Magic New Zealand® E-zine

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* Magic New Zealand®
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Issue Number: #1702
Date: Sunday 12th February 2023
Editor: Alan Watson QSM
www.watson.co.nz
E-mail: editor@magicnewzealand.com
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Hi here is the latest news
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1. Editor's Message
2. IBM Pittsburgh Convention 2023
3. The Magic Word Podcast - Valentine Award From Nick Lewin
4. Wes Iseli's Magiclife Podcast
5. No Stone Unturned - Paul Stone - Article #94
6. Tales From The Fantastic Magic Center - #27
7. Teleport - John Carey #186
8. Blackpool Magic Convention 2023
9. The Original Escapes Of Arthur Coghlan
10. Broken Wand - Scott Alexander
11. Broken Wand - Robert Orben
12. Aussie Magician Joel Howlett Visiting NZ
13. E-zine Archives
14. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice

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1. Editor's Message
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If you would like to read the Magic New Zealand e-zine in HTML format go to:

If you would like to write a regular column for Magic New Zealand or have some magic news drop me a line:
Editor@MagicNewZealand.com

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2. IBM Pittsburgh Convention 2023
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I.B.M. Annual Convention
We look forward to seeing you in Pittsburgh July 12-15, 2023.

Register now before the price increase in three weeks.

It is only $290 to register now for the 2023 I.B.M. Convention in Pittsburgh, July 12-15.

After February 28, you will pay $330. Go to https://www.magician.org/convention and follow, to be the first to see our frequent announcements of our magnificent talent line up.

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3. The Magic Word Podcast - Valentine Award From Nick Lewin
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Message by Scott Wells, M.I.M.C. with Gold Star

First of all I want to express my thanks and say how grateful I am for receiving a Valentine Award from Nick Lewin in this month's VANISH Magazine. The award was presented to me in recognition of preserving the history of magic on audio with the Magic Word Podcast for our magic community to learn from and to enjoy for generations to come. Other recipients of the award this month were David Blaine, Jeff Hobson, Colin Cloud, and Connie Boyd. We are in rarified air indeed. Thank you, Nick Lewin and thank you listeners.

This week's episode features one of our craft's greatest and most reputed builders, Ray Lum. Owner of KMD Fabricators, Ray was mentored by the late Tommy Wonder. He is still inspired by Tommy beyond his death. Ray is also the inventor of the Lumball Machine (gumball machine) which has more than one "father" as discussed in this week's episode.

You can listen wherever you get your podcasts. But for more information, videos, photos, to enter the contest, and to listen to the podcast online, please visit: https://www.themagicwordpodcast.com/scottwellsmagic/738-ray-lum

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4. Wes Iseli's Magiclife Podcast
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Message by Wes Iseli

Check out this week's episode of Wes Iseli's Magiclife S3E30 (Meadow Perry)
Video: https://youtu.be/-UxRXEjCRZU
Audio: https://anchor.fm/.../episodes/S3E30---Meadow-Perry-e1uk8g1
In this episode we talk to Bubble artist & Magician Meadow Perry. We cover all kinds of topics from bubble formula to her amazing viral TikTok account to performing at Magic Conventions. We even talked about her upcoming TV debut on Masters of Illusion.

Wesiseli.com
Patreon.com/wes_iseli

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5. No Stone Unturned - Paul Stone - Article #94
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Message by Paul Stone (US)

It is always sad when we must say farewell to someone we know in the magic community. It is particularly so, when that someone is taken from us far too soon and unexpectedly.

We received the news a couple of days ago that Scott Alexander, had passed away at the age of just 52, having taken ill whilst he was performing on a cruise ship in the Caribbean.

Scott was an excellent magician and a top professional. He was also an innovative creator of magic and a business partner with my close friend Bob Kohler, with whom he'd collaborated for many years. And most of all, Scott was a genuinely nice man, and always great fun to spend time with.

My condolences go to his wife Jenny and their three children, and also to Bob Kohler on their devastating loss.

We all too often take life for granted, and it is only when these situations occur that we sit up and take notice. During the recent pandemic I wrote three books, one of them titled 'MindSharp 4 Today' - Living in the moment. This book was filled with quotes for living life TODAY.

I think one of the quotes, attributed to Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, is particularly appropriate following the shock news of Scott's passing.

'It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth and we have no way of knowing when our time is up, that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had'.

We'd all like to think that we will leave behind a legacy of some kind. It's been suggested to me on several occasions that I should write a book about my life in the entertainment and magic business. Up until now, I'd never really given much thought to the idea.

However, next year, 2024, will mark my 50th year as a Show Producer, and so I've decided to go ahead and write the book! I have worked with or booked most of the world's greatest Variety acts and magicians over the past half century, and I have many great stories to tell.

I'll be including dozens of fantastic photos and publicity materials from iconic venues ranging from producing a huge Variety Cabaret in the Egyptian Room of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York to sold out 'World Stars of Magic' Shows and the unforgettable 'Tribute to Siegfried & Roy' at the world famous London Palladium Theatre.

And there'll be an exclusive link to unique, and previously unseen video footage of several magic legends and Variety performers who have appeared in my shows over the years.

And finally, watch this space for an announcement about a very special show I'll be producing in London next year!

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6. Tales From The Fantastic Magic Center - #27
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Message by Kent Cummins, Director (US)

The Book of Magic

It was 1978, and I was a sponsor for the Austin Public Libraries summer reading program, which was all about magic!

I sawed every children's librarian in half at their branch libraries, and there was to be a grand finale in Wooldridge Square Park in downtown Austin. I wanted to appear from a magic book…so my brother Carter came to the rescue with a Book of Life Illusion that could pack small to fit into my VW Microbus.

Naturally, I put the numbers 793.8 on the spine: the Dewey Decimal System number for books on Conjuring.

The show was a success, and I have used that Book of Magic for hundreds of shows around the country. An obvious use has been to open the Texas Book Festival each year.

When hired to promote a birthday party for Bess Whitehead Scott, a Texas author, we decorated the book so that it looked like a giant version of her book, "You Meet Such Interesting People." After showing the book empty. We produced the author…whom I proceeded to saw in half, changing a 100-year-old woman into two spry 50s! (It made the television news.)

I also enjoyed changing the book to look like Joe Vitale's new marketing book about P.T. Barnum. We first produced a "genuine" mermaid, and then Mr. Barnum himself! Incidentally, the event was held at Wooldridge Square Park, the very place where the illusion first appeared.
I have even used the book to magically produce Santa Claus.

The original Book of Magic finally wore out, and I donated it to Fantastic Magic Camp for their Performers Academy. The Palace Theatre in Georgetown built me a new Book, which is on display at my Fantastic Magic Center.

The Fantastic Magic Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the art of magic. Check out my free weekly podcast at:
www.FantasticMagicCenter.com
kent@magichotline.com

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7. Teleport - John Carey #186
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Message by John Carey (UK)
http://www.johncareymagic.co.uk/

A signed card to envelope

Having a signed card appear inside a sealed envelope that's in full view the whole time is an interesting problem. What I offer here is a simple synergy of subtlety and sleight of hand.

You will require a small pay envelope. Insert any card inside the unsealed envelope ahead of time and you are good to go. Have the deck shuffled as you bring out the envelope. Ask your helper to deal ten cards into a face-down packet. Take the packet and insert it into the envelope and seal it. We are nicely ahead already with no work.

Next have a card selected from the balance of the deck and signed. Upon return control this card to the top using your preferred method. Ask your spectator to pick up the envelope and hold it between her palms. Riffle the deck towards her hands and then ask her to open the envelope and
count out loud to the table the packet she removed. When all attention is on her dealing and counting you have all the shade in the world to palm the selection from the top of the deck into the right hand.

Casually set the deck down. A moment after she has counted and revealed eleven cards
the right hand comes smoothly down onto this packet, secretly adding the palmed card as you slide the packet off the table and then place it into the left hand. "So one card has mysteriously teleported to the envelope." Casually cut the packet in hand and then turn it face-up. Or use a turnover pass. Spread the packet with the faces towards you and up-jog their selection. Extract it from the spread and turn it over to conclude the effect.

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8. Blackpool Magic Convention 2023
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Message by Illuminati Magic

The world's largest magic convention, the Blackpool Magic Convention, is set to commence next week, with over 3,500 magicians attending from all around the globe! The Blackpool Magic Convention promises a world-class line-up of international, award-winning magicians, illusionists, and acts brought together in one fantastic venue to provide a weekend like no other.

Illuminati Magic are delighted to attend and exhibit at the Blackpool Magic Convention. We will have the whole team in Blackpool, including myself, Andrew Gill, Charles Waymark, Jay Soneji and Gordon Bellefeuille.

At FISM, we released Scribe and Second Sight V2, and we are delighted to launch these products in Europe! At FISM, Scribe and Second Sight V2 were instant sellouts, and over the past eight months, we have added a myriad of new and enhanced features to the platform.

We will also be providing people with an exclusive, sneak peek of our upcoming products.

This year, Illuminati Magic will be based in the Horseshoe / Pavilion Theatre, and we very much welcome you to drop in for a chat.

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9. The Original Escapes Of Arthur Coghlan
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Message by Helen Coghlan (Australia)

Due to an overwhelming number of requests, the book 'The Original Escapes of Arthur Coghlan -Updated Edition' has now been released.

This much sought-after book is a reprint of Dad's 2007 best seller and features escapes which have fooled Penn & Teller. As a bonus, this updated soft-cover edition also includes the Rod-Through-Milk Trick which fooled the duo on my first appearance.

Also includes: The Don Lane Show Drum Escape - Concrete Block - Army Tank - Chair Rope Tie - Electric Chair - Death Cage - Steel Box - Jet Truck - Circular Saw - Wooden Keg.

The first section tells the story of Dad's beginning in escapology and magic and explains the various escapes as viewed by the public. It also describes the problems and risks involved. The second section is where you'll find the secrets.

Special price for a limited time. Visit the website for more information. https://arthurcoghlan.com/secrets-revealed/

Australian ABC TV filmed a half-hour documentary on Dad last year. It's a wonderful insight into his background, his magic and his escapes. Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0vFUEY1FuM

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10. Broken Wand - Scott Alexander
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Article forward on by Peter Phillips (US)

Deadline

'America's Got Talent' Magician Scott Alexander Dies Following Stroke

Scott Alexander, a magician who appeared on Season 6 of America's Got Talent, has died following a stroke, his wife Jenny revealed on Instagram.

"He suffered a stroke while working on a cruise ship in St Kitts and did not make it home to us," Jenny wrote. "We are shattered. Please hold us in your prayers." Her caption appeared next to a photo of Scott with their children.

Alexander impressed the judges in his audition for Season 6 with an illusion in which a woman seemed to appear out of nowhere, be supported by water, then levitate. He was sent to the Vegas round after judges Piers Morgan, Sharon Osbourne and Howie Mandel voted "Yes". He was eventually eliminated in the quarterfinals following a performance of an illusion in which a gospel choir disappeared and then reappeared a distance away.

https://deadline.com/2023/02/americas-got-talent-magician-scott-alexander-dead-following-stroke-1235252020/

Magician Scott Alexander advanced all the way to Hollywood on Season 6 of America's Got Talent

https://youtu.be/yR6TSY2_o30

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11. Broken Wand - Robert Orben
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Message by Hal Meyers (US)

Robert "Bob" Orben
Passed away February 2 at the age of 95.

Magicians, can find his books on one-liners, simply look up - Robert Orben books - and you will find a slew of material Bob said were starting off points to creating your own jokes and/or patter.

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Magicpedia

Robert Orben (born March 4, 1927) is best known as an American professional comedy writer, though he also worked as a speechwriter for Gerald R. Ford and as a magician. He has written multiple books on comedy, mostly collections of gags and "one-liners" originally written for his newsletter, Orben's Current Comedy, and he has also written books for magicians.

Biography
By the early 1950's, Orben had teamed with Channing Pollock and Ricki Dunn.

Later, Orben moved into politics, and in 1973 he became head speechwriter to Vice President Gerald R. Ford. When Ford succeeded to the Presidency in August, 1974, Orben became his speechwriter. In January 1976 he was appointed Special Assistant to President Ford and Director of the White House Speechwriting Department.

Books
The Encyclopedia of Patter (1946)
Patter for Standard Tricks (1950)
Ad-Libs (1952)
M.C. Bits (1953)
Crack Comedy (1955)
Spotlight on Comedy (1960)
Current Comedy (1964)

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12. Aussie Magician Joel Howlett Visiting New Zealand
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Message by Joel Howlett (Australia)

Over many years, Joel has been a favourite at New Zealand Magic Conventions. Other International achievements include, being the Australian representative at Disney World Florida for the Millennium Dreamer's Summit and Guest Artist at the Riviera Hotel Las Vegas at the SAM Convention on the Stars Of Tomorrow Gala Show!

Joel's style and variety of material has made it possible for him to work as a full-time professional magician for the last seventeen years (not counting the last two years during the COVID Pandemic!). He performs for a wide variety of ages at both private and corporate events.
He will be bringing a one man show and NEW lecture to New Zealand showcasing Visual Magic effects that he is currently using in both stand up shows and performances for family audiences. The lecture will also include discussions on ways to keep modern audiences with shortening attention spans engaged in a magic show!

- Monday 20th February Lecture in Auckland Venue: The Surrey Hotel, 465 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 Start Time: 7.30pm

- Saturday 25th February One Man Show at Laws Court Dunedin at 7pm. Suitable for all ages! To purchase tickets please visit: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/magicmomentsnz/783571

- Monday 27th February Lecture in Wellington 6:30 pm Finger Food 7:15 pm Lecture Southern Cross Hotel Function Rooms (able, Smith St)

- 1st March Palmerson North Lecture 7:30pm To book a space or for more information please contact Andrew Wilson 063292928

- Monday 6th March Christchurch - 6 at Pathway Dental offices starting at 7:30pm. Message me or email hey_presto@xtra.co.nz for more details

Reviews from past lectures: "It's been an absolute pleasure to have had Joel perform and lecture

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13. E-zine Archives
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Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e- zine go to:
www.magicnewzealand.com

Click on the red button centre right "Archives"

When you enter the archive the e- zines are in issue order in folders for each year and are Coded, e.g. 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999)

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14. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice
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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.magicnewzealand.com

Magic New Zealand® E-zine is published each Sunday.

The opinions and statements expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New Zealand®. Neither Magic New Zealand® nor Alan Watson QSM vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New Zealand® E-zine.

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Magic New Zealand® reserves the right to alter, correct or disregard any articles submitted.

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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.