* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.watson.co.nz/fezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #601 Date: Sunday 31st August 2008 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. The McComb Legacy Auction - Sunday, September 7, 2008 3. Re: Kohl & Company - Michael Woolf 4. Re: Kohl & Company - Bob Klamm 5. Re: Kohl & Company - Andy Dallas 6. Neil Foster's Influence On Dale Salwak 7. Re: Combined IBM-SAM Convention - A Different View 8. Remarkable Magic #62 - Nick Lewin 9. At the Venue: A Simple Check List - #84 - Kyle Peron 10. Entertaining On The Ocean #35 - Paul Romhany 11. British Ring Convention News 12. The Magic Castle - Who Is Performing In September 13. Wife Of Eric Lewis And Mum To Martin Lewis 14. Broken Wand - Peter Williams 15. Superday Weekend Australia 16. Ghost Objects To Being Hypnotized 17. Cosentino's New Show 'Threshold' 18. Magic Cruise 2009... Just Announced! 19. Christopher Leslie Pratt MIMC 20. Tony Griffith - Further Reflections 21. Magician's Address Wanted 22. Local Magicians Compete For Bay Area's Best23. 23. Poof! Pair To Rewrite 'Magician' 24. Bill Mcleod Is Having A Retirement Sale25. 25. Lasers, Music & Magic, Wine And Multi-Media 26. Shore Is Magic! Comedy Family Magic Show 27. Thomas Ewing Official Historian For The S.A.M 28. e-zine Archives 29. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- H. Rick Bamman has post a link to his extensive collection of photos that are for sale. For a collection of photos from the convention, please visit. The IBM/SAM Convention Photo Memories Page link: http://www.magician.org/portal/en/node/486 The Imagemagic gallery: http://imagemagic.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=533646 ----------------------------------- Mary Stupple is selling Richard's book collection - 853 books - if you would like the list and prices e-mail: mary@stupple.co.uk ----------------------------------- In last week's e-zine I mentioned that three prominent English magicians had died while we were in the USA. Received a number of e-mails letting me know that there was actually four! Sad to say that Derek McFaull who was the current British Ring President died on the 4th August. Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. The McComb Legacy Auction - Sunday, September 7, 2008 -------------------------------------------- Message from Annabel Gray (US) Exciting News! At this late stage two more lots have been added that include one of two known Chung Ling Soo original hairpieces that Billy had in his possession, and 25 Soo five pound note props that would flood the stage during Soo's "Dream of Wealth" illusion. The auction will also be available for live online bidding. Further details of these and all other lots can be found on the live auction catalog which is now online at: LiveAuctioneers: http://www.liveauctioneers.com/catalog/16790 Ebay: http://www.liveauctions.ebay.com/catalogs/26238?from=R11 Final registration will open at The Magic Castle at 8:00 a.m. PST and the auction is scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m. PST. All participants who are planning to attend are urged to register by fax or mail before the event as space may be limited. The registration forms are on The McComb Legacy website which is www.themccomblegacy.com. Absentee bid forms and other details can also be found on this site. Hard copies of the catalog may be ordered by contacting legacyauction@dslextreme.com. The cost is $10 per catalog, $2 s&h within the U.S ($4 s&h international). They can be paid for by PayPal at annabelgray@dslextreme.com. It promises to be a wonderful day for all Magic and McCombical fans and collectors! -------------------------------------------- 3. Re: Kohl & Company - Michael Woolf -------------------------------------------- Message from Michael Woolf Managing Editor, Magicana Magazine New Zealand An adverse comment has appeared in a blog about the appearance of Kohl & Co. at the recent Louisville Convention. It refers to an item in "Genii" which we have not seen. The following is a comment on the blog.  So Kohl & Co. have an old-fashioned act. It is slow-paced and boring, and the critic rails against them. It seems he wants them to disappear from the magic scene. He regrets their appearance at the IBM/SAM Louisville Convention. In his "Magic New Zealand e-zine" rebuttal Dick Kohl comments that: "The audience was kind to us." With respect I disagree. The huge wave of warmth with which Kohl & Co. was received was absolutely genuine and reflected the affection in which the act is held, as well as praise for the performance. To criticize Kohl & Co. for having an old-fashioned act ranks in stupidity and ignorance alongside a critique of Carl Ballantyne or Tommy Cooper for not having tricks that work, or one of Johnny Thompson for not having slick choreography. This brilliant and beloved act has been finely honed over the years to combine a wonderful parody of the conventional magician, with superb European style clowning. The warmth embodied in the performance can be demonstrated in no finer manner than by the presentation at the SAM Meeting in Boston in 2005. George Schindler had just been announced as Dean of American Magic and Dick Kohl paused during the performance to acknowledge the help George had given to the act. If this recent critic doesn't get it, that is no fault of the performers. The critic's views run against a huge majority of supporters. We need laughter, we need wit and we need entertainment. These are amply provided by Kohl & Co. We do not need carping criticism or attempted self-aggrandisement as demonstrated by this critic. He needs to learn an appreciation of all aspects of the magical arts including comedy. He needs to learn respect for the opinions of others, like those who have treasured and appreciated the work of Kohl & Co. for almost forty years. And he also needs to learn respect for the dedication of these skilled performers who have brought the joy of laughter to so many. -------------------------------------------- 4. Re: Kohl & Company - Bob Klamm -------------------------------------------- Message from Bob Klamm I have not read Dustin's article in Genii, nor did I see the performance in question; but I have seen Kohl & Company many, many times and have always looked forward to seeing them again. They do an outstanding job of keeping the high points of the act intact, while varying the incidentals, so that the act is always a surprise. And their execution is outstanding. I take special note of the skill in the assistant when he falls flat on his face. Never a flinch. Dated? A better word would be "seasoned." It is good to see new acts come along, but they could sure learn a lot by careful observance of these fine artists. My only regret is that I can now see them only in my mind's eye. -------------------------------------------- 5. Re: Kohl & Company - Andy Dallas -------------------------------------------- Message from Andy Dallas (US) What a privilege it has been for me to share the stage with some of magic's legendary performers. Kohl & Company is one of those acts that have earned its place in magic history. I saw firsthand how hard this dedicated team of magic entertainers worked to make us laugh. Keeping it in perspective, the interesting caveat here is that Kohl & Company has set such a high standard of magic comedic excellence our expectation may be somewhat skewed if our perception is less than our past experience. It's interesting that we will settle for far less from others even giving them kudos. Kohl & Company are there to remind us that sometimes we take ourselves a little too serious. I for one appreciate and respect the outstanding body of work these inspirational individuals have created and shared with us all these years (I hope for many years to come). Thanks Kohl & Company for keeping us humble and reminding us that no matter how serious we take ourselves, magic is for fun. -------------------------------------------- 6. Neil Foster's Influence On Dale Salwak -------------------------------------------- Message from Dale Salwak (US) I never respond to reviews; everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But when one reviewer on the Genii Forum asked of my performance at Louisville, "Isn't that Neil's act?" I knew I couldn't let this go. With the exception of my cane opening (a 35th birthday gift from Neil who said when he gave it to me, "You need a new opening, kid.") my act isn't even close to Neil's. To try to perform his routines would be to dishonor him and his legacy. All of my material is original with me or represents dramatic variations on routines that I began to learn many years ago. The explosion of silver to end the Zombie routine, for example, I developed in 1966 for my first competition - and I've been using it ever since. I first met Neil and his wife, Jeanne, in 1963. We became close and confiding friends, sustained by weekly correspondence and daily telephone calls along with visits each year to their home in Colon, Michigan. Every year I attended Abbott's Magic Get-Together - for the privilege of seeing Neil perform his l5 minutes on stage. Those l5 minutes encouraged and sustained me over the next year as I worked at my craft. I remember thinking: "This is the way all magic should be presented." On three occasions, Neil visited me in California. He became not only my mentor but also like a second father to me. Then in 1976, and perhaps sensing (correctly) that I had progressed with my magic as far as I could on my own, Neil wrote to say, "I think I can help you now." Every spring I spent a week in the Foster's home. Although during those sessions we talked over new routines, Neil devoted most of his time to helping me to refine what I already knew. Each year, from 1976 until two years before his passing in 1988, Neil had something fresh to tell me - some nuance, some bit of business, some tiny change in timing or routining. Always he encouraged me to strive to my fullest capacity. Neil's influence changed my whole conception of what it means to be a magician. It wasn't only his effortless artistry. It wasn't only the elegance and perfection with which he did everything, or his loyal fidelity to the smallest detail. To my surprise, during those years as I watched Neil perform and later worked with him, many of my youthful distractions slipped away. I felt assured, and I was filled with a unique feeling of peace, an impression so intense that it seemed to expand into an effable joy that remains with me to this day. In terms of my respect and love for the art of magic, my attention to detail, and the joy I experience every time I perform - yes, onstage you see Neil's influence. But in terms of the routines, presentation, music, and bits of business and more, what you saw onstage was me - discovered and developed during four decades of honing and working the act. The act continues to take me all over the world - and for that, and much more, I am very grateful. For a fuller treatment of the impact on my life of Neil (as well as Channing Pollock and Marian Chavez) please see the articles I have written in MAGIC (August 2004), The Linking Ring (November 2004), MUM (February 2006) and The Linking Ring (June 2006). -------------------------------------------- 7. Re: Combined IBM-SAM Convention - A Different View -------------------------------------------- Message from Bill Palmer I don't mean to be a complainer; however, I've been to a lot of conventions, both in the US and in other countries, and there were several things that could have been improved. Some of these were simply the result of unfortunate planning, others, the happenstances of the hotel. 1. This felt like a four day convention that was stretched out over a week. There was too much time between events. 2. There were too many manipulators on the shows. A couple of them were really good, Dale Salwak, for example, but after watching the constant littering of the stage with playing cards, I felt that I had been subjected to a barrage of playing card bombs. Some of the manipulators need more training. The Petrosian kids should not have openly strapped on their utility belts before their final rounds of card throwing. 3 Where were the illusionists? On the paid shows, I counted FIVE illusions. The biggest illusion was Topas' speaker production. That was excellent! I also enjoyed Mac King's Shadow Tent. But there were no huge illusions. There should have been levitation. There was a broom suspension, but that was basically it. I realize there were a couple of illusions in the contests, but those were basically incidental for me. I wanted to see some really knocked-out new illusions. The banquet was understaffed. The hotel should have put more staff on to get the food to the tables before it congealed. I've been to other conventions at the Galt. I know they can do better than this. One of the speakers at the banquet, who shall remain anonymous, announced that the food at this banquet was the best he had ever had at a banquet or anywhere else. He needs to get out more, or go to a really good bar mitzvah. The banquet acts were, in general, the wrong scale for that size room. The scale of the tricks that were done to accompany the Elvis impersonator was really too small. This act probably plays well in a living room or a high school auditorium. But the magic part was really too small for "the King." I would have preferred to be able to opt out of the banquet. -------------------------------------------- 8. Remarkable Magic #62 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) Farewell to 'World's Greatest Magic Show." Las Vegas has now said goodbye to another magic show. After a lengthy run the multi-performer show 'World's Greatest Magic  Show" has disappeared from the Vegas scene. Don't be surprised if it pops up in other markets though. I have a special affection for the show because when I saw it I was in the company of Billy McComb. Now if there was one thing Billy liked better than a show with a magician, it was a show with several magicians in it! We both enjoyed the show immensely. The variety of magic on display in the show was what made it different from the rest of the magic shows in Las Vegas. Matters of equal parts economy and ego make the single performer the staple diet of shows in the neon city. It was very refreshing to see a show that allowed audiences a chance to appreciate more than one style of magic. When McComb and I attended the show it still featured the unique Kevin James who acted as a rousing finale to the viewing experience. It felt right to see Kevin performing his weird, wacky and wonderful illusions to close the show. Often at conventions you see an illusionist close a bill not because he is the best person to do so but because he has the biggest props and the most assistants. Paul Kozak who is one of my favorite comedy magicians was hosting the show and he did an excellent job of blending his hair-raising fire magic and smaller items like a chop cup routine. As I watched him perform I whispered to McComb that I wished I had a buck for every time I had gone to a magic store to buy my flash pads only to be told that there wasn't a sheet of flash paper left in the store since Kozak's recent visit. Losander added a touch of genuine European elegance with his outstanding manipulation and superb table floating. When Losander walks out on stage he looks like a magician through and through and audiences just settle back and know they are going to see some real magic! The show went through some cast changes in the recent months but stayed with its basic format of presenting several magicians all doing what they do best with no padding or wasted time. The hilarious Jeff Hobson joined the show as host and star. If you have ever seen Jeff perform I don't need to tell you what he does to an audience. No other comedy magician can get as many laughs in a shorter period of time than Hobson. Joseph Gabriel also joined the show and added his very special signature to the proceedings. No matter what the changes it was always an excellent line-up that could proudly wear the less than modest title of "World's Greatest Magic Show" the feeling of variety that permeated the show had a very special quality compared to some of the Las Vegas magic shows where you tire of the performers personality long before the show's end. It was a great run for a show that genuinely did something a little different from the rest of the pack. In some ways it was like hitting upon a really amazing week in the Palace of Mysteries at the Castle. Part of the fun was seeing the contrast of various performers united by the thread of their magical skills. It was a neat experiment in giving the audience a chance to explore a little more of what the magic world has to offer. The Vegas scene is a little less rich with its passing. As always send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin1@mac.com and check out my website at http://www.NickLewin.com -------------------------------------------- 9. At the Venue: A Simple Check List - #84 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message from Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com I have recently been talking with someone about some things that performers should be aware of when going to a venue and setting up. These are things we discussed that often times get overlooked or not thought about until it is too late. I thought I would list for you my own top 10 list of ideas and suggestions. I hope they may be of help to you. 1) Give yourself plenty of time - Simply stated you do not ever want to get to a place with "just" enough time to set up. There will ALWAYS be unexpected problems or issues you may have not thought of. For the manipulator, rushing is a huge obstacle and problem you want to try and avoid by rushing you tend to 1) get more nervous and 2) not set up properly. Allow yourself enough time to get to the event so you can set up and relax and have extra time for unexpected items that come up from time to time. 2) Do NOT just start setting up - Too many times a manipulative act will just arrive and start setting up where he or she finds a place. This is a bad practice. Make sure to always be a professional and greet and meet the client and the stage techs first before anything else. They are the ones who you are working for and with, and you need them to be on your side. Show them the respect up front and they will thank you for it. 3) Be watchful for where you set up - First I always ask where would be a good spot for me to set up and I work with the people to choose a spot. They know the show and other acts better than I do and may have an idea as to what will work out best for them. I can then work with them on this location for set up. Also be cautious when setting up that you are not setting up in a high traffic area or next to doors and windows that may cause wind issues. 4) Take time to Strike the stage - This means to take the time out to go out on the stage (when proper to do so) and go over the best spot for your tables and for yourself. Check every aspect of your act and movement in the act. You should be checking for lighting areas to make sure you are lit well (go over this with the tech crew) and also make sure you have friends or someone who can check your angles for you from the far extremes (front and back) of the audience area. This will help you to know where best to mark the stage and what you can and cannot do in the performance that day. 5) DO make a tech sheet ahead of time - If you are working with any stage type crew whether a theater or a smaller venue or even a festival, make sure you have a tech sheet for your act. tech sheets can include placement of your equipment, all music and cues for it as well as lighting cues. This should be on a sheet that is easy to read and follow. This way you are already for the tech crew to be able to assist you better. 6) DO make backups of your music - Always carry a back up of your music and pack it in 2 different spots. This will help in the event you misplace one. It also helps in the event a tech crew misplaces your music or if they forget to give it back to you after your show. It is just a good practice. 7) DO find out where you are in the show - If you are performing your own show and you are the only act, then just simply verify the start time. If you are part of a show where you may be sharing the stage with others, find out who is before you and after you so you know when to finish your last set ups for your "get ready". Knowing who follows you can help you to be courteous of their needs as well. 8) Do carry extra props as needed - It is always a good practice to carry extra sets of cards or silks or items that you use in your act. In the event something goes wrong or gets damaged or lost, it is nice to know you have backups ready. 9) DO be aware of how warm or cold it is - simply take into consideration how warm or cold it is where you are performing. If your hands are cold, it will be much harder to do any sleights that may be needed in the show. Keep the hands warm with some gloves if need be. 10) DO check the stage flooring - Not all stages are built right and if you are doing a small venue or a festival, then you may also run into stages with areas that are sectioned together. Walk through the stage area and check to see if there are uneven areas or areas you need to be aware of when you are moving about. Try and mark these areas with tape so that you can be aware of them when setting up a table or walking on stage. I hope these 10 ideas are of help to you. As always, I encourage you the readers to let me know your thoughts. So if you have any thoughts on my articles or suggestions or comments, please feel free to e-mail me directly at magic4u02@aol.com. I would love to hear from you. "Encore! Creativity in the Art of Magic" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/Encore.html "Tips and Techniques on the Chair Suspension" Ebook. Order online now at: http://www.magicenhancer.com/ChairSuspension.html -------------------------------------------- 10. Entertaining On The Ocean #35 - Paul Romhany -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Romhany (NZ) This week is a little different, it's an interview with one of the USA's funniest magicians, TC Tahoe. TC has worked on cruise ships for many years and I thought it would be nice to get to know him and his work a bit better. It will come in two parts. Be sure to check out my weekly BLOG with the latest reviews of brand new tricks that come out each week. BLOG: http://romhanyreport.blogspot.com Here is a little background on TC. He was born in Great Falls, Montana. His parents worked very hard, thereby depriving him of a life of poverty and giving him the chance to rise above it. The Magic Castle in Hollywood has named TC Parlour Magician of the Year,(twice), and TC was nominated Stage Magician of the Year (four times), Close-up Magician of the Year (three times) and Lecturer of the Year. (twice). TC has been seen literally all over the world, from the Amazon to Australia, Puerto Rico to the Philippines (and way too often in Barbados). He has appeared on TV in four countries and hundreds of radio shows. When it comes time for the Hollywood elite to be entertained, they call TC Tahoe. He has performed for celebrities such as Pierce Brosnan, Jane Symour, Steven Seagal, Minnie Driver, Sean Penn and Josh Brolan. He currently performs corporate shows around the USA and for Carnival Cruises on a weekly basis. Here are a few of the many questions I put to TC ... will share more during the coming weeks. Paul - For the past several years you have been working on cruise ships, how did that job come about? Was it through an agent? TC - I first got onto ships with an agent. It is much easier to go through an Agent. Then you only have to tell one person why you would be great on the sea. Albeit you must then trust that person to sell you. The Carnival gig I have now, was through a friend of a friend. You can cold call or just send out a DVD. When you do call, understand that most of these guys are inundated with would be acts, so they may sound a little curt. Send them a cover letter and a DVD of your whole act. That is what most of them want. No montage, the whole act, or acts. Most likely if you get booked you will be asked to do two different shows. When they ask how much material you have to tell them an hour, that is what they need. An hour that can be divided up into different types of shows. And, the fun part is, that no matter what you are told over the phone, it will be different on the ship. The Cruise director, your boss, may ask you to do a five minute bit for a welcome aboard show. This five minutes must be strong, you want to be a good draw. I guess I am getting a little off topic here. Send out DVDs, make phone calls, or get an agent. Paul - I know you are a fan of mentalism and your style of performance is very humor based, does Comedy and Mentalism go well together? TC - I guess some may call this semantics, but I don't know about comedy in mentalism, humor yes. Comedy? I just don't know. If you are doing good strong comedy, I think it might be hard to get them to appreciate the full impact of the mentalism. On the other hand, a little humor never hurt anyone. In fact the stronger the mentalism, the more your audiences are apt to laugh. Not necessarily because it's funny, but because you are messin' with their reality. I might be alone on that but.. Paul Romhany paul@chaplinmagic.com www.paulromhany.com www.chaplinmagic.com BLOG - http://romhanyreport.blogspot.com -------------------------------------------- 11. British Ring Convention News -------------------------------------------- Message from Bob Hayden PRO to the British Ring We are delighted to confirm that the International President of the IBM Joan Caesar and her husband George will be joining us in Eastbourne. Paying tribute to her in the July issue of The Linking Ring Bruce Kalver, National President of the Society of American Magicians describes her as smart, honest, organized and a true leader. Joan was born in Hamilton Ontario Canada and met George during their first semester at the University of Guelph in 1967. Married two years later, they now have two sons David and Ben. Magic entered Joan's life when with George they took the boys to a Santa Claus breakfast where a magician performed. Ben was immediately taken with magic and wanted to know how to perform. From books borrowed from the library Joan learned some simple tricks to teach him. Learning of a magic club run by Gerald Dietrich when Ben was in second grade at school Joan took him to the class and like Ben she also became hooked and led to Joan becoming an assistant to Gerald working every weekend in a big illusion show. Following on Gerald introduced Joan to the IBM Kitchener Ring 235 and eventually to her first magical convention at Abbott's Get-Together. Her first IBM Convention was when it was held in Quebec City in 1993. She has attended every one since. Many of you will remember Joan from the times she attended the MacMillian International Weekends and The Magic Circle Centenary. When International President Jerry Schnepp asked her to become the Territorial Vice President (TVP) for Ontario and after winning her place on the Executive Committee she became Chair of the International Relations Committee and the TVP Committee. Joan continues to perform at birthday parties, libraries, schools, corporate family events, fall fairs and picnics. She also performs parlour and close-up magic at senior centres. Past Presidents Obie O'Brien and John Browne III, Jack Greenberg Fred Casto and their wives will join Joan and George at Eastbourne, and for the first time at one of our Conventions Jack Greenberg's son Don Greenberg, who serves on the IBM Executive Committee. That so many Past Presidents should so continuously want to return gives the Organising Committee a great sense of achievement and pride. Also coming from the USA are Arthur Emerson and Mike Shelley with their daughters, Tom Dunlap, Mike Shelley and Mr & Mrs Bisson. Summing up her magic career Joan says, "One of the things magic has given me is friendship. I have made friends throughout the world I will value for the rest of my life". Joan, we in the British Ring are looking forward to meeting you in Eastbourne and when you leave at the end of the Convention you will have another host of friends to add to your list. The International Close-up Show is again going to be one of the 'must see' events of the Convention. With a lineup of Derek DelGaudio, Bob Kohler, Nicholas Einhorn, Jason England, Jon Armstrong and Glenn Farrington it will be another definite spectacular and explosive display of close-up magic. Derek DelGaudio is one of the breed of young and great knockout card workers currently residing in Hollywood. A native of Colorado, Derek began making a name for himself in the world of magic and sleight-of-hand at the tender age of fourteen. His peers gave him the nickname 'Wonder Boy'. Driven by this reputation, he became an avid student in the art of prestidigitation and entertainment. Over time, Derek's interest in astonishment was combined with his laid-back style and innate ability to entertain and make people laugh. He continued his captivating performances through college. Since that time he has earned a reputation as a world-class entertainer. He now spends most of his working hours on the road, dazzling and entertaining at corporate events, private parties, trade shows, hospitality suites and theatre engagements. Not only that Derek DelGaudio is good looking and charming. Jason England is yet another young star from Las Vegas and like Derek DelGaudio is making his first appearance at a U.K. Convention. Without a doubt he is regarded as one of the top card men in the world. Some say the days of the underground are done and gone but without a doubt Jason's eye-popping work with a deck of cards is a well-kept secret. Watch out for his delivery of thirds, riffle stacking, the McMillan switch and Centre steal control. You will be stunned. Bob Kohler is described by Paul Stone as one of the best-kept secrets in magic! Bob is a successful dealer but few realise just how good a performer he is. We will find this out in Eastbourne when his close-up magic will blow you away. In addition he is a terrific trade show worker. Glenn Farrington is a good solid entertaining commercial working professional close-up performer from the USA here for the first time. Completing the sextet of close-up specialists are Jon Armstrong and our own Nick Einhorn. Jon Armstrong uses an amazing blend of dynamic personality and imaginative presentations bringing wonder to all who experience him. By combining card magic, humour and audience participation Jon will keep you laughing and well entertained by making the unexpected happen. Nicholas Einhorn requires very little introduction. He is one of this country's most popular close-up magicians because he performs effects that are very clear to understand. He is a great believer of Dai Vernon's philosophy 'Confusion is not Magic'. Audiences want to see magic that does not make it difficult to understand. So he gives them eye candy and things that just take them and will take you by surprise. In 2006 the entire International Close-up Show took place in the Gold Room of the Winter Gardens. The magic was superb but with more than one artiste performing at the same time the venue was far from perfect being uncomfortable for both performers and spectators alike. This year with the Floral Hall and Congress Suite in addition to the Gold Room are being used to greatly improve your enjoyment of this event. And don't forget the special "Hard Core Card Session" lecture/workshop on Friday afternoon to be given by Jason England and Derek DelGaudio. This has been especially arranged for you dedicated Finger Flickers, the first time such a specialist lecture has been included in the Convention programme. In addition Juan Tamariz gives a whole close-up show plus a lecture, with another lecture to be given by Guy Hollingworth. So if close-up magic is your particular forte you would be foolish to miss this opportunity to being able to watch and learn from a galaxy of the world's very best close-up stars at a single Convention. A final reminder. Juan Tamariz will be giving a special midnight workshop in the Lansdowne Hotel on Friday. It is strictly limited to sixty and to attend you can purchase a ticket for £20 from the Registration Deck from Thursday onwards. It will be a case of first come first served. Please don't attempt to buy a ticket on Wednesday when picking up your registration pack. They will not be available. You still have time to register for Eastbourne 2008. It has been in preparation for the past 10 months and Paul Stone the Convention Executive Director has worked tirelessly to bring together the finest array of magical talent ever assembled for a British Ring Convention. Whether you are stage, platform, parlour, stand-up, close-up or children's performer there will be someone who will provide the stimulation for you to strive for greater perfection in your performance. Surely that should be the prime aim of a magical convention. Neville Johnson is the person to contact to make your registration. Phone him on 01202 873234 or e-mail him at nevillejohnson25@aol.com or go on line via the Payments Page on this website. Bob Hayden is available to answer any queries you may have or any additional information you may require. Contact him on 023 8032 0277 or by e-mail at bobring25@aol.com -------------------------------------------- 12. The Magic Castle - Who Is Performing In September -------------------------------------------- Message from Max Maven (US) For information on joining the Magic Castle go to: www.magiccastle.com September 2 - 7 Close-Up Gallery Early: Misty Mew Late: Taiga Endo Parlour of Prestidigitation Early: Arthur Trace Late: Greg Arce Palace of Mystery Losander Derek DelGaudio Hat & Hare Pub Vanessa Valore Brunch Parlour Tim Mannix Lecture Losander -------------------------------- September 8 - 14 Close-Up Gallery Early: Norman Beck Late: John Armstrong Parlour of Prestidigitation Early: Tom Ogden Late: John Carney Palace of Mystery Terry Elton Kevin Johnson Puck W.C. Fields Bar Joe Skilton Brunch Parlour Hillel Lecture Norman Beck -------------------------------- September 15 - 21 Close-Up Gallery Early: Jesse Dee Late: Toto (Fri/Sat: Jack Goldfinger) Parlour of Prestidigitation Early: Len Reid Late: Asi Wind Palace of Mystery Chipper Lowell Shimshi W.C. Fields Bar Toto Brunch Parlour Aye Jaye Lecture Asi Wind -------------------------------- September 22 - 28 Close-Up Gallery Early: Dirk Holtkotte Late: Johnny Ace Palmer Parlour of Prestidigitation Early: Randy Shine Late: Francis Menotti Palace of Mystery Jim Bentley Jeff Civillico Anders & Jan W.C. Fields Bar Eric Mead (Thurs - Sat) Brunch Parlour Phil Van Tee -------------------------------- September 29 - October 5 Close-Up Gallery Early: Jason Tong Late: Paul Wilson Parlour of Prestidigitation Early: Gary Norsigian Late: Brandon Scott Palace of Mystery Rich Bloch Mark & Sheila Cannon John Cassidy W.C. Fields Bar Glenn Farrington Brunch Parlour Brent Geris Lecture Gary Norsigian -------------------------------------------- 13. Wife Of Eric Lewis And Mum To Martin Lewis -------------------------------------------- Message from Al Doty I waited just a bit to let you know about Gladys Lewis, 'til we knew how things went and now can let you know. Gladys, as you know, is the wife of Eric Lewis and mum to Martin Lewis. She took a nasty fall and broke her hip. I'm happy to say that her surgery went well and is in good spirits. She is not home yet but is in a convalescent facility and making good progress for someone that is 93 years old. You may send cards of good cheer to Gladys Lewis, 19340 Mission Ranch Rd. Riverside. California, 92508 I'm sure she would appreciate the cards. -------------------------------------------- 14. Broken Wand - Peter Williams -------------------------------------------- Message from Bernard Dyer forwarded on by Dave Upfold All fellow magicians, It is with a heavy heart I write this hurried email to advise you all that Peter Williams passed away this morning of a heart attack. Our condolences go to Sandy his wife. As soon as I have any further details, contact details for Sandy, funeral details etc. I will advise you. Sincerely, Bernard. Bernard Dyer. ------------------ From Dave Upfold He was one of the first Magicians to star in the hit Show -- "4 Magicians and a Hypnotists" The Show was first performed 12 years ago in South Africa. -------------------------------------------- 15. Superday Weekend Australia -------------------------------------------- Message from Sean Taylor (Aust) Last Chance - Only 1 week to go to the only annual magic convention in Australia! Last Chance - Only 1 week until the biggest magic show of the year! Last Chance - Only 1 week to see the only Australian performances! Last chance to see the only Australian appearance of Bill Malone and Alain Nu. Last chance for the performances Chuck Fayne, Sean Taylor, Adamada, Jonas Jost and the Fantastic M2 ! Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September - Superday Weekend 5 Lectures, 3 Workshops, 1 Masterclass, Close-up Show, Gala Show, Public Show, Dealer's Demo. Tea, Coffee and Lunch both days. Full colour rego pack! Just $270 Friday 5th September - International Stars Of Magic - 7.30pm - Zenith Theatre $35 per head or family tickets 2+2 for $120 For Superday Weekend Of Magic bookings go to: http://www.taylorsmagicshop.com.au/category8_1.htm For International Stars Of Magic bookings go to: http://www.taylorsmagicshop.com.au/category8_1.htm T. 02 9411 6233 www.taylorsmagicshop.com.au -------------------------------------------- 16. Ghost Objects To Being Hypnotized -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Royter (Canada) Well known Canadian hypnotist, Paul Royter recently had a surprise visit by the resident ghost at the Wanganui Opera house. Over the years there have been many reports of a ghost living in the Wanganui opera house in Wanganui New Zealand. This prestigious historic building is one of the first theatres in the southern hemisphere to use electric lights for the theatre lighting. One of the early technicians in the theatre in the late 1800s apparently suffered a heart attack and died while working in the building. Frank, as he is known has made his presence apparent many times over the last few years. One of these occasions was only recently when a young 16 year old virtuoso violinist heard footsteps of someone continuously following him around the theatre. This young talented violinist was so shook up by the experience that it took several people quite some time before he was eventually calmed down. Frank is reportedly a friendly ghost and has never really threatened anyone in any way. The technician on hand at the show that night recalls the young boy turning pure white over the incident. On Tuesday August 19th, Frank (the ghost) made it clear that he definitely objected to being hypnotized. The lights which are always dimmed down during the induction when the hypnotic state is induced started flickering and fluttering on and off even though they were turned down all the way on the dimmer board. The only way the lighting technician could fix it was by going into the control room and physically unplugging the main circuits that lead to the lamps.  Immediately after the show these lights were plugged back in. When checking the light panel it was discovered that there was nothing wrong with the equipment and everything worked perfectly. According to the theatre technician who was dumbfounded by the situation there is absolutely no logical explanation as to why this occurred. He said it was technically IMPOSSIBLE for the lights to have come on when they did, given the fact that they were not turned up on the board. This phenomenon has never occurred before in the theatre and it does indeed evoke a sense of bewilderment as to why it happened at the precise time when Mr. Royter began to hypnotize his subjects. Paul Royter lives in Ontario Canada and tours all over the world with his comedy hypnosis show. He is currently on his third annual extensive tour of New Zealand. The shows here in New Zealand are being presented as a fund raiser for the Kids Foundation of New Zealand. Paul is currently in the South Island and scheduled to appear in numerous cities throughout the country during the next few weeks. -------------------------------------------- 17. Cosentino's New Show 'Threshold' -------------------------------------------- Message from Tim Ellis (Aust) Last night we popped in to the Clocktower Centre in Essendon (VIC) to see Cosentino's new show 'Threshold'. The 500 seat theatre was full and, though it was great to see such a mix of ages in the crowd, it was disappointing to see that only a few magicians had turned up to support the show. We had great seats in the dress circle, but every seat in this theatre is good. Cos began with "three blind men" coming onto the stage and examining a large platform from which he suddenly appeared in a colorful Willy-Wonka-meets-The-Mask costume and began with a series of no-silk dove productions and flash effects including producing his brother AC. The high energy, colour and lighting guaranteed he had the audience in the palm of his hand from the word go. Next was an interesting Skeleton chest illusion where he split his brother in two like a zipper. After the mask came off Cos introduced his "co-star" the bunny, Mr Snuggles, who performed a mind reading card effect where he chewed a card's identity into a piece of paper. Cos performed some of his original dance moves in an impressive floating microphone routine (no other magician moves as gracefully or as effortlessly as he does, some of his dancing looks like magic itself!) And he went into a long section of close up magic projected onto a big screen. He and an audience volunteer sat at a table and he performed a card revelation, spoon and key bending, and finished with a bending wine glass. Very impressive and a nice change of pace. From here (and I apologise if I've left anything out or I've got things in the wrong order, there just wasn't time to take notes) he presented a unique version of the chair suspension. I really don't think anyone without the physique he has could get away with this, but the audience was very impressed and convinced it was not a trick! A feature escape closed the first half. He was tied into a straitjacket, and placed inside a padded cell (with perspex front) and his legs were chained to the floor and the door locked shut. Above him was a grid of very real spikes and the rope holding them was set on fire. The magicians in the audience were waiting for a cover to go up, or for the perspex to become opaque, but no such thing. Cos did the escape in full view and the audience were on the edge of their seats. The second half began with a very nicely executed execution. Cos, through dance, told the story of a thief who was sentenced to death by electric chair. A huge set piece was displayed and he was summarily locked in the chair, covered with a cloth and vanished only to reappear from the back of the theatre. After changing costume in front of the audience (he really does have very excited fans!) he and a number of very randomly selected audience volunteers created a series of conditions that resulted in a very nice and entertaining piece of mentalism (and I'm not going to ruin the surprise for you here you'll just have to go see it!) Next came a favourite from last year's show, his grafitti inspired version of Twister, which really got a strong response from the crowd, and this led into another highlight from 'Evolution', the Watertrap. Cos has 2.20mins to escape from a sealed 44 gallon drum filled with water. It's a long piece, with every element being examined and re-examined by the audience, but it certainly holds them riveted. It actually reminded me of what it must have been like in "the old days" when a travelling show would come to town and you could really take your time in creating a mystery, rather than the modern style of cramming in as many effects into as short a time as possible. What makes it more interesting is that Cos is a very modern style performer, but he is very much "old school" in his interpretation of many of his routines. (Which is a good thing!) After drying off (yes, he did avoid drowning) he sat down on the stage and told us about his life before finishing with a nostalgic set piece that explored his early days in magic which many people said was the highlight of the show for them. The whole show was well over two hours plus a twenty minute interval, performed only by Cosentino who (with his assistants) really held his own. Without a doubt this was the best magic show I've ever seen at the Clocktower Centre. In fact, I'd say it's one of the best produced magic shows in Australia, the lighting and sound are excellent. It's great to see Cosentino is out there touring theatres and giving audiences a chance to see some great magic. His mother told us later that he's really whet the appetite of the audiences who are eager to see more and more quality magic. His success is good for all of us so, if you get the chance, don't miss seeing his show when it comes to your town. You can see his tour schedule at www.cosentino.com.au . Great night, great value and great magic. At only 24 years old, Cosentino has a huge future ahead of him. -------------------------------------------- 18. Magic Cruise 2009... Just Announced! -------------------------------------------- Message from David Sandy (US) Hello all, Seven years after David Sandy's sold-out Magic Cruise 2002, we're taking magic and some of the world's finest magicians back on the high seas! If you've ever attended any event produced by David Sandy, you have some idea of what you can expect with Magic Cruise 2009! You are invited to join many of the finest magicians in the world for an incredible, fun-filled magical getaway! It's Magic Cruise 2009 and the dates are May 3-10, 2009! You and your sweetie can enjoy fun in the Western Caribbean sun aboard the Carnival world-class Valor for an incredible 8-day/7-night cruise. This ship is one of Carnival's most luxurious and boasts some of the highest customer ratings in the industry! We'll depart from Miami and head to the beautiful Caribbean with visits to four incredible ports of call... Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands... Isla Roatan... Belize... and Cozumel, Mexico! At the end of this incredible vacation, we'll return to the Port of Miami. But wait, there's more... this just isn't ANY cruise... this cruise features tons of magical fellowship... stage, cabaret and close-up shows... plus learning from many of the world's finest magicians. So far, we've booked Jeff McBride, John Carney, Jon Armstrong, John & Mari Shryock, Dave Kaplan, Mike Caveney, Tina Lenert, Les Arnold & Dazzle, Kerry Pollock... with more to come! The best part is this... this magical vacation package starts at only $699 per person (based on double occupancy, plus gov't taxes, port and fuel charges)! You get the 8-day/7-night cruise, the shows, the lectures, the receptions, the workshops, the camaraderie & fellowship, and more! It's an incredible deal... but hurry, the cabins are already going fast! Interested? Just visit this website for more information: www.davidsandyproductions.com/magiccruise.htm Best, David Sandy, President David Sandy Productions, Inc. www.davidsandyproductions.com -------------------------------------------- 19. Christopher Leslie Pratt MIMC -------------------------------------------- Message from Henry Lewis MIMC As many magicians worldwide will doubtless know by now that Christopher Leslie Pratt MIMC died 11th August 2008. A Service to Commemorate his life was held at St. Mary's Church North Mimms, Herts UK. on Friday 22nd August. A very large number of magicians from many different societies came to pay homage to a true gentleman and many of his relatives and non-magic friends. A Reading was given by his Sister-in-law Anne, A tribute by Father Richard. A further Reading by David Beckley MIMC then a tribute by Senior District Judge Tim Workman. An additional Reading was given by Judge Peter Wallis. A tribute by Michael Bailey MIMC Past President of The Magic Circle. A final Reading by Daughter-n-law Claire concluding with Prayers by Rev. Peter Liddelow AIMC. Chaplain to The Magic Circle. In my estimation some three hundred attended. To The Magic Circle, Chris was a Past Vice President and our Hon. Secretary for twenty years will be greatly missed on council and at the various events of The Magic Circle. Our thoughts are with his wife Jill and his very supporting family at this time. -------------------------------------------- 20. Tony Griffith - Further Reflections -------------------------------------------- Message from Tony Griffith (UK) Tony Griffith (Bristol, England) has just released Further Reflections, the second book in his planned trilogy. This book like his first one Reflections is a combination of close up, platform and children's magic. These are routines straight from Tony's commercial repertoire that he has used throughout his magical career. There are some in depth articles on various facets of the magic art, and each volume concludes with ten of the items he uses in his very successful Magic Of Science show which he has been presenting for the last 20 years in schools in England. These two books (8.5" X 12") run to just over 100 pages each, with many, many illustrations. The books are hardbound, on quality paper. Retail price is £25 each. However anyone purchasing them both together before the end of September the combined price is £40............. a saving of £10. Purchase can be made via Pay Pal by contacting Tony on tony@tonygriffith.co.uk -------------------------------------------- 21. Magician's Address Wanted -------------------------------------------- Message from Walter Blaney (US) In 1964 I witnessed a young magic couple doing their show outside at a carnival in Wichita, Kansas. He began the hat-coil production from his hat, pulling it out in the usual circles with his wand. A thermal wind caught the paper coils and drew them off the wand up into the air... up, up and out of sight, much like a paper tornado. The magician watched dumbfounded. Then he heard the applause, recovered his composure and took a big bow. It was a time when the audience was fooled and the magician was as well. I hope no one asked him to repeat it. I chatted with them afterwards, a nice young couple, and I am trying to learn who the couple was (44 years ago). I believe it was "The Manleys", Don and Connie Manley. If anyone knows their whereabouts today, and if they are still alive, I would like to try to contact them and verify if they were the ones that this happened to. My last address on them was Crescenta, California. Thanks, and cheers from Texas, Walter Zaney Blaney walter@walterblaney.com -------------------------------------------- 22. Local Magicians Compete For Bay Area's Best -------------------------------------------- Message from Scott Alcalay The Oakland Magic Circle, the oldest independent magic club west of the Mississippi presents its annual Inter-Club Stage Magic Competition and Spaghetti Dinner Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2008, in Oakland. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Club members will entertain the audience with close-up magic performed at each table. Dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m., followed by the stage show at 8:00. The show will feature some of the best conjurers from the bay area's many magic clubs, including several independent clubs and both national magical fraternal organizations (Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians). Each club will send one magician to compete. Many past winners have gone on to national magic competitions and professional careers. The public is welcome to this event held at Bjornson Hall, 2258 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Tickets for dinner and show -- $15 (adults) and $10 (children 12 and under) -- are available through http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/40082. Or call Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800-838-3006 and ask for the Oakland Magic Circle Evening of Magic and Wonder. This event usually sells out, but "show only" tickets will be available at the door for $10 each, if still available the day of the event. The Oakland Magic Circle is the oldest continuing magic club in the western United States. The OMC was formed for the purpose of bringing together people whose common bond is the love of magic. Along with others in the world-wide magic community, we are pledged to increase public awareness of -- and interest in --  magic as an art. We are dedicated to mutual aid in the improvement of our craft and the encouragement of junior magicians. -------------------------------------------- 23. Poof! Pair To Rewrite 'Magician' -------------------------------------------- Message from Bill Bowers August 18, 2008, Hollywood Reporter: Actor John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein are conjuring up a rewrite of the New Line/Benderspink comedy "Burt Dickenson, Most Powerful Magician on the Planet Earth." Chad Kultgen's original screenplay follows a big-time Las Vegas illusionist whose preeminence is threatened by a younger "extreme magician." -------------------------------------------- 24. Bill Mcleod Is Having A Retirement Sale -------------------------------------------- Message from Ricky McLeod After over 40 years as a Magic Maker and Dealer Edinburgh Magician Bill McLeod is having a retirement sale of his dealer items and quality second hand props with many items at half price The Sale will be held September 11th at the West Lothian Magic Circle , East Calder & District Homing Society, Oakbank Road, East Calder, West Lothian, EH53 0EL. Sale starts 7.30pm Entry £2 All the best Ricky McLeod Email: Ricky@TrickyRicky.com Website: www.TrickyRicky.com Corporate Email: Ricky@RickyMcleod.co.uk Corporate Website: www.RickyMcleod.co.uk -------------------------------------------- 25. Lasers, Music & Magic, Wine And Multi-Media -------------------------------------------- Message from James George Sorcery Manufacturing Http://MyITR.com Lasers, Music & Magic, Wine and multi-media will join to fill the senses of guests at the One Maple Winery in Lewiston. For two nights, guests will have a unique opportunity to celebrate the music of French composer and electronic music pioneer Jean Michel Jarre, son of the famous film composer Maurice Jarre. Jean Michel exceeds his father's fame throughout the world, with sales of over 80 million recordings, multiple hits in the European charts, and four entries in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest concerts ever staged, if you have attended any of his concerts, you already know the pure Magic of the performances. His second Guinness entry was for 'Rendezvous Houston', to celebrate the city's 150th anniversary. Over one million people attended to witness the largest laser-light show in the world, choreographed to his unique music of aural textures, electronic soundscapes and his easily approachable classically styled melodies and pop rhythms. "The Jarreheads" James George Inventor of the ITR (Lead Synthesizers) & James Hicks Founder of Laseronics International will present their public performance of Oxygene and its sequel Oxygene 7-12 as a tribute to Jarre. The show features amazing visual Magic effects and some multi-media spectacle including a live performance of his music. Complete with a Laser Harp, large-scale video imagery and laser lights. The performance will be on September 12th and 13th at 8:00 pm if you happen to be in Northern California (Near Mt Shasta/Redding) on these dates it would be great sharing this wonderful evening with you. -------------------------------------------- 26. Shore Is Magic! Comedy Family Magic Show -------------------------------------------- Message from Nathan Grange (NZ) The "Shore Is Magic!" family comedy magic show features performances by some of the top magicians in New Zealand, clown acts, illusions, special guest performers, and will be hosted by a comedian. A night of comedy, magic and fun! Two shows only. The Rose Theatre, Belmont - Wednesday September 3rd and Thursday September 4th, 7:30pm. Door sales and refreshments available. More details at www.scmc.co.nz Tickets available at iticket.co.nz -------------------------------------------- 27. Thomas Ewing Official Historian For The S.A.M -------------------------------------------- Message from Thomas Ewing I have been appointed the official historian for the S.A.M. It happened at the national convention. Should anyone have questions about the history of the S.A.M. I would be pleased to try and find the answer. I hope to write some brief historical articles in M.U.M. that members might find interesting. tewing@ETS.ORG -------------------------------------------- 28. 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) -------------------------------------------- 29. 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 2008 Alan Watson