* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #634 Date: Sunday 18th January 2009 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. Seeking Young Performers For The Stars Of Tomorrow Show 3. El Duco's Magic 4. Happy New Year From Jimmy Yoshida 5. Remarkable Magic #78 - Nick Lewin 6. Teaching A Magic Class #102 - Kyle Peron 7. Cruising With Paul Romhany #52 8. Broken Wand - Bob Dee 9. Devastated To Hear About Bobby Dee's Death 10. The Pendragons L&L Magic DVD's 11. 'Variety Live At The Grand' 12. Illusion VS Reality 7 February In Perth Australia 13. The Next New Zealand International Magicians Convention 14. Masked Magician Makes A Fool Out Of Himself 15. Masters Of Illusion: Mondays At 9pm, MyNetworkTV 16. 16th Annual Magic In The Rockies 2009 17. Just Wanted To Clear Something Up 18. Carney's Wonders 19. How Magicians Control Your Mind 20. John Calvert National Tour 21. 2009 Auckland International Buskerfest 22. Calendar Of Magic Lectures 23. New Zealand TV3 Convention Coverage 24. e-zine Archives 25. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Congratulations to Stan and Marie Goudge who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary last night at a special party which was attended by all their family and special friends. Unknown to Stan, Michele and I presented midway through the night a Lifetime Achievement Award from Magic New Zealand. The citation read: In recognition to his major contributions to the magical arts for New Zealand. Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. Seeking Young Performers For The Stars Of Tomorrow Show -------------------------------------------- Message by Marlene Clark The S.A.M. is seeking young performers for the Stars of Tomorrow Show, a professional stage show that features magicians ages 7 through 17. The show will take place during the annual S.A.M. National Convention, July 15-18, 2009, in Buffalo New York. The deadline for receiving applications is April 20, 2009. Young magicians should submit an application, a video or DVD of the five-to-10-minute stage act that they would like to perform in the show, a biography, and a photo for the convention program. Young magicians interested in emceeing the show also should include samples of introductions, jokes, and emcee bits in their audition videos. The performers will be paid. Each performer will receive two free convention registrations (one for the performer, another for a parent), plus a year's membership in the Society of Young Magicians. The Stars of Tomorrow Show has become one of the most popular events at the annual S.A.M. convention. Performing in it allows young magicians to showcase their talent and experience the magic of an S.A.M. convention. Give young magicians you know a chance to experience the thrill of a lifetime by helping them polish their acts and encouraging them to audition for the show. For information and application forms, visit the S.Y.M. web site at www.magicsym.com and click on the "Stars of Tomorrow" graphic. You also may contact show producer Marlene Clark, 435 Main St., Durham, CT 06422; 860-349-8149; afuntime@comcast.net. -------------------------------------------- 3. El Duco's Magic -------------------------------------------- Message by Gay Ljungberg (Sweden) El Duco's Magic Company was founded by Swedish magic inventor Christer Gustavsson (El Duco) 30 years ago in 1978 and has gained a solid reputation for its high quality original magic. The highlights from the drawing board of inventor and designer Christer Gustavsson includes classics of our time like Duco's Dice, Ring in Salt, Auto Match-ic, Anglo Giant Cards, The Golden Cups & Balls and The Swedish Reel. In September 2008 Christer Gustavsson passed away after a short period of illness and there have been rumours in the magic world that the business will close down and that the El Duco Collection will be discontinued. However by the end of December 2008 it became official that El Duco's Magic has been acquired by Christer Gustavssons long time friends and partners in organizing the Magic Weekend Convention in Sweden for 22 years, Gay and Birgitta Ljungberg. They already run Sweden's largest magic company Gycklaren.com since 1981. Gay Ljungberg is known to the magic fraternity not only as a magic dealer, lecturer and performer, but also as a judge of magic competitions and as Stage Competition Manager of the FISM WCM 2006, a job he will do again at the FISM WCM 2009 in Beijing. "We will continue to produce the El Duco Magic Collection of original magic and we will also update many of the products with additional routines and bonus features" says Gay Ljungberg. For more information please contact Gay Ljungberg: magic@gycklaren.com -------------------------------------------- 4. Happy New Year From Jimmy Yoshida -------------------------------------------- Message by Kelvin Chun (Hawaii) Aggie Yoshida calls to wish us a Happy New Year and to let us know Jimmy Yoshida is in a care facility at Salt Lake, closer to daughter Pam in Aiea. While challenged by Dementia, Jimmy likes his new surroundings and always appreciates letters and visits from magic friends. "He has his Up days and Down days" says daughter Pam Toguchi, "But he always enjoys talking magic and the old days." You can contact Jimmy by calling his caregiver, Maria Ramos, at (808) 422-2618, or care of this address: Jimmy Yoshida C/O 3644 Puu Mauka Dr. Honolulu, HAWAII 96819 -------------------------------------------- 5. Remarkable Magic #78 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin The charming Daniel Cros. As probably every magician will confirm there is nobody more immune to the delight of watching magic than the spouse of a magician. Not only have they probably seen it all before but they probably didn't want to see it the first time. The subtlety with which you have repositioned your thumb just prior to the Elmsley count doesn't have the same impact on them that it does the gang at the magic club. I have to tell you that after 35 years married to me (and thus magic) my wife Susan has become expert at appearing to watch a trick without ever actually being quite committed enough to the process as to actually grasp what happened during the trick. I have only seen her once truly appear entranced by a trick. The magician performing it was the legendary Daniel Cros. Moments later I realized that it wasn't really the trick that did it: it was Daniel and his equally legendary French charm and accent! I realized the reality of the situation when a few moments later she went practically 'kittenish' over the way Daniel managed to stretch the word Palladium (as in, London) turning it into a curiously musical word that seemed to stretch out for several minutes incorporating several vowels and sounds that I am pretty sure do not actually exist in the real world. That was the moment that I realized why Daniel is probably the most successful close-up magician in the history of Las Vegas. He is the only sleight-of-hander in the world where the men were dragged to the show by their female dates! That is true magic. Now before anyone out there get the wrong idea, I should point out that Daniel is also a world-class magician. A truly fine technician whose performance skills are enough to put him in the top league of magic even without the charm that turns him into the unique figure that he is in the history of Las Vegas. Daniel began his career as a bar boy at the historic Lido de Paris and I mean the real one, the one that really is in Paris. He quietly observed and learned from the greatest pickpocket I have even witnessed-Dominque. Gradually Daniel succeeded in turning this position into a career by incorporating some magic into his work. Time and luck brought Daniel to Las Vegas where he began to work at the Desert Inn. He was a bar-back there while one of magic's most gifted performers, Jimmy Grippo, was the hotel's resident magician. I asked Daniel recently if Jimmy had helped him out and taught him the subtleties of this highly specialized field of magic. Daniel just looked at me, with a surprised look and said; "Hell no!" We smiled at each other and said simultaneously; "A true Pro!" When fate (usually the safest way to describe changes in the status quo in Las Vegas!) moved Grippo to Caesar's Palace Daniel took his place at the Desert Inn as magical bartender for the next 27 years. Read that again-----27 years! One of the greatest runs in magic. I may be wrong (and God only knows, if I am, I will be corrected and reprimanded by readers across the globe) but Johnny Paul was the only bar magician to proceed Daniel in this specialized field of expertise in Las Vegas. Mike Skinner was the next sleight of hand trickster to follow in their footsteps. These are the men who really knew their craft and blazed the trail. Not only did Daniel make the big bucks at his night gig, (OK, huge bucks-I don't think any IRS people are reading, and the statute of limitations aren't in play) but also a close-up performer who flew across the world for the high roller gigs that most of us dream of getting. Daniel was the performer who turned the Fred Kapp's floating cork into a breathtaking illusion in miniature by utilizing a tiny sea horse; where the movements of the floating object were the artistic achievement instead of a giveaway. I apologize here to everyone else who actually believe their floating dollar bills look like anything other than a bobbling piece of paper dangling on a piece of thread. Daniel is still the top close-up magician in Las Vegas performing at private shows, and anyone who has seen him work realizes that he should be rated higher! He is the man who actually does what every close-up magician thinks he does. Contact me at nicklewin1@me.com if you have any comments. -------------------------------------------- 6. Teaching A Magic Class #102 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message by Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com As many of you may know, I have a passion for teaching kids the art of magic and assisting those who want to learn the craft. The future of the art we do lies in the ability to teach those who really want to learn. Because of this, I have been a co-leader of a Society of Young Magicians club for over 15 years now. I also realize that many of you may get the opportunity to teach a magic class at some point in your magical journey. I wanted to take some time to write a little bit about my philosophy of teaching and some tips that can come in handy if you are approached to teach magic class yourself. I think some of the main keys are in making sure the children understand that: - the secrets and keeping the secrets are important. Have every child take an oath at the start of the course and talk about its importance. - tell them and show them how presentation is everything. Talk about the difference between a trick and an entertaining routine. - make sure they understand that practice does make perfect - get them understanding that magic is not so much about fooling people as it is about entertaining them. These above points I feel are critical before any effect is ever really taught. Many times we overlook this. However, we as magicians, need to be the ones to show and explain what magic is all about and instill in the youth the desire to not only want to learn, but to learn the proper way. Once you go over some of the points I just mentioned, you can start to show them the basics of magic through simple effects that empower. What you end up presenting will be depended upon the age range of the kids in the class and how many are in the class with you. I always make sure that I am not so much lecturing as conducting a hands-on workshop. Children will learn more and pay closer attention when they can be hands-on with the props and working through it with you. This means having enough props for everyone to use and ensuring the children know how to use them effectively. As you teach, you will realize some will learn it faster than others. Allow the ones who have it down to assist the others that do not. This builds up trust, teamwork and friendship within the class. It is VERY important that what you teach to them is stuff that is easy to do and that they can understand with very little time spent. You do this early on with the first few lessons. The reason for this is that you need to empower the students. There is nothing worse to a magic class then to have a frustrated student. Frustrated students stop learning and stop growing and think magic is bad and dumb. You combat that through showing them that they can indeed perform magic. When this happens a smile forms on their face when they understand they can do it. This encourages them to learn more and gets the students interested in the art of magic. It then becomes easier to teach them as you go along. Another thing you will want to do is start off with simple objects and tricks that involve using things around the house or things they can easily find. The importance here is your own initial cost for gathering the needed supplies and also showing the children that magic can happen without having to spend a lot of money to begin learning the art. These simple props can be teaching kids some easy to do impromptu magic. Tricks with rubber bands, paper clips, paper, coins, pens and the like are easy for you to obtain. It also is a great way to be able to make up little magic kits whereby each child receives their kit and supplies and gets to take them home with them. This encourages them to practice and to learn after the class is over. If the class is a multiple day or week class, then encourage the children to learn an effect and come back and show you and their peers the trick they learned. Encourage critique and take charge in the critique. Make sure the children know that the information is helpful to them so they grow as a magician and is not meant to be a personal attack. Encourage positive feedback as well as things they can work on better. Give out simple awards or prizes for a successful showing of a trick. This encourages them to want to practice more at home. If you want, you can purchase a great small softbound edition of Mark Wilson's Course in magic or even the new Joshua Jay book. These are great books and wonderful for students to learn from. The smaller softbound books (Mark Wilson) do not cost so much and is a great learning tool for kids. You can easily take lessons from the book and then the students will have a learning tool when they go home after the class. The idea is to empower the students. Get them seeing magic as a fun thing and as something they take seriously. Encourage them to help each other learn as a team. You have the power to instill in the students the love for magic. Keep in mind that not everyone will have the thirst for magic. But you can show them how much fun it is and hope they may want to continue to learn long after the class is over. 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. - "Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/Encore.html - "Tips and Techniques on the Chair Suspension" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html Kyle Peron Magician / Illusionist Graphic Designer / Illustrator http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com -------------------------------------------- 7. Cruising With Paul Romhany #52 -------------------------------------------- Message by Paul Romhany It's been a very busy week here at home with the launch of my new Cruise Book - sales are doing well and the reviews have all been extremely positive. I am getting ready to cruise again soon when I travel to Brazil. When you travel to Brazil, you must make sure you have a VISA, if you need one, and an up to date yellow fever shot. I am reminded of one of the funniest stories that happened to me when I first went there to join a ship almost ten years ago. In those days, there was no book like mine, warning you of making sure you have everything you need to travel to various countries - I wish there was a book back then. My agent at the time also didn't have much of a clue as to what I needed, and didn't bother finding out for me. I received the ticket and was told to fly to Brazil!! I left Vancouver and flew to Houston, then on to Brazil - an extremely long flight. As I was going through immigration they seemed to be telling me something, which I didn't understand. Then I got taken in to a small room with a ceiling fan and another man with a fedora style hat and smoking a large cigar. He said nothing to me, just took my passport and carried on with his smoking and whatever else he was doing. I took a seat - ELEVEN HOURS LATER!!! It's true. Nobody would speak to me in English and I really had no idea what was going on. I asked to use the phone they wouldn't let me! I at least got to go to the toilet. I just sat there until I finally saw an American Airways pilot and managed to beckon him over. He was able to tell me I didn't have a VISA to enter the country and that they were putting me on the next flight back to the US - which is why I finally found out I was waiting so long. Eventually they make me pay for a ticket back to the US. I land back in Houston completely exhausted and upset and take myself to a hotel. By this stage the cruise ship had wondered where on earth I was. I phoned the head of entertainment at Princess at the time and told him what had happened. He assured me not to worry, they will pay me back for the hotel and airline ticket and to stay in the hotel and rest. They will fax me the details of another flight and I can catch the ship in a different port, where I don't need a visa. I literally flop on the bed and ten minutes later the head booker phones back asking if I can get to the airport in an hour to get a flight out. I rush out of the hotel, grab a cab then make my way to the airport. This time, as I check in I am stopped by airport security who want to check my 'check in bags'. They go through everything - you can imagine how frustrated I was getting. In those days I use to perform a snake basket routine. The security lady kept telling me to 'stand back' as she went through my magic tricks. I tried to tell her I was a magician and warn her about the snake basket. You can see what's coming next!! She released the snake and it jumped out of the gimmick holder, and she jumped even higher screaming. All the other security people were laughing, except her!! Things went from bad to worse. She unrolled my appearing 10 foot poles, broke my snowstorm packets - it was a mess. Of course, by this time I had now missed the flight. After all this, I tell them they made me miss my flight and I headed back to the hotel. I phoned up the head of entertainment and told him I didn't make it. His response, he was laughing at this stage, was "I didn't think you could, but wanted to see if it was possible." I hung up the phone and slept for the next 12 hours before I got on a plane and flew to join the ship. There are just some things you never forget. I've got more stories about traveling to Brazil than almost any other port of call. It amazes me. So you can see I'm a little anxious about going back there in early February. Oh well, it's work and travel is part of what I do. For those interested in getting a job performing on a cruise ship then check out www.thecruisemagician.com Until next week Happy Cruising Paul Romhany www.paulromhany.com -------------------------------------------- 8. Broken Wand - Bob Dee -------------------------------------------- Message by Mark Kornhauser (US) Bob Dee was a very dear friend. I quickly wrote the following obituary: Not too many people in the magic world knew who Bob Dee was. Yet, he was one of the best and most entertaining close-up magicians I ever knew. He performed regularly until his death on, January 11, from a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs) from a knee surgery. He was 72 old. Bob could force a card better and in more ways than anybody. He did so many impossible forces that he needed to have a huge array of outs, which he had. He fooled me so many times that I often just thought he was lucky. So it seemed. Bob was a very active performer in the corporate world. He regularly performed at Clint Eastwood's annual party and at Lee Iacocca's Christmas party. He was the regular entertainer at the annual Governors conference and got to know many of them. He golfed and schmoozed with the most powerful men in business and politics-George Bush, Jeb Bush, John McCain, and recently Joe Biden. He was also a pioneer in many areas of the entertainment world. He produced the first touring company of "Chorus Line" and did many great productions of Broadway musicals including "Aint Misbehavin'" and "Forever Plaid". He managed the early career of Wayland Flowers and Madam and wrote a regular column for the entertainment magazines in Reno. He produced shows for casinos in Reno, Lake Tahoe, Biloxi, Shreveport and others. He only performed at the Magic Castle once. He donated his fee back to the Academy. Incredibly cheerful and intelligent, he will be profoundly missed. Mark Kornhauser -------------------------------------------- 9. Devastated To Hear About Bobby Dee's Death -------------------------------------------- Message by Message by Nick Lewin I recently heard about the death of Bobby Dee the master close-up magician. I was just heartbroken to hear the news. As a magician Bobby was a true genius and as a friend he was the very best. Due to the nature of his performing style there are many in magic who were not aware of what he did. I wrote an article for Magic New Zealand about a year ago in my 'Meetings With Remarkable Magicians' column. If you would like to read more about the amazing Mr Dee you can check out the article in the magicians only part of my website. www.nicklewin.com -------------------------------------------- 10. The Pendragons L&L Magic DVD's -------------------------------------------- Message by Charlotte Pendragon (US) Our DVD's we produced with Louis from L&L Publishers has just been released. They are a 4 part set and include the inner workings and knowledge of some of our best illusions and stage magic including our metamorphosis switch. They can either be purchased through L&L or if you chose to do so, through us. If purchased through us we will include as a bonus a personalized signed 8 by 10 as well as signed DVDs. If you are interested in more information and how to purchase this, please let me know. The entire set sells for $120 includes shipping. Please contact charlotte.pendragon@gmail.com for further information. Cheers, Charlotte Pendragon -------------------------------------------- 11. 'Variety Live At The Grand' -------------------------------------------- Message by Paul Stone For anyone travelling to the Blackpool Magic Convention in February, I thought that they might like to know about 'Variety Live at the Grand' at the beautiful Grand Theatre in Blackpool (just two minutes walk from the Winter Gardens where the Convention is taking place) on Thursday 19th February and Friday 20th February at 7.30pm and on Saturday 21st February at 2pm & 7pm. This show is part of the Showzam Festival, and features from Las Vegas, the hilarious comedy magic of Jeff Hobson, the brilliant Charlie Frye & Co, the endearing physical comedy & mime of Rob Torres, and arguably the most entertaining juggler in the world today, 'the man with the fastest hands on earth' Wally Eastwood. Also appearing on this really strong bill are Wolfgang from the Cirque Du Soleil on the German Wheel, new singing Star Ben Stone, and the impressive Mazeppa Cossacks. Music is provided by the 9 piece 'Variety Live Orchestra' under the direction of Ian Macgregor. 'Variety Live at the Grand' is produced & directed by Paul Stone. To book tickets call 01253 - 290190 or check out www.showzam.co.uk -------------------------------------------- 12. Illusion VS Reality 7 February In Perth Australia -------------------------------------------- Message by Adam Murby (Aust) Just letting you know what's happening is the land of Perth in Western Australian in the magic scene. I'm putting on a big illusion show on the 7th February called 'Illusion Vs Reality. In fact it's my first major illusion show for the public. Here is what my ticketek promoters have wrote about the show: "With his modern and innovative approach to the art of magic, international multi-award winning illusionist Adam Murby presents 'Illusion Vs Reality' which sets itself apart from anything you've ever seen! Audiences will experience original and full-scale illusions such as a split second appearance of him in the middle of the stage, his assistant impaled on a giant sword, melting though steel pipes, vanishing into thin air, levitations, being sliced in half along with one lucky volunteer becoming the star of the show and more! The show is being held at 'The Curtin Theatre', a magnificent blue-glass pavilion building which sits just above the City of Fremantle, with commanding views of Cockburn Sound, Rottnest Island and the Indian Ocean. It is Western Australia's newest theatre, seating 470 people facing a large and flexible proscenium-style stage. Tickets are sold through ticketek.com.au for the 5:30 show and the 8:30 show. Tickets are $20.00 for General Admission and $25.00 VIP Admission. With part of all ticket sales going to 'Strike a Chord for Cancer Foundation' - which helps children and families in need during difficult times - be prepared for an all ages, non-stop rollercoaster ride of visual, dynamic, entertaining and unbelievable 'edge of your seat' evening of spectacular magic, mystery and illusion!" For all show information visit http://www.illusionvsreality.com Best, Adam Murby www.murbz.com.au -------------------------------------------- 13. The Next New Zealand International Magicians Convention -------------------------------------------- Message by Mick Peck (NZ) President Shore City Magicians Club Inc Attention All New Zealand Magicians: Your input is required The Shore City Magicians Club Inc would like to announce their intention to mount the 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention in 2010. Our last convention was held on Auckland's North Shore in 2004 and featured headliners Michael Ammar, Michael Finney, Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster, Charles Gauci and David Ginn. So that we can run an event that will appeal to as many magicians as possible, we have put together a brief survey about what you would like to see at the next convention. We want to hear from as many New Zealand magicians as possible, your opinions will help to shape the next convention. Please visit the brand-new club website and click the "Convention" link to take the brief survey. www.scmc.co.nz - Mick Peck President Shore City Magicians Club Inc www.scmc.co.nz -------------------------------------------- 14. Masked Magician Makes A Fool Out Of Himself -------------------------------------------- Message by David Yee (US) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL7bIgcjcyU -------------------------------------------- 15. Masters Of Illusion: Mondays At 9pm, MyNetworkTV -------------------------------------------- Message by Jeff McBride (US) Monday night, January 19th with the third of thirteen episodes, featuring Jeff McBride, Arian Black, Ed Alonzo, Kyle Eschen, Ai & Yuki, Mark Kalin & Jinger On January 26th, Magic and Mystery School Alumni and Friends Chris Randall, Fielding West, Jonathan Levit, Kevin James, Krystyn Lambert will all be on the show. Be sure to catch it! -------------------------------------------- 16. 16th Annual Magic In The Rockies 2009 -------------------------------------------- Message by Tim Pendergast September 10, 11, 12 and 13, 2009. Held at the Fort Collins Marriott Hotel, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Prices: Blue Ribbon Registration (Entire Convention): $169 until 7/15/2009; $179 after 7/15/2009; $199 after 8/15/2009. Backstage Pass Registration (Anyone accompanying a Blue Ribbon registrant): $149 until 7/15/2009; $159 after 7/15/2009; $179 after 8/15/2009. White Ribbon Registration (Saturday, 9/12/2009, only) $149 until 7/15/2009; $159 after 7/15/2009, $179 after 8/15/2009. More convention Information available at www.prestodigitators.com beginning April 1, 2009. Click on Magic in the Rockies on the home page. Registration information: Contact Tim Pendergast by email at mitrcon@gmail.com or by phone at (970) 225-0708. Registration packages will be mailed May 1, 2009.  This convention held within visual distance of the beautiful Rocky Mountains has been consistently called one of the best conventions in the United States. -------------------------------------------- 17. Just Wanted To Clear Something Up -------------------------------------------- Message by Martin Duffy We are promoting Steve Axtell's appearance at South Tyneside International Magic Festival as his first UK appearance but one or two people have noticed his name on the Southern Magic Conventions bill and also Blackpool. He won't be at the Southern Magic Convention - but his company is being represented by two of his UK customers. He WILL be at Blackpool but ONLY dealing. So his first ever UK lecture and performance will be for us! Along with first ever UK appearances by Patrick G Redford and Paul Romhany PLUS loads of other GREAT things. Are you coming to the 6th annual South Tyneside International Magic Convention on Friday 13th: Saturday 14th: Sunday 15th March 2009? Once again The Magic Box and The Customs House Theatre have sponsored this event. The convention will be hosted by the Customs House Theatre in South Shields and the Sea Hotel will again be the venue for the Welcome Evening and the Midnight Show. Its only £65 for 7 lectures, 3 Close-Up sessions, 2 Gala Shows and Midnight Show Tell you what - we will throw in 2 buffet lunches, transport to and from the Gala Shows and access to 7 dealers too. Acts booked to date Paul Daniels ~ UK Paul Daniels is without doubt one of the most accomplished magicians in the World, and certainly one of the most exciting. Add to that a unique comedy style and you have a complete entertainer and one of the funniest men in show business. David Williamson ~ USA This man dazzles audiences with a unique and delightful brand of entertainment, blending heart-stopping magic with side-splitting hilarity. A born showman and an unusually accomplished sleight of hand artist. As host of the United Kingdom's acclaimed television series The Magic Comedy Strip, David's irresistible mix of humour and skill helped make it one of the highest rated shows in the country. He has created illusions for and performed in several commercials and has developed TV shows for Walt Disney Productions and ABC, as well as consulting for illusionists David Copperfield's and David Blaine's TV specials. Banachek ~ USA Described as the "Cream of the Crop" when it comes to entertainers, Banachek is the world's leading Mentalist. His talents are so incredible that he is the only mentalist ever to fool scientists into believing he possessed `psychic powers' only to later reveal he was fooling them. Performers around the world such as the colourful Penn & Teller, the Amazing James Randi and television's unique street magician Criss Angel seek his performing expertise. Companies and theatres seek him for his outstanding performing abilities. Steve Axtell ~ USA First Ever UK Lecture And Performance!! Steve Axtell has been teaching puppet workshops for years and has created a huge puppet related web resource. His puppet designs have been in movies, on television, on Broadway, on Vegas stages, and schools all over the world. Thousands of performers in the entertainment industry find Axtell puppets to be the top of the line. After his spot in the kids show Steve will present a 1 hour lecture on creativity including showing his latest creations and inventions followed by questions and answers. Bob Sheets ~ USA From Washington, D.C. via San Diego, Chicago, & Aspen. Behind Bob's humorous presentation style is experience gained from one of the most diverse work histories in Magic. Serious credentials in a variety of venues include Circus and Side Show performer, Shopping Centre Magic promotions, Magic Bartender, Street Magician, Bar/Restaurant Owner, Renaissance Festival performer, Magic Dinner Theatre entrepreneur, Trade Show crowd stopper, and Sales Meeting wake-up artist. Bob lectures and performs for magicians all over the world, including England, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Australia, Japan and India. Paul Dabek ~ UK From the stages of London's West end to the elegant ballroom of Dalgatie Castle, from the theatres of the world's top cruise lines to grand halls, audiences have been enchanted by the stage artistry of Paul Dabek. His spellbinding performances combine stage illusion, slight of hand, comedy, audience participation, flash and colour into a theatrical tour of wonders. Jasper ~ UK Jasper Blakeley is an entertainer who happens to be a magician. Probably best known for his Russian-esque mentalist character `Kockov', Jasper will be showcasing other parts of his performance repertoire. As well as being a close-up and cabaret character magician, Jasper also works as himself as a children's entertainer. It's part of his children's show he'll be performing at the convention. Not being a believer in typical children's magic props, Jasper uses his training as an actor and professional idiot to create genuine laughter from the simplest of situations. Jasper believes by creating a full 45 minute show that fits into a shoebox he has to work harder without relying on shiny tubes and bunny rabbits. Russ Stevens ~ UK Russ Stevens' career started in 1977 when, at the age of sixteen, he won the coveted Magic Circle Young Magician of the Year Competition. Later that year he starred in their annual show in London's West-End, and was an immediate hit turning professional at the beginning of 1978. He performed 3 seasons in Mystique at Blackpool Last September his full illusion show was flown out to Las Vegas where he performed for 4000 delegates at the Mandalay Bay Hotel Patrick G Redford First Ever UK Lecture And Performance!! He's best known in the mentalism/magic community as Patrick Redford. His forte is mentalism based magic. He's published various projects over the past five years that include the highly acclaimed "Triangle" a mentalism publication that focused on making the audience the mind readers and presented itself in comic book format. He's also had the privilege to have been a featured lecturer at Danny Archer's Mindvention in Las Vegas in 2007. The lecture itself features some of his best work sampled from the large body of work listed below. There's a hands off version of Any Card @ Any Number that will fool you There's a sure-fire method to make anyone forget virtually anything. There's a chair prediction that's incredibly direct and clean. And Much More But the focus isn't just on the effects, no. The focus is on the creation, the whys and hows, and the small presentational touches that make these things so damn powerful. Paul Romhany First Ever UK Lecture And Performance!! Originally from New Zealand, Paul Romhany combines his skill and artistry as a magician with his natural comic ability to bring to the stage a highly entertaining and hilarious show that is filled with original magic and illusion. In 2004 Paul was awarded the People's Choice Award from PCAM for his innovative performance as Charlie Chaplin. His ability to take a room full of people and turn them in to an audience, and then to elevate that audience to an extremely high level of fun and laughter is what keep this act in such high demand in the corporate market and on cruise ships throughout the world, with performances in over 54 countries and 17 national television appearance. Like a silent movie come to life, Paul brings the visual comedy of Charlie Chaplin back to life in this International Award Winning Magic Act, considered to be one of the most entertaining and original acts in magic today. His ability to communicate without words, to take a room full of people and turn them in to an audience, and then to elevate that audience to an extremely high level of fun and laughter is what keeps this act in such high demand throughout the world. To see Paul Romhany on stage is to witness a magical transformation. While his skills and artistry as an illusionist are unsurpassed, Paul takes his performance to another dimension when he applies makeup as the audience watches, suddenly leaving behind Paul Romhany and becoming Charlie Chaplin. You may know Paul from some of his 40 marketed routines and effects Midnight Show The Midnight Show will be held at the Sea Hotel after the Gala Show on Friday 13th March. Food will be available from 10.30pm - 11.30pm. The midnight show is available to registered delegates only and must be pre-booked on your convention registration form. Featuring:~ Kockov and Uncle Al the Kiddie's PalAs the inventor of 13 original performance characters, Jasper has agreed to unleash one of his most notorious and subversive creations, deranged children's entertainer, `Uncle Al the Kiddie's Pal'. This truly foul-mouthed North-East accented kids entertainer is strictly for adults, and whilst he was designed for the stand-up comedy circuit, anybody who is a children's entertainer can easily identify with him. Embodying all that is politically and socially incorrect about a man supposedly doing a child's birthday party, Uncle Al will shock and amuse you in equal measure. Truly offensive, truly un-PC and truly memorable. You are invited to a birthday party with a difference - prepare to meet `Uncle Al the Kiddie's Pal'. Gala Shows The two shows this year will be held at the Customs House Theatre, Mill Dam, South Shields. If you require extra tickets for your friends or family you can either book them direct with the Customs House, but doing it this way you will not be able to sit together. Should you wish to sit together you need to inform us at the time of booking your delegates place and we shall organise this for you. Ticket price £13 and £12 for concessions Other names not previously mentioned who will be appearing in the gala shows are: John Archer and Stephen Williams + more to be announced The theatre has a licensed bar! Telephone 0191 454 1234 ~ this is an automotive service. If you wish to attend its simple, just download and fill in the application form (here - http://www.magicbox.uk.com/shop.php/south-tyneside-convention-2009/i_15.html) and return to the address shown along with your cheque! Or call Karri Prinn on 0191 4247986. -------------------------------------------- 18. Carney's Wonders -------------------------------------------- Message by John Carney (US) Carney's Wonders Laughter and Astonishment Limited engagement 8 Shows only! Carney's Wonders blends mind-blowing sleight of hand with intelligence, taste, and wit into unique evening of pure entertainment. This is definitely NOT your typical "magic" show. Carney's approach is smart, engaging, and often hilarious. The wonders happen right under your nose, in an intimate seating limited to 50 people. "... a blessing ... Carney's an amiable, quick-witted Iowan with a twinge of sarcasm under his breath ... seamless technique ... makes a mockery of empiricism and the known mechanics of the universe." LA Weekly "... fresh and unique ... inventive ... go see it!"... he will astound you with his unique magic and charm you with his stories and characters." The Tolucan Sundays in February and March Showtime: 5pm (Seating at 4:30) Tickets: $15 Tickets at the door, or in advance, next door at the Magic Apple Tony Clark's Studio of Magic 11390 Ventura Blvd. #3 (Ventura Blvd at Vineland, 2nd floor) Studio City, Ca. 91604 818.422.8708 More info @ CarneyMagic.com -------------------------------------------- 19. How Magicians Control Your Mind -------------------------------------------- Message by Colin MacDonald Over the past couple of years, neuroscientists and magicians have been getting together to create a science that might be called "magicology".  Magicology: Casting a spell on the mind from New Scientist magazine. http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20026872.900-magicology-casting-a-spell-on-the-mind.html?DCMP=NLC-nletter&nsref=mg20026872.900 http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20026872.900-magicology-casting-a-spell-on-the-mind.html?DCMP=NLC-nletter&nsref=mg20026872.900 and The Science of Magic - Understanding Human Cognition and Perception Magic tricks, like those by Derren Brown and David Blaine, should be studied more closely to gain a deeper knowledge of the way human beings think and act, according to research by British and Canadian psychologists. from News-Medical.net http://www.news-medical.net/?id=40176 http://www.news-medical.net/?id=40176 -------------------------------------------- 20. John Calvert National Tour -------------------------------------------- Message by Eddy Lester Hello, Sending this FYI to you how about setting up a fall tour in Europe? Eddy Lester phone +239 774 0106 John Calvert National Tour Contact: Eddy Lester, Tour Director & Personal Representative (239) 774-0106 email: eddylester@gmail.com Many dates were played out the Northern route to California and played while in California, now here are the rest of the dates so far, Let's work out a date for your club. How about it; Louisiana, Arkansas, Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia in March or April? Holding Jan 28 for Phoenix, Ar Set dates: Jan 12-18 Magic Castle Jan 27 Irvine CA Feb 1 Dallas TX Feb 3 Houston Tx Feb 5 Tulsa, OK Feb 7 Oklahoma City, OK Feb 9 San Antonio, TX Feb 12 Lake Charles, LA Feb 19 Little Rock, AK Feb 21 Jackson, MS Feb 22 Birmingham, AL Feb 23 Huntsville, AL Mar 1 Miami, FL Banquet Show Mar 3 Tampa, FL Mar 13 & 14 Naples, FL - Public Show Fund Mar 19 Pensacola, FL Mar 23 Atlanta, GA Apr 2 Myrtle Beach, SC Apr 4 Raleigh, NC Apr 6 Hilton Head, SC Apr 14-15 Leesburg, FL - Public Show Apr 17 Richmond, VA Look at this Oakland Magic Club Newspaper and Video: http://www.insidebayarea.com/bay-area-living/c_11419638 -------------------------------------------- 21. 2009 Auckland International Buskerfest -------------------------------------------- Message by Brent McLeod (  NZ) The annual 2009 Auckland International Buskerfest 4th-8th of February including Night shows- starts in a couple of weeks hosted again by Nick Nickolas be good to support Nick in this great event, go to: http://www.aucklandbuskersfestival.co.nz/programme.php -------------------------------------------- 22. Calendar Of Magic Lectures -------------------------------------------- Message by Professor Spellbinder Both our Calendar of Magical Events and our Calendar of Magic Lectures are overflowing with events taking place in 2009, worldwide. This should be a great year to take in a convention or at the very least, attend a magic lecture or two at a magic club near you, so check them out. The Calendar of Events includes magic conventions, but also has conventions and get togethers for clowns, jugglers, ventriloquists, escape artists, mentalists, bizartists, and unicyclists... worldwide! http://www.magicnook.com/calendar/calendar.htm The Calendar of Magic Lectures is just for magicians and magic lectures. http://www.magicnook.com/calendar/lectures.htm Remember, if your club is having a lecture and you don't see it on our calendar it's not our fault! E-mail me at magicnook@yahoo.com and I'll add it immediately, if not sooner! This offer is only for clubs who encourage non-club members to attend their events and lectures by advertising on their Web sites. If you want to keep it small and private, don't let us hear of it! Professor Spellbinder Proprietor of the Magic Nook - http://www.magicnook.com -------------------------------------------- 23. New Zealand TV3 Convention Coverage -------------------------------------------- Message by Michael Woolf (NZ) Magicana Editor Magicana Editor Michael Woolf needs a copy of the TV3 Convention coverage (no longer available on the TV3 site.) If anyone has this on a disc and is prepared to forward it please contact Michael: mail@michaelw.co.nz -------------------------------------------- 24. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives -------------------------------------------- Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.Alan-Watson.com Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. User Name: magic Password: kiwi When you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order and are coded. Eg 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999) -------------------------------------------- 25. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- Our subscriber list is NOT made available to any other companies or individuals. We value every subscriber and respect your privacy. You can subscribe to or unsubscribe from the Magic New Zealand® E-zine at www.Alan-Watson.com Magic New Zealand® E-zine is published each Sunday. The opinions expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New Zealand®. Neither Magic New Zealand® nor Alan Watson vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New Zealand® E-zine. Subscribers to this publication and authors who contribute to it by doing so agree they will not hold Magic New Zealand® or Alan Watson, jointly or individually liable or responsible in any way for the opinions expressed therein. Magic New Zealand® reserves the right to alter, correct or disregard any articles submitted. Readers are encouraged to submit timely articles or news items which may be of interest to subscribers. By submitting articles to this e-zine, the authors grant Magic New Zealand® the right to publish such articles and such authors confirm their copyright of the material submitted. All works published by Magic New Zealand® are protected by international copyright legislation and articles must not be published for profit by anyone other than the individual authors without the written permission of Magic New Zealand®. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this publication may be freely redistributed, but not sold, to other magicians if copied in its entirety, including the copyright notice below and the above disclaimer. © Copyright 2009 Alan Watson