* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #278 Date: Sunday 8th August 2004 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com www.alan-watson.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor’s Message 2. Happy Birthday - John Booth, Age 92 And John Calvert, Age 93 3. "Magic In Las Vegas" For August, 2004 4. Tony Wilson’s Magical Adventures 5. Magician Paid To Disappear 6. Edinburgh Fringe Show Review 7. Sad News: George Johnstone Passes At 85 8. Magic In The Rockies 9. Winterhaven's "Labor Day Bash" 10. The Houdini Club Of Wisconsin 11. A Warning On Buying Magic On The Internet 12. Wanting Purchase Flash Paper 13. MAGIC Live! 14. Response To Tim Glander - Tim Ellis 15. Re: Ethics letter - Nick Morton 16. "Out Of The Hat" Will Be Published 17. Old Autographed Programmes For Sale 18. Original - Rare Magic Up For Grabs! 19. Magic And Cultural Festival 20. Max Maven Added To MINDvention Line-up! 21. Boy, Is My Face RED!! 22. Brent McLeod & Dave Upfold 23. TAOM Dealer's Room Sold Out 24. Impromptu Lighter Levitation - Jamie-G 25. e-zine Archives 26. Subscription Management ------------------ 1. Editors Message ------------------- Message from Alan Watson - The Magic One As from this week Magic New Zealand has 8,000 subscribers around the world and is growing on a daily basis. ---------------------- Message from Veronica Orchard – Tommy’s wife (The Amazing Orchante) There will be NO saga this week as Tom is back in hospital having a cyst removed, caused by, it seems, an undisolved internal stitch from his lung operation. He woke up Wednesday morning with his abdomen red and very sore. By the afternoon it had swollen up and was very 'angry' looking. Our doctor put him on two very strong antibiotics and said he expected to see an improvement in 24 hours. By early Thursday afternoon the inflammation / infection had spread; the doctor immediately sent Tom into hospital and that is where he is until Saturday. --------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com ----------------- 2. Happy Birthday To John Booth, Age 92 And John Calvert, Age 93 ----------------- Message from Ben Robinson (US) On August 6th and 7th, two magicians of note, both named John will celebrate their 92nd and 93rd birthdays. Both have been pivotal in Ben Robinson’s career. Dr. John N. Booth and Ben have worked on 3 books together and the famed mountaineer, film maker, night club magician and Unitarian Reverend will be 92. For our money, the world’s greatest magician John Calvert, who has literally entertained in every county on Earth will be 93. Calvert and Robinson have used some of the same props in their performance, 62 years apart. We extend our most heartfelt wishes to both. ----------------- 3. "Magic In Las Vegas" For August, 2004 ----------------- Message from David Neubauer (US) - www.dnmagic.com Playing Until Further Notice: Afternoons: Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas - 2 & 4 pm - Tropicana. Mac King Comedy Magic Show - 1 & 3 pm Tues-Sat - Harrah's Clint Holmes Theater. Mostly Magic Matinee - Nick Comis & Tyas Frantz - 4 pm - Sat-Thurs - Bourbon Street. Evenings: Amazing Johnathan - La Cage Theater - 10 pm, Wed-Mon - Riviera. Collin Foster - "Quicker than the Eye" 6 pm Sat-Thurs - Westin Hotel. Dirk Arthur "Splash" - Sun-Mon 8 pm, Tues-Sat 8 pm & 10:30 pm (dark Fri) - Riviera. Dixie Dooley and Shedini open in "Escape" - Thurs. to Sat. -Riviera. Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show - every Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Lance Burton, Master Magician - Lance Burton Theater - 7 pm Tues-Sat & 10 pm Tues-Sat - Monte Carlo. "Ovations" - Steve Dacri as the "Xtreme" MC with various specialty acts - Lady Luck. (Open 8/15?) Penn & Teller - 9 pm, Wed-Mon - Samba Theatre, Rio. Peter J. Shield webcasts- with various Vegas magicians - Greek Isle. www.vegaswebcast.com. "SHOCK" (strange sideshow comedy) - Greek Isle, 11 pm Sat-Mon. "Showgirls of Magic" - 8 & 10:30 (Adults only 2nd show) - San Remo. "Spotlight" with Will Roya, Mark Bennick & Escape Artist Tyas Frantz - 7 pm - (1/2 price for locals) Bourbon Street www.spotlightshow.com. Stephan Vanel "La Femme" - Wed-Mon 8 & 10:30 - MGM Grand. Steve Wyrick - 7 & 10 pm Wed-Mon - Aladdin. Tony Blanco - "Magic and Mirth" - Wed-Sun, various times - Excalibur. www.tonyblanco.com "World's Greatest Magic Show" - 9 pm nightly, 7 & 9 Friday, 2 pm Sun - Greek Isle. Regulars: Kevin James, Kozak, Joseph Gabriel and The Majestix. Guests listed in the calendar below. Derek Roberts, Kenny Havard & Billy Fergueson (pre-show) Nathan & Sarah - "V" - The Ultimate Variety Show - 7 & 9 pm - Aladdin. News: Dixie Dooley Séance: August 16, 2004 is the 27th Anniversary of Elvis' death. It is also date of an Elvis Séance at the Greek Isles Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Escape Artist and medium Dixie Dooley will attempt to contact the ghost of Elvis during a séance held at 2:01pm (PST). The Séance was conceived by Robert Allen and Dr. Scott Lewis who currently produce the show "Shock" at the venue. The Greek Isles hotel was chosen because of the hotel recently was owned by Debbie Reynolds, a close friend of Elvis. Anniversaries of death always heighten supernatural activities and the time of 2:01pm was chosen because 2, 0 and 1 were a few of Elvis' favorite numbers, as he was a great believer in numerology. Dixie Dooley currently is the star of his own show in Las Vegas at the Riviera Hotel Casino, Le Bistro Theatre, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30pm. "Escape" features comedy, music and various types of unique escapes involving strait jackets, ropes, handcuffs and a large Plexiglas box. Mr. Dooley has also conducted a Houdini Séance in Las Vegas for many years on Halloween. The Séance is free and open to the public. Plan on stopping by the Greek Isles Casino on Monday, August 16, 2004. The Greek Isle is also the home of the "World's Greatest Magic Show" and the Peter J. Shield webcasts. Steve Dacri and a version of "Xtreme" is set to open August 15 (might be moved to September) as part of the new "Ovations" show in the new Ovations Showroom at the Lady Luck (downtown). Will Roya and Michael Johns are producing "Mostly Magic Matinee," at the Bourbon Street and stars Nick Comis and Tyas Frantz at 4 pm Saturday through Thursday. The show is priced at $19.95+ tax for regular tickets that include a drink, or $29.95 + tax for VIP tickets which include a drink, steak and lobster dinner, preferred seating and a souvenir. Children (12 & under) are half price and the VIP meal is a spaghetti dinner. Tickets can be purchased at the Bourbon Street Box Office, or they can be reserved by calling the box office at 702-737-7200, Option 2. August, 2004 Through August 4: Juliana Chen - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. August 5-27: Arden James - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. August 9-18: Losander - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. August 15: Grand Opening scheduled for Ovations - Lady Luck. August 18 - September 6: Shimada - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. August 22-25: MAGIC Live! (Magic Magazine's 13th Anniversary Convention) - The Orleans Hotel. www.magicmagazine.com/live/ August 26 - September 8: David Copperfield - MGM Grand. September, 2004 Through September 6: Shimada - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. Through September 8: David Copperfield - MGM Grand. September 9 - October 10: Christopher Hart: - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. September 12-14: The 4th Annual Las Vegas Magic Invitational - San Remo. Performing so far: Gazzo, Michael Close, Paul Cummins, Daryl, Aldo Colombini, Kostya Kimlat, Steve Draun, Chad Long, Dean Dill and the special guest of honor, premiere close-up artist and teacher Roger Klause. September 15: Magic University. Will be a one day extra fee workshops from lecturers Michael Close, Chad Long, Kostya Kimlat, Aldo Colombini, Roger Klause, Daryl, Dean Dill, Steve Draun, Gazzo and Paul Cummins. www.lvmi.net. September 16-29: David Copperfield - MGM Grand. October, 2004 Through October 10: Christopher Hart: - World's Greatest Magic Show - Greek Isle. November, 2004 November 14-16: MINDVENTION - Las Vegas' First Annual All Mentalism Convention - San Remo Featuring: Bob Cassidy, Alain Nu, Terry Nosek, Mark Strivings, Richard Osterlind, Chuck Hickok, Brad Henderson, Bruce Bernstein, Lee Earle, Larry Becker and more to come! www.LVMI.net ----------------- 4. Tony Wilson’s Magical Adventures ----------------- Message from Tony Wilson - IBM International President 2004 - 2005 We flew out of Toronto via Chicago on July 23rd for Raleigh, North Carolina where Bill Spooner, past president of the IBM met us and transferred us to his home in Raleigh for one night. The next day he drove three hours to take us to his home in the mountains, Blowing Rock where his wife La Rose greeted us and outlined their plans for us over the next four days. It was a mixture of magic, sightseeing and social activities that kept us busy (but at a moderate pace) in the cooler environment than we had experienced in our limited stay overnight in Raleigh. Bill has several projects in hand including a history of the Lota Bowl (now accepted for publication) and a study of gimmicked and modern trick wands. I was also privileged to have him perform for me his Dice Capers routine which he has not performed for several years after winning several awards with it at magic conventions over 20 years ago. Bill and I also drove to Charlotte to visit the La Rocks Magic and Balloons outlet while Mary went clothes shopping with La Rose. We also squeezed in a viewing of NZ photos taken when Bill and La Rose were in NZ earlier this year. Thank you Bill and La Rose for a wonderful visit. We are now staying with Phil and Robbie Willmarth in Raleigh North Carolina. Phil is the editor of the Linking Ring the official journal of the IBM which is mailed to 12,500 members in 73 countries. ----------------- 5. Magician Paid To Disappear ----------------- Message from Steve Pradell (Alaska) The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill was a tragedy which has had long lasting effects on Alaska, my home state, known as America's Last Frontier. I am both a lawyer and an entertainer. I was hired by an oil company to perform magic at a party celebrating the 10th anniversary of the oil clean up. A couple of days before the show, the lead lawyer defending the oil company in the large lawsuit involving the spill called me and asked if I was hired to perform. He knew that I also worked in a law firm that was representing many of the fisherman whose lives were harmed as a result of the spill. He asked me how much I was charging for my show. He also told me that the oil company would prefer if I did not perform. The next day, a check for my full fee arrived! It's the only time in my career I was paid to disappear before the show even started. I learned later from a clown who attended the event in my absence that the oil company probably did not want me to see the posters they put up that that said things like "spill thrills." Needless to say, I passed on this information to the partners at the law firm. The litigation is still ongoing and the fishermen are awaiting the results of numerous appeals by the oil company of the billions of dollars in punitive damages that were assessed. ----------------- 6. Edinburgh Fringe Show Review ----------------- Message from Jay Scott Berry (US) Greetings from Bonnie Scotland. We just opened our show on the Fringe Festival last night. Thought I'd pass on an early review. Best Wishes, Jay -------------------- Midsummer Nights' Magic Jay Scott Berry, Mark Fisken and Lisa Richards The Georgian House Star rating: Three THE Fringe has seen an army of magicians over the past few years. Some good, some not so good; many of them downright awful. But MNM is different, because it's as beautifully scripted as it is well thought out. The organisers have gone to great pains to pay attention to the fine details. And it pays off.. Add to this the excellent lighting, sumptuous costumes and the setting of the National Trust for Scotland property, and the result is a remarkably enjoyable experience. Top American magician Jay Scott Berry is a Renaissance man, a real dandy who wouldn't look out of place in a mystical castle. His dress and demeanour are both stylish and theatrical. While he offers non-threatening traditional magic with ribbons and ropes aplenty, there is also a stunning effect that involves swirling, spinning coloured lights that dance and vanish at will. Not a stodgy card trick in sight, then. This is juxtaposed by Edinburgh magi Mark Fisken's alter ego Crams Nexifius, a 2,500 year old wizard. Resplendent in silken robes, flowing locks and beard, it's the sort of thing that could easily take on the essence of pantomime. But Fisken handles it beautifully, right down to the learned articulation and the tottering walk. If ever there ever were a real wizard, he would look exactly like the character Fisken creates. And fans of Harry Potter are going to adore this old chap who, if he put his mind to it, probably really could change base metal into gold. All this would be show enough, but the New Age soundtrack perfectly matches the relaxing mood of the show. So it shouldn't come as a surprise to learn that Scott Berry both composed and orchestrated the album. Is there no end to this man's talents? It's fun and it's relaxing, but no less astonishing for that. Run ends August 7. Drew McAdam ----------------- 7. Sad News: George Johnstone Passes At 85 ----------------- Message from Tim Quinlan (US) I just read a wire story from Minneapolis Star Tribune praising George Johnstone's career and life in magic and noting his passing on Thursday at 85 years. There will be a celebration of his life on Sunday. Alzheimer's disease is such a sad and terrible disease. You can read the story at: www.startribune.com/stories/462/4915711.html Our prayers are with Betty, his daughters and extended family. He gave so much to magic and I am sure many were positively influenced by his writings. ----------------- 8. Magic In The Rockies ----------------- Message from Tim Pendergast (US) Magic in the Rockies, the annual convention held by IBM Ring 250 in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA will be held on September 9-12 at the Fort Collins Marriott Hotel. Registration prices increase $10.00 US on August 15, 2004. This convention has been called "America's best kept secret" by Joe Stevens of Stevens' Magic Emporium. This year's lineup is nothing short of fantastic. Featuring lectures by John Carney, Banachek, Rafael Benatar, Stephen Bargatze, Tom Burgoon, Barrie Richardson and Peter Samelson. Also, there is a Sunday morning close-up show with Stephen Bargatze, Rafael Benatar, Tom Burgoon and Peter Samelson. The Saturday Evening Public Show at Fort Collins' Lincoln Center promises to be spectacular. The convention also offers 2 lunches and one dinner; a Junior Showcase Show; Saturday Night Soiree starring Bob Sheets, Doc Eason and Eric Mead; a Junior lecture for the kids, presented by Colorado's own Bob Sammons; a Friday evening Welcome Cabaret Show and other events as well. All this for only $139.00 US until August 15, 2004! A complete schedule can be found by going to www.prestodigitators.com and clicking on the Magic in the Rockies button. There is also a page offering a registration form that can be printed and postmarked before the August 15 deadline to beat the price increase. Space is becoming limited so don't wait! If you have any other questions, please contact: Tim Pendergast Phone: (970) 226-3088 E-mail: Penderwiz@aol.com ----------------- 9. Winterhaven's "Labor Day Bash" ----------------- Message from Maria Ibanez - President - Florida Magicians Association Wizards of Winterhaven's "Labor Day Bash." Date: Sept. 4, 2004, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Place: Winterhaven Chain of Lakes complex on Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winterhaven, Fl. Tentative Schedule of Events: 11:00 Doors open, Magic Flea Market opens. Flea market tables are $ 5.00 1:00 Lunch (included) 3:00 Auction items available for preview. Contact Kelly Forkner if you any items to be included in Auction. 4:00 Auction begins. 6:00 Dinner Break 7:30 Evening Show. Entertainers interested in performing contact Kelly Forkner. Ticket prices: Adults $17.00, Children $ 10.00 Contact Kelly Forkner (863) 422-6289 evenings (863) 424-9600 days e-mail: FlaMagicMan@aol.com ----------------- 10. The Houdini Club Of Wisconsin ----------------- Message from Julie Sobanski The Houdini Club of Wisconsin will be having their 66th Annual Convention on September 3, 4, 5, 2004, in Middleton, WI. Already booked: Norm Nielsen, Murray, George Saterial, Lupe, Ken Mate, Mike Douglas, Chris Capehart, Hank Moorehouse and Ardan James. For more information check the web site at www.houdiniclubofwisconsin.com Thanks and have a magical day! ----------------- 11. A Warning On Buying Magic On The Internet ----------------- Message from Ross Harlick (NZ) On the 7th July I ordered Clown colouring books and an Ultimate egg bag from a dealer on the internet. A couple of weeks later I received my order. However, one of the clown books was faulty with pages falling out and the egg bag was not what I ordered. There was also a price tag on the egg bag from the store that showed it was actually cheaper than the price I paid!! I e-mailed the supplier who apologised and stated that he did not check any of the items going out as he was too busy and there were too many items in the store. Also the price on the egg bag was from a special he had been running and he agreed he should refund the $3.00 odd that I had been overcharged. I returned the faulty book and the unwanted egg bag at a cost of $7.40. A week later I e-mailed the supplier to find out where my products were. I was told they would be in the post and in fact I later received the clown book and a couple of small gifts - but no egg bag!! I again e-mailed the supplier to be told he did not have an egg bag in stock - he would have one by Tuesday and I would receive it later that week. A week later I e-mailed the supplier to find out where my product was. I am now told that the supplier is unable to find an egg bag but was in contact with a couple of other suppliers. When he managed to track one down he would send it on. Today is the 7th August - one month since I placed the order. My complaint: 1) Advertising products which he does not have in stock 2) A real lack of communication. I had to e-mail to find out what was happening. Not once did the supplier attempt to keep me informed. 3) Sending out faulty products. Everything should be checked before posting off to customers. My advice: Before ordering any products from any magic supplier find out if the item is in stock. Nail the supplier down to a delivery time and insist they pay for the cost of any returns on faulty products. If this matter is not resolved soon I will post more details….. ----------------- 12. Wanting Purchase Flash Paper ----------------- Message from Robin Lucas (NZ) I would like to purchase some flash paper. If you can help please e-mail me: mr.lucky@xtra.co.nz ----------------- 13. MAGIC Live! ----------------- Message from Stan Allen (US) It's less than three weeks till MAGIC Live!, August 22-25, at The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. We're currently up to 750 registrants, with our sell-out point being just over 800. There's still time if you'd like to be one of the last 50 to join us. Register online at: www.magicmagazine.com/live, or call Kristee at: (702) 798-0099, ext. 110. Don't delay! This August, the event to attend isn't in Athens. It's in Vegas! Over 30 PRESENTERS & LECTURERS fill three days of exciting teaching sessions. FREE LECTURE NOTES at every session, complete with a collectable MAGIC Live! binder. State-of-the-art AUDIO-VISUALS with two giant screens bring even the smallest detail to every seat. Special lunch-time BREAKOUT SESSIONS will make presenters and lecturers available up-close-and-personal. Two of the BEST STAGE SHOWS ever seen, presented in the beautiful Orleans Hotel Showroom. Tuesday night's unique CLOSE-UP EXPERIENCE premieres a totally new approach to presenting close-up magic. Some of the best close-up magicians around will be taking part in LET'S TALK ABOUT TRICKS, an informal show-and-tell session covering anything and everything close-up. A special late-night MAGIC IN THE MOVIES, featuring rarely seen clips of magicians on the big screen. Souvenir name badge with YOUR PHOTO ON THE COVER of Magic Magazine. Our opening night COVER PARTY kicks everything off with magic, music, flair, and friends; and our closing night FINALLY PARTY will bring us all together for more magic, music, and farewells into the night. Plus an extensive ADVERTISERS' FAIR featuring unique products from around the world, daily prizes & giveaways, and a lot more surprises! And the best news is that is a terrific SUMMER BARGAIN... Although registration is a bit more than other summer magic conventions, our special room rate at The Orleans Hotel is a fantastic money-saver! Registration and four nights hotel combined is only $481. And, if you share a room, it's only $383 each for registration and hotel! And if that's not enough, you just might win FREE LAS VEGAS SHOW TICKETS in our final drawing, August 13th. We're giving away sets of tickets to: "Lance Burton, Master Magician" at the Monte-Carlo; "The World's Greatest Magic Show" at the Greek Isles; "Showgirls of Magic" at the San Remo; "V, The Ultimate Variety Show," at the Aladdin; plus we're adding tickets to the newly opened close-up show, "Collin Foster, Quicker Than The Eye" at the Westin. All you have to do is register 8nd your name goes in the hopper. Friday the 13th of August could be your lucky day! Hope to see you in Las Vegas! ----------------- 14. Response To Tim Glander - Tim Ellis ----------------- Message from Tim Ellis (Aust) Just a quick note in defence of Nick Morton who, admittedly, had a chuckle pointing out that the name 'Magic Makers' had been in use here in Australia for many years before the two American illusion companies were using it. Lighten up. Nick was amused, as were many of us that again people in the USA are not that aware of things that happen outside of their "sphere of influence". Yes, Mr Blaney certainly has made an impact with his WAM. However your comments that "Have people in your so-called “Brotherhood” read his findings and appeals for reform? Have you supported any of them? Some have, but many have not. Have dealers and organizations, such as yours, done anything to clean this stuff up? Hardly. You guys sometimes talk a good game, but rarely do anything at all. Talk is cheap!" Do you know what you are talking about? Point one, The Australian Society of Magicians is a 'society' not a 'brotherhood' (big deal). Point two, the Australian magicians are some of the most ethical in the world when it comes to the ideals and "reforms" of WAM. We are constantly trying to educate our fellow magicians about the need to respect creators by original books, videos and lecture notes. We are always reminding young illusionsists to learn the origin of any illusions before attempting to buy or build their own. We are the first to jump down the throats of any dealers selling copies of videos, renting videos, or making or selling knock off illusions. We are a small magic community and as such, it's much harder to get away with unethical behaviour. Obviously you feel very strongly about unethical behaviour... So much so that when Nick Morton, a guy you have never met, from a Magic Club you may well have never even heard of before, writes in with an amusing side note, you jump down his throat and go on a rampage quoting Ken Brooke saying magic clubs were "the cancer of magic" and telling us we should all "get down on your hands and knees and thank Walter for his tireless efforts to rid this business of all the corruption." If the aim of your letter was to get people "on your side" and work together to wipe out unethical behaviour... I think you may have failed. You made it clear that you were offended by Nick Morton's aside and then said of him (and us Aussies) "You guys sometimes talk a good game, but rarely do anything at all." You could learn a lesson from Mr Blaney and be more gentlemanly yourself. Acknowledge Mr Morton's comment for what it was, then gently guide the topic back to the issue of ethics and open up a conversation on ethics to educate all of the readers of Magic New Zealand instead of alienating those who feel your attack on Mr Morton was somewhat of an over reaction. If your attitude was typical of WAM (which thankfully it isn't), I know I'd be withdrawing my support of it immediately. ----------------- 15. Re: Ethics letter - Nick Morton ----------------- Message from Bill Smith (US) Enjoyed the article written by Nick Morton and like Don Alan said, we have created a monster in the magic world. There are two things going on here. #1 Greed! I am 65 years old and can look back to the time that I was just starting out in magic at age 7, you could hardly find a magic dealer and they were particular on who they sold to and did not sell to every Tom, Dick & Harry, because the idea wasn't to make money as much as it was to make good and ethical magicians. Now everyone has their hand in the pie and the manufacturers of magic prostitute themselves by selling to anyone and everyone that is a so called dealer. You hardly hear anything mentioned about a Dealers Association anymore. Is there a Magic Dealers Association anymore? I don't believe I see anyone putting in their advertising that they are a member, like they used too. There is no control anymore -- only out of control. Magic shops in shopping malls, internet, etc, all selling to the general public--anyone who comes in the door. When was the last time that you ordered something on the internet, or bought something in a shopping mall, that you were asked if you were a magician? #2. Ethics Enough has been said. It is Greed that has destroyed Ethics! ----------------- 16. "Out Of The Hat" Will Be Published ----------------- Message from Brenton Foale (Aust) Brenton Foale, of Monash Young Magicians Club in Australia, and editor of "Out of the Hat", apologises to any of his readers for the delays experienced recently in obtaining "Out of the Hat". Originally delays were experienced due to heavy work commitments, and family commitments (Brenton is a single father, raising two young magiciennes), but recently Brenton suffered severe chest pains causing him to spend a day or so in hospital. After several tests, ECG’s, blood tests, x-rays and monitoring of his heart and lungs, it would appear that Brenton suffered from severe stress. So "Out of the Hat" will be published monthly from now on, instead of fortnightly, with apologies to all. ----------------- 17. Old Autographed Programmes For Sale ----------------- Message from Neville Finney (US) This may interest some :- I have found in a bottom drawer some programmes of Magicians from around the 1950s. All in quite condition They are:- John Calvert at the Melbourne Tivoli in “Fantasy” December 1950 Virgil at the Melbourne Princess Theatre in “Magicana” October 1952 Autographed Virgil at the Plaza Theatre Northcote in “Magicana” November 1952 Autographed Levante in a tent theatre “The Levante Show Legs Lyrics and  Laughter” October 195? Autographed Franquin at the Melbourne Princess Theatre 1950 Franquin at the Melbourne Princess Theatre 1954? The Amazing Mr. Rooklyn at the Melbourne Princess Theatre in “A Night of Pink Champagne” 1953 Autographed If any collectors are interested they can submit offers to Neville Finney at neville@junenixon.com ----------------- 18. Original - Rare Magic Up For Grabs! ----------------- Message from Michael Krantis (Aust) The 'House of Magic' - Adelaide; AUSTRALIA is proud to announce a rare piece of magic available to the world wide community. The Hand of Cleopatra has arrived in stock from a deceased magician... it is a rare particular piece of magic, made by the German Master Craftsman Tony Lackner. Briefly the effect is: 6 items are chosen - these can be anything within reason, and laid around the stand. A spectator selects one and is handed the box with Cleopatra's hand encased. The spectator removes the hand and places it on the base. They then spin it and as it spins it slowly comes to a stop and points to their chosen card. The key thing is that the spectator places and spins the hand themselves without any interaction from the magician. This is a rare piece of Antique Magic - one recently selling in the US for $250US Dollars. We have one available in mint condition... this is an amazing exclusive and the price is unbelievable! Please e-mail info@michaelkrantis.com to enquire ----------------- 19. Magic And Cultural Festival ----------------- Message from Jahn Gallo We are just back home from the Czech Republic and a wonderful magic and cultural Festival in the little town of Jaromer. Jaromer is one of the oldest towns in the Czech Republic first mentioned in 1126! Gun and I had the pleasure to bring with us Mr. Lennart Green who did his first appearance in this part of the world. His kind of magic really floored the Czech magicians. We had a wonderful time with lots of laughter and fun. Some of the headlights of the convention: Digging up (!) Fakir Ben Gan after his burial for 10 days - This was an excellent publicity stunt covered by television and newspapers, an unusual start for the convention. This was followed by a Blindfold drive through the narrow streets of the old city. Then we had a Concert of Cantus Jaromer Chamber Choir at the St James Church. In the Winter Stadium we had a concert with the Big Band Letohard swing orchestra and the Octet Girls (8 ladies who really knew how to sing a swing song). There was also a display of great skill from the Fitline and Beauty, a shear leader group showing great juggling and acrobatic skill. Later at the first evening we had another unusual show The Fakir Sabbath! Oriental dancers, snake charmers, fire-eaters and fire jugglers - people, who walked on fire and smashed up glass bottles, stunned us. It was like being in the Middle East or in India. Next morning we had a very good breakfast in the convention headquarters at the newly restored Town Theater of Jaromer. 9:00 the magic dealers opened up their stalls - At 10.00 I did my lecture and it lasted some 3 hours! Then come the sensation of the Convention Mr Lennart Green - The audience was stunned and amazed and Lennart kept it going for 3 hours time. When Lennart was rounding up his lecture Gun and I had to go for a sound and light test in the Theater as we should take part in the evening show, Wonderful stage - good dressing rooms and a happy audience with lots of "normal people" from the City. The show presented magic from Estonia, Russia, Sweden, Norway, Slovakia, Israel, France, and the Czech Republic. Next day was an open air day in a very nice park near the theater - There was an open air stage and a country fair with stalls selling local products and all day long the stage presented different Concerts- children's Theater and so on. We also had the possibility to visit a museum with baroque statues sculptured by M.B.Braun 9.00 in the evening it was time for the International Vaudeville show at he open air stage - It was very funny with lots of comedy. Next day we had a guided bus tour to see some more of the City and we was entertained by a group of actors who presented a very interesting piece of street theatre where the audience was dragged into the play. I had to play the part of a steam boat engine.. In the afternoon the young magicians of Czech republic entertained us. Incredible good show with a very classy lightening seldom seen at a magic show. Gun, Lennart and I had the feeling that we must be careful and start to practice a lot - or these young boys will take over completely. The final show of the convention presented The Bohemia & Company a spectacular Variety show featuring large scale illusions - Dancers and variety acts - This show has been working for 10 years in the biggest amusements parks in Germany and it shows. Everything was perfect - the light, the timing the magic. In all it was a very unusual magic convention and we will never forget the friendship and fun we had during these days. Lennart and I were in a way a wandering workshop during the days - and we really enjoyed it. ----------------- 20. Max Maven Added To MINDvention Line-up! ----------------- Message from Danny Archer (US) The one and only Max Maven has been added to the already incredible line-up for the first ever MINDvention ... read all about it below ... ARE YOU INTERESTED IN MENTALISM? YES! WE KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO SAY THAT! Mentalism is a hot topic and most of the world’s greatest magicians do mentalism or feature mental magic in their shows. But it’s a subject that’s a little bit harder to get good information about. There are almost no open conventions on this fascinating subject … until now. After starting and running the highly acclaimed LVMI close-up and cabaret convention, Robert Allen and Danny Archer have turned their minds to producing a world-class mentalism convention. The first ever MINDvention, will take place on November 14th -16th in Las Vegas at the San Remo Hotel and Casino (the site of the LVMI convention). We have put together a panel of experts that is second to none. Some of the masters of mentalism taking part are; Bob Cassidy, Alain Nu, Mark Strivings, Brad Henderson, Chuck Hickok, Bruce Bernstein, Richard Osterlind, Terry Nosek and Max Maven plus some surprise guests! Three full days of shows, workshops and discussion groups will explore this fascinating subject from all sides. Everyone from working mentalists to interested newcomers will enjoy, learn and profit from this one-of-a-kind convention. MINDvention will be one of the most talked about events of 2004 for the mentalism/magic community. Registration is $175 For more details and registration form, please visit our web site http://lvmi.net/html/mindvention.htm or e-mail Danny Archer at lecturenet@aol.com ================= 2004 LVMI Close-up Convention Hang with the coolest guys in the desert. The LVMI puts the spotlight on the type of magic that most of us love to watch and actually perform; close-up and cabaret magic. Many people felt the 2003 LVMI was one of the best conventions of the year. We took a stellar line-up of performers and lectures, added in a talented and enthusiastic group of attendees, combined that with a bunch of world class sleight of hand magicians hanging out and jamming for four days, and cooked up a convention that is an absolute must for anyone interested in close-up magic. Unfortunately for many people, we reached our maximum and had to turn away a whole lot of disappointed people. Don’t miss out on this year’s convention. The line-up of lecturers includes; Aldo Colombini (everybody’s favorite Italian), Michael Close (back lecturing again), Paul Cummins (close-up card conjuring), Steve Draun (Chicago underground legend), Gazzo (magic on the edge), Kostya Kimlat (rising star of magic), & Chad Long (superb magic and comedy). There are shows, lectures, workshops, panel discussion, and open shows where attendees can perform. Not to mention a great dealer’s room with magic from around the world. The guest of honor is the one and only Roger Klause. Roger along with the lecturers listed above, will be joined by Daryl and Dean Dill for Magic University, a day of workshops held on 9/16. Whew! Grab your cards and coins, (and a bottle of No-Doze), and prepare yourself for one of the most incredible convention experiences you will ever have … in the most magical city on Earth … Las Vegas! Registration is $165 Details online at lvmi.net Don't read about LVMI in the magazines or on the boards and wish you were there … BE THERE! ----------------- 21. Boy, Is My Face RED!! ----------------- Message from Pete Petrashek My wife read the #8 article in the August 1 Magic New Zealand. I had goofed and said it was Tony and Mary helping Stephen Bargatze do his $11 trick at the banquet show. In reality, it was the SAM's new president , John Apperson, and his wife Ginny !! (Sorry, John & Ginny) But I DID see Tony and Mary help Stephen Bargatze help him in one of the close-up rooms..and I did send close-up photos to Tony and Mary from THAT show. Well, it was STILL a good convention !! ----------------- 22. Brent McLeod & Dave Upfold ----------------- Message from Brent McLeod (NZ) Just a further update for shows performed by Brent McLeod & Dave Upfold from Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians NZ ------------------------------ Brent & Dave are performing a 6 Night Run of Magic & Hypnosis at the Red Theatre in Mt Albert Auckland. - Show dates Monday 2nd - Saturday 7th August, 7-9 pm Tickets $20 - 10,000 Flyers have also been distributed by Unitec Auckland for Promotion Purposes - Radio interviews with -"The Edge" Radio have also been used successfully for promotion & future bookings As in previous shows Brent will open with a Stage Magic segment which will lead into Daves main programme of Hypnosis. These shows continue a run over the last few months which have included numerous shows around North Island of NZ. 6 Stage Shows have also been booked in later August in Tauranga -Details will follow. Brent also performs Magic most Sundays at the Browns Bay Market Festival North Shore - Auckland schedule permitting. ----------------- 23. TAOM Dealer's Room Sold Out ----------------- Message from Steve Burton - President, Texas Association of Magicians Just a quick note to let you know the dealer's room for the 59th annual TAOM Convention is now sold out. We'll have more than 30 dealers from all over the world at our gathering on September 3-6 in Houston, Texas. There are still registrations available but they're going fast so don't delay if you want to attend one of the most exciting magic conventions of the year. Check our talent line-up and convention schedule at http://members.aol.com/taom2004 or get a registration form online at www.taom.org. Hotel rates of $92.00 are good for a little while longer at the Hyatt Regency's toll free number at 1-800-233-1234. See you there, Steve Burton President, Texas Association of Magicians ----------------- 24. Impromptu Lighter Levitation - Jamie-G ----------------- Message from Jamie-G (Canada) Effect: Magician takes a borrowed lighter and levitates it in between his hands in mid air. Then he returns the lighter from the spectator. Props: Vernet magnetic thumb tip and an every day normal lighter. Method: Magnetic thump tip goes on whichever hand you use most. In my case it is my right hand. Take the lighter and point the head or top of the lighter towards you while it is laying flat in the opposite hand that you use. You are going to use your right hand to cross over the left one that has the lighter. The thumb tip will automatically catch onto the lighter. It will be held in a position that when you lower your hand that was holding the lighter it now looks as if the lighter is floating in mid air. If you move your thumb close to your fingers it will look as if it is floating upwards as well. Note: The vernet thumbtip is made in a way that when you hold something to it, it automatically sets itself at the palm part of your thumb. If you try to make the tip yourself then it may not work as well. Most lighters have the metal tops so that you can use any one of them for this trick. Patter: (Jim Pace and Jamie-G) The worlds greatest weight loss system. First of all you have to borrow a lighter from a spectator. You tell your spectator that the lighter is the worlds greatest weight loss system. Light the lighter and say that it just burns the calories right off you. You tell them that this system really works. You get then to take their finger and rub the top of the lighter. Then you tell them "Now don't you feel a little lighter?" Matter of fact this lighter is so light that it can float between my hands. In fact it is so light that it can defy gravity. Then you return the lighter back to the spectator. Special Tip: If you do a lot of work for adults here is another way to promote yourself. There are small stickers that you can get from a business supply store that you can put your information on. If you can get a bunch of lighters for cheap then you can put the sticker on the lighter and hand it to your spectator. Now the spectator has a lighter and your information that they will remember every time they light a cigarette. Vernet Tip: Most magic shops sell them. They cost about $5.00 and they are worth it. It comes with the magnet and some double stick tape so hold it in place. In my tip I used some stic tac and it holds it in place a little more secure. ------------------ 25. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives ------------------ Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. 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