* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #615 Date: Sunday 2nd November 2008 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi [first name] here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. First Booked Guest Performers FISM WCM2009 Beijing 3. Music Rights In The World Of Magic 4. David Copperfield Petition 5. Letter From Mike Close 6. Remarkable Magic #70 - Nick Lewin 7. Puppets - It's Not Real! - #92 - Kyle Peron 8. Entertaining On The Ocean #42 - Paul Romhany 9. The Robert Harbin Centenary 10. Las Vegas Magic - November, 2008 11. Broken Wand - Ted Lesley 12. Superday Australia 2009 - August 21st - 23rd 13. Harry Stanley's Widow Rita Passed Away 14. Austria Honors Magic Christian 15. Performers Liability Insurance 16. First S.A.M. Assembly In Space - # 17,210 17. Award-Winning Magician Eric Decamps 18. Eileen Mason Passed Away Peacefully 19. Biography On Dariel Fitzkee 20. 2009 World Magic Seminar 21. New York Magic 22. e-zine Archives 23. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- Just returned from a visit to Beijing, China, after being invited to review the preparation and facilities for the next FISM to be held there in 2009. I was extremely impressed with the FISM organization and their eye for detail to maximize the registrant's enjoyment. Also impressed with the International President of FISM, Eric Eswin at the grand opening evening banquet when he gave his speech in Chinese. There were a number of high profiled Government Ministers in attendance at all the official functions throughout the 5 days and the Chinese Government is openly endorsing the 2009 FISM in Beijing. Over the next few months, on a weekly basis, I will be publishing items on FISM, accommodation, changes in the rules for the competition, great places to visit, and many other points of interest. Remember [first name] if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. First Booked Guest Performers FISM WCM2009 Beijing -------------------------------------------- Message from Jian Lin Executive President of FISM WCM2009 Beijing First booked guest performers of FISM WCM2009 Beijing (from 12 countries). Opening ceremony: All Chinese magicians Two banquet shows: All Chinese acrobats, artists of music, singing and dancing Grand prix winners of the last FISM convention: Rick Merrill - United States Pilou - France And: Mac King - United States Victor Voitko - Ukraine Henry Evans - Argentina Juan Tamariz - Spain Topas - Germany David Williamson - United States Shoot Ogawa - Japan Lennart Green - Sweden Miguel Puga - Spain Shintaro Fuijiyama - Japan I.Ma.Gi.A - Italy Omar Pasha - France Jorgos - Germany Double Fantasy - Ukraine Peter Marvey - Switzerland David Sousa - Portugal -------------------------------------------- 3. Music Rights In The World Of Magic -------------------------------------------- Message from Eric Eswin, International President of the FISM Music Rights in the world of Magic Introduction Most magicians start their career as amateurs and when creating a magic act, they are primarily interested in learning the necessary skills and techniques, in how to apply the right misdirection, and in the originality of their act. For the musical accompaniment of their act they mostly use existing music, duplicated from a CD or downloaded from the internet. No permission is asked and apart from the price of the CD or the download fee, nothing is paid. Once a magician has finished his work he is generally (and rightfully) very much concerned about his act being respected and protected. Music composers, recording artists and recording labels of existing music, however, have the same concerns. Their music also deserves to be treated with respect and one must acknowledge that their work is protected by Copyright Laws. This means that if persons or a group of persons, like e.g. Amy Macdonald, the Cirque du Soleil or Abba, create their own music tracks for their shows, there are costs and creativity incurred in the development and it would be unreasonable to just copy it for one's own act without any consent and payment. When the music is in the public domain, e.g. when the composer of the song is dead for more than 70 years, this may be acceptable. In most cases however, using existing music without prior consent, means a violation of the Intellectual Property and Copyrights Laws. To use an existing music track, it is necessary to obtain consent, give proper attribution and in most cases royalty fees for the use of the music should be paid. Therefore it is important for the magic community to know and understand when music can be used without permission and when rights must be granted. Purpose of this article The idea of this article is to give an initial understanding of how music rights work in the context of magic performances. The basics of music copyrights, from the Magician's point of view, will be described in a Q&A (Question-and-Answer) format. Some recommendations will be made. Some of the information in this article might - at first sight - seem contradictory to personal experiences. In this respect, please take note that one should clearly distinguish between what is not legal but tolerated or not sanctioned because it has not been detected on the one hand and what is legally required on the other hand. This article describes what the appropriate laws require. The information is basic and of a general nature. For more and tailor-made information it will be wise to obtain further specific independent legal advice. F I S M Page 2-5 Questions & Answers Q: What kind of rights are we talking about? A: Basically in music there are two key sets of rights: · Those flowing from the writer(s) of the music and/or lyrics, usually controlled or administered by a music publishing company (usually labeled "publishing rights") and · Those flowing from the performer (recording artist) and master rights (the rights on the recording) usually controlled by a recording company (usually called "recording rights"). Both the writer and the artist are "rights holders" unless they have transferred their rights to a music publishing company or a recording company, in which case these companies are the rights holders. "Clearance of music rights" means that you have to ask for both the writer's and the performer's consent to use their music. Most of the time their consent includes a payment. Q: Do I always have to ask for the writer's and the performer's consent? A: If you only perform your act for yourself or your family and no more, there is no need to ask for the writer's and the performer's consent. If you, however, also perform at public or commercial events, then it depends on the sort of music you use in your act. For Commercial music you have to ask for the consent and the fees for both the publishing rights and the recording rights. For Production/Library music you don't have to ask for consent, as this has already been given. However you still need to pay a fee for using the music. For Custom Composed music, of course, you don't have to ask for consent as you yourself are the one who has asked for the composing and recording of the music for your act. Q: What is Commercial music? A: All released music by the artists as we hear it broadcast on the radio and TV and which is available via CD or internet downloads. It almost always requires rights holders approval and payment. Q: What is Production /Library music? A: This is pre-cleared music, specifically composed for audio-visual productions. Recording fees are far lower than those of commercially released music. The fee is per 30 seconds of use. It averages less than 100 Euro per minute for the total clearance. Q: What is pre-cleared music? A: That is music for which the right holder(s) have authorised any use. Precleared music does not mean that you don't have to pay fees or royalties. Usually performing rights still have to be paid by the organizer of the event or by the broadcast station. Q: What is Custom Composed music? A: This is music composed at a client's request and according to his specifications. This is not always expensive and it provides you with a unique piece of music including all the rights you need. Custom composed music will also be perfectly tailored to your style and act. It is essential however, that you prepare and sign a contract with the music producers and composers, both granting you all the necessary music rights for your act (and duplication on DVD and all kinds of broadcast, including the internet, if desired). It will be wise to consult legal advisors for a sample agreement. F I S M Page 3-5 Q: When I create a magic show can I select any music I want? A: Yes, you can, as long as you ask the rights holder/owner (s) authorisation to use their creation and you pay the appropriate fees which we will describe in the following. Some people will argue that they are entitled to use recorded music (e.g. from a CD they have bought or music they have downloaded from the internet and for which they have paid the download costs) without authorisation. In some countries this is true as long as the rights holder does not specifically refuse you the use of their music for your magic acts or shows. Most of the time however synchronisation rights should still be paid to the recording company. So it may be worth considering having all authorisations approved in advance (before producing your act/show). Q: When I perform at an event, e.g. at a magic convention, do I have to pay the music rights of my act? A: No, it is the organiser of the event in which you perform who has to pay the rights, usually called the performance rights fee of your music to the collecting society in the country in which you perform. However you have to provide the organiser with a detailed list of all your music (a so-called 'Music Cue Sheet') Q: When I perform on TV, do I have to pay the music rights of my act? A: No, it is the producer of the TV show and the TV Broadcaster who have to pay the performance rights. The performance rights fee a producer will have to pay on your music is usually called the performing rights fee. The performance rights fee the TV Broadcaster will have to pay on your music is usually called the broadcasting rights fee. Usually TV Channels around the world pay a yearly fee to their local music collection agency, which covers all the music they use in their broadcasts throughout the year. They have however to provide these agencies with a detailed list of the music ('Music Cue Sheet') they broadcast and this is why TV channels and TV production companies ask you for your music cue sheet prior to broadcasting. Q: If I want to release a DVD, or a production company wants (with my consent) to release a DVD which includes (a part of) my act and music, do I have to clear my music rights? A: Yes, as the DVD is produced with the purpose of selling it to the public (either magicians or laymen) this is a sure case in which all music rights have to be cleared. The producer of the DVD has to be sure that all the music rights used and reproduced on the DVD have been cleared and all the rights have been paid. If you yourself are the producer, you will have to obtain permission and pay the Synchronisation rights to the publisher and to the record company. Q: If I want to offer my act on a website for download or streaming, do I have to pay music rights? A: Yes, you do as well as for similar services for mobile phones. Q: How can I clear the music rights? A: If the music is registered, you can get the clearance from the local music societies or the Music label. If the music is not registered, clearance must be obtained directly from the artist(s) who created the music. Music labels usually have an internal department, called "Synchronisation department" employees of which can help you. Often the easiest way is to make use of Music Consultants whose job it is to get clearance on music, wherever it comes from F I S M Page 4-5 Q: Can I clear music for worldwide use? A: Yes, but you need to specifically ask this to the music collection societies you are dealing with. Worldwide they have agreements with each other. Q: How long does music clearance take? A: This varies and depends on the right holders. The average time is about 3 to 6 weeks. Q: Can the clearance of music be refused? A: Yes, it can be refused if the rights holder (being the composer, lyricist, artist or their representatives) is against the usage of that music. Clearance can also be refused if the music is from a major film, and the film studio is against clearance because of either a lack of focus or of internal resources to handle the request. They may also wish to keep their music exclusively for their own products. Alternatively, they may request an unaffordable fee. Q: Who do we have to pay for the music rights? A: If the music is registered, each country has one or several music collection societies. (In the "Resources" section of this article, we have indicated links where you can find some local information). Usually most music released on CD or made available via iTunes, is registered. If the music is not registered, fees must be paid to the rights holder of the music. Music consultants can also help you with this. Q: What is a Cover Version of a music track? A: If there is a specific track you absolutely want for your act and the recording artist does not give you the authorisation to use his/her music, but you can still get the music composer's authorization ("publishing right"), you can ask another recording artist to re-record the track for your own use. We mention this option, as in most cases publishing rights are easier to get than recording rights. Please note that you always have to obtain approval for the composition via the composer or his publisher in the first place. Cover versions still require royalties and should not be an exact copy of the vocal performance of the original artist and cover versions still require performing rights for the performance of the composition. This could be specified in the music publisher's license to use their composition. In conclusion if you want to produce a unique magic act or show, why not find talented young musicians who can write unique music tailored to your needs? It may be more work, but ultimately it adds to the creative uniqueness of your act or show. It would also facilitate the work of the people who hire you (TV-Channels/Event organisers/ Theatres, etc.). It also gives a more professional feel of your services and ultimately it may give you more work. F I S M Page 5-5 Resources: Music Collection Societies around the world: www.biem.org where you can find the list of collection societies in your country. These collection societies can also recommend music library. For custom made & library music (non exhaustive): EMI Production Music www.emipm.com and www.kpm.com Play production music: www.playmusicfinder.com Royalty Free Music USA: www.royaltyfreemusic.com AKM Music United Kingdom: www.akmmusic.com Music Tracks Library USA: www.musictrackslibrary.com Digital Audio Worldwide Network USA: www.dawnmusic.com The Music Bakery USA: www.musicbakery.com Machiavelly Italy: www.machiavellimusic.com Music Production Italy: www.musicproduction.it Proud Music Library Germany: www.proudmusiclibrary.com Universal Music Worldwide: www.synchexpress.com Extreme Music: www.extrememusic.com Boom Music United Kingdom: www.boom-music.co.uk APM Music USA: www.apmmusic.com Authors & Contributors: Roz Colls, Director Music Matters Int. Ltd Stephen Drath Denis Huré, CEO The Licensing Agency Mark van den Oever, Copyright Control Music Consultancy Eric Eswin, International President of the FISM Liability: The information provided in this article on music copyrights is intended as a general guide. It is not intended to constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such, as some specifications can be different from country to country. The authors and contributors exclude any responsibility or liability for reliance on this information. -------------------------------------------- 4. David Copperfield Petition -------------------------------------------- Message from Walter Zaney Blaney Dear Friends in Magic, My Canadian magician friend Tim Drake started the petition below. Please consider visiting this petition and adding your name should you share our interest. I think with so many disappointments in recent television magic now is the time for this to happen. If you agree please forward the petition on to others in magic who may also agree. http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/dcopperfield/ Best Regards, Walter -------------------------------------------- 5. Letter From Mike Close -------------------------------------------- Message from Mona S. Morrison (US) Michael Close here. As you may already know, I am the new editor of M-U-M, the magazine of the Society of American Magicians. I just wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself and to give you some idea of what I have planned for the magazine. It is my belief that M-U-M serves two important functions for the S.A.M. The first is to provide interesting, stimulating content for the members of the organization. To this, I am adding another goal - producing better-trained, more knowledgeable magicians. I'm implementing a new Beginner's Column, a column that will ground newcomers with proper methods for standard techniques used in all fields of sleight-of-hand. A semi-regular feature will be excerpts from recently published books, letting the membership know about important new publications. To help instill a sense of history and to provide a source of topics for assembly meetings, I'm asking well-known magicians to write about the books that were important to them in their early development. I have lined up a variety of columnists, whose columns are designed to appeal to a wide scope of interests. Our review department will continue to offer the widest range of coverage of any magic magazine. I'm also planning a semi-regular column on magic shops and magic producers. Readers will be able to put "a face with an ad." The bottom line is this: I'm trying to create a base of better-informed, better-trained magicians - magicians who will continue to be fired up about magic, and thus be more likely to spend some of their disposable income on their hobby. The second important function of the magazine is to serve as a sales tool in the recruitment of new members for S.A.M. Many newcomers make their decision whether to join an organization by the quality of the magazine offered. I intend to make M-U-M a "must-have" magazine, one that is eagerly awaited each month. I invite you to be part of what (especially for me) will be a challenging, stimulating, and exciting publishing venture. I am well aware that we're all going through some tough economic times, but in order to sell, you need to get your message to your target audience. Mona Morrison is experienced, knowledgeable, and ready to help you in any way she can. Our ad rates are competitive, and we will do what we can to secure your business and make your association with M-U-M productive and enjoyable. Mona's contact information is: Mona S. Morrison 645 Darien Court Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 847-519-9201 Email: mona@monamorrison.com -------------------------------------------- 6. Remarkable Magic #70 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message from Nick Lewin (US) Tony Giorgio: actor, magician and legend. One of the great delights that I enjoyed during the seventies in the Magic Castle was watching the interplay between Dai Vernon and Tony Giorgio. The appearance of confrontation that sometimes seemed to exist between the two was just that. An appearance. On a closer look it became very apparent that there was a bond of respect and friendship that linked these two very different characters. Tony would tease Dai and draw him out to reach deeper and deeper into his professorial bag of sleights and tricks. If as Robert Houdin famously said, "A magician is an actor playing the part of a magician." Tony Giorgio is the perfect man to prove the point. Tony is one of that special breed of actors who is recognized by the vast majority of people who chance to meet him. He has been featured in more movies and television shows than I could even list in my column without Alan having forty fits. Tony was the perfect hood and villain throughout his acting career and to my mind made his greatest impact in 'The Godfather' 'Foxy Brown 'and 'Magnum Force'. To put it mildly he is a very imposing movie presence. To be absolutely honest he was also pretty damn imposing when you saw him perform his brilliant sleight of hand and gambling 'cons' in the Castle's Close-Up Gallery. I never missed a chance to watch him work his wonders. He was an amazing character with a full force talent that was second to none. Mind you he never quite abandoned his movie tough guy persona and I for one would never have dared to find the 'broad' he was tossing just in case he really was packing heat! I remember one evening I was standing in the back of the Close-Up Gallery enjoying the show. My hand was resting behind the back of the chair next to me. Ronnie Berg was occupying that particular chair and at one point he threw his entire weight against the rear of the chair and it resulted in the most unbelievable pain I had ever experienced. I screamed out at the top of my lungs causing more than a little excitement and confusion in the tiny room. Everyone turned around and stared at me. Highly embarrassing. My eyes eventually met Tony's eyes and he was looking at me in a rather bemused manner. He politely enquired if he could continue with the show. I nodded and made a vague gesture towards my throbbing hand, the gesture failed to really indicate anything at all but the show began again. No sooner had the show started when Ronnie Berg whispered an apology to me and then said; "I can fix it for you, I am really good at setting bones." He then took my injured hand and gave it a hefty squeeze. This resulted in another lusty scream from yours truly and once again the show ground to a halt. Even more embarrassing and trust me if there was ever a show you wanted to avoid bringing to a grinding halt it was Giorgio's show. There was another very unexpected, side to Tony that I was delighted to discover several years later. Aside from his other skills and talents he is one of the world's greatest authorities and performers in the truly occult area of 'Griffter Poetry.' I listened in fascination as he recited nearly lost odes to a lifestyle and era that has all but disappeared. It was a glimpse into world I scarcely knew existed. A man of many parts, a jack of several trades and master of any that took his fancy there aren't many people who don't fade into insignificant next to Tony Giorgio. He is one of the richest and most unique threads in the tapestry of the performing arts and a very unique addition to my list of Remarkable Magicians. As always send any bricks or bouquets to nicklewin@earthlink.net and check out my website at http://www.NickLewin.com -------------------------------------------- 7. Puppets - It's Not Real! - #92 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message from Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com Many folks have wondered about adding puppets into their shows or the repertoire of what they do. They are really great for younger kids, such as the daycare age, or to engage young kids at larger events. But there is also this fear of being able to pull it off well or can you do it without being a ventriloquist. There is also this dreaded feeling of some kid shouting out, "It's not real! It's a puppet!". These are all valid thoughts as they were the ones that went through the mind of my wife and I when we were figuring out if we should add puppets to what we do. We first realized that you do not have to be a ventriloquist to use puppets and have success with them. You also do not have to fear the "it's not real" reaction if you go about it properly. What is interesting for my wife and I is that we have started using more puppets in our act and strolling gigs as well. As we started doing younger shows, such as daycares and younger b-day shows, we started realizing that puppets could be a great add on to what we were already doing. We also found a need when we are at festivals and fairs to be able to engage everyone, even the younger children and toddlers, in some fashion. Puppets and puppet routines were a solution for us to at least try. We have been using puppets in the shows for several years now and it has just been an amazing experience. Just a few weeks ago, we were doing a large fall festival with a lot of younger age kids present. I had my wife go out and get our Rabbit in the Hat puppet and we started strolling with that. We have developed a routine with me playing off of Harvey (the rabbit's name) and the kids just absolutely loved it. Not just the young kids, but the older ones as well. As much as we perform these routines with the puppets, we have not once had anyone shout out "it's a puppet.. It's not real". This is not to say it will not happen, but it has not happened to us in the 2 years we have been using them. I think part of the reason is that we did not add them into the act until we really had characters for them, personalities for each of them and full routines we do that ENGAGE the children and keep their attention. We strive at really bringing out the puppets character and really bringing them to life. Each has their own personality and ways in which they do things, react to things and react to me with them. The kids are just so engaged with it that everyone just gets caught up in the moment. They are having so much fun that they do not so much forget it is a puppet, but they do not care that it is. They know it is a puppet but they are having so much fun with it. In this fashion they are able to let down their guard and relax and just enjoy the interaction between the puppet and themselves. It really is a fascinating thing to watch. We start off seeing timid children who are not sure what to make of it. However, by the time we are 30 seconds in, their eyes open wide, they smile, giggle and they end up leaving giving the puppet hugs, waving goodbye and high fives. By that time they do not care if it is a puppet or not. They simply had fun. I think another thing that hinders folks is that they themselves do not believe the puppet is real and so they extend that feeling in their presentation. YOU as a performer must believe it is real. You must not hesitate at all in this belief or it will show. When the puppet is out then he or she is real and you must show this through your reactions to it and the way you convey things to the audience. If you do not believe, they will have trouble believing. My wife and I are NOT ventriloquists and do not pretend to be. But we still have much success with our puppets from the back end research and time we spend in developing characters and personalities and engaging content. 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 -------------------------------------------- 8. Entertaining On The Ocean #42 - Paul Romhany -------------------------------------------- Message from Paul Romhany Cruise News Natalie and I are just getting ready for another busy cruise season coming up. I have been busy working on new ideas for the show and they are progressing well. Our travels in the next two months will take us from one part of the world to the other - I'll even be in New Zealand, although only for two days. Having just finished Lunch is Served book, the publishers have asked if I would write another - it is actually an update of a work I had written earlier - so I'll let you all know about that project when it's done. Again, I like to put together books that are needed in the magic community and nothing else has been done on that subject. A Note To All New Zealand Magicians - I am currently working on a Kiwi Magic book with effects, routines and stories from magicians in New Zealand. The proceeds of this book will be going to Magicana Magazine - one of the longest running magic magazines in the world. If you would like to contribute to this book please email me your articles to: promhany@hotmail.com This week's article comes from South African magician Colin Underwood. Colin is a busy pro who has been writing for my weekly BLOGS with great success. He has been kind enough to share his thoughts with the e-zine. Thanks Colin. Hints And Tips By Colin Underwood Performance Hints and Tips The following hints and tips are sourced from recent performances and contracts. I have only included the magic related problems as I perform with a variety of different skills. I have listed the tricks and topics for easy access so you can source information that might be relevant. These solutions are based on my contracts where I was traveling from one venue to the next each night with different conditions and staff and audience types. It is also long- term contracts with over 100 to 200 performances. It is assumed that your show is of a professional standard and that you are fully prepared and rehearsed. I do suggest practicing a new routine an extra 100 times before putting it into the show and also try to look at the new routine based on your previous experiences and assess what might go wrong, I have found if you can visualize a problem occurring then there is a good chance of it happening. Music Have both mini disk and CD options as well as copies of each with you. Make sure you have both a jack and pin adapters for your microphone. An adapter plug and an electricity extension lead are also useful. Keep a spare battery in your sound case. Have copies of your cue sheet in the prevalent languages with lighting plot on same sheet. Add an upbeat pre showpiece of music that sets the theme and atmosphere. This is because sometimes the venue plays bad background music just prior to your show, which has put the audience to sleep; this allows you to set up knowing how much time you have before the introduction. Supply your own voice over recorded onto the music. Most people have no clue how to introduce you and it will make a difference when entering onto the stage. Posters and publicity Have a say in the design of poster or supply your own posters, as this is what the people judge you on and decide whether to come to your show or not. Use the comments that audience members have mentioned to you about your show in your publicity. Show type Make your show shorter in the beginning of the contract and add in extra through the season. There is a natural increase in length as you add gags and extra effects. Have adaptable parts in your show that you can slot out and change for another type routine, Have routines that you can present with a child or with an adult. Prepare for outdoor shows and weather conditions. Have a pack small, play big mentality. Be aware by the end of a season the prop trunk seems to get heavier. Visual shows are better than slow talking routines. Emergency kit Have small box with useful tools such as a leather man as well as super glue and a selection of scotch tapes. Black marker pens are good for white spots on clothes. Have another box with duplicate items such as silks and gimmicks. This should include your regular replacement of items such as mouth coils, cards, batteries and other disposable items. Have a glue gun and a small torch available as well as a small mirror stuck inside the lid of the box. Liquid shoe polish can also find a place in the box. Paul Romhany paul@chaplinmagic.com www.paulromhany.com www.chaplinmagic.com BLOG - http://romhanyreport.blogspot.com -------------------------------------------- 9. The Robert Harbin Centenary -------------------------------------------- Message from Chris Woodward MIMC Organising Chairman The Robert Harbin Centenary will be held at The Centre for Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, London NW1 1HD on 15th and 16th February 2009 An exciting series of exceptional events are being planned for a one off celebration of the life Robert Harbin, of one Britain's greatest magicians. Jim Steinmeyer MIMC will deliver a Centenary Lecture: "Robert Harbin and the Polemics of Modern Illusion" A discussion of Harbin's influence on illusions, his insights and inspirations for modern performers. Mike Caveney MIMC will tell the complete story of 'The American Zig-Zag Scandal' that was the catalyst that prompted Bob to write his now highly collectible book 'Magic of Robert Harbin'. John Gaughan MIMC will discuss the history of 'The Blades of Opah,' one of Bob's early inventions. Megumi & Steve Biddle AIMC will talk about Bob's pioneering Origami contribution. John Fisher MIMC presents 'THE TELEVISION WIZARD,' a celebration of ROBERT HARBIN, the performer and inventor, illustrated by film and video clips and featuring his special guest Geoffrey Durham. MIMC. Included will be previously unseen footage of Harbin spanning a period of fifty years. Long-time Harbin friend Rolf Harris CBE will be present at some stage during the two days. There will be an exhibition of wonderful Harbin related items some never ever seen before! Registration for this Sunday event only is £60.00 which will include morning coffee; hot buffet luncheon and afternoon tea. Please send your registration to cma@themagiccircle.co.uk There will be a separate registration of £55.00 for the Monday unveiling of a Blue Plaque followed by a superb Luncheon in The Devant Room at The Centre for Magic Arts. Further details will be announced but meantime please make a note in your diary of these two very important dates. Chris Woodward MIMC Organising Chairman c.woodward@tesco.net -------------------------------------------- 10. Las Vegas Magic - November, 2008 -------------------------------------------- Compiled by David Neubauer - www.dnmagic.com Magic Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 9 pm (Dark Wed. & Thur.), Harmon Theater - Planet Hollywood. Criss Angel - Believe Currently in previews. Opening Gala on Halloween. 7 & 10:00 pm (Dark Wed. - Thurs.) - Luxor http://cirquedusoleil.com/crissangel David Copperfield Nov. 20 - Jan. 12, 2009 7:30 & 10 pm (and 4:30 Sat.) MGM Grand. www.mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN Dixie Dooley - Master Mystifier 7:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Tue.), Royal Resort and Hotel. www.houdiniexperience.com 2 for 1 Tickets: http://www.vegas4locals.com/coupon_dixie_dooley.html Jeff McBride - Magic at the Edge 7:30 pm (Dark Tues.) Sound Trax Showroom - Palace Station. www.palacestation.com/entertainment/trax $10 off tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponjeffmcbridemagic.html Jeff McBride's "Wonderground" 10 pm - 2 am Fri. & Sat. Sound Trax Showroom - Palace Station. www.vegaswonderground.com Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist 7:00 pm (Dark Fri.), Hooters Casino Hotel. Special Comp tickets: http://comps.mentalist.com Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues - Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - The Showroom, Harrah's. www.mackingshow.com Free tickets (buy 1 drink) are usually available at the concierge desk or handed out occasionally by showgirls. Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 4 pm. (Dark Oct: Mon. & Sat.; Nov: Mon. & Thurs.) Main Showroom - Flamingo. www.nathanburton.com $10 off: http://www.vegas4locals.com/couponnathanburtoncomedymagic.html Special: Buy Flamingo Buffet from Box Office for $19.95, get free ticket to show. Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/rlv/entertainment/entertainment_detail_00.html Scarlett: Princess of Magic 2:30 pm Fri. - Mon. 4 pm Tues. - Wed. (Dark Thurs.) V Theater - Planet Hollywood Resort. http://www.varietytheater.com/scarlett.htm Stars of Magic Showcase of Prestidigitation Dixie Dooley produces and hosts. 7:00 pm Sundays The Dymonds, David Darkstone, MC Bill Robinson, Royal Resort & Hotel. www.houdiniexperience.com Steve Dacri: Impossible Magic 7 pm, Sat. & Sun. $300 includes gourmet meal. 30 seats only. Six Tables Restaurant at Summerlin. 2110 N Rampart, Las Vegas. www.vegasinsidetips.com/MAGIC_impossible.html Steve Wyrick 7 & 9 pm. (Dark Fri.) Steve Wyrick Theater - Miracle Mile, Planet Hollywood. www.stevewyricktheatre.com Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) Magic In Production Shows: Bite (Vampire Strip Revue) Antonio Restivo - 10:30 pm (dark Thurs.) Stratosphere. www.bitelasvegas.com Crazy Girls Tony Douglas - 9:30 pm (Dark Tues.), Riviera. www.rivierahotel.com/entertainment_crazygirls.asp Crazy Horse Paris Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/crazy-horse-show.aspx Haunted Vegas Show and Tour Jac Hayden, Robert Allen, Adam Flowers 9:30 pm (Dark Fri.), picks up from the Greek Isles & Royal Resort. www.hauntedvegastours.com The Ultimate Variety Showcase Christopher Karpiak and "S". Roxy's Live - Sam's Town 6 pm - Midnight every Tuesday. Free. www.samstownlv.com/entertainment/event.cfm?EventID=332 V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jason Byrne (most Tues. - Sat.) & various others. 6 & 7:30, Planet Hollywood Resort - www.vtheshow.com Viva Las Vegas Max Clever and Dan Sperry - Plaza. 2 & 4 pm (Dark Sun.) www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/special-events.php Other Vegas Magic: Craig Keith performs behind the bar at various times - Dick's Last Resort, Excalibur. Paul Draper strolls at various times - Grand Canal Shoppes, Venetian. Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Las Vegas Magic Organizations Fantasma I.B.M. Ring #257, 7 pm 1st Monday each month. www.ibm257.com Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. Darwin's Magic Club, meets 10 pm Wednesdays. Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. KIDabra Las Vegas, 7 pm every 3rd Monday. Amazing Clowns, 3525 E. Flamingo. www.kidabralasvegas.com Magic Lunch Club meets every Thursday at 11:30 am - Sizzler, 307 S Decatur. Hosted jointly by IBM 257 and KIDabra Las Vegas. YMS (Young Magicians Society) 7 pm every 2nd Monday each month, IHOP Boulevard Mall on Maryland Pkwy. October, 2008 October 22-24: McBride's Magic & Mystery School's Magic and Meaning Conference. www.magicalwisdom.com. November, 2008 November 6-9: Magic and Medicine, McBride's Magic & Mystery School - with Eugene Burger. A special seminar for medical practitioners of all sorts: physicians, nurses, therapists, holistic practitioners, and other professionals who wish to understand how to apply the powerful skills of performance magic to enhance the healing relationship. www.magicalwisdom.com. November 9-11: MINDvention with Docc Hilford, Marc Spelman, Luke Jermay, Rick Maue, Paul Draper plus more - Palace Station. www.mindvention.net November 12-14: Mentalism Master Class, McBride's Magic & Mystery School. Presenting their third annual Master Class aimed exclusively at mentalists, with special guest, Ross Johnson. Jeff McBride's Master Class is the premier program in contemporary magic where YOU and your performance take center stage in a safe and supportive setting. At this Special Master Class all of the performances and all of the talks and breakout sessions will be on the subject of MENTALISM. Eugene and Jeff will share their thoughts on Mentalism for Magicians. www.magicalwisdom.com. December, 2008 December 1: IBM 257 hosts its annual Magician of the Year Gala at the Orleans Hotel and Casino. Magician of the Year - 2008 to be awarded to Mr. Electric & Carol, Marvyn and Carol Roy. February, 2009 Seigfried and Roy are set to perform for one show only at the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute's "Keep Memory Alive" Fundraiser at the Bellagio. This might turn into a television special. Details to follow. February 27-March 1: The Lance Burton Teen Weekend. Jeff McBride, Lance Burton, Eugene Burger. http://theworldmagicseminar.com March, 2009 March 1-4: World Magic Seminar - Orleans Hotel. Jeff McBride, Lance Burton, Eugene Burger, Bill Palmer, Jason Latimer, Rafael Benatar, Rannie Raymundo and more. www.theworldmagicseminar.com April, 2009 April 27-30: Steve Kissell presents the Performance Skills for the Family Entertainer, a four-day working seminar which includes "America's Funniest Magician" Competition. Trixie Bond, Steve Kissell, Marcella Murad, Dave Risley, Dave Hill, Glen Bailey, Ralph Metzler, B-Rad, Ron Conley, Tom King and Will Roya. Special interview with Stan Allen. Orleans Hotel. www.familyentertainersworkshop.com Please email any Las Vegas magic updates/news to David through his website: www.dnmagic.com. -------------------------------------------- 11. Broken Wand - Ted Lesley -------------------------------------------- Message from Larry White (US) I am so sad to read of Ted Lesley's passing. We were dear friends, though we never met in person. I can't recall how exactly we did meet. It was many years ago. I was Magic Editor for M-U-M and I think Ted wrote to complain about something (he was so agitated with the SAM that he had quit). Ted began phoning me about once every week or so and we had conversations that lasted for hours. I once asked him how he could afford this from Germany and he gave me some mumbo-jumbo about an Internet phone connection he had through Arizona. I suspect his mysterious connection came from his own pocket book. And, regularly, I would go to my mailbox to discover a package from Ted that contained one of his recently marketed tricks. In exchange he simply asked me for my "evaluation." Later we needed a monthly columnist for M-U-M's Mental Column so, naturally, I asked Ted. He complained that he had a "falling out" with the SAM but that he would do it for me. He even rejoined to make his participation "official." Still later, Ted told me he was starting his own magazine and asked me for a contribution. And, he was kind enough to put my Bermuda Bottle routine as number one on the first page of his Mind and Magic magazine. His regular phone calls continued but he began to complain more about his health, which was a constant plague. Gradually the frequency of his calls declined and finally stopped. I could not reach him by mail, e-mail or phone. And today I learn he died. But, I am left with a richer life because I knew him. I will think of him often and miss him deeply. Thank you, Ted. My friend. Larry White ---------------------------------------------- Whaley's Who's Who of Magic Lesley, Ted (Düren, Rhineland, West Germany: 1 Aug 1937-   ) Stage name of Friedrich Karl "Teddy" Helzel since 1955. Learned in 1948 from school teacher Carl Bornhausen. Originally a pro actor in film. Then, since 1974, pro stage & close-up magician & mentalist since 1974. Pet magic effects: Bill in Cig, Linking Fingerrings, Coin in Bottle, Credit-Card Card Trick, & Rising Cards. Pet mental effects: The Delsey-Miracle, The Pegasus Page, Psychometry, and Q&A. Magic supervisor for 1978 movie The Magician of Lublin. Invented Working Performer's Marked Deck (1981), Credit-Card Card Trick (1985), Vanishing TV (1985, by black art), Working Performer's Hydrostatic Glass (1987), Delsey Miracle (1988), Automatic Pegasus-Page (1988), etc. Collector of Himber props. General manager with partner (Bernd Martin Langschied) of a theatrical booking agency & show production company ("Magic Productions Show-Service GMBH") in West Berlin since 1981. PEA Mentalist of the Year 1992 & PEA Dunninger Award 1992. Wrote Das Markierte Spiel (1982), English tr as Marked: The Marked Deck Manual (1983; enlarged ed 1987, 52pp, as Ted Lesley's Working Performer's Marked Deck Manual); The Kismet Connection (1986, 27pp); & Paramiracles (1994, 294pp; Engl tr by Bill Palmer & Oliver Erens). Articles in Magische Welt, Genii, Magigram, Spell-Binder, & Magick. TV bits. -------------------------------------------- 12. Superday Australia 2009 - August 21st - 23rd -------------------------------------------- Message from Sean Taylor (Aust) Plans are coming together. Hard to believe we have just done one and things need to be in place so soon. I expect to announce the lectures by Christmas. The names are great so put it in your diary now. -------------------------------------------- 13. Harry Stanley's Widow Rita Passed Away -------------------------------------------- Message from John Palfreyman For those who remember Harry Stanley (Unique Magic) his Widow Rita passed away on 21st October 2008 at the age of 99. She was living in the village of Wem near to Shrewsbury. -------------------------------------------- 14. Austria Honors Magic Christian -------------------------------------------- Message from Magic Christian Republic of Austria honors Magic Christian with the Golden medal of Honor On October 10th Magic Christian, well known magician all over the world and specialized in researching the life of Joh. Nep. Hofzinser, the famous father of card- and salon magic, was honoured with the Golden Medal of honour by the republic of Austrian. The third volume of his trilogy is nearly finished now. The laudation was held be the General director, Prof. Dr. Bernd Loetsch, of the Museum of nature with whom Magic Christian plans to exhibit permanent dioramas of "natural magic" wonders. Many celebrities of the Austrian societies were present. In the video you can see: The former minister of Health, Mrs. Rauch-Kallat, the former minister of Defense, Mr. Werner Fasslabend, the former president of the National Bank of Austria, Dr. Maria Schaumayer, the former world champion wrestler Otto Wanz, The Vice-president of the Austrian Soccer Institution, Beppo Mauhart, and many others. http://www.kleinezeitung.at/allgemein/video/oesterreich/1575384/index.do (Video enclosed) http://onlineclippings.observer.at/mailforms/viewurl.aspx?uid=7cb5ec34-3a24- 4b1a-9ac2-0795cf59ef70 http://onlineclippings.observer.at/mailforms/viewurl.aspx?uid=0e1d9e95-199d- 45e6-b4de-224551d5c1d9 Best regards Christian -------------------------------------------- 15. Performers Liability Insurance -------------------------------------------- Message from Mark Daniel KIDabra International The Association of KIDshow and Family Performers announces Optional Liability Insurance for performers with one of the strongest policies in the industry. The insurance is not a group pool policy and begins and renews annually when you want it to. Choose between one and two million dollars coverage. This insurance is available to members of KIDabra International in the US. Available to members worldwide are the other great benefits, The KIDabra Journal: The Voice of The KIDshow World now entering its 4th year of publication, Free member websites (offered first in the industry), the KIDabra Discussion Forum and the upcoming 18th annual KIDabra Conference August 12-15, 2009. With over 700 members worldwide and 10 chapters in the US and Europe we invite you to be a part of this amazing family of KIDshow performers. -------------------------------------------- 16. First S.A.M. Assembly In Space - # 17,210 -------------------------------------------- Message from George Schindler - Dean - The Society of American Magicians At 7:25 pm on October 20 2008, the first organizational meeting of assembly number 17,210 - will be held on the international space station. "The Richard Garriott Assembly" was duly recognized and received its temporary charter at the Society's National Council meeting October 18. The Assembly number requested was named for the speed of 17,210 miles per hour travelled by the international space station. Members in space are Richard Garriott and Greg Chamitoff. Other members on earth signed the necessary applications. Full charter will be granted at the National meeting in July during the convention in Buffalo, N. Y While in space the astronauts are planning to perform some magic tricks. Photos of the astronauts available on request- as well as detailed biographical material on Richard Garriott. See www.magicsam.com for updates and new releases as they become available. -------------------------------------------- 17. Award-Winning Magician Eric Decamps -------------------------------------------- Message from George Schindler - Dean - The Society of American Magicians Award-winning magician Eric Decamps returns to metropolitan room for holiday season Limited Engagement From November 9 To December 28 (October 21, 2008) The close-up conjurer and storyteller Eric DeCamps will pop up at The Metropolitan Room every Sunday at 4pm beginning November 9 in "Pure Magic." His 8-week holiday engagement running through December 28 marks the return (at a new time) of "Pure Magic - A Performance in Contemporary Conjuring." Voted Magician of the Year by The Society of American Magicians, DeCamps puts a contemporary spin on close-up conjuring in this intimate chamber magic show that evokes the ambiance of a 1940's jazz club. Consisting of intimate conjuring at breathtakingly close quarters, "Pure Magic" features several rarely-seen sleight of hand effects. Most notable are his tribute to the legendary one-handed Argentinean magician, René Levand (the rarely seen "Bread Crumbs"), and the legendary "The Spirit Box" which uses an invention of Ira and William Davenport, the 19th century pioneers of Spiritualism, as its point of departure. Of Levand DeCamps says, "I met René many years ago, and he taught me his prized trick with a tea cup and some bread crumbs. After I mastered it, I performed it for him and moved him to tears. That night he granted me permission to perform his most cherished mystery. "Many who have seen "The Spirit Box" have sworn that they have witnessed the impossible. "It gives you pause," DeCamps claims. "It's especially gratifying when hardened skeptics admit that this may be their first brush with the supernatural." Born and raised in Forest Hills, New York, DeCamps earned the Gold Medal for Excellence for Close Up Magic from The Society of American Magicians in 1995. He is only the second magician in the 106-year history of this organization (which was founded by another New York-born and bred magician, Harry Houdini) to receive this prestigious award. He was a regular performer at former nightclubs The Magic Towne House and Mostly Magic. An unforgettable introduction to the art of sleight of hand, "Pure Magic" is a great holiday treat to boot. The 75-minute show is directed by the MAC Award-winner Bob Fitch. "Pure Magic" is bound to make a believer out of you. Frank, funny, and fact-filled "Pure Magic" plays every Sunday at 4pm starting Sunday November 9. The eight-week engagement runs through December 28. The cover charge is $25. There is a two-drink minimum that is impossible to make disappear. The Metropolitan Room, 34 West 22nd Street, is rated a "Best of New York" by New York Magazine. For reservations call 212/206-0440. For information visit www.metropolitanroom.com. -------------------------------------------- 18. Eileen Mason Passed Away Peacefully -------------------------------------------- Message from Martin Breese (UK) Eileen Mason, the widow of my special friend the late and great Eric Mason, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on the 10th of October 2008. She died in hospital here in the UK. Eileen, like her late husband Eric, was a painter and after the death of Eric controlled the rights of his many tricks and books. Sadly there were a number of magic dealers who took Eric's effects and reproduced them without Eileen's permission. She was infrequently reimbursed and in most cases those who stole and manufactured Eric's great effects such as the Beta Wallet avoided paying her a fair fee. How sad. Eileen was a close friend and I did all that I could do to trace and harass the offenders but little was achieved. Eileen was survived by her daughter Penny and son-in-law David and their daughter Madeleine. I will always remember Eric and Eileen Mason as time with them was always magical. -------------------------------------------- 19. Biography On Dariel Fitzkee -------------------------------------------- Message from David Goodsell (US) Since MUM, in addition to editing Oracle Magic Magazine with Larry White I have written the definitive biography on Dariel Fitzkee of Fitzkee Trilogy fame. Take a look at Davidgoodsellmagic.com to get an idea. Also, You might have seen the articles in Magic and Linking Ring last month and this. -------------------------------------------- 20. 2009 World Magic Seminar -------------------------------------------- Message from Bill Wells Roberto Giobbi's Homage to Dai Vernon On Saturday, February 28, 2009, the day before the 2009 WMS begins, noted magic authority Roberto Giobbi will present a special 3 hour seminar/workshop entitled "Homage to Dai Vernon". This remarkable event has only been presented once in North America at a special event in Canada earlier this year. Mr. Giobbi's presentation received rave reviews from the 25 people who attended the sold out event. Each session of this special presentation will be limited to 30 attendees. Once the first session is sold out, we will take admissions to the second session which will also be limited to 30 people. Both sessions will take place on Saturday, February 28 at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. This is the day before the 32nd World Magic Seminar begins. Everyone admitted to the Homage to Dai Vernon will receive a special 80-page set of lecture notes signed by Mr. Giobbi. In addition, each attendee will receive a pass giving them admission to a special one hour Card College workshop to be presented by Roberto during the World Magic Seminar which begins on Sunday, March 1. The Card College workshops will not be open to anyone except those attending the Homage to Vernon sessions. Admission to the Homage to Vernon sessions including the special notes and the Card College workshop pass must be made in advance. You may register for the Homage sessions and find addition details on the content at our website http://www.theworldmagicseminar.com. Click on Special Events.  You may also find information there if you would rather register by telephone or mail. Information on the WMS can also be found on the website. Please don't delay in making your registration to this very special presentation. It is strictly limited to 60 people and we will not be able to add any extra sessions. Thank you - Bill Bill Wells Executive Producer World Magic Seminar -------------------------------------------- 21. New York Magic -------------------------------------------- Message from George Schindler - Dean - The Society of American Magicians Bruce Kalver will appear as a special guest on George Schindler's "New York Magic" show October 30 At the New York Historical Society. 170 Central Park West at 77 Street- Show begins at 6:30- After show wine and cheese party features two PA #1 magicians - Richard Bossong and Josh Rand doing close-up Special $8.00 rate to magicians using MAG177 code - 212-868-4444 Mayor Bloomberg as declared Oct 25-- 31 as " Magic Week" in NY. The proclamation will be exhibited at the museum that evening. -------------------------------------------- 22. 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) -------------------------------------------- 23. 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