, with each of the seveninternational illusionists
the best in their niche and together creating a 21st century
stage spectacular that will leave audiences spellbound.
"From
Dan Sperry's shock illusions to comedy magician Jeff Hobson
to Escapologist Andrew Basso who performs the Houdini inspired
underwater escape live on stage, there is no other group
of magicians who can deliver the mind-blowing entertainment
thatThe Illusionists do at every show.
"Kevin
James, The Inventor, is the man who created most of the
famous illusions and tricks that you'll see performed anywhere
in the world by top magicians, and we have him bringing
his favourite illusions to life as part of the show."
Robbie Macrae, Director of THE EDGE Performing Arts Centre
says that The Illusionists is a magic show like never before
seen in New Zealand and another major stage show for Auckland
and the rest of New Zealand to enjoy.
"We're
incredibly excited to have secured The Illusionists for
a season at
The Civic. We haven't had a blockbuster magic show of this
kind in Auckland before and we know that the theatricality
and artistry of the show will completely
astonish our audiences."
To book or for more information go to:
http://www.the-edge.co.nz/illusionists.aspx
YouTube
clip - The Illusionists - Witness the
Impossiblehttp://youtu.be/nAqq_OCC-3Y
--------------------------------------------
18. 2013 New Zealand Lectures - Diary Now
--------------------------------------------
Message by Alan Watson (New Zealand)
John
Kaplan (Canada) Lectures
Wellington Tuesday 12th March 2013 and
Auckland Thursday 14th March
Kevin
James & Jeff Hobson joint lectures
Auckland Monday 27th May 2012
--------------------------------------------
19. Magic New Zealand App
--------------------------------------------
Magic New Zealand now has its very own app that can be launched
on any tablet.
Go
to: www.app.cat/magicnewzealand on your tablet to download
the FREE Magic
New Zealand app.
--------------------------------------------
20. e-zine Archives
--------------------------------------------
Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to:
www.magicnewzealand.com click on the red button center right
"Archives"
When
you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order in
folders for each year and are Coded, e.g. 001 Nov06 1999.txt
first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the
date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999)
---------------------------------------------
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