* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #502 Date: Sunday 27th May 2007 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. Tribute To Bruce Cervon From Mark Nelson 3. South African Tourism Condemns Attack On Magicians 4. The 2007 PCAM Convention 5. 'Remarkable Magic' #8 - Nick Lewin 6. The Power of Saying Thanks - By Kyle Peron 7. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2007 8. Theft Around The World Continues 9. The 16th Annual KIDabra International Conference 10. Robert Baxt Added To T.A.O.M. 2007 Convention Talent 11. Visual And Graphic History Of The Magic 12. World's Biggest Magic Show 13. The FAB Magic Company In Colon Michigan 14. IBM Convention News June Deadline 15. Sean Taylor's 11th Superday Weekend Of Magic 16. The Magic Of Science - Sunday 7th October 2007 17. Melbourne Is The Hub Of Australian Magic!!!! 18. The Amazing Orchante Saga 19. e-zine Archives 20. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Hard to believe the Bruce Cervon has died at the tender age of 65. I first meet Bruce back in the 80s when performing at the Magic Castle. Michele and I spent some very enjoyable magical time with him, Vernon and Larry Jennings. ----------------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. Tribute To Bruce Cervon From Mark Nelson -------------------------------------------- Message from Mark Nelson Chairman AMA Board of Trustees Bruce Cervon (June 20, 1941 - May 24, 2007) Bruce Cervon, one of the world's most respected practitioners of sleight-of-hand card magic and expert entertainer has died in Ventura, California at the age of 65. Creator of hundreds of magic tricks and author of more than thirty books and articles on the art of card conjuring, Bruce was the recipient of the Performing Fellowship from the Academy of Magical Arts, Inc. (The Magic Castle) in 1999. His fellow magicians also awarded him "Lecturer of the Year" in 1970 and "Close-Up Magician of the Year" awards in 1972 and 1975, along with 21 other award nominations. Dai Vernon, the close-up magician known among the magic fraternity as "the Professor" once praised Bruce by saying, "I would place him right at the top with the other 'greats' in magic." He came to the Magic Castle from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio at the age of 23, following his friend and fellow magician Larry Jennings on a magical pilgrimage to Hollywood when the Professor settled in California. Notebooks in hand, Bruce spent the better part of the next decade filling fourteen binders (the legendary "Castle Notebooks") with everything Dai Vernon had to say about the art of magic. Bruce and Jennings later turned the notebooks into a four-volume study of Vernon and his magic, written with Stephen Minch, called "The Vernon Chronicles." Other works included "The Cervon Files," "Ultra Cervon" and "Bruce Cervon's Hard Boiled Mysteries." Born Andrew Bruce Cernava in Akron, Ohio, on June 20, 1941, Bruce became interested in magic at the age of seven, when his father brought home an armload of used books, among them a volume on magic which fascinated the boy. As he grew older, he began performing professionally at fairs and outdoor shows throughout Ohio and for various civic clubs throughout the Midwest. He appeared on WOSU-TV, the PBS affiliate in Columbus, in a series of shows on the history of magic. After moving to California, Bruce became an in-demand entertainer for top corporations and high profile celebrity parties, where his outgoing personality and flawless technique continually baffled his audiences. He appeared on every major talk show on television, and consulted or performed in countless commercials. In an interview with Joan Lawton in Lines from Lawton, the publication she edited with her husband Don Lawton, Bruce admitted to a strong influence on his performing style by the Magic Castle's first house magician, Jay Ose. "He was just wonderful with people," Bruce told Joan. "All I knew were magic tricks and card tricks. I couldn't talk to anyone about anything. I started thinking about Jay and how he made the effort to put people at ease and make them his friends before he started to perform for them." By 1976, Bruce was a member of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Magical Arts, and served the Academy in that capacity until the creation of the Board of Trustees in 2004. As the first Chair of the Board of Trustees, Bruce threw himself into Academy affairs with more passion than ever before. The William W. Larsen Sr. Library, the Academy Video Archives, the AMA Fellowship Awards and the quality of magical presentations in the Magic Castle were the topics closest to Bruce's heart, and he championed each cause vigorously. After suffering with a sore throat for several weeks, Bruce was diagnosed with throat cancer in September of 2006. His valiant fight ended on May 24, 2007. Bruce Cervon was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, the American Guild of Variety Artists, the U.K.'s Magic Circle and the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. He was an avid collector and knowledgeable expert on vintage comics, movies and old time radio. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Linda, and daughters Kellee Cernava and Marcella Cervon, sister Joyce, his 90-year-old mother, and thousands of friends and conjuring comrades at the Magic Castle and throughout the world. No funeral services are planned. Cards and condolences may be sent to 10074 Ashland Street, Ventura, California 93004. -------------------------------------------- 3. South African Tourism Condemns Attack On Magicians -------------------------------------------- Message from Arthur Reid South African Tourism Condemns Attack On Magicians In Khayelitsha Sunday's incident has subsequently received national and international coverage having been picked up by both CNN International & Reuters. Wednesday 16 May, 2007 South African Tourism Condemns attack on Magicians in Khayelitsha South African Tourism, the official destination marketing organization mandated to market the country across the world, has expressed its deep sympathy with Mr. Steve Cuiffo, a New York magician, who along with David Gore, Marian Williamson, Craig Mitchell and three young College of Magic Students were carjacked and robbed in Khayelitsha over the weekend. The College of Magic is a non-profit performing arts training organization that teaches impoverished youth the magical arts. The outreach program has been supported and recognised by the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, National Lottery and other organisations. Cuiffo was in South Africa representing an American funder of the College of Magic and was visiting beneficiaries of the program at their homes in Khayelitsha. Despite what was a harrowing experience, the magicians complimented the Khayelitsha police and community for their support. Cuiffo said that while this traumatic experience left an indelible impression on him, "It makes me want to help even more ... to help students break the cycle of poverty." Mark Williams, South African Tourism Portfolio Manager for the USA, said, "Events of this nature have a devastating toll on the individuals and communities affected - especially in the case of Steve Cuiffo and the members of the College of Magic who have made such a large contribution to the Khayelitsha community through their valuable development work and sponsorship of disadvantaged students." Williams believed that recent initiatives in Khayelitsha involving the community, key tourism stakeholders and the police were starting to pay off and he looked forward to a safer Khayelitsha going forward. Williams cautioned that, "8.4 million people visited South Africa last year. These visitors contributed R66 billion our economy and have created over 500 thousand jobs. All South Africans have a responsibility to ensure that visitors to South Africa have a safe, enjoyable and productive time. "In short, tourism is everybody's business." Williams added, "An incident like this has negative consequences for everyone in South Africa. It works against the efforts being made to make our country a safe destination to visit and a prosperous society to live in." "The press in the USA, one of our key markets, takes incidents of this nature very seriously. Every single South African needs to understand the importance of visitors to our country's economy and the far reaching international consequences of crime and violence perpetrated against both visitors and South African citizens," concluded Williams. Issued by South African Tourism -------------------------------------------- 4. The 2007 PCAM Convention -------------------------------------------- Message from Donovan Deschner President - PCAM 2007 Hello! Shawn Farquhar (and the PCAM Board) asked me to contact all of his friends (that includes you) with information about the fast-approaching Pacific Coast Association of Magicians Convention. So, here are the details... (Note: Make sure to read to the end of this message - as it explains how to save some cash with a special convention rate.) The 2007 PCAM Convention is happening this August 2 to 5 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We're an airport hub and easy (and cheap) to get to. To keep you entertained and educated we are bringing in nothing but the best the world of magic has to offer including: -Johnny Thompson -Mike Caveney -Mark Kalin & Jinger -Lee Asher -Stephen Bargatze -JC Wagner -Martin Nash -and Mark Horowitz You're going to get to spend 3 and a half fun-filled days in competitions, lectures, major gala shows, and an all-night hospitality room that won't be shut down early! (we promise). Registration opened last August and has been ticking up (literally) every second since then. It is now over $275 USD. Fortunately, since you took the time to read this e-mail we are offering you a special rate as one of the "Friends of Farquhar". To get your reduced rate of only $240 USD, follow this link: www.PCAM2007.com/farquharspecial.html (copy and paste if not clickable) This special offer is only valid until June 6 - so register today and start making your travel plans soon. (be sure to check out the Westjet discount offer on the PCAM website) We can't wait to see you in Calgary this August! Best, Donovan Deschner President - PCAM 2007 www.PCAM2007.com Ph: (403)668-9562 PS: Be sure to look around the website for full bios on our scheduled talent and other events going on at the PCAM. PPS: It's not too late to enter in any of the PCAM General contests, or even submit your act to the Pro-Challenge where we give away a few thousand dollars in cash! PPPS: For those of you who have been keeping an eye on our convention for a while, you may remember that since last year we've been excited about bringing Paul Daniels to Canada for the first time. Now his name is absent from our talent list. It's not an oversight. Unfortunately, due to sudden health issues, Mr. Daniels decided that a trip across the world would not be the best thing to be doing, so he's taking it easy. Mind you, for Paul Daniels "taking it easy" is probably still working harder than average people. We're bummed out that he can't make it, but I think you'll agree we found some great replacements to fill in for him! -------------------------------------------- 5. 'Remarkable Magic' #8 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from - Nick Lewin (US) Remarkable Magic. The De Kolta Chair: the perfect illusion. I have always had a very high appreciation of the De Kolta Chair vanish. When correctly performed it is one of the most amazing pieces of magic that can be presented. To a lay audience it comes as close to real magic as any illusion in the magician's arsenal In the 70s I saw a video of the wonderful Richiardi performing the effect and made a mental note that this was a trick I really had to perform sometime in my career. Finally the time arrived to make this dream a reality while I was performing and producing a series of shows for Advanced Micro Devices during the late 80s. A fabulous rapport had developed between AMD and myself during this period. If I wanted a specific illusion for my shows they bought it for me. I loved that Company. The only problem was that it is one thing to buy an illusion and quite another to learn how to perform it! I purchased a fabulous De Kolta chair from Chuck Kirkham and began planning how to add it to my show. The very first thing I discovered was that it was going to be extremely difficult to rehearse as the dance studio we were rehearsing in was rather short of suitable trapdoors. I quickly realized that this was one effect that was going to have to be rehearsed on site on the stage that my set designer had constructed in Los Angeles and was being shipped to Hawaii for the company's annual meeting in Hawaii. We had a great set that had been designed and constructed by the man who created the original playhouse for Pee Wee Herman. He asked me for the exact details about the trap door and with a sudden shock I realized I had no idea of the details exact or otherwise! Richiardi had passed on a few years earlier but Richiardi Jr. was performing a black art magic show. Joy of joys AMD was very open to adding a black art show to our presentation. I was excited because traveling with this show was the technician who had worked for many years with the Richiardi illusion show. Those exact details about the trap door suddenly became a step closer. Once in Hawaii we rehearsed with that De Kolta chair until it became a smooth and powerful addition to the show. I was extremely lucky in having a real expert helping me perfect the illusion. He also shared some great stories about the Richiardi show. I was very impressed to realize that there had been a full time master carpenter who traveled with the show. The job of this carpenter was two fold: he added the trapdoor to the stage in the theater for the chair illusion and also inlaid the connection for the broomstick suspension so that it could be performed directly on the theater's stage. At the end of the engagement he would return the stage to its previous condition. Now that is class! I can honestly say that I enjoyed performing that illusion more than any other in my repertoire. You felt like a true magician when you pulled that cloth from the chair and listened to the audience gasp at the vanishing of the assistant. My assistant, however, was a little less excited by the illusion as our intensive rehearsal had left her black and blue with bruises. Did it look as good as it did in the Richiardi show when I performed the trick? Heck no, but it was a very special thing to know that at least the trap door was correct! As always send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin@earthlink.net and check out my website at http://www.NickLewin.com -------------------------------------------- 6. The Power of Saying Thanks - By Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message from By Kyle Peron (US) E-Mail: Magic4u02@aol.com How often do you really say thanks? Now how often do you say, express and show thanks to the client you're performing for? If you are really honest with yourself, the answer may be "very little". In this day and age of service providers, we can get into this thinking that what we do is provide a service, get paid and move on. But what can really come out of saying thanks or giving a thank you card to your client? This is what I want to explore in more detail in this week's article. When I am at the event, I give the client a really nice thank you kit. This is our way of saying thank you to them and they really appreciate the effort and time taken to do this for them. Then a few days after the actual event, I do a follow up e-mail with them simply thanking them again for what they did and any help they may have given my wife and I. Now let me turn the tables around a little bit. What if you were the client and hired someone to come out and fix your electric. Their JOB is to fix it and do the best job that they can. They really do not have to do more than that as I am paying them for fixing it and solving a problem I am faced with. Now what if a few days later I receive a thank you card or letter or gift from the person or company? That would just make me feel great about the experience and makes me remember it more. If the person did a great job, I am now even more impressed, I feel good about the situation and I certainly will keep their name in the top of my head for future use. If I really liked the service, the thank you may also prompt me to refer them and their services to others I know. Do they have to send a thank you note or gift? Certainly not. Does it help them and their business? Yes it does indeed. I send out thank you cards to every client I work with and even to those who helped me at the event. If someone helped carry my stuff in from my truck, I try to get their information and I send them a thank you card as well. Do I have to do this? Once again. no I do not. I WANT to do this because I feel good about building the relationship with the individuals and because I want to thank them for what they have done for me. I have seen the power of what a simple thank you note or card can do. I have seen it time and again. People will remember you for it and will thank you for it as well. I personally have had festivals hire me back the next year simply because I expressed thanks to them. When I talk with them after the event I have had many of them open up to me and personally say, "I just wanted you to realize something. Not sure if this makes any difference to you but it did to me. Out of all the acts I have hired over the years, you were the ONLY entertainer who actually sent me a thank you card the next week. I still have that card as a reminder that there are folks out there who make a difference." Now this may not happen to everyone and people may not actually tell you things like this. However, mark my word that it does indeed leave a good lasting impression in their minds. This is a feeling and impression I want them to remember from the experience with having me at their event. I will leave you with this. If you could willing KNOW you are building a good relationship with a client and could KNOW that your name is being remembered long after an event.... then why wouldn't anyone feel that it is worth the price of a simple stamp? 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. Kyle Peron Magician and Illusionist Graphic Designer and Illustrator (Specializing in Logo creation) www.kyleandkellymagic.com Chair Suspension Ebook Author http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html ----------------- 7. Las Vegas Magic - June, 2007 ----------------- Message from David Neubauer http://www.dnmagic.com Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 10 pm, (Dark Thurs.), Sahara. Reported to be the Final Year http://www.saharavegas.com/shows/amazingjohnathon.html Beacher's Madhouse Christopher Karpiak, Chuck Lane, Tyas Frantz 9 pm pre-show. Last Sat. each month. Hard Rock. Bite (Vampire Strip Revue) Antonio Restivo 10:30 pm (dark Thurs.) Stratosphere. www.bitelasvegas.com Crazy Horse Paris Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. http://www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/crazy-horse-show.aspx Criss Angel - Cirque du Soleil Luxor Hotel and Casino. (Scheduled to open February, 2008) David Copperfield May 23-May 27, June 14-July 3. 7:30 & 10 pm, 4:30 Sat. & some Sun. MGM Grand. http://mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Dixie Dooley, Master Mystifier 7:30 & 9:30 pm (Dark Mon.), Weston Casuarina. http://www.houdiniexperience.com Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist 8:00 pm (Dark Fri. & Sat.) - Addison's Lounge, Rampart Casino. http://www.rampartcasino.com/nightlife.htm# Hans Klok - The Beauty of Magic Hans Klok (with Pamela Anderson) - Aladdin Theater - Planet Hollywood Resort. 7 pm & 10 pm, Thur. - Sat. Ends July 12. (Scheduled to open June 2nd for a limited run). Preview: May 24 at 7 pm. Haunted Vegas Tour & Show Robert Allen, Jac Hayden & Zamora - Greek Isle. 9:00 pm tour and show (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html Jason Bird Miracle Mile Shops - Planet Hollywood Resort. Main stage, near the "V" Theater, Thursday - Monday Various times from 1:15 pm. to 8:15 pm. - Free. Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues - Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. http://www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) Clint Holmes Theater - Harrah's. http://www.mackingshow.com Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 2 pm every day, 6 pm Fridays V Theater at the Miracle Mile Shops - Planet Hollywood Resort. Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html Steve Wyrick 7 & 9 pm. Miracle Mile Shops, Planet Hollywood Resort. The Magic of Rick Thomas 4 & 7 pm, (Dark Sun.), Orleans. http://www.orleanscasino.com/entertainment/index.html The Ultimate Variety Showcase Christopher Karpiak and "S". 8 pm - Midnight every Tuesday. Free. http://www.samstownlv.com/entertainment/event.cfm?EventID=332 Roxy's Live - Sam's Town V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jason Byrne (most Tues. - Sat.) or Nathan Burton (most Sun. - Mon.) 7:30 & 9 pm, Planet Hollywood Resort - www.vtheshow.com 2 for 1 coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponvshow.html World's Greatest Magic Show Kevin James, Kozak, Roy Shank, Losander, Shimshi. Billy Fergeson (pre-show). 6 pm Sat. - Thurs., 8:15 Fri., Greek Isle. http://www.greatestmagicshow.com Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) $10 off coupon: http://www.vegas4locals.com/Coupontropicana_dirk.html Other Vegas Magic Restaurants: Eric Allan, Outback Steakhouse (Green Valley), Fri. & Sat. Jayden LaCross, TGI Fridays, Wed. & Sun. Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Las Vegas Magic Organizations I.B.M. #257: 7 pm 1st Monday. http://www.ring257.com Darwin's Magic Club meets every Wednesday. Both meet at: Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. Las Vegas Children's and Family Entertainers Association 7 pm every 3rd Monday, Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. YMS (Young Magicians Society) 7 pm every 2nd Monday, IHOP Boulevard Mall on Maryland Pkwy. May, 2007 May 23-May 27: David Copperfield MGM, Hollywood Theatre, Las Vegas, NV. May 24: PREVIEW - Hans Klok - The Beauty of Magic - Planet Hollywood Resort. June, 2007 June 2: Hans Klok - The Beauty of Magic - The Beauty of Magic - Planet Hollywood Resort. June 10-12: The Las Vegas Magic Invitational - Palace Station Jason England, Jon Armstrong, Jeff McBride, Wayne Dobson, Gaston Quieto, Gregory Wilson and more. www.LVMI.net June 14-July 3: David Copperfield MGM, Hollywood Theatre, Las Vegas, NV. July, 2007 July 16-22: Extended Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. http://www.magicalwisdom.com August, 2007 August 16-22: Extended Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. http://www.magicalwisdom.com August 19-22: MAGIC Live! - The Orleans. http://www.magicmagazine.com September, 2007 September 14-16: Master Class. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. http://www.magicalwisdom.com October, 2007 October 10-12: Master Class for Mentalists. McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger. http://www.magicalwisdom.com October 23-26: Magic & Meaning Conference; Magic And The Art Of Storytelling, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, George Parker, Special Guest: Robert Neale. http://www.magicalwisdom.com November, 2007 November 1-4: Magic for Medical Professionals, McBride's Magic & Mystery School with Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger. -------------------------------------------- 8. Theft Around The World Continues -------------------------------------------- Message from George Robinson Viking Mfg. Co. Hello Friends; Walter Blaney has asked me to forward my letter to him to all of you. We are not trying to beat a dead horse, but this subject is getting to the point that it will become a melt-down for designer/builder/creators. We have to keep the pressure on and make people aware of the real dangers involved. I probably have 10 years left and then I will slowly fade into the sunset. It's not like my life depends on this BUT Magic has been my life for over 45 years and it has been very good to me. I owe those creators that came before me to fight for them and to fight for all of us today and for those to come. Demoralizing the life-line of the Magic community is a very dangerous thing. Some inventors will continue to provide us with exciting ideas because it is in their nature to create and share. They would die inside if not allowed to this-regardless of the losses, etc., but others will just simply fade away and much will be lost. The end user also needs to be educated, little by little for their own good. Take the oil companies. If the entire U.S. would cease to purchase gas from just two companies, Mobil and Exxon for 6 months, we would break their hold on us. There are plenty of smaller companies that we could still buy gas from but our message would be heard loud and clear by those that really control the market; 6 months would be a devastating blow to them. Then imagine switching and going after the independents for 6 months. Of course, this only happens in the movies, but Magic is a much smaller community and more closely knit. We can make a difference if we educate and promote every chance we can. If we continue to band together and fight this injustice, little by little adding to our core, we can make a difference. Here is my note to Walter: Hi Walter; I think what needs to be done with people like this (thieves) is meet them somewhere in the middle so that the originators can have a piece of him and then let it go. Here is what I mean. If someone will make an inventory of proprietary items that he has listed and then contacts those that have created these items. Ask them what they would charge to release the item to say, Martorana of Italy (a non-exclusive agreement). Let's say that someone like Steinmeyer says he wants $15K for Origami (arbitrary selection and value), then that is what Martorana has to pay for the building rights. No royalties because these guys can't be trusted to give you an accurate accounting, etc. He is going to continue to rip, no matter what, so set a price and move on. If he refuses, then he should stop making that item. Period. Make it simple and direct. Of course, they have no moral compass so this will probably not work, but at least it is offering the thief something to make things right. Something is better than nothing in my opinion for the creator. If some junk-peddler wants to give me $5K for the rights to make a cheaper version of my TransMental, he's got it. Otherwise, he'll do it anyway, and I get nothing but grief. I don't see it as selling out, as I am getting what I want. I don't have to sell him the limited rights, but it is my decision. The illusion builders don't have to give him anything. It is their decision, and their right, but then the item will still be compromised/ripped off so what do you gain? Make the cause and effect simple and direct. It is understood that most illusions/tricks have their background in history BUT the combination of these ideas plus the formulation and execution are original with the current creator, i.e. music notes are public domain, BUT when they are assembled into a special arrangement that is unique and different, they are protected by copyright, of this there is no doubt. The same should apply to our Magic. We take the 'notes' and assemble them in a new way that creates a new effect, and we should have the same protection under the law. Now, the fact that currently, the law does not recognize this is not the question. It becomes a moral question and an accepted truth within our Magic community. We have to protect and police our selves, and we have several ways to arrive at a realistic and truthful conclusion. If the Magic community at large, deems the Origami, Interlude, Squeeze Play, Kineti-key etc. as a new and protected item, then it is and those builders wanting to build these items must accept this and pay for the privilege or pass on the item. The argument that there are people that cannot afford the high price of an illusion and someone must make a cheaper version is BS. Again, if the creator wants to release the item to someone that can make it cheaper, so be it, but it is NOT anyone's right to assume they should be the almighty decision maker as to the distribution of a said illusion. Just because someone can't afford a Rolex doesn't mean that Rolex is going to allow cheap knock-offs of their design, just so poor people can sport the bling. The government has seized thousands of fake Rolex's and they continue to do so. Wish it were so with Magic. No one has the right to set a price on our efforts, our toil and ingenuity. That is for us to set. How can someone claim to know whether a price is too high or not. This is subjective and not up for discussion. It is the originator's right to recoup what he feels is proper for his invention and time devoted to it, etc. The gall of those thinking they have a right to challenge this. Martorana and others like him want to confuse a simple issue with obfuscation. If you throw enough words at a subject, the main subject gets lost and the power of the argument gets deflected and it is very hard to get back to the central point. My music example spells it out simply and directly. This cannot be argued, although people wanting to work on the dark side will always find a way to muddy the truth and bend it to their own way of thinking. Let me know if you find anything worthwhile in the above. By the by, you think the Magic community has problems now, wait till FISM goes to China. All hell is going to break loose. I have been there and have seen it firsthand. Already, plans are under way to copy EVERYTHING under the Magic sun. I know of a family that went to FISM last year, as well as the IBM in the U.K. and they bought thousands of dollars of Magic as samples to copy. I know this for a 100% fact. All ready, an item that sells around the world for $50 is being copied to the extent that they are using the original instructions and packaging!!! and the item can be bought for $10 I won't mention the item in order to prevent the mass of rip-off dealers from joining the fray, but it is inevitable. What is FISM thinking? There is an allure with China but understand this, those that reap profits right now by feeding the dragon will be eaten by this same dragon. I predict a horrible epidemic in theft in the Magic arena, never before felt and it will affect every inventor, and even the retailer of Magic on the planet. I know China and their ways. They do not understand because it is not in their make-up to understand. They continue to rip-off DVD's, toys, games, pharmaceuticals, you name it, and they do it in a big way; Magic is next if we allow it to happen. Don't sell out for a few pieces of silver as you will basically be selling the goose that laid the golden eggs; just look at what losing control over our petroleum industry is doing to our world economy. This will be what will happen to Magic; many items are already finding their way into the dollar stores. Within time, every novelty store, Circle K, etc. will be selling Magic on a rack; good Magic that has been brought down to its cheapest level. Don't let this happen! Sincerely, George R. Viking Mfg. Co. -------------------------------------------- 9. The 16th Annual KIDabra International Conference -------------------------------------------- Message from Mark Scott Francis and David Allen - MacGyver Magic Making Something from Nothing We celebrate the creative at KIDabra, from the genius of the late Warren Stephens, to the masterful classics of Trevor Lewis (Both awarded Lifetime Contribution to Children's Magic at the conference.) Add in the unbridled flow of ideas from Barry Mitchell, it's now these 2 guys turn to ignite our imagination- Scott Francis and David Allen. Scott always tickles our funnybone at the KIDabra Dealers Show. Year around you'll find him speaking for top corporations throughout the U.S. David Allen from Atlanta, GA is often quietly making things happen during conference. Outside of KIDabra, he's a busy full time performer and inventor of the best-selling tricks "Impopsible" and "KetchUP- Side- Down." Put these 2 together and they are a creative whirlwind of genius proportions. Spend a breathtaking hour with them at KIDabra at their full throttle creative best! Imagine if you could make a spectacular card fountain for just a few dollars. Or how about a powerful motorized reel that you can put together very inexpensively? Join us Friday morning during the conference for this highly creative lecture and leave with the know-how to make those items and much more, along with their KIDshow applications. Plus, everyone who attends receives a free Dancing Hank performed with no strings, no magnets, no wires, no kidding! Don't miss this KIDabra Exclusive Highlight Event! The 16th Annual KIDabra International Conference: The Association of KIDshow and Family Performers meets August 15-18 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, USA. For more info on KIDabra Conference, the featured line-up, schedule and the Association go to kidabra.org -------------------------------------------- 10. Robert Baxt Added To T.A.O.M. 2007 Convention Talent -------------------------------------------- Message from Joe Douglas M.M.C. TAOM 2007 Entertainment Chairman Robert Baxt has been added to the roster of exciting talent for the Texas Association of Magicians Convention in Corpus Christi, Texas, U.S.A. on August 31 to September 3, 2007. Visit www.taom2007.org for the latest news on the convention, then don't miss a fun filled time in Corpus Christi over the Labor Day weekend. Make this year's magic convention a vacation for the family at the Sparkling City by the Sea. Robert Baxt can best be characterized by the description: "If all the world's a stage, he wants better lighting!" A ham since his birth in Brooklyn, New York; even as a child Robert was off and entertaining with humor, balloon twisting, and comedy. When asked why he learned some magic tricks, Robert replied: "When I was a kid trying out my jokes on my family, my father would always ask me if I could disappear." His parents not being able to afford to send him to driving school, let alone college, Robert worked his way through performing at children's birthday parties, picnics, comedy clubs, and corporate events. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Theater, he was presented with the dual opportunities of being accepted to both Ringling Brothers Clown College and Law School. Without hesitation, our hero chose the one he felt would give him the better training for a life in comedy: Law School! Attaining his juris doctorate degree from an accredited New York City law school, Robert realized that no one ever applauded an attorney after a hard day of cheating people. So forsaking a career in the hallowed halls of the judiciary, he turned to a full time career in show business. Comedy clubs, casinos, and college campuses not being enough, this gifted actor found himself making television appearances in South America, Asia, Italy, Canada, and Spain; as well as numerous showcases on "America's Funniest People" on ABC television, and on "THAT'S SO FUNNY" in syndication. As an actor, he can be seen in the soon to be released drama "Even Money" that stars Danny Devito, Kim Bassinger, Kelsey Grammer, and Ray Liotta; and in the French film "Parti Avec Le Vent". Robert is also known for his writing abilities, having made the finals of the Walt Disney Company Fellowship for New Writers, and for writing jokes for many more famous celebrities and comedians. Different projects including learning to speak Japanese just so he could have a whole other country to entertain! Making his home in Hollywood, California; with his unique sense of humor Robert is always on the move. Whether he's on stage, behind the camera, writing his next great work, on television, or just using his distinctive delivery for voice-overs, be on the watch for a funny guy: Robert Baxt! www.robertbaxt.com Magically yours, Joe Douglas M.M.C. TAOM 2007 Entertainment Chairman douglasjp3@yahoo.com See www.taom2007.org -------------------------------------------- 11. Visual And Graphic History Of The Magic -------------------------------------------- Message from Martin Pacheco (Argentina) The exhibition "Visual and graphic History of the Magic", "4 Centuries of Conjuring" will be among the most surprising and opportune of the cultural year of the prestigious National Museum of Decorative Art, hosted at the Errázuriz Palace. Pieces of the Martín Pacheco Collection, considered the best of its type in Latin America and one of the best in the world in Spanish content, will be exhibited to the public. Posters, original lithographs from XIX and XX centuries, rare magic book editions (1584-1900), magician's advertisements -some designed by famous artists of century XIX- billboards and playbills, objects, clothing, toys and many more apparatus related to the Art. A special room will be a tribute to the Great Fu-Manchú. A novel attraction will be the exhibition for the first time of the original metallic trunk with which, emulating Houdini, Pipo Mancera -the famous talk show host of the seventies in Argentina- once locked up and chained inside escaped the waters of the River Plate, in Buenos Aires in late 1971. This is a unique opportunity to all interested parties in design and the Fine Arts in general and all lovers of magic in particular, to appreciate these never before shown in public rare pieces from a private Collection. The exhibition will be open to the public from Friday June 8 through Sunday August 5, Monday through Friday from 2pm until 7pm, while Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and winter vacations open hours will be from 12 to 8 pm. For buy catalog contact martin@pacheco.com.ar -------------------------------------------- 12. World's Biggest Magic Show -------------------------------------------- Message from George Schindler S A M Public Relations. World's Biggest Magic Show- July 3, 2007- And You Can Be Part Of It, Just a reminder to all registrants of the S.A.M. Dallas Convention celebration, Andy Dallas will be the emcee hosting the "World's Biggest Magic Show"  Wednesday July 3rd at 10:30pm. We are attempting to set a Guinness world record for the most magicians to perform in a one hour magic show. Yes, you can honestly say you were one of the featured performers in the "World's Biggest Magic Show" at the S.A.M. convention in 2007 in Dallas, Texas. If you are interested, BRING A TRICK - just mention it at the registration when you check in. Remember, no effect to last more than 60 seconds. Even better, keep it under 30 seconds! An appearing cane, coin vanish, card color change (no fire tricks), anything from a close-up trick to a stage illusion. Set-up will be included in your entire time, so keep it quick, visual, and fun. Should be a great time! See you on stage in Dallas!! "Escape into the Magic" ----------------- 13. The FAB Magic Company In Colon Michigan ----------------- The FAB Magic Company In Colon Michigan announces the new FAB MAGIC THEATER which will open this summer - and ready for shows this fall 2007 - We are currently reviewing one man shows/jugglers/hypnotists/magicians/comedians/ and invite you to send us a video or DVD along with fee requirements to The FAB Magic Mfg. Company, PO Box 483, Colon, MI 49040. Our 100 seat theater will have a taste of the traditional. Recently we acquired a large collection of Colon memorabilia that dates back to the 1860's and will be prominently displayed in the theater which is a part of our very large magic shop (7000 square feet and growing!) We have located several seats from the old Hill Opera House that burned down in October and we will incorporate those seats in our theater - a mini old vaudeville theater - complete with brand new stage and scenery. We have also worked out with local restaurant a package deal with food as well. Fun, family friendly entertainment in the magic capital of the world - Colon, Michigan. Watch our website for details. Don't forget magic week in Colon August 1-4 - Our Saturday night show, August 4th, moved to the beautiful 1000 seat Sturges-Young auditorium in Sturgis, Michigan featuring John Born, Michael Baker, Joseph Young, Mirror Images, Riley Rabbit, Sean Scott and special guest Roy Huston & Company in a dazzling finale! A magic dinner before the show is also available at the theater's civic center. Truly a show you won't want to miss! Tickets only $9.00 adults and $5.00 kids 12 and under! Affordable for the entire family - plus Free Lectures And Close Up Show by Born, Young, Jimmy 'Cards' Monlinari, Michael Baker - Mad, Mad Late Night Friday Auction! Bring Your Stuff To Sell - We Go Into The Wee Hours Of The Morning On Saturday And Have A Blast! Visit us online - exciting things are happening in Colon, Michigan! www.fabmagic.com ----------------- 14. IBM Convention News June Deadline ----------------- Message from Mel Kientz (US) Greatest Annual Magic Convention on Earth June 26-30, 2007 Registrations Rates Go Up June 1st! And.... so does the room rates for the Grand Sierra Resort, flagship hotel for our convention activities. Where else will you be able to experience four major gala shows, fourteen lecture events, spouse events, youth events and assorted other planned magical madness - all for a paltry $175. If you wait too long that price is going to go up - I warned you! So call the family and tell them you are booking a vacation to America's Adventure City - Reno -- and bring the family along. See the web link on the left to register online. If you have already registered THANK YOU! Fantasma Magic Back As A Major Sponsor in Reno Roger Dreyer his staff are doing a lot for the IBM and promoting youth in magic. Fantasma Magic will once again (for the 5th year in a row) be providing the winner of the Jr. Stage competition a priceless VIP award package. Round trip air fare to either New York or Las Vegas for 2. Hotel accommodation for 3 days and 2 nights. Free show tickets Lunch with the Fantasma Creative team and meeting with a well known magician. $250 Gift Certificate compliments of FAO Schwarz Several hundred dollars worth of Fantasma Magic Beautiful Crystal Award by Victor Trabucco Opportunity to peform Off Broadway or be a part of the annual Fantasma Ring 257 Gala Lots, lots more surprises! By the way, Roger is also planning another collectible gift to all registrants of this year's convention! http://fantasmamagic.com/  Want to try something on video? Try this  http://youtube.com/watch?v=voAntzB7EwE ----------------- 15. Sean Taylor's 11th Superday Weekend Of Magic ----------------- Message from Sean Taylor (Aust) Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th September 2007 Gordon Club, Chatswood and Independent Theatre North Sydney Starring....Gregory Wilson, Marc Oberon, Richard Pinner, Darren Carr, Sean Taylor, Tony Saunders and AGT finalists 'Soul Mystique' Everywhere I look right now I see the names Marc Oberon, Richard Pinner and Gregory Wilson. All 3 of these guys are making big names for themselves in conventions, competitions and on dealer shelves across the globe and that's why we booked them! Gregory was for many the stand-out act at the world's biggest convention in Blackpool this year, Marc has won just about every close-up award in Europe these past 2 years and Richard continues to be the 'go to' guy for magic in London for corporate presentations and TV shows. Add to these guys a Brand New and completely unique lecture on Kid's Show Magic from Sydney's No 1 Kidshow magician Tony Saunders and a show line-up featuring our usual up and coming magicians, Australia's Top Ventriloquist Darren Carr, Quick Change artists SOUL MYSTIQUE and you've got a weekend not to be missed.  * The SUPERDAY weekend is Australia's only annual convention.  * All guests appear 5 times across the weekend.  * Our 11th year with this successful formula!  * 100% solid quality from world class performers. We pride ourselves on bringing you the current top names in the world of magic and combining them with some innovative new performers from around the globe. The weekend is fast paced, friendly and informative and, more importantly, has no filler, no bad magic, no time wasting - just solid world class lectures and entertainment. Once bitten, the attendees keep coming back for more and our attention to detail is second to none. Your convention pack gives you all you need to know and our legendary close-knit venues and catering keep you going on the long days. Chatswood is an ideal place for the convention. It is accessible from the airport by rail in around 30 minutes. The venues, hotel, station and magic shop are all just a five minute walk away. The hotel boasts some of the finest apartments in Sydney and this is perfect for all you interstate visitors! Your Registration of $260 includes. * 4 Star Lectures * A choice 2 out of 3 Star Workshops* A Close-up Show * A ticket for the International Stars Of Magic Gala Show* Preferred seating on the evening show. * Lunch on 2 days * Tea and Coffee * A registration pack with full colour programme badge, carrying bag and some free goodies* A $20 Magicash voucher if you register before July 1st* For full details on Guests, Accommodation, Registration, Programme, Travel, Venues etc. Go to: http://www.taylorsmagicshop.com/ Or Call 02 9411 6233 Saturday 15th September 7.30pm The International Stars Of Magic gala show sells out every year and we typically turn 50 - 60 people away so it is essential to book your tickets as early as you can. Tickets are $35 per head and we encourage you to book as early as possible. (Full registration includes one ticket). The show will feature the Comedy magic of Gregory Wilson from the USA, Cabaret Magic from Marc Oberon, Mentalism from Richard Pinner, Australia's number 1 ventriloquist Darren Carr, MC Sean Taylor and International Superstars Soul Mystique and more surprise acts, yet to be announced. For full details on Guests, Accommodation, Registration, Programme, Travel, Venues etc. Go to: http://www.taylorsmagicshop.com/ Or Call 02 9411 6233 ----------------- 16. The Magic Of Science - Sunday 7th October 2007 ----------------- Message from Tony Griffith (UK) I am holding another of my at homes on Sunday 7th October. This day was originally planned as a Creative Magic Lecture/Teach-In day. However, I have decided to change the format and content of the day. It will now be called The Magic Of Science. It will deal with the science magic shows that I present in schools around the country and have been doing so for the last 20 years. It has been a tremendous Winner. £45 (£40 if booked before 31st August) (Includes Morning Coffee, Buffet Lunch and a Light Tea) Tony Griffith has a background in education, including the Headship of a primary school. Using this experience he has created the MAGIC OF SCIENCE SHOW. During the last 20 years he has visited hundreds of State and Independent schools (many, several times). During this day long lecture/teach-in Tony will demonstrate and explain many of the science magic items that appear in his show. Areas also covered will be:- Booking the show in schools; Being aware of the schools' expectations; Your audience; Organisation; Learn from his experience Add another string to your bow. Attendance Is Limited To 10 Places Only 33 Davids Road, Whitchuch, Bristol. BS14 9JH Tel/Fax 01275 837017 Tony@tonygriffith.co.uk ----------------- 17. Melbourne Is The Hub Of Australian Magic!!!! ----------------- Message from Dean Atkinson (Aust) 'Melbourne is the hub of Australian Magic!!!!' At this moment in time the city of Melbourne can most certainly call itself the most exciting place in Australian magic as it boasts two regular live magic events. Dante's Magic Monday's is a stage event and stars Chuck Fayne and Dean Atkinson along with guest performers on the first Monday of every month. Doors open at Dante's on the corner of Gertrude and Napier Streets, Fitzroy at 7pm. Tickets (which are a lousy $10) can be reserved by calling 0403 787 177. June 4th is the next show. 'The Tuesday Tricksters at Section 8' stars Chuck Fayne, Simon Coronel and Dean Atkinson. The event is primarily close up and occurs weekly at the Section 8 venue. There is no need to reserve seats and the event is open without a cover charge. The address is Tattersals Lane, Little Bourke Street, East off Swanston. The Magic starts at 8pm every Tuesday night. It seems that Melbourne is the place to be for magic right now especially with the ASM centenary convention happening in a couple of months. If you would like updates on these events they are written about frequently on Dean Atkinson's blog www.deanatkinson.blogspot.com ----------------- 18. The Amazing Orchante Saga ----------------- Message from Tommy Orchard (The Amazing Orchante)(UK ex-pat Kiwi) Page - 158 Colonel Rabuka declared himself head of an interim military government and introduced a new constitution, under which blocs of seats in a new assembly were allocated to specific ethnic groups, thereby guaranteeing a Taukei majority. Under this format, the 1992 elections brought to power a coalition dominated by the principal ethnic Fijian party; Rabuka assumed the Premiership. However under domestic and international pressure, the Rabuka government made several modifications to the constitution, and to guarantee equal rights for all. By the time the revised version came into effect in 1998, Fiji's poor economic performance had undermined the Rabuka Government's popularity. The Fijian Labour Party was now able to secure an absolute majority in the Vela and an Indian Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry, took office. The result was anathema to militant Taukei, including businessman George Speight, who had lost lucrative franchises, because of the change in government. In May 2000, Speight organised a coup, holding Chaudhry and other ministers as hostages while he issued a series of demands. The other main power centres in Fiji at this point - the army and the Great Council of Chiefs - reacted cautiously. The standoff lasted two months. After initially conceding to most of the rebel demands (including the dismissal of Chaudhry), the military led by Commodore Frank Bainamarama, took control at the beginning of July. A few weeks later, the military moved against Speight and his followers, who were arrested. An interim government under the veteran Taukei politician Ratu Josefa Iioilo was installed with Lisenia Qarase, as Premiere. Following the elections in August 2001, a coalition government was formed between the conservative Alliance Party and the Fiji United Party, despite the fact that most votes were won by the Labour Party; Laisenia Qare remained as Prime Minister. The islands have since enjoyed reasonable stability after the chaos of the previous two years, although nothing has been done to address the underlying causes of this chaos. The Indian community now suffers systematic discrimination and is effectively excluded from political power. So there you have it, a rather lengthier than I intended, but thorough discourse. In case you have forgotten (for which I can't really blame you, I applaud your patience), it was all triggered by the line: 'Bloody officious Indians had other ideas', Remember? When we arrived in Fiji in 1976, the Fijians had very little say in the making of decisions, on any matter, whether it is political or otherwise, because Fiji was being run by the Indians. Frankly, I was amazed by the amount of petty bureaucracy, because it certainly wasn't there on my previous, lengthy visits to Fiji. Apart from the discrimination factor, which I personally disagree with, I curse the fact, and our rotten luck, that the bureaucratic Indians had not yet been excluded from politics etc. when Veronica and I arrived in Fiji, to work with Eric at the resort. Their unreasonable, officious attitude cost us a lot of money, for which - I'll never forgive them! When Gorge Speight kicked off in 2000, I cheered with delight; if I'd been a mercenary, you wouldn't have seen me for dust; I'd have been there, right beside him, with all 'six guns blazing'! -------------------------------------------- 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.watson.co.nz/fezine.html. 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 2007 Alan Watson