* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment * www.Alan-Watson.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #647 Date: Sunday 29th March 2009 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================ 1. Editor's Message 2. Ali Bongo's Funeral Was Quite Amazing 3. Major Primetime Show Casting Magician Families!!! 4. The Masked Magician 5. 4F (Fechters Finger Flicking Frolic) 6. The Sixth Annual Magic Show Conference 7. Remarkable Magic #87 - Nick Lewin 8. First Impressions - #111 - Kyle Peron 9. Cruising With Paul Romhany #62 10. Las Vegas Magic - April, 2009 11. "Magicana" Magazine For April/May 12. The Hocus Pocus Exhibition - Melbourne, Australia 13. Max Maven Lecture - Boomers 14. Jarred Fell In Mayhem Of Magic 15. Magic Maynia Convention - Des Moines, Ia - May 8-10 16. Magic Underground 17. The Best Magic Convention In 2009 18. Looking For Magician By The Name Of Ted Barlock 19. e-zine Archives 20. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- 1. Editor's Message -------------------------------------------- We hear that this year's FISM now has 1400+ registrants. For more information on FISM go to: www.fism.org Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com -------------------------------------------- 2. Ali Bongo's Funeral Was Quite Amazing -------------------------------------------- Message by Mandy Davis (UK) Ali's funeral was quite amazing. The place was full, people were standing out in the hallway where the service was relayed. There was an official video recording made of it too. I would think about 200 people attended, including two from France and one from the US. There was a reading of a psalm from David Berglas, a tribute from Ali's niece and nephew, as well as from Ali's long-time friend and neighbour Stuart who had lived next door for over 30 years, a song 'The Wind Beneath My Wings' from a friend of Ali's, and tributes from Paul Daniels and Jack Delvin. The service and address was from The Magic Circle's own pastor Peter Liddlelow. There was a lot of laughter, a lot of applause for them and also for Ali and a lot of tears or well held back lumps in throats. The coffin was wicker and Ali's golden slippers sat on top, filled with orange and yellow flowers. As the curtains closed his music 'In a Persian Market Place' (from his Shriek act) was played and as the whole thing ended we heard Ali's voice singing his own composition 'Just a Little Bit of Magic'. Afterwards people attended a generous spread of food at a local hotel and both family and magicians mingled and talked for several hours. There were films of Ali's varied performances and lectures in one room where people could sit and watch their fill of the great man's work. A truly fitting goodbye. All the best Mandy Davis mandy@TheMagicCircle.co.uk www.mandymagic.co.uk -------------------------------------------- 3. Major Primetime Show Casting Magician Families!!! -------------------------------------------- Message by Greg Delucia forwarded on by Bob Buczkowski I am a casting producer for ABC Television's hit primetime reality show, Wife Swap. Currently, I am trying to cast families in which at least one person in the immediate family is a magician (if the whole family is involved even better - also street magicians are a plus).  Dennis Rourke thought perhaps you might be interested or know someone else that would be. In case you are unfamiliar with the show, the premise of Wife Swap is to take two different families and have the Mom's switch place to experience how another family lives. Half of the week, Mom lives the life of the family she is staying with. Then she introduces a "rule change" where she implements rules and activities that her family has. It's a positive experience for people to not only learn but teach about other families and other ways of life. Wife Swap airs on Disney owned ABC television on Fridays at 8pm- the family hour! There is another show that copies ours. We focus on having fun, learning and teaching. They focus on conflict. I just want to make sure our show doesn't get confused with theirs. Requirements: Wife Swap is now accepting families with at least one child between 7 and 17 and should reside in the continental U.S. (There may be other children living in the home who are older or younger than the required age. as long as one child is in the required age range.) My hope is that you would pass this information on to members of your community and if they are interested, they will be able to reach me. Maybe you even have a family in mind that you could refer me to. This is a very unique experience that can be life changing for everyone. Families featured on the show will receive a financial honorarium for lost wages, time and commitment. If you refer a family that is selected you receive $1,000. I appreciate you taking the time to read this - I know it is a unique request. If you have any questions, please call me at the number below. Please let me know if you think you will be able to help me. Thank you for your time! Greg DeLucia| Casting Associate Producer 100 6th Ave| 3rd Floor, Suite 3-29| New York| NY 10013 tel. + 1 646 747 7954| fax. + 1 646 216 4295 greg.delucia@castingrdf.com -------------------------------------------- 4. The Masked Magician -------------------------------------------- Message by Ron Wilson (US) I read with interest item 15. Magic Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed, by Wanda Clines. I would suggest something much stronger, which Joe Herzer and I have discussed before. All the top brass of the magic societies in the U.S. - the IBM, SAM, PCAM, TAOM, the Magic Castle (5,000+ members) and others, should write directly to the sponsors and say loud and clear "Please do not support this program because it is harming . . ." adding a veiled threat of advising possibly 50,000 members to boycott their products, will definitely get their attention, especially now with the current recession already hurting them very badly. -------------------------------------------- 5. 4F (Fechters Finger Flicking Frolic) -------------------------------------------- Message by Obie Obrien (US) From Obie Obrien, about the Original Close Up Magic convention sometimes called 4F (Fechters Finger Flicking Frolic). Each year someone asks who is coming to this event? Well here are some statistics that might be of interest to your readers. This year I have 14 different countries represented: Spain, Canada, Japan, Italy, England, Hungary, Venezuela, Argentina, Scotland, France, Germany, Switzerland, Finland and Portugal. There are 8 FISM winners coming, which includes the Grand Prix winner Rick Merrill. Also the FISM Treasure, Domenico Dante is coming. Big Close Up contest winners from IBM, SAM, MacMillans and Blackpool, a total of 10 will be there. Plus a number of smaller conventions Close Up winners. There will be 68 people from outside of the USA. 6 IBM P.P. and the 2008-2009 President Joan Caesar will be there. 7 SAM P.P. and the 2008-2009 President Bruce Kalver will be there. -------------------------------------------- 6. The Sixth Annual Magic Show Conference -------------------------------------------- Message by Marty Hahne The sixth annual Magic Show Conference will be held April 30 - May 2, 2009 in the entertainment capital of Branson, Missouri. The conference is presented by Duane and Mary Laflin and Marty and Brenda Hahne of Dazzling Magic. Talent includes Shawn Farquhar, Amos Levkovitch, Hank Moorehouse, Peachey Keene, Duane Laflin and Marty Hahne. Enjoy ten lectures, two big Branson shows, staff show, critique session, dealers, ice cream party and more. There will be a bonus gospel day presented by Duane Laflin on April 29. Registration is $145 for adults, $100 for spouses and $85 for children under 16. Get more information from www.dazzlingmagic.com -------------------------------------------- 7. Remarkable Magic #87 - Nick Lewin -------------------------------------------- Message by Nick Lewin (US) Having fun down-under. Your humble scribe is just about recovering from the fun he had lecturing last week in Australia. I was pleased and excited to meet so many magicians during my all to brief visits in Sydney and Melbourne. I lectured to a large and lively crowd in Sydney in Sean Taylor's wonderful magic shop. One of the highlights of both my recent trips to Australia has been getting to spend a little time talking mentalism with Sean. He is a highly skilled and deeply practical mind reader whose knowledge is profound and matched by his generosity in sharing it. Since I last met Sean I have had the opportunity to obtain his recent book on mentalism, "MindStorms"  it is a true gem and should be in the library of anyone interested in this kind of work. Many books on this topic contain pipe dreams and ideas that read better than they play. This book is filled with practical and audience tested routines. The book contains definitive versions of many classic effects within its pages and I count it amongst the finest works on this commercial field of work. I was also treated to a preview of an item from Sean's next book. It was a brilliant adaptation of one of my favorite effects and left me impatient for the publication of his next book. I want the first copy of the printing press. If you are not familiar with Sean and his contribution to the magic world I suggest that you contact him at www.taylorsmagicshop.com and at least make his digital acquaintance. It seemed I had no sooner said goodbye to my friends in Sydney than I was arriving in Melbourne. Waiting there to meet me at the airport was Graham Etherington and his charming wife Noeline. Graham had set up the lecture for me and was the perfect host during my visit. Thank you. The lecture was a great success and allowed me not only to make a new friend but also to catch up with an old one. During our pre-lecture dinner I met Charles Gauci for the first time, and we started gossiping happily as though we were lifelong friends. It was a conversation that I can't wait to continue when there isn't a time constraint. Just as I was about to begin my lecture I was surprised and delighted by the arrival of Chuck Fayne. The Magic Castle lost one of its finest performers and nicest people when Chuck deserted us for the Aussie shores. During the lecture Chuck reminded me of different stories and 'bits' that I managed to add to my talk. We miss you Chuck. Thanks to everyone for making this visit so enjoyable I can't wait to return. Now I have to get ready for re-uniting with Alan, Michele, Richard, Mike, Ken, Wayne, my Kiwi friends in Auckland this weekend. Sometimes it is just great to be a magician. This week is one of those times! For details on my recession busting lecture 'Making Money with Magic,' check out my website www.nicklewin.com The lecture is a great way to get some of those old props out of the cupboard and make some money with them! While you are there watch the teaser for my new trick '20-2-10s.' It is just for the select few who trust me enough to risk 20 bucks on a piece of really commercial magic. -------------------------------------------- 8. First Impressions - #111 - Kyle Peron -------------------------------------------- Message by Kyle Peron (US) magic4u02@aol.com http://www.kyleandkellymagic.com I would like to start by making a generalized statement. Ready? Here goes. "Performing for children is like performing for a pack of wild animals." Now before anyone goes crazy filling my email in box, allow me to explain. I make this statement NOT as many have perceived it to be in the past. I use this phrase to make an entirely different point altogether. To most entertainers of children, the above phrase brings with it the meaning that children are like a pack of wild sharks waiting for a feeding frenzy. It brings with it the connotation of how kids will eat you alive the minute you step on stage in front of them. The seasoned performer will know that although this may be true, it is up to YOU to take and maintain control. But that definition of the phrase is not what I want to talk about. I have thought about the phrase a lot lately and have a different take on it entirely. It is one in which I think will open your eyes and also makes sense to anyone who has ever performed for a group of kids. I first take the meaning of the phrase differently. I use it as an important analogy. The concept of "a pack of wild animals" is used to mean the difference between an "insider" and an "outsider". If you have ever watched wild animal packs, there is a behavior there that can almost relate to the children's performer experience. The children in the audience I see and refer to as this "pack". They are a pack in the sense that most are the same age, they know each other and are friends. They have accepted each other. This acceptance is much like animal packs. If you are part of the pack, you are an insider and accepted by them. So where do we as magicians fall in to this analogy? Good question. I see us as the "outsider". We are the person approaching the pack. As we approach the pack gets nervous and anxious. The reason is quite simple. They do not know us, trust us or even have any indication what our intentions are. Are we there to help them, entertain them, hurt them or embarrass them? This pack of kids has never seen us before. They have no idea about us other then what they may have heard from the client. In many ways we are so much an outsider to this pack. If we want acceptance, we must earn it. We cannot walk out and just suddenly demand or expect them to accept us in. It does not work that way. Acceptance must be first shown and earned. The pack must decide and will decide in 5-10 minutes whether they will accept you in or totally leave you out. Those first 5 to 10 mins is so critical to the children's performer. Because of this, you must first be aware this happens and then plan your show accordingly. You need to show them your personality and style and convey to them that the show is fun, you are fun and it is OK for them to "let you in". When solving any problem, it helps to first analyze what the problems are. Listing them out helps the person to find a solution. So what is going through the minds of the children or the pack? What is it that they are thinking as you begin a show? There are many answers to this but allow me to suggest only a few. - Is this another scary adult? - Is he or she going to embarrass me? - Should I trust him or her? - Am I allowed to react or am I going to be yelled at for reacting? - Is this going to be fun? - Am I going to be bored? - What is this all about as I have never seen anything like this or a person dressed this way? - What is a magician? - Should I offer to help or will helping be scary? This is only but a few as the list certainly is much longer then what I simply stated above as an example. As you can see, defining what kids are thinking, can really help you to solve the problem when you are faced with it. If you know that you are being judged by the pack, then making sure you address these questions, certainly will help you to seek their acceptance. Addressing them may not always mean a lecture. In many cases you can address the children's concerns through what you do and how you do it. This is why I stated that those first 5-10 mins of your show is critical.  At the end of that time period, most kids will already know if they will let you in or leave you out. Once the decision is made, it is often very hard to get them to change their mind. So what should you do? Go down your list of questions and answer to yourself how you can address each one. If they think you may be a scary adult, make sure you present yourself as a fun character that is smiling and having a good time. If they do not know they can react, do a simple warm up at the start of the show that shows them that it is indeed OK to react and how they can do so. If they are not sure if it will be fun, have an opening that is visual, colorful and to music. You can see from even these simple answers that you are addressing their questions and as you address each one, they start to accept you more. They allow you to come closer and closer. Before you know it they have accepted you as a member of the pack. Once accepted, the show goes a lot easier and you will find you both will have more fun from the experience. 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 -------------------------------------------- 9. Cruising With Paul Romhany #62 -------------------------------------------- Message by Paul Romhany (NZ) Here is an introduction to those who want to cruise. When I first started working on cruise ships with my act it was a very daunting task. For many years, after watching 'The Love Boat' on television, I would dream of one day becoming a headline act on cruise ships, and finally when it became a reality I was very nervous and didn't know anything about what to expect. I wish there had been a book that could answer all the questions that were lingering in my mind. For me it all happened rather quickly so before I knew it, I was on a ship and thrown in the 'deep end', so to speak. Fortunately in my case, on that first contract there were other guest entertainers on the ship who took me under their wings and showed me the ropes and helped me get my head around the world of cruising. To this day I still work on ships with these wonderful people and I have developed some good solid friendships. Most of the work for variety acts has moved out to sea, with their fully equipped theatres and the ever growing need for good entertainment. Most ships have production shows plus guest entertainers, which usually consist of a magician, a comedian, an instrumentalist (banjo, harmonica, guitar etc.) and a ventriloquist. The production shows on ships today are lavish, Las Vegas style shows with ten to sixteen dancers and singers. You will become part of one of the last bastions of entertainment for Variety Artists, a place where we get a chance to have an audience and perform our full evening shows. If you cruise, you will want to invest in a good digital camera and take lots of photos because you will get a chance very few people in this world have, to travel to almost every country on earth and get a taste for other cultures, food and lifestyles. If I was to give one bit of advice it would this: make sure you are ready! You will only get one chance at working on a ship so don't rush into it before you feel you are ready. Cruise ship work didn't happen for me overnight, I wanted to do it for many years but was glad I took my time and developed an original act that has lasted me well and kept me employed for many years. Ask yourself, are you in a position to be away from home, away from your family for long periods. Are you healthy enough to withstand the travel and lifestyle that comes with working on a ship? Do you have the right type of act to work on a ship? As with any type of performance, know your limits and be prepared. Finally, you have one of the best jobs in the world, certainly one of the best and highest paid on a ship. I never take what I do for granted and everyday am thankful for what I have. Cruise ships have been great to me and helped me financially and also the place where I met my wife Natalie. You are a Guest Entertainer, this means you don't have any extra jobs, you are simply there to perform your act once a week and entertain the passengers. In the past several years that I have been working on cruise ships, I have had the privilege to travel around the world at least a dozen times visiting almost every country or port in the world. As I write this I have just left South America in the Amazon jungle four days ago, and today am in Dakar in Africa. Next week I will be in St. Petersburg Russia, how many jobs are there where we can see so much of the world. Happy Cruising - Paul Romhany -------------------------------------------- 10. Las Vegas Magic - April, 2009 -------------------------------------------- Compiled by David Neubauer - www.dnmagic.com Magic Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 9 pm (Dark Sun. & Mon.), Harmon Theater, Krave - Planet Hollywood. Criss Angel - Believe 7 & 10:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Mon.) - Luxor www.cirquedusoleil.com/crissangel David Copperfield April 2-22, May 21-July 1, July 16-19 7:30 & 10 pm (and 4:30 Sat.) MGM Grand. www.mgm.admission.com/cgi/guide.cgi?l=EN David Darkstone and the Stars of Magic Live! Dixie Dooley produces. 7:00 pm (Dark Wed. - Sat.) The Dymonds and host & emcee Bill Robinson, Royal Resort & Hotel. www.thestarsofmagic.com 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponstarsofmagic.html Dixie Dooley - Master Mystifier 7:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Tue.), Royal Resort and Hotel. www.houdiniexperience.com 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/coupon_dixie_dooley.html Gerry McCambridge - The Mentalist 6:30 pm (Dark Fri.), Hooters Casino Hotel. www.hooterscasinohotel.com/entertainment/thementalist.cfm Special Comp tickets: www.web.me.com/gerrymccambridge/Mentalist/Las_Vegas.html Ignite Antonio Restivo. 11:00 pm (Dark Mon.), Greek Isles. www.ignite13.com Special Discount: $10 off http://www.ignite13.com/flyer.pdf Intimate Illusions - Steve Dacri Through Mar. 28 6:00 pm (Dark Sun. - Thurs.) Charlie Palmer Steak at the 4 Seasons/Mandalay Bay Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues - Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. www.montecarlo.com/entertainment/lance.aspx Special Discount: Mention you want "The Special" at the box office to receive a 25% Discount. 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. Magic's a Drag Steve Weston (aka Cashetta) 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun.) - Planet Hollywood Resort. www.magicsadrag.com Nathan Burton Comedy Magic Show 4 pm - Main Showroom - Flamingo. www.nathanburton.com Special: Buy Flamingo Buffet from Box Office for $19.95, get free ticket to show. Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Thurs. - Fri.), 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. www.varietytheater.com/scarlett.htm Superstars of Magic 7:30 & 9:30 (Dark Tues.) Steven Best and Cassandra, Vegas Club Showroom. www.vegasclubcasino.net/entertainment/superstars_of_magic.php 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponsuperstarsofmagic.html Steve Wyrick 7 pm. (Dark Fri.) Sat. 7 & 9 pm. Also 4 pm. shows on Mar. 29-31, Apr. 1-12, May 25, July 2 & 5, & 15-August 22. Steve Wyrick Theater - Miracle Mile, Planet Hollywood Resort. www.stevewyricktheatre.com Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana. 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) www.tropicanalv.com/ent_dirkarthur.asp Magical Mix Ben Seidman and Christopher Karpiak 10 pm - Midnight (Dark Sun. - Wed.) Mix at Mandalay Bay. www.mandalaybay.com/dining/mixlounge.aspx Magic In Production Shows: Crazy Girls Tony Douglas - 9:30 pm (Dark Tues.), Riviera. www.rivierahotel.com/entertainment_crazygirls.asp 2 for 1 Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponcrazygirls.html 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 $10 off Tickets: www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html The Ultimate Variety Showcase Christopher Karpiak and "S". Roxy's Live - Sam's Town 10 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. 7 & 8:30, Planet Hollywood Resort - www.vtheshow.com 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 Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. 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 April, 2009 April 6: Max Maven Lecture sponsored by the Fantasma I.B.M. Ring #257. Boomers, 3200 Sirius Ave. Free for members, $15 for non-members. April 9-15: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school 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 May, 2009 May 29-31: World Stars of Magic - Jeff Hobson, Kalin & Jinger, Suncoast. June, 2009 June 25-30: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school August, 2009 August 12-13: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Quick Change Costumes. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith with Lee Alex. www.magicalwisdom.com/school August 19-25: Magic & Mystery School - Extended Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school September, 2009 September 7-8: Magic & Mystery School - Sisters of Mystery, a Magical Conference for Women. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school September 22-24: Magic & Mystery School - Magic and Martial Arts. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school September 25-27: Magic & Mystery School - Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school October, 2009 October 9-11: Magic & Mystery School - Focus on Street Magic. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school October 21-24: The Magic and Meaning Conference - A distinctive, annual small-group conference that focuses on creating meaningful magic routines, effective scripts, and new venues for performance. Featuring keynote addresses by Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Robert E. Neale, Lawrence Hass, George Parker, David Goodsell, and a number of short talks by experts on subjects relating to the themes of the conference. www.magicalwisdom.com/school November, 2009 November 6-8: Magic & Mystery School -Magic and Medicine. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school November 11-13: Magic & Mystery School - Master Class for Mentalists. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Tobias Beckwith. www.magicalwisdom.com/school -------------------------------------------- 11. "Magicana" Magazine For April/May -------------------------------------------- Message by Michael Woolf - Editor Magiciana "Magicana" Magazine for April/May is now in the mail. This issue features an interview with Walter "Zaney" Blaney and has an amazing posed portrait of him on the front cover. John Shyrock was also interviewed during his recent visit to New Zealand. Regular columns from Bernard Reid, David Ginn, Terry Seabrooke, Richard Webster, Wayne "Chicane" Rogers, Ken Ring and Roderick Mulgan are featured along with stories and effects exclusive to "Magicana" by Joel Moskowitz, Bev Bergeron, Bill Seagraves, and a special portrait by Jon Zealando. Subscribe NOW to "Magicana" Magazine at www.magicana.co.nz or email Editor Michael Woolf at mail@michaelw.co.nz -------------------------------------------- 12. The Hocus Pocus Exhibition - Melbourne, Australia -------------------------------------------- Message by Charles Gauci (Aust) The Hocus Pocus exhibition at the city museum has finally come to an end. Beginning on 10 December. Members of the Australian Society of Magicians have performed on every Wednesday until the final show eleven weeks later on 18 February. Fifteen ASM members took part in the half hour shows, Ivy Branson was mainly responsible for the success of this venture ably assisted by Brian Pleasants and she cooperated closely with the museum curator Simon Gregg who said in a recent email: "Also, as you have probably heard, I have resigned from the museum and this is my final week. I'd like to thank you personally for all the hard work you have put into this exhibition to make it such a success. It has broken attendance records for the museum and by the time it closes almost 10,000 people will have visited the exhibition. I am confident that the ASM will continue to grow and prosper, and I hope that I have been able to assist through this show." What this shows is that magic is alive and well in Melbourne. The ASM is going from strength to strength with average attendance at our monthly meetings of around sixty members. -------------------------------------------- 13. Max Maven Lecture - Boomers -------------------------------------------- Message by John McClenahan Fantasma Ring 257 announces a lecture by Max Maven Where: Boomers 3200 Sirius Ave. When: April 6, 2009 Time: 7 pm Cost: Free to dues paid up ring members $15.00 to all others Please make reservations by calling John McClenahan 395-3956 or email doctormagiclv@embarqmail.com -------------------------------------------- 14. Jarred Fell In Mayhem Of Magic -------------------------------------------- Message by Jarred Fell (NZ) http://www.the-edge.co.nz/Event-Pages/C/Comedy-Festival-2009/Mayhem-of-Magic.aspx Click on the link above to view more details about this event or copy and paste the address into your web browser. This was a one-time mailing sent by jay jarredmagic69@hotmail.com. If you have any questions about this message please go to: http://the-edge.co.nz/privacy.aspx on The EdgeŽ website. -------------------------------------------- 15. Magic Maynia Convention - Des Moines, Ia - May 8-10 -------------------------------------------- Message by Bob Buczkowski Ring 167 Justo Hijo of Magic, Inc. Des Moines, Iowa Presents their 72nd Annual "Magic May- nia" 2009 Convention Special Guest Lecturers: Fielding West, Justin Alan, and Joe Lefler Friday, May 8 - 7:00 p.m. Covenant Presbyterian Church, West Des Moines Fielding West Workshop (this is an extra charge event. See the flyer) Saturday, May 9 - 8:00 a.m.- 10 p.m. Convention/ Lectures/ Public Show Covenant Presbyterian Church 28th & Ashworth Rd., West Des Moines Sunday, May 10 Fielding & Friends Show & Brunch (extra event - $30) 1:00 p.m. Sunday Brunch; 3:00 p.m. Public Show 4th Street Theater, 214-4th Street, Des Moines (next to Java Joe's) Schedule Of Events - May 9, 2009 8:00 a.m. Registration / coffee & doughnuts 8:30 a.m. Joe Lefler (aka Mr. Tricky) Lecture 10:00 a.m. Dealer Show (Twin City Magic & Costume and others) 11:00 a.m. Fielding West Lecture 12:30 p.m. Lunch (provided with registration) 1:30 p.m. Flea Market (Bring your magic items to sell or trade) 2:00 p.m. Justin Alan Lecture 3:30 p.m. Visit Dealer Room (lighten your wallet) 4:30 p.m. Fielding West - Questions, Answers & Stories 5:30 p.m. Dinner (included with registration) 7:00 p.m. Public Stage Show - Featuring Fielding West, Justin Alan, Joe Lefler, and others Registration: Friday, May 8, Fielding West Workshop (limited to 20 participants) Justo Hijo & IBM Members $60; non-members $75 Saturday, May 9, All Day Convention: includes ALL Lectures, Stage Show, Lunch, Dinner, Refreshments, Door Prizes, and more..... Justo Hijo & IBM Members $75; non-members $90 Sunday, May 10, Fielding & Friends Show and Brunch Public Show $30 - 4th Street Theater, Des Moines Friday Fielding West Workshop is extra, and requires reservation (limited to first 20). Convention Registration prices in advance through April 30; add $10 more after May 1, and at the door. Questions: Contact Bruce Anderson; bgagomer@aol.com; 515-225-0818 May 8 - 10, 2009 Des Moines Premier Magic Convention! Location: Covenant Presbyterian Church, 28th & Ashworth Rd., West Des Moines, IA Fielding West A comedy magic legend. Seen on NBC's "Worlds Greatest Magic", A&E's "Evening at the Improv" and in his own show on Fox, "Hocus Pocus It's Fielding West". A headliner for several Las Vegas showrooms, he does magic that will twist your mind. FieldingWest.com Justin Alan He will have you laughing, crying, and maybe even wetting your seat from all the fun. Not to mention totally blowing your mind with some AWARD WINNING MAGIC and sleight of hand. More On Justin Alan: "Justin Alan has been performing for restaurants and bars for over 14 years and shortly after starting restaurants he got into the corporate market as well. His magic and comedy has won him "The Most Entertaining Magician" as the Midwest Magic Mingle in 1999, and both 1st place in Close-up as well as 1st place in Comedy with same routine at the Houdini Club of Wisconsin in 2007. He has a "pack small, play big" mentality. He uses the simplest of things to create astonishment, laughs, and great fun that leaves audiences delighted, awe-struck, and knowing the real answer to why he doesn't have a girlfriend (he's a nerd). You will learn some of his trade secrets, original routines, ideas on routining, working restaurants, bars, and cocktail parties and why he does what he does the way that he does." Joe Lefler "Mr. Tricky", a.k.a. Joe Lefler, was the opening act for several well-known performers. These include the New Christi Minstrels, the Ink Spots and the Michael Stanley Band. In 1975 Joe opened a magic store called Pandora's Box Magic Shop. This venture became the largest Magic shop between New York and Chicago. During this time, Joe honed his skills as a close-up magician and performed for many trade shows and hospitality rooms. Joe also performed as "Tricky T. Clown" for many years and became very skilled at balloon sculpture and was asked to create an instructional video on how to make animals with balloons. Joe's first video, Balloon Sculpture Made Easy by "Tricky T. Clown" is the number one selling balloon video in the world. -------------------------------------------- 16. Magic Underground -------------------------------------------- Message by Steve Bryant About 300 feet underground, to be specific. For those of you planning to attend the IBM Convention in Nashville this summer, and are coming from remote parts of the U.S. or from a different country, here is a suggestion: take a side trip to Mammoth Cave, in Kentucky. Mammoth Cave is one of the true natural wonders of the world, by far the longest cave on the planet with over 365 miles mapped and a potential 1000 miles of passages total, with spectacular chambers and formations. Mammoth Cave is part of the National Park system and offers 16 different tours. I recommend the 2-hour historic tour for first-timers, and if you want lunch underground you'll need the 3-hour Snowball tour or the 4.5-hour Grand Avenue tour. The cave is 92 miles (1.6 hours) straight up Highway 65 from Nashville. You'll need advance registrations (ticket purchases) to ensure that you are included in your desired tour, as the park handles 5000-7000 visitors a day during the summer. Also bring along a light sweater or jacket: it's 54 degrees F inside, quite a drop from the outdoor temperature in Kentucky summer. So, just an idea if you have a day to spare before or after the convention, or if your spouse and children have accompanied you and need something to do. All details are on the Mammoth Cave web site at http://www.nps.gov/maca/. -------------------------------------------- 17. News From Texas -------------------------------------------- Message by Scott Hollingsworth The Best Magic Convention in 2009 Houston, Texas - September 4-7 A message from Scott Hollingsworth, President, TAOM 2009 Expect the unexpected. You are invited to come to where the classic meets the contemporary. Houston will host the 62nd annual Texas Association of Magicians Convention featuring top talent from across the country and around the world. Michael Ammar, Banachek, Danny Garcia, Bebel, Garry Carson & Kelsey, Yannick, David Boyd, Ice McDonald, and many, many more are on the bill. Magic dealers from around the world will display their wares. You will be treated to non-stop magic in the lobby and bars throughout the hotel in addition to the three fabulous evening shows, world-famous lecturers, and top close-up performers The Omni Riverway Hotel & Resort will be convention headquarters and offers superb amenities not usually found at convention hotels. The hotel provides free limo transportation to Houston's famous Galleria shopping area. Visit our website now: www.taom2009.com for details and registration information. See you in Houston! -------------------------------------------- 18. Looking For Magician By The Name Of Ted Barlock -------------------------------------------- Message by Larry Campbell I'm looking for a fellow magician by the name of Ted Barlock. He was my best man at one of my weddings and was also my Manager at ZEEZO"S Magic Castle in Denver, Colo. I would love to get in touch with him. Last I heard - he was an Officer in the Air Force and stationed in Washington, D.C. Thanks, ZEEZO Larry "ZEEZO" Campbell 16150 Mariner Drive Huntington Beach, Calif. 92649 Email: czeezo@hotmail.com   Phone: (562) 592-4127 -------------------------------------------- 19. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives -------------------------------------------- Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.Alan-Watson.com Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. User Name: magic Password: kiwi When you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order and are coded. Eg 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999) -------------------------------------------- 20. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice -------------------------------------------- Our subscriber list is NOT made available to any other companies or individuals. We value every subscriber and respect your privacy. You can subscribe to or unsubscribe from the Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine at www.Alan-Watson.com Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine is published each Sunday. The opinions expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New ZealandŽ. Neither Magic New ZealandŽ nor Alan Watson vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New ZealandŽ E-zine. Subscribers to this publication and authors who contribute to it by doing so agree they will not hold Magic New ZealandŽ or Alan Watson, jointly or individually liable or responsible in any way for the opinions expressed therein. Magic New ZealandŽ 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. 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