* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #456 Date: Sunday 29th October 2006 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com www.Alan-Watson.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. "All Latin Magic Gala" Theme Show To Feature FISM Winners & Contestants 3. New Zealand Magician Takes Top Award - The Benny 4. Worldwide Escape Artist Relay 2007 5. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians # 32 - Nick Lewin 6. The Golden Benny & The Grand Master Of Magic 7. Las Vegas Update - November 2006 8. Comments On The California, Convention Of Escape Artists 9. Nick Lewin Subbing For Mac King At Harrah's 10. The Prestige 11. Creating Your Next Promotional Show Reel 12. A Dice Stacking Retrospective, Part 23 13. ASM Centenary Convention 7-8-9 July 2007 14. Earthquake And News Of Magicians In Hawaii 15. Marquis Theatre - Jeff Ezell, Losander and Rudi 16. Spooky Things Happening On Magic Broadcast 17. Las Vegas Fantasma Ring #257 To Honor Norm Nielsen 18. Tommy Cooper - Always Leave Them Laughing 19. Magic Is "Hot" In Florida 20. Looking For Information On Dariel Fitzkee 21. On Fair Use And Plagiarism 22. Theo de Leeuw & Gene McCarthy - Lifetime Achievement Award 23. Tony Brook In Conversation With Roei Zaltsman 24. e-zine Archives 25. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Tommy Orchard has been having difficulties with his broadband connection. Hopefully this will be fixed soon so the he can continue his popular weekly article "The Amazing Orchante Saga". ------------------------ At the 28th New Zealand International magician's convention's banquet Michele and I presented two Lifetime Achievement Awards on behalf of the Magic New Zealand's award committee to Theo de Leeuw and to Gene McCarthy. Both awards were very well deserved and were both in recognition to their major contributions to the magical arts for New Zealand. Presentation in full go to item 23. ----------------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. "All Latin Magic Gala" Theme Show To Feature FISM Winners & Contestants -------------------------------------------- Message from George Schindler - Dean - the Society of American Magician RG Smith, producer of the S. A. M. Convention shows in Dallas this summer (July 4-5-6-7) announced that the closing July 7 convention show will star six Latin acts selected from over 100 acts that he has seen at FISM and FLASOMA this summer. The star performers include three of the award winners and the hottest new acts, all of whom happen to come from Argentina, Spain, and Portugal. No other US convention has ever presented such an award winning, unique line up. No need to travel outside of the country, when you can see them all in Dallas. www.magicsam,com (Or phone 618-451-9749) -------------------------------------------- 3. New Zealand Magician Takes Top Award - The Benny -------------------------------------------- Message from Guy Cater (NZ) The Variety Artists Club Of New Zealand Annual Awards Evening. This was a wonderful night held recently at Auckland's Sorrento In The Park. Almost two hundred gathered to enjoy an evening of fine dining, top entertainment and to find out who won the coveted awards. Singer Jim Joll was the MC for the evening and musicians Peter Common, Bruce French and Geunter Fischer added a sparkle to the venue. VAC President Tom Sharplin welcomed all and then the fun began. Magician Alan Martell from the United Kingdom performed an hilarious ten minute 'ropes and gags' routine to the delight of all, early in the evening and had the audience in loads of laughter which got the whole show off to a great start. Other entertainment came from Impressionist Colin Parris with his many voices and gags and Steve Larkins performed as Freddy Mercury. Although comedy plays a big part of his show, the fact that his voice is remarkably similar to Freddy Mercury, impressed all. The Awards The Pat McMinn Rising Star Award (presented to someone who is starting out on an entertainment career and who shows that Star Quality potential) went to young magician Jarred Fell. The Agnew Award for Excellence went to Carol Tucker for her work as dressmaker and dresser for over 25 years, The Reilly Comedy Award went to Chris Powley and Chet O'Connell, Scrolls of Honour to Joy Crees for work in the community, Mike Walker (Spike) for brilliance on keyboard and help given to younger musicians, Peter Heremia for his promoting skills and assistance to artists, and retiring Variety Artists Club Secretary, Cynthia Cater for untiring and unselfish work for the VAC and the Entertainment Industry. The Unsung Hero Award went to promoter Sid Walker. Then the big one. THE BENNY. Named for and first presented to New Zealand Magician Edgar Benyon, the Benny is the most prestigious award the Variety Artists Club presents. Since 1969, when it was designed and sculptured by Jon Zealando, it has been sought after by all entertainers. Each year the previous recipients of this award gather to discuss who should receive it . and this year the winner was your editor ALAN WATSON. It was a fabulous moment when Alan went up to receive the Benny . the entire room rose to their feet and the applause was loud and very long. It seemed no one wanted to stop acknowledging Alan and he had to wait a long time, for the applause to die down, before he could speak. Actor, broadcaster and author Max Cryer made the presentation to Alan but not until he had listed Alan's achievements over his career. and they are many. Alan was clearly emotional about the Award and his acceptance speech was obviously heartfelt and at times Alan seemed a little lost for words (most unlike him) but it showed the sincerity of what he was saying. It was so wonderful that the Variety Artists Club top Award should go to someone that not only deserved it but was also so well received by everyone who attended the night. Congratulations Alan . you make us all proud. Guy Cater -------------------------------------------- 4. Worldwide Escape Artist Relay 2007 -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Szauter (aka Dr. Wilson) Dear Friends of Magic, On October 27, 2007, the Worldwide Escape Artist Relay (WEAR) will circle the globe as escape artists around the world take part in the largest coordinated performance by escape artists in history. The first Worldwide Escape Artist Relay in 2005 had over fifty escape artists participating. Many performers were able to attract more press attention to their escape attempts because of the connection to WEAR. We expect a large number of participants in 2007, with over thirty escape artists from eight different countries already registered, a year in advance of the event. A number of high-profile escape artists have registered for WEAR 2007. Steve Baker (Mr. Escape) is emerging from retirement to participate. Thomas Solomon, whose performing credits include the White House, will escape in grand style. Dorothy Dietrich will perform an escape at the Houdini Museum in Scranton, PA. Michael Berends (The Impossibilist) will be using his participation in WEAR 2007 to promote his television appearances in Canada. Matt the Knife, holder of several world records and named APCA's "Best Novelty Act" in 2006, will bring his unique style to an escape. Kristen Johnson, the headline act at Cannon's Escape Artist Convention in October 2006, will be performing her incredible full-view underwater escape. Join us! It is easy to participate in WEAR 2007. Any escape artist interested in participating need only register (at no cost) by sending an email to Dr. Wilson (drwilson@memoryelixir.com). The message should contain (1) name (or stage name), (2) location of escape (or home city), (3) time of escape (can be TBA), (4) nature of escape (can be TBA), (5) email address, and (6) website (if any). Escape artists participating in WEAR 2007 should document their performances with photography or video if possible. Minimally, two witnesses should verify the escape. Please share this information with your associates in magic who are interested in the Art of Escape. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours in magic, Paul Szauter (aka Dr. Wilson) -------------------------------------------- 5. Meetings With Remarkable Magicians # 32 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin A tip from Glenn Hayward that is worth its weight in gold. One of the very best pieces of advice I was ever given in Magic was by a magician I hardly knew and only met once more very briefly while I was working at the Magic Cellar in San Francisco. The Magic Cellar was a really cool little nightclub that was nestled in the basement of a wonderful jazz club called Earthquake McGoons. The man who gave me these words of advice was Glenn Hayward. The Magic Cellar was an intimate club run by Cedric and Jan Clute back in the seventies. Cedric was the man who discovered the vast collection of Carter the Great posters, handbills and props. He created the perfect living museum for them in his lively nightspot on the border of Chinatown. I worked at the Cellar quite frequently as Clute and I jointly edited a book of magical murder mystery stories entitled 'Sleight of Crime.' It was the very first book to feature reprints of the Carter material. I have long since ceased to make any money from the book (did I ever?) but it is a fun book and worth a search on Amazon.com. I spent many happy weekends in San Francisco working at the 'Magic Cellar' and working on the book. I met many fine performers and characters during those San Francisco nights and learned a great deal about performing. One night Glenn was working with me at the club and we started to talk about our craft. It began when I complimented Hayward on his opening trick, a very smooth version of the classic Six Card Repeat. "It is a really good opener" said Glenn. I asked him what made it such a good opener for him and his reply was that he could perform the entire routine without ever looking at his props and that allowed him to never break eye contact with the audience. Now I have a special affection for the venerable Six Card Repeat and could add a few other reasons why it is a great trick but it was Glenn's very simple concept that struck a chord in my mind. It has become almost a cliché to talk about the importance of the audience's first impression of a performer but this is a very simple way to do something about it. By keeping your eyes (and therefore your attention) on the audience during this vital period you can achieve a very significant bond with your spectators. If you forget about what is going on in your hands the audience subconsciously responds to you as a person instead of a performer. You immediately appear confident, open and friendly. It is the audience's job to watch what you're doing and not yours. Your job is to reach out and grab the crowd and if you take the time to 'work' the audience with your attention then they are more likely to repay the courtesy. I thought about this idea for quite a long time before I realized what fabulous advice it was and it has been a cornerstone of my performing arsenal ever since. I wish I knew more about Mr. Hayward but I pass on your advice with every hope it might influence another rookie magician. Thanks Glenn. Please send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin@earthlink.net -------------------------------------------- 6. The Golden Benny & The Grand Master Of Magic -------------------------------------------- Message from Richard Webster (NZ) Congratulations on your amazing double last week, Alan. You must be the first person to receive two of New Zealand's most prestigious entertainment awards in the same week. For those who don't know - On Wednesday 18th, the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand presented Alan Watson with the Golden Benny Award, New Zealand's highest award for any entertainer. The Benny is named after Edgar Benyon, a leading New Zealand magician who toured the world in the first half of the twentieth century. On Sunday 22nd, at the 28th New Zealand International Magician's Convention in Palmerston North, Alan was presented with the Grand Master of Magic, the supreme award for excellence for a New Zealand magician. Alan received a standing ovation on each occasion. Both of these awards are well deserved and, in my opinion, long overdue. You are an inspiration to us all. Congratulations on your phenomenal success. -------------------------------------------- 7. Las Vegas Update - November 2006 -------------------------------------------- Message from David Neubauer (US) Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 10 pm, (Dark Thurs.), Sahara. http://www.saharavegas.com/shows/amazingjohnathon.html Beacher's Madhouse Tyas Frantz, Chris Karpiak & Seth Grabel - 10 pm - Hard Rock. Check www.beachersmadhouse.com for dates. Bite (Vampire Strip Revue) Antonio Restivo 10:30 pm (dark Thurs.) Stratosphere www.bitelasvegas.com David Copperfield 7:30 & 10 pm, 4:30 Sat. & some Sun. MGM Grand. Nov 9-29, Dec 21-31: http://mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist Stardust Theater Mon-Sat, 9:00 pm The Stardust will close forever on November 1st. http://www.stardustlv.com/site/entertainment/ Haunted Vegas Tour & Show Robert Allen, Jac Hayden & Zamora - Greek Isle. 9:00 pm tour and show (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas 2 & 4 pm, Stardust. (Dark Wed.) http://www.stardustlv.com/site/entertainment/index.cfm?Page=Artist&ArtistID=27 Jason Bird The Shops in Desert Passage - Aladdin. Main stage, near the "V" Theater, Thursday - Monday Various times from 1:15 pm. - 8:15 pm. - Free. La Femme Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. http://www.mgmgrand.com/pages_html/entertainment_lafemme_lafemme.asp Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues-Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. http://www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) Harrah's Clint Holmes Theater. www.mackingshow.com Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 2 pm, (Dark Fri. & Sun.) V Theater in the Desert Passage - Aladdin. Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html The Ultimate Variety Showcase 8 pm - Midnight every Tuesday. Free. A different live show every week. Check the website for performance details. http://www.samstownlv.com/entertainment/event.cfm?EventID=332 Roxy's Live - Sam's Town V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jeff Hobson, Nathan & Sarah - www.vtheshow.com 7 & 9 pm, Aladdin. 2 for 1 coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponvshow.html World's Greatest Magic Show Kevin James, Kozak and guest stars. Billy Fergueson (pre-show). 6 pm Sat. - Thurs., 8:15 Fri., Greek Isle. www.greatestmagicshow.com Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/Coupontropicana_dirk.html Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. RESTAURANTS: Eric Allan Outback Steakhouse (Green Valley), Fri. & Sat. Jayden LaCross TGI Fridays, Wed. & Sun. Las Vegas Magic Organizations I.B.M. #257: 7 pm 1st Monday of each month. www.ring257.com Darwin's Magic Club meets every Wednesday. Both meet at: Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. October, 2006 October 15-31: Losander, Mike Micheals, Roy Shank. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. October 25-28: Magic & Meaning Conference; Magic And The Art Of Storytelling, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, George Parker, Special Guest: Robert Neale. www.magicalwisdom.com October 27: Jeff McBride - Witches & Wizards Ball. November, 2006 November 1-5: Losander, Roy Shank, Shimshi. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. November 2-5: Magic for the Medical Professional. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Special Guest: Jay Ungar, author of "Bringing Magic to Life." www.magicalwisdom.com November 5-7: MINDVENTION 2006 - Palace Station Casino www.MindVention.com Jason Alexander (of Seinfield fame) John Riggs, Christopher Carter, Francis Menotti, Greg Arce, Docc Hilford, Dennis Laub, Rick Maue, Anton Zelman, Robert Allen, Danny Archer. November 6-26: Losander, Roy Shank, Mike Micheals. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. November 8-10: Master Class for Mentalists. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Special Guest: Ross Johnson. www.magicalwisdom. November 9-29: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. November 27-30: Mike Micheals, Roy Shank, Shimshi. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. December, 2006 December 1-17: Mike Michaels, Roy Shank, Shimshi. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. December 12-25: Holiday show added (7 pm). Xtreme Magic, Tropicana. December 18-31: Mike Micheals, Roy Shank, Shimshi, Losander. World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. December 21-31: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. January, 2007 January 26-28: Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com February, 2007 February 15-17: The Ultimate Performers Workshop, Mac King, Jeff Hobson, Charlie Frye, Peter Reveen, Joanie Spina, Shep Hyken, Paul Stone. www.ultimateperformersopportunity.com February 18-21: The World Magic Seminar - 30th Anniversary Blowout. Orleans Hotel. www.worldmagicseminar.com February 23-25: Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com March, 2007 March 20-22: Worker's Mid-Week Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com April, 2007 April 23-29: Extended Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com June, 2007 June 10-12: The Las Vegas Magic Invitational - Palace Station www.LVMI.net July, 2007 July 16-22: Extended Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com August, 2007 August 16-22: Extended Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com August 19-22: MAGIC Live! - The Orleans. www.magicmagazine.com September, 2007 September 14-16: Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.magicalwisdom.com October, 2007 October 23-26: Magic & Meaning Conference; Magic And The Art Of Storytelling, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, George Parker, Special Guest: Robert Neale. www.magicalwisdom.com -------------------------------------------- 8. Comments On The Ontario, California, Convention Of Escape Artists -------------------------------------------- Message from James Randi I noted with interest the comments on the recent Ontario, California, convention of escape artists by Margarette LeClaire. This caught my attention: "It was brought up to me the fact of picking vs shimming with this contest...was it unfair to shim the cuffs? If Mark didn't state that one could not shim the handcuffs, then anything except using the key was fair game." Well, it seems to me that the object is to release oneself from the cuffs, or am I missing the point? Since I assume that during a public performance, the escape artist would not be showing his methods to an audience, the fact that the cuffs are no longer holding him/her in constraint, would be eminent proof of the artist's skill, right? Are we testing for a specific method of opening a lock, or a way of releasing oneself? That's the question, of course. While I'm on the subject, a further comment. I am regularly running into escape artists who actually seem proud of the fact that they can't pick a lock. I find that incredible. On several occasions, I've rescued people who were trapped outside their homes or outside their cars, by rooting around and finding suitable bits of metal* that serve to open their locks. One such event took place -- I think it was in Mexico City -- when a very prominent magus-who-will-remain-nameless was searching for a brick to put through the side window of his rental car so that he could get the vehicle into the hotel garage and get his props unloaded in time for his show. In my opinion, an escape artist who can't pick basic locks, is like a carpenter who doesn't recognize a hammer... *It is now not advisable to carry around a set of lock-picks, due to the changed circumstances of air-travel...! -------------------------------------------- 9. Nick Lewin Subbing For Mac King At Harrah's -------------------------------------------- Message from Susan Lewin (USA) I'm sure Nick neglected to mention that he is subbing for Mac King at Harrah's in Las Vegas: October 31 through November 1 December 19 through December 23 Two shows daily at 1 & 3 PM. -------------------------------------------- 10. The Prestige -------------------------------------------- Message from Richards Walls (NZ) Richard Walls - who is also something of a movie buff as well as having a long interest in magic - reports an enthusiastic review by London reviewer, Rich Clein - Shadows-On-The-Wall, of THE PRESTIGE, the Christopher Nolan helmed movie telling the story of "two rival magicians in Victorian London, with an obsessive competitiveness that will eventually take several lives and a few limbs as well." Richard says, in his opinion, Clein is one of the best reviewers around and his award of four stars is is about as good as it gets. Here's an extract of his review which you can find in full at: www.shadowsonthewall.co.uk: "Basically, we don't dare take our eyes off the screen for a second. Miss a clue and we're doomed to wait for a (fairly) clear explanation. Nolan seems almost effortless in his tricky structure and subtle period setting. And the script is a marvel of hints, allusions and illusions. As a magical thriller, it's terrifically entertaining. And as a story of extreme obsession, it really gets under the skin." -------------------------------------------- 11. Videoing Your Show Or Creating Your Next Promotional Show Reel -------------------------------------------- Message from Fast Jimmy (Aust) fastjimmy@dodo.com.au If any performers living in Australia or overseas or performers visiting our shores from overseas who would like their show recorded and edited, then contact Sonya Perica at DaTreats on mobile phone number 0408620709. Sonya is a true professional in her field and will do an outstanding job in videoing your performance and editing it to your requirements. From kids shows through to large scale stage productions and creating your very own promotional DVD whether it be for close-up magic or stage magic Sonya will create a performance piece or show reel to showcase your talents. Sonya has worked both here in Australia and overseas having returned recently from a shoot in Las Vegas. I have worked with Sonya in the past and not only is she extremely talented in her work but she is very easy to get along with and to me that makes all the difference. -------------------------------------------- 12. A Dice Stacking Retrospective, Part 23 -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony L. Lewis (US) Message from The High End of Dice Stacking An addendum to my dice stacking series of articles Hi fellow magic enthusiasts, My requests for feedback on my dice stacking series resulted in five responses, somewhat less than I had hoped for. One of these came from my friend Don Wiberg, the current IBM Secretary. He wrote as follows: "Greetings from the Chicago area. I always enjoy reading your offerings in Alan Watson's Ezine. You mention getting started in dice stacking for about $20. Have you seen the ads for the Joe Porper dice stacking equipment for $450.00? WOW! Any comment?" Don's comments certainly piqued my curiosity, so I proceeded to do some research on this clearly high end effect. I first went to http://www.porperoriginals.com/misc_dicestack.htm where I saw a picture of the equipment involved and a description of what it does. In my usual manner I then called Joe Porper to hear what he had to say about his effect. Here is where my research led me. The equipment you get with the trick is as follows: 1. A thin walled cup in which you can stack four casino dice. Joe told me that the cup is made of Delran which he describes as "An upper echelon plastic." The write up says: "Porper's goal here was to create a dice cup that was indestructible and one that would handle easy, stack easy and look like something a pro would use." I found the description and picture of the cup to be intriguing as it seems it would be excellent for doing the "decapitation move." 2. A dice loader that fits inside the cup. This enables the performer to drop dice out of the cup one at a time. The walls of the cup are stiff but flexible. This allows one to hold any load inside of the cup. I like this feature very much. Both of my own leather dice cups are made in the same manner. 3. A coin loader that fits in the cup similarly to the dice loader. This allows you to "Silently drop a load of 20 quarters from the cup." Joe Porper tells me that each loader is customized to the cup it is made for. He went on to say that he ran off thirty dice stacking sets that he hopes to sell over a period of about five years. It seems that he has been stacking dice for a considerable amount of time. Thus he is quite aware of the requirements of other performers who also practice this art. Using his equipment, your act would go as follows. You start by introducing an "empty cup." Holding it over your stacking surface you magically drop four dice out of the cup, one at a time. You then lap the dice dropper from the cup. This should be easy to do as the audience's attention is drawn to the dropping dice. Next you proceed to perform your normal dice stacking routine. Your last flourish should leave the audience's attention on the dice. This enables you to load the coin dropper into the cup from your lap. For the finale you drop the load of twenty quarters. Their falling to the table provides the necessary misdirection for you to ditch the coin dropper and allow all the equipment to be examined. Please note that I am reviewing this product without being able to play with it. However, it seems to me that you have to have a pretty ample lap to handle all this equipment adroitly. Joe mentioned to me that for a bartender or anyone standing at a table with a servante, this should all be a very simple matter. I am sure that this is correct. I know that Clarke "The Senator" Crandall liked to use a glass of wine for a final load when he worked behind a bar. It would be most challenging to handle a load like that from one's lap. You may very well ask at this point, "Why would I want to spend $450.00 for this equipment when I can buy a very nice cup, dice, and a jumbo load die for about $70.00?" All I can answer is that everything is relative. The Porper dice stacking set is priced out of my budget, but from what I hear, Joe Porper has a loyal set of customers who eagerly purchase just about everything that he makes. His tricks tend to be quite pricy, but the quality of his merchandise is reported to be impeccable. I have heard nothing but praise for what he produces. If you are interested in seeing how more affluent magicians spend their money, I invite you to visit the entire web site whose home page is at http://www.porperoriginals.com/ . There you will find a variety of effects and magic props. Prices of several hundred US dollars are not unusual. As I said before, that does not seem to deter Joe's select set of customers. What I find most interesting about this luxurious array of magic items is that the majority of them are not new creations. Instead, they are Joe's precise rendering of classic props such as coin boxes, card boxes, and rings. However, in several cases the effects offered represent unique variations of items such as wallets and paddles. A few of them are inspired by concepts of R. Paul Williams. I did spot a handful of what appeared to be unique tricks. *Please keep in mind that it was a piece of feedback that inspired me to write this addendum.* (Hint) Regards, Tony L. Lewis Tonylew1@SBCglobal.net -------------------------------------------- 13. ASM Centenary Convention 7-8-9 July 2007 -------------------------------------------- Message from Charles Gauci President Australian Society of Magicians Melbourne Australia We are extremely pleased with the initial registration response for what we believe will be the biggest ever Magic Convention ever to be held in Australasia. The five lucky winners from our first raffle of the early registrants were: Richard Wibberly, Ray Kelly, Simon Coronel, Tom Stevens and Alan Watson. Congratulations and thank you for supporting us so early. It is our intention to attract as many local and overseas participants as possible so we are offering another incentive. Names of those who register and pay a $100 deposit before December 10th will be entered into a raffle. Three winners will be drawn at the ASM general meeting on December 12th. They will get the price of the convention for the cost of the deposit that is $100. For those who do not win the balance of $180 can be made in two payments. There will be no further raffles after this. To allow participants flexibility of choice we have kept separate the $100 cost of the banquet. This is an additional charge. It will be held in the magnificent ANZ Pavilion Room at the Melbourne Arts Centre which offers first class views of the city of Melbourne. The line-up so far is Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Shoot Ogawa, Gaetan Bloom, Sean Farquhar, and Lennart Green. Plus of course some of the highest profile Australian performers which will be listed shortly. The program will be published in late November. If we can exceed our budgeted registration numbers, we have two more top international guests who are very keen to participate. So come on folks, do your part, and let us know your intentions ASAP. You are the ones who will benefit because we intend to reinvest your registration monies in booking more guests. I want to make one very important point. There will be no freebees. This is one convention that is not going to run at a loss. What I mean by this is that I and all my committee will be paying to attend the convention also. Finally, next month we will be listing the competitions rules on our website. In the meantime we welcome competitors for both the close-up and stage competitions. Numbers will be limited to ten competitors in each category. So the earlier you apply the better chance you have of competing. There is one reservation however; all competitors must be of professional standard. The honor of placing in both the competitions let alone the chance of winning some prize money should be enough incentive for you to enter. It will look good on your CV. All competitors however will be given a certificate to show that at least they had the honor of competing in this very special historic event. There will be five judges of very high caliber who will allocate points on Originality, Skillfulness, Innovation, and Entertainment Value. Three of them will be overseas visitors. Please visit our website at www. magicians.org.au for further information. Please bear with us as the website is being maintained by one of our members who is currently overseas. Do not hesitate to contact me at charlesg37@hotmail.com should you have any queries. -------------------------------------------- 14. Earthquake And News Of Magicians In Hawaii -------------------------------------------- Message from Maria Ibáñez Society of American Magicians President Elect Greetings: Just heard through Monty Witt of Monty's Magic Theatre in Hawaii. The worst they fared was 17 hours without electricity due to an automatic shut down. He tells me that Jimmy Yoshida, Yona Chock and he all are fine. They are in Oahu which is about 150 miles from the center of the quake so while they felt the shaking, it wasn't as bad as on the big island and they didn't sustain any damage. -------------------------------------------- 15. Marquis Theatre - Jeff Ezell, Losander and Rudi -------------------------------------------- Message from Jeff Ezell (US) Marquis Theatre: 135 E. Main, Northville, Michigan. 248-349-8110. http://www.northvillemarquistheatre.com/UpcomingEvents.htm Schedule: . Vegas Magic Show: Featuring Jeff Ezell, Losander and Rudi (flying in from Germany to do the show) www.Losander.com www.JeffEzell.com http://www.clownnase.de/  8 p.m. Nov. 3-4 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 5. $15, $12 seniors and students. -------------------------------------------- 16. Spooky Things Happening On Magic Broadcast -------------------------------------------- Message from Ryan Pilling MagicBroadcast News for October 24th, 2006 Here's the news from MagicBroadcast.com, and the Magic Member network. ---------------------------------- - Magic Broadcast Turns Two! - How Do You Make Your Halloween Magical? - Lee Asher Helps Launch The Open Road Project - Illusionist Andre Kole on Magic Broadcast - The Coolest Magic Websites on Magic Buzz -------------------------------------- Magic Broadcast Turns Two! Magic Broadcast was launched on Halloween evening of 2004, and this year marks the beginning of our third year. Yup, we're toddling now! It's our tradition to have a bit of an on-air party, live, on Hallow's Eve. This year Steve Johnson is taking the reigns for this romp through the dark woods. Expect good times, some looking back, and our annual Houdini Seance. That starts at 9 PM Pacific, Midnight Eastern, on October 31st. ----------------------------------------- How Do You Make Your Halloween Magical? As a special for our birthday broadcast, we're collecting ideas and stories from you on the topic of magic for Halloween. What grand plans have you got this year to magically scare the kids (or adults)? Got a great story of the perfect magical prank? Ever hosted your own seance? Share your stories of spooky magic by leaving a voice message on our Talk-Back line. Call toll-free 1-888-808-2412. Your stories will be featured on the October 31 broadcast. ------------------------------------------- Lee Asher Helps Launch The Open Road Project We're scheming and dreaming at Magic Broadcast, and are launching a new project that is sure to be a very fun ongoing adventure for our listeners. The Open Road Project is as close as you will probably get to travelling alongside magicians as they journey around the globe. Thanks to a portable recording kit, these stories and adventures are going to be documented and shared. Read all about this project at http://www.magicbroadcast.com/openroad Lee Asher has stepped up to kick things off by inviting us along with him on his west coast lecture tour in November, including a stop at the Magic Castle! See where Lee is going at http://www.leeasher.com/tour And this project couldn't get started without our first project sponsor... Grand Illusions! http://www.grandillusions.com --------------------------------------- Illusionist Andre Kole on Magic Broadcast If you haven't been tuning in to Magic Broadcast on Sunday nights, you've been missing two great shows from "Magi-Ken". Every Sunday night at 6 PM Pacific, 9 PM Eastern, he alternates between two shows... either "Magic In The Air", where he often teaches tricks and techniques, and the Gospel themed "Magic With A Message" show. It is the latter that plays host to Gospel magician and illusionist Andre Kole on November 5th. This is a guy who really does walk on water, and he'll be sharing from a long career of magic and illusions. Sunday, November 5th at 6 PM Pacific, 9 PM Eastern. ------------------------------------------- The Coolest Magic Websites on Magic Buzz If you haven't yet seen the newest addition to the Magic-Member Network, you're missing out on a collection of the most interesting and informative magic links on the internet. Go to http://www.Magic-Buzz.com and you will find... A complete video of an old David Copperfield TV special Steve Martin's balloon twisting routine The biggest collection of magic-themed comic books in the world Some great free tricks available on the web And even video of recent FISM champions! Magic-Buzz.com is all about sharing the good links with other magicians. If you find an internet site worth talking about, you can post it on Magic Buzz to share it with the magic world. -------------------------------------------- 17. Las Vegas Fantasma Ring #257 To Honor Norm Nielsen -------------------------------------------- Message from David Neubauer Las Vegas Fantasma Ring #257 of the International Brotherhood of Magicians is pleased to announce that Las Vegas resident Norm Nielsen will be honored as the Ring's Magician of the Year for 2006. A Gala event will be held on Monday evening December 4, 2006 at the Orleans Hotel and Casino honoring Norm for a lifetime of achievement and contribution to the art of magic. In addition to a light buffet dinner, a star-studded magical tribute to Norm will be presented to all in attendance. Featured performers (as of this date) include last years award winner Carl Ballantine along with Johnny Thompson, Goldfinger and Dove, Aye Jaye, Simon Lovell, Jeff Hobson and more to come. Tickets are $40 for Ring #257 IBM members and $65 for non ring members. A limited number of VIP tickets are available at $100 each which insure priority seating for the show along with a surprise from Norm himself. If the event is not a sell out, general admission tickets will be available at the door for $85. Contact local IBM volunteer Al Jensen at alj@lvmagical.com or 702-336-2039 for tickets or for more information. ----------------- 18. Tommy Cooper - Always Leave Them Laughing ----------------- Frances Pardell Tommy Cooper Always Leave Them Laughing The definitive biography of a comedy legend John Fisher Published by HarperCollins on 16th October, £18.99 HB Someone actually complemented me on my driving the other day. They put a note on my windscreen that said, 'Parking Fine.' So that was nice. Frank and revealing, this fully authorised biography by Tommy's friend and colleague, acclaimed TV producer, John Fisher, is the first ever intimate portrait of Britain's best-loved, but little known, entertainer. More than just a comedian, Tommy Cooper was a born entertainer. Working in a golden age of British comedy, Cooper stood - literally - head and shoulders above the crowd, and had a magical talent for humour that defied description. When Cooper enlisted in the army in 1939, and began to perfect his comic timing on his army colleagues in the Egyptian desert, the man with the fez was born. Cooper was at the heart of the thriving British variety scene, adored by his legions of fans and much revered by his fellow professionals. The gentle giant of entertainment accompanied his bewildered, botched magic act with a sublime sense of bravado and a face that was made for comedy. He was one of the first funny men to have the entire nation in stitches. But there was a man behind the laughter that few people saw. John Fisher was Cooper's friend and colleague and witnessed first-hand the child that lingered within the adult and moments of self-doubt and inadequacy that contrasted with the genial exterior. Until his tragic death, which occurred in the middle of his act on live television in 1984, Tommy Cooper lived in constant fear of the day he would be found out by his audience. He could never believe the accolades that came so thick and fast from every direction, and died to the sounds of laughter that he never really believed. Supplementing his own intimate knowledge with material accessed for the first time from the archives of Tommy's agent and manager, Miff Ferrie, and with the full co-operation of the Cooper family, John Fisher brings alive the man behind the comedic mask in this definitive biography of a comedy legend. Praise for Tommy Cooper: 'Everyone wanted to imitate him didn't they. That was the true accolade I think. And he was funny as soon as he came on, he didn't have to say anything he was just . FUNNY.' Ronnie Barker 'Tommy was amazing. He looked like Mount Rushmore on legs. He never said anything about real life so he never dates.' Barry Cryer 'Absolutely fantastic. No other comic would work with him, he was too good. He had this fantastic expression. A giant of comedy, a British WC Fields and he will be irreplaceable.' Eric Morecambe About the author: John Fisher has a long and distinguished career as a TV producer working in light entertainment for both the BBC and Thames Television. His work embraced shows as diverse as 'Parkinson', 'The Bob Monkhouse Show', 'The Ken Dodd Show', 'Wogan', 'Joan Rivers: Can We Talk?', 'This Is Your Life', 'Des O'Connor Tonight', and 'The Paul Daniels Magic Show', with which he won the coveted Golden Rose of Montreux . He worked with Tommy Cooper and other giants of comedy including Spike Milligan and Bruce Forsyth. His most recent work includes Channel 4's critically acclaimed series 'Heroes of Comedy' and 'Heroes of Magic'. An authority on popular entertainment, he has written many books on the subject, including 'Funny Way To Be A Hero' . 'Jus' Like That!', his stage celebration of the life of Tommy Cooper, was a recent West End hit. He shares with Tommy Cooper the distinction of being a Gold Star Member of the Inner Magic Circle. A past recipient of The Magic Circle's 'Magician of the Year' award, he was also the first person to receive the Houdini Award for services to international magic on American television's prestigious 'World Magic Awards'. Tommy Cooper: Always Leave Them Laughing is published by HarperCollins on the 16th October 2006, priced £18.99. For features and review copies please contact Frances Pardell at frances@pardellpr.co.uk or on 01582 537137. For Irish enquiries please contact Moira Reilly on 0402 61822, E-mail: moitratreilly@eircom.net. * John Fisher is available for interview.* -------------------------------------------- 19. Magic Is "Hot" In Florida -------------------------------------------- Message from Dan Stapleton Just how does one plan an outdoor event in the UK when it rains so often? Here in Florida, it's the sun and heat that can be a challenge. I wonder how long Houdini would last if attempting the straight jacket escape in 100+ weather. Recently I had the displeasure of performing outside at a lovely hotel here in Orlando. Actually, only three days before the event I was informed that we would be changing locations, from a nice, air conditioned ballroom to an outside lawn. "Don't worry", the organizer assured me, "the sun will be behind you". I was thinking something else "where the sun doesn't shine".is where this is all heading. I was told that the sun would be behind the building by the time we were to go on. We found out that her direction was wrong.that the sun was going down.on our side. I told her sternly, "Well, either the building or the sun has to be moved or I don't go on!" She just stared at me. It was so hot that my doves were begging me for a drink from the lighter fluid. (bada bing) There were two stages, one for my performance and the other for a country band. These were separated by the tables and chairs. The band and I agreed to have the two stages joined together to make one large stage. The stage manager control-freak argued that (he felt) the show would look better to have two smaller stages. He was a very bad listener while we were trying to explain how it would be much better for both our performances to have one large stage. This is the king of guy who would throw a beer party and then lock all the bathroom doors (bada bing again). Actually, the weather turned out pretty good (I think it was only *98) as the sun was going down! However, the high humidity made everything stick. Try performing a Zombie routine wearing a short sleeve shirt. Now coat your arm and the ball with rubber cement. For the cloth, use Saran Wrap. Now you get the idea of how challenging the humidity was! Earlier in the day, when the heat was really up, it took two hours setting up the show. All the time I was thinking, "I can't wait to perform the Sub Trunk!" When it came time to present that illusion, it was absolutely fruitless doing a costume change in the trunk. When I jumped out, at its conclusion, my feet got tangled in the costume that lay on the bottom of the trunk and it tripped me as I leaped out. My wife whispered, "Well that was different!" She then added, "It didn't help having all that sweat on the floor of the truck." I said, "That wasn't sweat!" Now the wind picked up. The Sub Trunk switch was delayed by a few seconds as the breeze blew the cloth bottom up top of the trunk. Damn again! As we laid the cloth down behind us, after the trick, Faryln (my wife) smelled something burning. The stage manager decided to turn on some decorative lights that were placed behind our S-Trunk. Naturally the curtain now was resting on those lights. Anyone out there want to by a used Sub Trunk curtain with three coffee-can-sized holes included? During a mental routine, the audience got a chuckle out of a spectator when trying to cut a strip of paper (news prediction) that was flapping in the breeze. When doing the Paper Balls Over The Head routine, the balls kept flying back to the front of the gal. I was wondering if she and everyone else were thinking, "What's the point?" It was pretty comical I must admit. Out of the corner of my mouth I whispered to Faryln, "Well...they are applauding." She said, "You idiot, that sound is them slapping the mosquitoes!" That ballroom was located not far from the loading dock where our vehicles could drive right up to unload. Not so where we performed! It seemed as though it would have been faster to take a taxi, back and forth, from the loading dock to the area where we were performing. The audience was getting pretty tipsy by this time.trying to cool off by drinking more and more rum & Coke.without the Coke. Here's a weird thing.when I asked a lady her name, she replied with a man's name. Everyone laughed. The next lady did the same thing. When I got a guy up on stage, he gave me his name.that of a ladies! I thought, "What is this a Victor Victoria convention?" With all this we had to endure, everyone (except us) really did have a good time. Even in the heat, no one got up and walked out, except for the doves, who's wings were sticking to their sides from the humidity. The lesson here is: Never let them see you sweat..or swear.which Faryln and I did both of, quite a bit that day. But I'll never forget those lovely words that my wife spoke to me after we were finished packing up: "Hire another assistant next time and let's get the hell out of here!" -------------------------------------------- 20. Looking For Information On Dariel Fitzkee -------------------------------------------- Message from Dave Goodsell I am looking for anyone who has any knowledge of Dariel Fitzkee, the author of The Trick Brain and other books. Those books were written back in the 1940s, so there won't be many around who knew him. But if anyone knows of any biographical material in magazines, or if anyone has clippings in their collection, please have them contact me. superg13@comcast.net -------------------------------------------- 21. On Fair Use And Plagiarism -------------------------------------------- Message from Steve Johnson The age-old battle for intellectual property once again reared its head in the magic community when Ricky Jay sat in on a performance by Eric Walton. Mr. Jay was dismayed by the material in Mr. Walton's show, "Esoterica" which, in Mr. Jay's opinion, was far too similar to the material in his 2002 show, "Ricky Jay: On the Stem" including a chess based effect known as "The Knight's Tour." After watching Mr. Walton's show, Ricky Jay was quoted as stating, "I paid for a ticket and I sat through the show and I would very much like my money and my material back." But Walton isn't budging. He says that he and Jay are both performing old and well-documented tricks. Tricks that he claims are well within the public domain. Jay, however, is unconvinced. Too many similarities apparently lie between Walton's "Esoterica" and Jay's shows of recent years including his 1994 show, "Ricky Jay and his 52 Assistants." Both perform "Fast and Loose," a classic street hustle using a chain, and both mention Shakespeare during this effect. Both use grandiose and oversized words like "Brobdingnagian" or "Pachydermatous". Both wear pinstripe suits and both incorporate into their shows a fair amount of magical history. In a recent New York Times article, Teller, half of the magical duo "Penn and Teller", was quoted as saying, "If an act hasn't been prominently performed for a long time, and someone takes the trouble to bring it back from absolute death and put it into his act with fine touches, and which at least hasn't been seen by a current generation, the gentlemanly thing to do is say, 'That's his for now.' " Regardless of who's in the right one must acknowledge that this debate over rights to performance is nothing new in the world of magic. Techniques and routines are "borrowed" or "reinvented" on a regular basis. Kevin James recently reinvented an early 20th century effect whereby he halved a man who then "ran" - legs in one direction and torso another, into the crowd. Although James doesn't claim to be the creator of the effect, one must acknowledge that he has re-invented it. But turn on the television and you may see Criss Angel performing the same effect with a woman on a park bench. The settings are different but the premise is unmistakably similar. The question is, does this constitute "intellectual property" and, if so, to whom does it belong? One thing is certain, this issue is nothing new and it's not going away. In his October 2006 article on ethics in the Linking Ring, Rolando Santos points out that the Internet, providing us with videos, forums and exposé's and the increasing number of magic lectures and conventions has made "The stealing of one liners, material and whole concepts much easier." Undeniable, but one might also conclude that this paradigm of communication will allow the outrage, accusations and consequences of plagiarism to arrive just as swiftly. -------------------------------------------- 22. Theo de Leeuw & Gene McCarthy - Lifetime Achievement Award - Presented by Magic New Zealand -------------------------------------------- Theo de Leeuw's presentation.. At the age of 18 years he immigrated to New Zealand with one suitcase, a toolbox and ten pounds in his pocket. In 1960he  joined the Waikato Society of Magicians. He attended his first magic convention back in 1964 and since then he has never missed a New Zealand Magician convention. He loves competing in the convention competitions and I will never forget at one of the Auckland Convention many years ago he even kissed his duck to win favour with a judge. After Colin Smith died he became the backbone of the Waikato Magic Circle and in 1984 he became the club Secretary. A position in which he still holds today. I would like to call upon Theo de Leeuw to accept this Lifetime Achievement Award from Magic New Zealand Congratulations Theo The citation reads: Lifetime Achievement Award Presented to Theo de Leeuw in recognition to his major contribution to the magical arts for New Zealand ----------------------------- Gene McCarthy's presentation... At the age of 15 he began touring during the summers with Philip Morris and his ghost show, Dr. Evil and the Terrors of the Unknown. As theatres changed into multi-plexus he toured with Philip Morris' themed Magic Shows like 'Wonderland On Parade'. He also worked with Philip at the birth of his costume business. Between tours he worked with promoters and booking agents. At 20 he started a company Fred Story Show. Later he was working with, illusionists, Vince Carmen, Chuck Jones, Phil Cass, and many others. He has organised tours in 6 countries. At one time, overseeing the promotions and touring schedule of 5 countries simultaneously. (USA, Mexico, Canada, Great Britain, New Zealand and Australia). In 1989 he immigrated to New Zealand and later relocated the companies operations to Auckland. Over the last 19 years New Zealand magicians have had the benefit of seeing some of the worlds finest magicians while on tour with the World Festival of Magic though out New Zealand. He is very proud of establishing a 'Youth Fund' with is administered by him and I. We have assisted younger entertainers to attend lectures, workshops, conventions and to appear on some of the 'World Festival of Magic' shows. Three of the International head liners at this convention have been sponsored by the Youth Fund, Duane and Mary Laflin. Lisa Menna and Joel Howlett. Additionally he is a strong supporter of Magicana Magazine and Magic New Zealand. Congratulations Gene The citation reads: Lifetime Achievement Award Presented to Gene McCarthy in recognition to his major contribution to the magical arts for Australasia -------------------------------------------- 23. Tony Brook In Conversation With Roei Zaltsman -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony Brook Magic at The Red Sea - November 2006 Starting a couple months later than last year, the second MARS will take place once again in Eilat, the splendid resort town at the Red Sea in Israel. Last year I did an in-depth interview with Roei and a review of the first International Magic Convention in Israel. Click on http://www.magicwebchannel.com/ConventionsEvents.htm or the LAST MARS link on www.mars.org.il We had a lot of fun last year and this year MARS will take place in November and many of us will be heading back. I am especially delighted to be asked to headline again with some excellent talent and especially alongside my good friend Menny Lindenfeld plus getting back to Israel to hang out with the wonderful friends I made last year. I had a great conversation with Roei a few days ago and we thought it might be interesting to share it as a pre-view. TB: Hello Roei. Ma Nishma?* Here we are again getting ready for MARS . It seems just a short while ago that we had the first one. RZ: Hello Tony. I am well thank you. How are you? And yes, it does seems a short while ago but as you know it is over a year since the last MARS. TB: Just fine, thanks. It sure is over a year. What made you decide to hold it later this year? RZ: Well, as I told you last year it was my dream to hold an International Magic Convention in Israel and especially in my home town of Eilat. Thanks to the help of many people, I was able to realize that dream and not only that, I was amazed and pleased with the support that I got and so I decided to continue my dream and make MARS an annual event. I am doubly pleased that Isrotel, the major Hotel chain in Israel joined me in making MARS 2006 a reality. My reason for holding it in November this year was based on two factors. Firstly, it was a matter of logistics to organize things to fit in with my main sponsors, The Isrotel Hotel Chain. Secondly, because FISM was in late July I thought it would be too close to have MARS 2006 in September. I am glad to say that everything worked out including being able to contract all the performers that I wanted to head-line this year. TB: Also something else has happened which, even you with all your magical powers could not predict...would you care to share it with us? RZ: I am very happy to share it with you and all my friends. You are of course, referring to the fact that I met the lady of my dreams and we are getting married on October 29th. And yes, you are right I couldn't predict I would meet the future Mrs. Zaltsman this year but I can tell you that from the moment that I met her I already knew the future instantly and that was the best prediction I ever made in my life. TB: Mazeltov. Congratulations. I know you won't mind if I tell everyone that I heard the joy in your voice when you told me the news. I was also privileged to talk to your beautiful bride and she is just great. I am sure that all your friends in the magic world join me in wishing you both a wonderful life. RZ: Thank you. 2006 will be most certainly be very meaningful for me. TB: I am sure it will be and also a very busy year for you. Getting married and producing another MARS, all within less than 30 days. You certainly are going to need all your magical powers of organization. RZ: Yes Tony, you are right it will be a busy time for me but as you know I am an organized person by nature and although it will a bit of hard work I am looking forward to getting everything done. Most of the major work of location, venue, and booking the headliners has all been done. There just remains some of the actual work a few days prior to the start of MARS 2006. And as you are arriving here a few days before I'm sure I'll find some tasks for you too!!!! TB: Absolutely. Sure. Well, you know I won't mind and I am always happy to spend time in Israel and besides you already know that I can be easily 'bribed' with excellent Israeli food. But seriously, and I've written about this before - not only do I love being in Israel and in the company of my good Israeli friends I just love the approach to magic that the Israeli Magicians have. I really do think that if any magician from anywhere else in the world wants to see a true and real passion for magic then they should experience it first-hand at MARS. RZ: Thank you. We do love our magic in Israel. TB: Absolutely, I don't know how you all do it but there is a very real spirit of magic, a sense of magic that just seems to permeate here. And I don't mean just the magicians, even lay people love magic. As you know, I've been around a while and from my empirical experience I can tell you that you all are very lucky because what you all have here in Israel magically, is very rare these days. I don't have the slightest problem in blatantly plugging the fact that MARS is a great experience. I sincerely recommend attending. RZ: Yes Tony, thank you again, you are right. I also personally got some very nice feed-back about the last MARS. While I was at FISM this year I received some favorable comments. I am working hard to make this year just as good or perhaps even better. TB: Well yes, this year promises to be quite exciting. You have a very good mix of headliners and apart from known International stars, you have, this time, included many Israeli magicians as well. RZ: Yes I have , because I wanted to show some of the Israeli talent as well and also I am very fortunate because many of the Israeli headliners will compete on Israeli Television, Channel 2 in Hertzelya for the mantle of Uri Geller. One of them will win and is already booked to perform at MARS. TB: This is exciting news. Tell us some more. RZ: As I mentioned already, Channel 2 will run a live show entitled, 'The Heir To Uri Geller' . Competing for the title will be your pal and mine, Menny Lindenfeld, myself, Amir Lustig, Shimon Nahmani and few others. It will be very exciting. All happening on November 18th, just a few days before MARS 2006. It is very exciting to think that the winner will be a part of the MARS headliners. TB: Just great news. As you know, I have a personal and professional interest in the outcome of this. I will literally be 30,000 feet in the air when this happens so I will be eagerly looking forward to know the result just as soon as I land in Tel Aviv. RZ: I'll send you a Text Message on your cell. TB: Yes please. It will be fascinating working alongside the winner. RZ: And we are looking forward to you being here. Last year your Talk Show with Max Maven was a major highlight and I got just great feedback. This year, we are very much looking forward to you doing some more excellent Talk Shows with Pavel, Quentin Reynolds and Greg Wilson. TB: Thank you. I'll do my best. Max was an excellent guest and this year promises to be just as exciting. RZ: It will be. Just you wait till you see the set we have designed for your Talk Show. TB: Thank you. I look forward to it. Let's chat a bit about the Society of American Magicians. I have, as you know, the honor to be an International Deputy and also our Dean and Past President, Mr. George Schindler kindly arranged for MARS 2005 to be featured in the International section of the S.A.M site. Since then, the S.A.M has started to grow in Israel with Mr. Yosi Notkowitz as International Deputy and Assembly 184 linking with ISPAM. This is great news. So, I am very pleased to know that after our various conversations and a gentle nudge from me, you too are now a brother member of the S.A.M. RZ: Yes, I am very proud to say that I belong to the The Society of American Magicans. I joined in August this year. TB: So, all is now set for November, the word about MARS has already been spreading, and registrations are coming in. RZ: Yes. There have been adverts in MAGIC and GENII. I chatted to a lot of potential registrants whilst I was at FISM plus I've personally emailed over 3,000 interested magicians and many of the major magic sites and e-zines have already carried news about MARS 2006. We are busy putting some of the final touches to the convention and as you know yourself from personal experience, there is a lot of work that needs to be done behind the scenes to make sure that everything runs as smoothly as possible. TB: Yes I know what you mean Roei. Personally, I am very much looking forward to Mars 2006. Last year was a blast and I'm sure this year will be just as much fun. Thanks for chatting. Best wishes. Toda* and Shalom. RZ: You are welcome. Thanks also for chatting. Shalom. *Ma Nishma?- How are you? *Toda - Thank you The above are modern Hebrew words written phonetically in English. -------------------------------------------- 24. 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