* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #707 Date: Sunday 1st November 2009 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. F.I.S.M. Blackpool - Derek Lever 3. FISM Winners For Blackpool 4. Gunnarson Will Attempt A World Record 5. More Remarkable Magic #16 - Nick Lewin 6. Magic.Trick or Treat - #142 - Kyle Peron 7. World Travels By Paul Romhany 8. Las Vegas Magic - November, 2009 9. The Grand Master Tribute 10 World Magic Awards 11. Shanghai International Magic Festival 12. S.A.M. Endowment Lectures Continue 13. A New Era Begins For The Magic Collectors' Association 14. Arturo Brachetti Change - Garrick theatre London 15. New Junior Venue Las Vegas 16. Fredric Broder, as PRESTO The Digitator 17. Alan Wong's Lecture - Penang Hotel 18. Help Kids With Magic - Just By Buying Books! 19. 30th NZ International Magicians Convention 20. Magic For Sale Part Two - Tony Wilson 21. e-zine Archives 22. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- The article on Voronin in the October issue of 'Magic' magazine along with many pictures painted by Mark Scott is well worth reading.  For a number of years magician Mark Scott  has captured the real 'x' factor of Voronin in his paintings of him. If you get a chance check out Mark's website: www.theworldofmarkstock.com Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. F.I.S.M. Blackpool - Derek Lever -------------------------------------------- Message by Derek Lever (UK) Over the past few months on various e-mails and chat rooms people has expressed displeasure that the next FISM will be in Blackpool. Never anything about the Magic as we run the largest convention in the world year after year, but about the location. For those of us that live in the area let me explain what you can look forward to in 2012. This will be the first FISM since Dresden, Germany that's been held in the center of a town. The Wintergarden/Opera house complex will be the headquarters. Right across the street a new mall complex opened up a little over a year ago. You can shop at Marks and Spencer's or the pound store with 6 bottles of water for a pound. Restaurants are all within walking distance at various prices. Yes, we have a number of quaint hotels that may have seen better days, but they seem to satisfy the 3,000 plus that come to our convention every year. But if you want the Hilton Hotel, Savoy Hotel and a few other up price hotels, we have those also. The sandy beach is only 3 blocks away with two piers of entertainment along with a mile of amusement options. The banquet will be held in the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Close-Up will be in the 900 seat Grand Theatre with tiered seating and a 2 minute walk from the Winter Garden Anyone who's been to one of our conventions before will know that the Opera House seats over 3,000 and is noted to have the largest Stage in all of Europe. More than enough room for the props of contestants and Gala Show performers. At the Winter Garden we annually have about 120 dealers and still room for all other events. If you've been to FISM in Den Haag you know that you fly into Amsterdam and take a train at the airport for the short trip to Den Haag. Here you will fly into Manchester, take the train at the airport for the short trip to Blackpool. Sure we'd all like to have a FISM in Paris or London, but we were the only city putting in a bid for FISM and our club will work hard to make you welcome. -------------------------------------------- 3. FISM Winners for Blackpool -------------------------------------------- Message by Derek Lever (UK) The Blackpool Magicians' Convention always attracts the top magic acts in the world and February 2010 will be no exception. Among the artistes appearing are two winners from FISM, Beijing. Han Seol Hui, from Korea, joint first prize winner in the manipulation category, presents an energetic and highly skilful act featuring CDs which is bound to appeal to delegates at Blackpool. The other joint first prize winner was Yo Kato, from Japan, who will be wowing the audience with his colourful act with wands and thimbles. Both will be appearing in the International Gala Show on Sunday evening. Just two of the top performers who will be appearing with many other international stars of magic from 19 - 21 February, 2010 at the world's greatest magic convention. Log on to blackpoolmagic.com for more details. -------------------------------------------- 4. Gunnarson Will Attempt a World Record -------------------------------------------- Message by Dean Gunnarson World's Greatest Escape Artist to be Handcuffed & Chained, Locked in a Coffin, and Buried alive Under 3 tons of Wet Concrete This Halloween on Live TV in Paris Paris, France Oct 28, 2009: This Halloween will mark the 83th anniversary of the death of Harry Houdini. To commemorate this memorable day the "World's Greatest Escape Artist", Dean Gunnarson, will attempt a dangerous and death-defying escape continuing a long tradition of challenging escapes Gunnarson first started back on Oct. 31, 1982 when he was 18 years old. Gunnarson will be handcuffed and chained with several pair of French police handcuffs, chained and padlocked tightly around his neck and arms, and then he will be placed inside a metal and bullet proof plexi-glass coffin. The coffin will then be filled with 3 tons of wet cement that will bury Dean alive. The coffin will then be locked from the outside and Gunnarson must escape before being crushed by the sheer weight of the cement or by suffocating from being completely submerged beneath the cement. Gunnarson will attempt a World Record by trying to survive under the cement without air for at least 5 minutes before he tries to escape from this living Hell. Dean will attempt this escape in Paris on the # 1 variety TV show in France Live on Halloween Night. The escape will be witnessed by millions of viewers across the country that will tune in to see the outcome of his death-defying escape one way or the other..... Dean Gunnarson has attempted escapes while dangling by his toes 726 feet over Hoover Dam in Las Vegas, he's been chained and thrown out of an airplane 13,500 feet in the air in Japan, locked in a car and placed in a car crusher in Los Angeles, locked in a barrel underwater with over a 100 sharks and stingrays in China, hung over 130 man eating alligators in the swamps of Florida and escaped after being locked in straight jackets hanging from a crane attached to a burning rope in India, Venezuela , Iceland, and Egypt. Gunnarson holds two world records for escaping, as well as being seen on television in over 165 countries worldwide. Dean continues his "Bound for Danger World Tour" becoming the most watched escape artist in History!!! -------------------------------------------- 5. More Remarkable Magic #16 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin (US) Tis nearly the season. There is suddenly a chill in the air in Las Vegas and the long hot summer has quietly turned into autumn. Not that there is a huge difference in weather in the neon city it just goes from way too hot to slightly chilly. Time to break out the dark colored shorts. However it always makes me a little nostalgic for my early performing years in England. One of the biggest differences between my early years in magic when I lived in England and my American life were the Christmas gigs. Kid's parties were the 'bread and butter' of most English magicians while in the United States there is a great deal more close-up and wandering magic performed. However in England it was the Christmas season of kid's parties that ruled the roost. Don't think it was just the beginners mopping up this seasonal gravy. Bookers often didn't realize the quality of the performers doing 'Baffling Bunnies'' in the living room. With the prospect of ready cash you might end up with a Billy McComb, Pat Page, Ali Bongo or even Robert Harbin on your doorstep. Heck, I am pretty sure even Maurice Fogel had a Hanukkah Mindreading Show for kiddies. The most exciting part about these shows was that you could sometimes perform five parties in an afternoon. These Saturday (and to a lesser degree Sunday afternoon) gigs were (and probably still are) the economic backbone of any performing magician in the UK. This was my chance to make enough money to order all those goodies I lusted after in the latest magic catalogues. I would begin my advertising blitz in the middle of October with a series of advertisements in the local papers. The advertisements were carefully phrased and designed to appeal to frazzled mums who wanted to have a quiet half hour in the middle of the party to prepare the cake and feast that would be the grand finale of the event. In my earliest engagements and bookings in the children's party market my parents chauffeured me from gig to gig since I was still too young to drive. I certainly wasn't too young to give orders. I would sit in the back of the car snapping out orders and directions like an overexcited mercenary at an old-fashioned regime change. Reading addresses and directions from little slips and pieces of paper I would shout frenzied directions to my good-natured father in the front seat. My mother would occupy the front passenger seat and try and keep me calm. I would sit in the back of the car and rummage through the big green suitcase without a handle that contained the jumble of props that were my kid's show. While the car speeded to my next gig I would perform the 'bear claw,' which is a habit I have retained until the present day. Every time I perform, there is a moment just prior to showtime when I think I have lost or forgotten an important prop. I then 'bear claw' through the closest box/bag/drawer or suitcase looking for the missing item. I am beginning to think this could be a nervous reaction. Looking back on it now I learned a great deal performing those kid shows. They prepared me for the hustle bustle of actually working as a magician. They had a really nice quality of hit and run. You did your gig; you got your money, you ate your slice of cake and then went off to the next one: frankly I miss the simplicity. Check out my Blog from my website www.nicklewin.com or drop me a line at nicklewin1@me.com -------------------------------------------- 6. Magic.Trick or Treat - #142 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message by Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com Often times I see on forums or hear at magic conventions folks asking a very similar question. It is an easy question and gets many folks talking and sharing their views. The question goes like this, "What are your top 3 effects?" It is a simple question with a LOT of different answers. However, I think it is a very dangerous question. I think what is important is not so much the trick that you love the best but the routine that you do with this trick. Some could take misers dream and kill with it simply because of their personality, character and routine alone. However, others may hate Miser's dream simply because in their hands it is ONLY a trick and nothing more. YOU are the magician. YOU are what makes the magic stop being a trick and start becoming entertainment. So I would ask folks to not just list their top 3 but list WHY they feel that way. What is it that you do that makes you really love these the most? Do you feel it is the strongest routines you do? If you are getting great reactions from it, then maybe you ask yourself why that is. Maybe it is the interaction or the comedy you placed in it. If it was just the trick alone, I mine as well walk on stage and place a deck of cards on a table and leave and let the audience applaud it. This simple analogy is only to prove a point.  It is not about those decks of cards.  It is not about the Chair Suspension or the ABC Stung. These things are NOTHING!! Alone they are mere props. WE are what makes them magical. WE are what makes the audience enjoy the effect or not. Sure the effect has to be good. But isn't magic more than just a WOW reaction? Isn't magic way more than just skill alone? I hope you are saying yes right now. Magic is way more than just skill or a wow response. Sure by nature what we do as a magician is making the impossible possible. That in of itself is exciting for any audience. However, I am not there wanting them to leave remembering that deck of cards. I do not want them leaving thinking "that card trick was awesome". I want and demand more. I want them leaving thinking, "Man that magician was fun and what a great experience. He was good. He was hilarious." Do you see the difference? Do you see the subtly between the two statements? Many folks do not and that is why I talk so much about creativity in magic. The first statement is all about the prop and the effect alone. They are praising the trick and the prop or the illusion. The second statement they are praising the magician. They are thankful for the experience. They remember YOU!! I am not sure about you but I want folks leaving my show loving the experience I created for them. For many this takes different forms. That is fine as my show is geared at creating experiences that are different for different folks. My routines are structured so that people can enjoy what they want from them. A good chef knows that the right spices and the right ingredients allow each person tasting the food to experience something a little different. Magic is the same way and should be. My audiences can each leave enjoying something different from the experience. Some may enjoy the comedy and the laughter they had. Some may have been moved by an emotional piece performed in the show. Each person leaves experiencing something different. They key is that YOU make that happen. Those cards in your hands do not do it by themselves. YOU create the magic and the magical experience. So the next time you start to write down your favorite tricks and effects do not so much write them down because they are effects that "kill audiences". Think about them. Think why audiences enjoy what you do. When you go and buy that next trick... STOP. Stop for a moment and really ponder it. Do not be so tempted to place it right in the show just because you love how "magician X" performed it. Make it your own. Spend the time routining it just right so it is a part of you and so it is as different as your very own signature. My audiences are EVERYTHING to me. Without my audience I am a lonely person standing on the stage by himself. My audiences deserve that from me. YOU deserve that from yourself. The ART deserves that from ALL of us. As always, I encourage you the readers to let me know your thoughts. So if you have any thoughts on my articles or suggestions or comments, please feel free to e-mail me directly at magic4u02@aol.com. I would love to hear from you. - I would like to let everyone know that I just released a NEW book and E-Book to the magic Community. "Blue and Gold! The Complete Guide to Working the Scout Market!" is now available as a soft cover printed book as well as an ebook download. - "Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/Encore.html - "Tips and Techniques on the Chair Suspension" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html -------------------------------------------- 7. World Travels by Paul Romhany -------------------------------------------- Message by Paul Romhany (NZ) What an amazing busy past couple of weeks it's been. Natalie and I are based out of Singapore at the moment performing shows then head over to China and a few other locations for shows. We've been having the most amazing time and meeting some truly wonderful people. After a few days here we were invited to a major spectacular showcasing the incredible illusion show of Lawrence and Priscilla. Both Natalie and I have never seen anything like it. We were treated like VIPS as we were introduced to everybody at the event and got to be upfront for the performance. This event was the launch of their new TV show featuring illusions, close-up magic by Lawrence and Priscilla. This father and daughter team are well known in Asia and internationally for their huge illusion production shows. Their new TV show was filmed and produced in Hollywood with consultants J. Thompson and Banachek. The launch we were invited to was a media affair and other invited guests. We were very honored indeed to be there. I have never been so close to some of the most amazing illusions in the world. The entire event was so well produced and it was special treat to meet Lawrence and Priscilla after the show. I hope to get together with them again while we are here. Be sure to look at clips of their Magic Box show on YouTube and you'll see some of their mind blowing illusions and wonderful show. This week we also got to meet famed illusion designer from the UK Mark Parker. Mark just released his brand new illusion book a few days ago, and as a surprise birthday gift Mark gave me a signed copy. This is no ordinary book - this is probably the best produced magic book I've ever seen. With only 500 copies produced these will sell out fast then become quite hard to get and expensive - so if you know Mark and have a fascination with illusions - you will seriously want to get one now.  This book contains ten stunning illusions with new ideas and concepts. Mark is such a creative thinker - we spent one night talking about my act and he came up with what I consider an idea that will take my act from where it is to a place I never dreamed of! He is consulting for major illusionists around the world and I can see why!! We also spent time with JC Sum and Ning. Two of Singapore's hardest working illusionists. They introduced Natalie and I to some of the amazing food here in Singapore and we all had a great time. JC also is a creator of original illusion ideas and has been putting Singapore on the magic map around the world. They are busy preparing their new illusion show which is a regular show here in Singapore. This will start in January 2010 so if you are ever here, be sure to check it out! If you get time, check out JC and Ning on YouTube - you'll be very impressed with what they have to offer. I also met up with a few other good friends here in Singapore but I'm going to save these meetings for next week. Don't forget that Jeremy Pei is putting on Redefine Magic one day convention. I will be presenting my world tour lecture and part of my Chaplin act. This will be on December 3rd. -------------------------------------------- 8. Las Vegas Magic - November, 2009 ------------------------------------------- Compiled by David Neubauer - www.dnmagic.com Magic Production Shows: Amazed Mike Rayburn, Tim Gabrielson, Buzz Sutherland 2:30 pm - Planet Hollywood. Amazing Johnathan 9 pm (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - Planet Hollywood. Criss Angel - Believe 7 & 10:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Mon.) - Luxor. www.cirquedusoleil.com/crissangel David Copperfield Nov. 19 - Dec. 31 7:30 & 10 pm (also 4:30 Sat.) MGM Grand. www.mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Dixie Dooley - Master Mystifier 7:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Tue.) - Royal Resort. www.houdiniexperience.com 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/coupon_dixie_dooley.html Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist 7:30 pm (Dark Wed.) - Planet Hollywood. www.mentalist.com Comp. Tickets: www.mentalist.com/_images/Ticket.pdf Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm (Dark Sun. - Mon.) - Monte Carlo. www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Special Discount: Mention you want "The Special" at the box office to receive a 25% Discount. Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - Harrah's. Note: There will be a sub from Nov. 3 - Nov. 7: Nov. 3-4: Dana Daniels; Nov. 5-6: Jeff Hobson; Nov. 7: Michael Holly. www.mackingshow.com Free tickets (buy 1 drink) are usually available at the concierge desk or handed out occasionally by showgirls. Magic's a Drag Steve Weston (aka Cashetta) 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun.) - Planet Hollywood. www.magicsadrag.com Mental Luke Jemay - 7 pm (Dark Sun. & Mon.) O'Shea's. www.harrahs.com/osheas/entertainment.html 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponmental.html Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 4 pm - Flamingo. www.nathanburton.com Special: Buy Flamingo Buffet from Box Office for $19.95, get free ticket to show. www.vegas4locals.com/couponnathanburtoncomedymagic.html Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Thurs. - Fri.) - Rio. www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html Superstars of Magic 7:30 & 9:30 (Dark Tues.) Steven Best and Cassandra, Vegas Club. www.vegasclubcasino.net/entertainment/superstars_of_magic.php 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponsuperstarsofmagic.html Steve Wyrick 9 pm. - Planet Hollywood. Dec. 20-27, 7 & 9 pm. Jan. 3-10 Dark www.stevewyricktheatre.com The Magic and Tigers of Rick Thomas 7 pm. (Dark Mon.) - Sahara. www.saharavegas.com/shows/magic-of-rick-thomas The Todd Paul Show 7 pm. (Dark Fri.) - Hooters. www.hooterscasinohotel.com/entertainment/the-todd-paul-show/ Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur 4:10 & 7 pm (Dark Tues.) (7 pm is an expanded show) - Tropicana. www.tropicanalv.com/ent_dirkarthur.asp 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponxtrememagic.html Magic In Production Shows: After the Show Cashetta, Christopher Karpiak, S. Frank Stringham, and more. Mondays, 11 pm (seats at 10) 2 drink minimum - Planet Hollywood. Crazy Girls Tony Douglas - 9:30 pm (Dark Tues.) - Riviera. www.rivierahotel.com/entertainment_crazygirls.asp 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponcrazygirls.html Haunted Vegas Show and Tour Jac Hayden, Robert Allen 9:30 pm, picks up at the Royal Resort. www.hauntedvegastours.com $10 off Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html Matsuri TamBa provides magic between acts. 4:00 pm (Dark Tues.) & 8:00 pm Fri. - Imperial Palace. The Las Vegas Seance Robert Allen, Jac Hayden, Arian Black, Samina, Victora Wayne 10:00 pm, picks up at the Royal Resort www.LasVegasSeance.com V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jason Byrne (most Tues. - Sat.) & various others. 7 & 8:30, Planet Hollywood - www.vtheshow.com Variety Showcase Christopher Karpiak & S. Frank Stringham Tuesdays, 9 pm - FREE - Sam's Town. Other Vegas Magic: Craig Keith performs bar magic at various times - Dick's Last Resort, Excalibur. Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Las Vegas Magic Organizations Fantasma I.B.M. Ring #257, 7 pm 1st Monday each month. www.ibm257.com Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. Darwin's Magic Club, meets 10 pm Wednesdays. Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. KIDabra Las Vegas, 7 pm every 3rd Monday. Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. www.kidabralasvegas.com October, 2009 October 21-24: Magic & Mystery School - The Magic and Meaning Conference - A distinctive, annual small-group conference that focuses on creating meaningful magic routines, effective scripts, and new venues for performance. Featuring keynote addresses by Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Robert E. Neale, Lawrence Hass, and a number of short talks by experts on subjects relating to the themes of the conference. www.magicalwisdom.com October 31: The annual Las Vegas Houdini séance will be held in the THEATER OF MAGIC at the Royal Resort hosted by Dixie Dooley, who conducts the only séance that is endorsed by the Houdini family. There is no charge and it is a non profit event. Due to limited seating you must RSVP. Seating is on a first come first serve basis. Seating begins at 12:15 and the actual events starts at 1 pm. Adults and strictly supervised children may attend. For more information and to RSVP visit: www.houdiniexperience.com November, 2009 November 6-8: Magic & Mystery School - Magic and Medicine. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com November 8-10: MINDvention - Mentalism Convention - Palace Station. www.mindvention.net November 11-13: Magic & Mystery School - Master Class for Mentalists. Special Guest: Ross Johnson, Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com November 16-22: Michael Finney - Comedy Stop - Sahara. www.michaelfinney.com November 27-29: Variety Live. 7:30 pm. Featuring: Joseph Gabriel, Juggler Kris Kremo, Hula act Yelena Larkina, The Rolla Bolla Balancing Act and Singer Ben Stone - Suncoast. December, 2009 December 7: Peter Reveen has been named Magician of the Year by the Fantasma Ring #257 Las Vegas chapter of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. On the bill (so far) to honor "Reveen, The Impossibilist" is Fielding West as MC, Lance Burton, Johnny Thompson, Anthony Rais, Mike Bent, Jon Stetson, Scarlett, David and Dania, (with their new Austin Powers style act), and many surprise celebrity guests! www.IBM257.com. December 11-13: World Stars of Magic 7:30 pm. Featuring: Kevin James & Company, Paolo Giua, Richard McDougall, Victor & Diamond, and Juliana Chen. - Suncoast. January, 2010 Jan. 18-24: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com March, 2010 Mar. 5-7: Magic & Mystery School - Master Class Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com April, 2010 Apr. 19-25: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com May, 2010 May 18-19: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Stage Magic & Manipulation Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com June, 2010 Jun. 28-Jul 4: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com August, 2010 Aug. 23-29: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com September, 2010 Sept. 14-15: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Stage Magic & Manipulation Jeff McBride. www.magicalwisdom.com Sept. 18-19: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Magic and the Martial Arts Jeff McBride, Bryce Kuhlman. www.magicalwisdom.com Sept. 24-26: Magic & Mystery School - Sisters of Magic & Mystery Abbigail Aft McBride, Jeff McBride. www.magicalwisdom.com October, 2010 Oct. 9-10: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Street Magic Jeff McBride. www.magicalwisdom.com Oct. 20-23: Magic & Mystery School - The Magic and Meaning Conference - A distinctive, annual small-group conference that focuses on creating meaningful magic routines, effective scripts, and new venues for performance. Featuring keynote addresses by Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Robert E. Neale, Lawrence Hass, and a number of short talks by experts on subjects relating to the themes of the conference. www.magicalwisdom.com -------------------------------------------- 9. The Grand Master Tribute -------------------------------------------- Message by Michael Chaut On November 17th, 2009, join the magic community and the producers of Monday Night Magic as we pay tribute to two New York Grand Masters of Magic: Earl "Presto" Johnson and "Professor" Bobby Baxter. Tickets can be purchased at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/88119 On January 26th, 1998, Monday Night Magic paid tribute to four "Grand Masters of Magic": Frank Brents (veteran magician and world traveler, and our partner since the inception of Monday Night Magic); the late Jackie Flosso (son of Al Flosso and proprietor of Flosso-Hornmann magic); the great comedy magician and manipulator "Professor" Bobby Baxter: and another New York legend of comedy and manipulative magic, Earl "Presto" Johnson. More than a decade later, both Bobby Baxter and Presto (as he was known throughout the magic scene), have now passed away in recent months. Professor Bobby Baxter, 89, died in his sleep Sept. 1, 2009. Earl "Presto" Johnson, of West Orange, New Jersey, died April 16, 2009. Both of these great masters in the world of professional magic influenced generations of magicians coming up in and around the New York magic scene. Come join us for a celebratory tribute to their life and work, as we present a very special show on Tuesday 17th November, at the Bleecker Street Theatre, Bleecker and Lafayette Streets in the Noho neighborhood of Manhattan, and the home of Monday Night Magic, New York's longest-running magic show. Current Scheduled Performers will include: * Torkova (Classical Award Winning Magic At Its Best!) * Puck (From Florida! - Incredible Magic & Comedy!) * Chris Capehart (Globe Trotting Master Magician!) .... plus many, many surprises! All profits from the event will be used to create the "Presto and Professor Baxter Scholarship Fund," to provide scholarships to send minority and financially underprivileged children to the Tannen's Magic Camp. Help celebrate and pay tribute to these two giant talents, who gave so much back to their art - and help us give to the future of magic in their name. Please help us spread the word so that everyone who knew and loved both of these great performers can come out and join us. I look forward to seeing you all there! Michael Chaut (On behalf of Frank Brents, Todd Robbins, Peter Samelson & Jamy Ian Swiss) -------------------------------------------- 10. World Magic Awards -------------------------------------------- Message by Bob Coluzzi World Magic Awards will be seen on MyNetworkTV, airing Thursday, November 19, at 8 p.m. The two-hour program features fourteen magic acts from around the world, including award winners Joseph Gabriel (Best Stage Magician), Michael Finney (Best Comedy Magic), The Twins (Best International Stage Magic), Katalin (Best Cabaret Magic, Female), Marco Tempest (Best Contemporary Magic), Tommy Wind (Teen Magician of the Year), Barry & Stuart (Best Comedy Illusionists, pictured), Morgan (Best Escape Artist, Female), Ed Alonzo (Best Variety Magician), Double Fantasy (Best Cabaret Magic, Duo), Franz Harary (Illusionist of the Year), and Greg Frewin (Magician of the Year), plus guest appearances by Lance Burton. -------------------------------------------- 11. Shanghai International Magic Festival -------------------------------------------- Message by Clive Court The Sixth Shanghai International Magic Festival runs November 8-11. It will feature four days of competitions, shows and lectures. Juliana Chen, the World's First Lady of Magic, takes on her fourth contract as artistic director. She has selected and booked all the performers, lecturers, and competitors. The lineup is as follows: Stage Gala: Brett Daniels (USA) Tony Chapeck (USA) Jerome Murat (France) Hugus (France) Simon Pierro (Germany) Alberto Giorgi (Italy) Bastrakov (Russia) Solvei (France) Jorgos Katsaros (Greece) Close-Up Gala: Shawn Farquhar (Canada) Marc Oberon (England) Hayashi (Germany) Weng da zhi (China) Lectures: Dale Salwak (USA) Shawn Farquhar (Canada) Marc Oberon (England) Juliana Chen (USA) Juliana Chen is the director for the shows and responsible for the staging. lighting and music for all the performances. She has contributed ideas and helped develop the festival since its beginning in 1999. Chen has been a key player in China's increasing participation in the international magic scene over the past two decades. Following her win at the 1992 IBM Salt Lake City Convention, she helped to launch China's first IBM Ring in 1993. The following year, she built the connection with FISM and China by encouraging a delegation to visit FISM in Japan. By the next FISM in Dresden (1997) Juliana, herself, became both the first woman, and first Chinese magician, to win a FISM world title. This success really encouraged the development of magic and magicians in China leading up to the 24th FISM Congress in Beijing this past summer. Following The Shanghai International Festival, Chen will stage an international Close-up magic show in Beijing which she will host. It will feature 2009 FISM Grand Prix winner Shawn Farquhar plus others appearing at the Shanghai Festival. -------------------------------------------- 12. S.A.M. Endowment Lectures Continue -------------------------------------------- Message by George Schindler The Society of American Magicians has revisited the Lecture Program whereby S.A.M. assemblies will receive free lectures for their members. Earlier this season lectures were presented in Arizona. The dates and times are coordinated between the Assemblies and the schedule of available lecturers in the areas offered. The lecturers are all Past Presidents of the organization donating their time George Schindler will be lecturing in Portland, Oregon- Sunday Afternoon November 15 at the downtown Hilton (See http://www.sam59portland.org/) for details. All S A M members may attend. Monday Evening November 16 at 7 PM - George Schindler will lecture for Assembly# 112 in Pleasant Hill - California. San Franciso Bay Area #2 members will most likely participate with the East Bay Group - Contact Doug Kovacich 925-435-4824 You do not have to be an Assembly member but need to belong to the Society as an Associate or SYM member. You membership card is your ticket. Not a member? You can enroll for Trial Membership at these lectures on this evening Details http://www.magicsam.com/trialmember.asp -------------------------------------------- 13. A New Era Begins For the Magic Collectors' Association ------------------------------------------- Message by Julie Eng David Ben, Artistic Director of Magicana, is pleased to announce that Magicana is taking over the stewardship of the Magic Collectors' Association. Founded over sixty years ago, the MCA has staged an annual conference devoted to discussing the history of magic as a performing art, profiling its builders and championing its performers. It has published Magicol, a quarterly magazine, for close to fifty years, the last fifteen under the direction of David Meyer of Glenwood, Illinois. David is now retiring from the role, this November issue being his last, and is turning the reins of the publication and the organization over to Magicana. Magicana looks forward to building on the success of David Meyer and his cast of contributors, and plans to continue the publication of Magicol, stage the annual conference, and harness new technology, particularly as offered on the Internet, to extend the reach and membership of the MCA. We will be releasing details about the May 2010 convention very soon. In the meanwhile, join our eList at http://www.magicana.com or follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/sharingwonder) and on Facebook (http://facebook.com/magicana) to get the latest, breaking news.... or, of course, just check your weekly posting of Magic New Zealand! -------------------------------------------- 14. Arturo Brachetti Change - Garrick theatre London -------------------------------------------- Message by Dale Shrimpton 19th October- 3rd January http://www.changelondon.com/ This show has to be without doubt one of the most magical evenings I have ever spent in the theatre. It starts in darkness; the lights come up, to reveal a huge wooden cube. The cube revolves, and when it comes to a halt, a door opens, and a masked man carrying an umbrella enters. He places the umbrella in the ground, and proceeds to remove his masks one after another, in a seemingly endless line. The mask is removed, and we see the star, Brachetti. However, he is old. And it is here, that the play begins. The story of the life, and influences of Arturo. The next section is a whirlwind of changes dedicated to London, starting with a flash transformation into a guardsman, complete with bearskin, a pearly king, a kinky business man, the queen, and a punk rocker, unable to spit at the audience, because of the huge amount of paper in it.   The cube now revolves and splits and we see inside the house of Brachetti, covered in his memories, and memorabilia. There are many, many changes packed into this half, and as I type, I'm finding it hard to recall them all. It is during this half that we are introduced to the second Brachetti that being the younger version of himself. He is first introduced via a film to life effect. But it's unlike any version seen before. Here he treats us to The Chapeau act, as performed by Leopoldo Fregoli, and his jack in the box act. The first act finishes with his wonderful 4 seasons routine, including a fantastic performance of the classic dekolta cone of flowers. Act 2 contains some darker elements. For the character Brachetti is nearing his final transformation. The words engraved on Fregoli's grave stone. However, thanks to another of his influences Hollywood, We get to see characters from Star wars, Casablanca, E.T, Jaws, Shrek, Singing in the Rain, Titanic, Nosferatu, Frankenstein, The Lord of the Rings, Wizard of Oz, Caberet, Gone with the Wind, King Kong, The Sound of Music and many, many more. We now enter the world of Brachetti's other influence Federico Fellini. With some amazing visuals, including a scene where Fellini steps out of his own body, we arrive at the final transformation. This is the most stunningly beautiful levitation and vanish I've seen in a very long time. He then takes his bow, and one final change from full black tail suit, into white.  In the blink of an eye, in the middle of the stage. Now, I should say that I have missed out a huge amount of information. It would spoil the surprise if I told you more. This show contains some of the most sophisticated lighting and projection effects ever. Every second of the show has something to take your breath away. I had always thought that this was a once in a lifetime experience, and it is but I now need to see it again, because I didn't believe what I saw. Go! Beg borrow, or sell your soul to get a ticket. You will not regret it. -------------------------------------------- 15. New Junior Venue Las Vegas -------------------------------------------- Message by Joey King Treasurer Fantasma IBM Ring 257 Las Vegas After a year in searching for a meeting place where we can have youngsters come to our meeting to have classes for them to learn the art of magic. I am happy to inform all who live Las Vegas, Nevada. That we have now we have a permanent meeting place. Starting Monday November 2 2009 we will meet every First Monday of the Month (except on Legal Holidays when the Library will be closed) Time: 5:45 P.M. To 8:45 P.M . The Children classes will start at 5:45 till 7:P.M. The regular meeting for the Fantasma IBM Ring 257 Las Vegas will start at 7:P.M. Till 8:45P.M. Clark County Library 1401 E. Flamingo Road  (One Block East of Maryland Parkway) Las Vegas, Nevada For Information Contact: Joey King kingscastle1@cox.net Telephone: 702-263-2341 -------------------------------------------- 16. Fredric Broder, as PRESTO the Digitator ------------------------------------------- Message by Fredric Broder On October 7, 2009, Fredric Broder, as PRESTO The Digitator, was featured with a full-color picture on the cover of DISTRICT, the 10 3/4 X 12 1/2 inch newsprint magazine distributed throughout the Long Beach, California, area. Inside the magazine was a full-page color picture of Presto, sitting behind his counter, spraying cards at the camera. Behind him are numerous boxes with artful pictures, descriptions, and prices of the saleable merchandise they contain. His hand drawn pictures have been called some of the best "primitive American" artwork still in use today. Along with the picture, three full pages of text outlined his career in magic, playing up his age (77 years old) and background as a professor of speech for 32 years. Most gratifying to him was the fact that the story had been suggested by a customer, not by himself. Yes, he is still performing, and yes, several shows have been offered to him as a result of the article. -------------------------------------------- 17. Alan Wong's Lecture - Penang Hotel ------------------------------------------- Message by Barry Khoo GOOD NEWS. Corporate Rate for Alan Wong's Lecture and Berjaya Georgetown Penang Hotel Just spoken to Berjaya Hotel and Raymond Tan said that he can offer us the corporate of RM165/= net or US$47/= net (for both single or twin) plus breakfast for two persons but booking must be made through him and please mention my name. Berjaya Georgetown Penang 1-Stop Midlands Park Jalan Burma Pulau Tikus 10350 Penang TEL: 04-2207-378 FAX: 04-2277-273 Raymond Tan Sales Manager H/phone: 012-4839-899 Email: raymond@b-georgetown.com.my -------------------------------------------- 18. Help Kids With Magic - Just By Buying Books! ------------------------------------------- Message by Kent Cummins Magic Hotline 7306 Scenic Brook Dr Austin, Texas 78736 www.MagicHotline.com (512) 288-1596 Magicians love books, and it's time to start thinking about those books that you want to give during the holidays. The Kent Cummins Magic Camp, based in Austin, Texas, is having a Magic Camp Book Fair at Barnes & Noble, November 6 through 13, 2009. But you don't have to be in Austin to participate! All you have to do is provide a Magic Camp Book Fair Voucher (available at www.MagicCamp.com) when you check out, any of the 8 days between November 6 and Friday the 13th, and up to 20% of all of your purchases will be donated to the Magic Camp Scholarship Fund! Last summer, the camp helped over 600 kids and awarded $34,000 in scholarships. -------------------------------------------- 19. 30th NZ International Magicians Convention ------------------------------------------- Registrations are now open for the 30th New Zealand International Magicians Convention in Auckland, New Zealand. Saturday June 5th, Sunday June 6th, Monday June 7th 2010. The lineup of talent includes multiple Magician of the Year award recipients Whit Haydn and John Carney and international superstar magician Paul Daniels and the lovely Debbie McGee. Plus special guest - Darren Carr is recognised as Australia's number one stand-up ventriloquist. Registration Draw: One of the first 50 registrants will win their convention registration back in full! - get your registration NOW and be in with your chance to win it! For more information visit the convention website at: www.scmc.co.nz/convention.html -------------------------------------------- 20. Magic for Sale Part Two - Tony Wilson ------------------------------------------- Message by Tony Wilson (NZ) Tony Wilson has been busy photographing 65 items for sale that were not offered in his June list. If you are interested in perusing the new printed list send him an email with "Magic for Sale Part Two" in the subject line and he will send you the printed list of the 65 new items. For any items that interest you from this list you then request the item number(s) and he will email you the relevant digital photo(s) so can view the goods for sale that interest you in the comfort of your home. Email Tony on tony@twmagic.co.nz -------------------------------------------- 19. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives -------------------------------------------- Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.watson.co.nz/fezine.html Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. User Name: magic Password: kiwi When you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order and are coded. Eg 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999) -------------------------------------------- 20. 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