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* Magic New Zealand®
* Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment
* www.magicnewzealand.com
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Issue Number: #949
Date: Sunday 26th August 2012
Editor: Alan Watson
www.watson.co.nz
E-mail: editor@magicnewzealand.com
================================
Hi here is the latest news
================================
1.
Editor's Message
2. America's Got Talent
3. Nick Lewin's Ultimate Linking Finger Ring Routine
4. Bloomsbury Auctions - Tricks, Books And Pictures
5. Remarkable Magic #47 - Nick Lewin
6. Increasing Your Business - #270 - Kyle Peron
7. In Conversation with George Schindler - #7
8. Las Vegas Magic - September, 2012
9. Night Of Zabrecky
10. Science And Magic
11. Latest Issue Of Magicol
12. Danny Archer Lectures
13. Weekend Of Wonder
14. Week Two Of Cafe Culture Shows - Elio Simonetti
15. The Cardwarp Tour
16. Robert Haley - Mind Reader
17. Magic New Zealand App
18. e-zine Archives
19. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice
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1. Editor's Message
--------------------------------------------
For those who would like to read Magic New Zealand in a HTML
format go to:
http://www.magicnewzealand.com/ezine-archive/2012-Jan-to-Dec-2012/949-Aug26-2012.html
A
very BIG thank you to Rosemary McCarthy of International Entertainment
for
renewing their sponsorship of the Magic New Zealand e-zine
for the next
twelve months.
Remember
if you have any magic news drop me a line:
Editor@MagicNewZealand.com
--------------------------------------------
2. America's Got Talent
---------------------------------------------
Article by Wayne Kawamoto, About.com Guide forwarded on by
Mel Kientz
I've
been quiet about this season's "America's Got Talent,"
but last night's "YouTube" episode, which featured
the talents of Rudy Coby, Eric Buss and Puck, has motivated
me to comment.
I
think that the "America's Got Talent" (AGT) judges
were particularly harsh towards the magicians. To start, I
wonder if a lot of problem is the format. The judges are watching
90-second snippets of the performers' acts and don't get to
see how pros such as Coby, Buss and Puck develop their personalities
and create a rapport with their audiences during full shows.
Great magic isn't always about big boxes and pyro.
Another
concern is that the judges mentioned that they had already
seen the performances - I'm assuming through the YouTube videos
that were voted on. But if the judges had already seen and
studied the routines (I'm not sure that this is the case),
then the performances would lack the element of surprise and
suffer from a reduction of impact.
Still
"Coolest Magician" . . . Coby is a complete pro
with an entertaining, brilliant and creative act. In Coby's
television special from decades ago, his "Puppet Boy"
routine was his closer. By the time this routine arrived in
that television special, the audience had been treated to
great magic and gotten to known Coby's unusual humor and stage
personality. I'm saddened that a pro with this level of talent
would be criticized in this manner by the judges.
Buss
is another pro who was brutalized by the judges. I've enjoyed
Buss' act many times at the Magic Castle and his zany character
wasn't given a chance to build and show in the short 90-seconds
that he was given. This routine is a crowd pleaser. But don't
simply take it from me. If Buss' routine was good enough for
him to be featured on David Letterman's show, it's good enough
for AGT.
Puck
delivered a great routine and performance. As with Buss, I
have enjoyed watching Puck at the Magic Castle and I think
his "dancing handkerchief" is the best that I've
seen (along with that of David Copperfield from an early TV
special). At least Puck was spared the snide comments from
the judges.
To
win AGT in the future, I guess magicians will almost have
to toss out the elements that make for a great magic show
and rapidly perform one big illusion after another to satisfy
the judges' insatiable need for a "wow factor."
Character, great scripting as well as baffling magic? Forget
it. Just slam out the big illusions and hope for the best.
You
can watch the AGT episode on NBC's site:
http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/video/youtube-performances/1413422/
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3. Nick Lewin's Ultimate Linking Finger Ring Routine
--------------------------------------------
Message by Richard Webster (New Zealand)
Four
years ago, Nick Lewin entertained a party of my friends. They're
still talking about it. They remember Nick's energy, charm
and humor - and his linking finger rings. The impossibility
of the effect, and the fact that it was done using their own
rings, places the linking finger rings in the miracle category.
In
this book, Nick has included absolutely everything you need
to perform this effect. Every detail, every nuance, is clearly
covered. Nick has honed this effect over thousands of performances
in every type of situation, and his knowledge and expertise
is apparent on every page. His advice on the type of ring
to buy surprised me, but it made perfect sense after reading
why he uses the particular ring he does.
That
small piece of advice alone could save you a great deal of
money. The second part of the book takes you step-by-step
through the performance of the routine. Nick clearly explains
every detail, and even includes his hilarious faith-healing
stunts, complete with the sound effects which are on the CD
contained in the package. Nick also includes a DVD containing
full instructions and a complete performance.
After
watching Nick perform his ultimate linking rings routine,
and knowing how he did it, I wrote: "When Nick linked
the rings directly in front of me, the only explanation I
had was that it was genuine magic, I still get goose bumps
when I recall the moment." If you want to perform real
magic, and give your audience goose bumps when they think
about your act afterwards, you should seriously consider buying
Nick Lewin's Ultimate Linking Finger Ring Routine.
You
can purchase Nick Lewin's Ultimate Linking Finger Ring Routine
by going
to: http://www.nicklewin.com/online-store.html
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4. Bloomsbury Auctions - Tricks, Books And Pictures
--------------------------------------------
Message by Poppy Walker
Marketing Manager
Bloomsbury
Auctions are holding an exciting sale of Conjuring equipment,
books and pictures on 20th September 2012. A selection of
highlights are provided below. Also included in the auction
are various books from the collection of Christopher Woodward,
trade and cigarette cards from the collection of the late
Chris Pratt and an extensive collection of circus photographs
formed by the late Lewis Teasdale.
For
more information email: pwalker@bloomsburyauctions.com
--------------------------------------------
5. Remarkable Magic #47 - Nick Lewin
--------------------------------------------
Message by Nick Lewin (US)
The
Mystery Lounge in Boston.
I
had one of those rare 'everything was great' evening performing
last night at the fabulous 'Mystery Lounge' in Cambridge,
MA. Maybe I'm getting a little cynical as I get older, but
I seldom just really enjoy a gig from the moment I walk through
the door until after I have left. I did last night!
It
was my good fortune to be booked at the 'Mystery Lounge' last
night with my friends Joe Howard and Steve Kradolfer, they
were wonderful hosts and tremendous performers who had the
crowd screaming with their polished and laugh packed acts.
The
'Lounge' was created over 13 years ago and is Boston's longest
running magic and comedy club. It has become a very real part
of the fabric of the always fun Cambridge scene. It must be
very gratifying to its two founding producers, Steve Kradolfer
and Jon Stetson to see the continued success of their 'brainchild.'
I
remember, back in the height of the comedy club era, always
looking forward to playing in Cambridge at the 'Catch a Rising
Star' club. One of the reasons I enjoyed it was that I got
to spend some time with Jon Stetson - one of magic's very
nicest people! On one visit Jon told me about the Magic Lounge
idea, and its Tuesday night occupancy. 13 years later the
project is still going strong!
The
audience in the Mystery Lounge is a great mix of ages and
people. Magicians are scattered in the crowd with magic lovers,
and they are so enthusiastic that it truly warms one's heart.
The 8:00 pm show started promptly at 8:15 and then the action
never stopped. The audience really got their money's worth
and it was tough to keep the show to a sensible length.
The
core group of performers, who are at the centre of the 'Lounge'
are Jon Stetson, Steve Kradolfer, Mike Bent, Joe Howard David
Oliver and Bob Riordan. That is quite a line-up of talent
for the talent pool, other local and visiting magicians add
to the performance roster. What is amazing is how fresh the
whole event feels and how genuinely friendly things are.
I
love the structure of the show they present each Tuesday,
no boring opening/middle/closing format at the lounge. Boston
is famous in the comedy world for the way their shows are
usually hosted by the headliner - who goes into overdrive
and whips the audience into shape. He introduces a couple
of acts as his special guests and then finishes the show with
his actual set. This system really works!
Joe
Howard opened up the bill last night with a ten minute set
that had the audience, eating out of the palm of his hand.
He was funny, street savvy and smoother than silk. In ten
minutes he took the crowd from zero to 100, and that was just
for openers.
Steve
Kradolfer followed Joe and kept the pace moving perfectly.
He is a very funny man and he does some - and they are all
funny.
You
realize instantly with Steve that you are in the hands of
a real pro and just settle back and enjoy the ride. His closing
'bit' is an inspired and original comedy/magic routine that
perfectly concluded his 25-minute performance, I was ready
to watch much more!
Joe
returned to the and picked up the energy still further, by
the time he had finished his 15 minute second set the crowd
was roaring. Joe truly has one of the greatest routines for
the 'Cups and Balls' and it is visible and perfect entertainment
even in a full showroom setting. I am usually not a big fan
of the 'Cups and Balls' onstage, however Joe made me realize
how wrong about it I could be.
Next
on the bill, local Stand-Up comedian, Langston Kerman performed
a smooth and effective ten minute set of pure stand-up. He
was a nice addition to the show and as the audience had seen
plenty of great magic and were ready for a 'comedy break'.
It made a very nice touch to feature a classic comedy monologist
at this point in the show.
It
is a rare thing to fall into a beautifully oiled machine,
designed to maximize your working environment. Thank you all
for letting me participate in the evening. If you are not
familiar with the Mystery Lounge check out their website www.mysterylounge.com
and if you are in the Boston area, block of that Tuesday on
your calendar - you won't regret it!
Check
out my website, which contains a product line that includes
magic and mentalism items! I have just uploading a two part
TV interview with Max Maven from my 90s Fox series 'The Entertainment
Files'. The website can be found at www.nicklewin.com
--------------------------------------------
6. Increasing Your Business - #270 - Kyle Peron
--------------------------------------------
Message by Kyle Peron (US)
magic4u02@aol.com
http://www.kpmagicproducts.com
http://www.facebook.com/perondesign
Increasing
Your Business - #270 - Kyle Peron
magic4u02@aol.com
http://www.kpmagicproducts.com
http://www.facebook.com/perondesign
One
of the biggest factors towards anyone's success in magic as
a business is the sheer ability to consistently take action.
Not just any old action. Consistent action on a daily level
that leads one down the right path towards achieving or reaching
an obtainable goal.
So
many of us can succeed and reach levels we never thought of
if we simply had the ability to take action daily. Sounds
simple doesn't it? However, it is not as simple as it may
sound when stated. The reason is that there are just so many
things that hinder us from taking this type of action.
It
is really easy to become set in our ways. It is easy to be
comfortable right where we are. Action requires work and work
requires effort. This alone can lead many away from doing
what they really know will help them succeed.
The
other problem folks have is that they simply get lost with
how to get to where they want to go. They set a lofty goal
and the goal seems so huge that they have no idea what steps
to take to get there. Climbing that mountain seems impossible.
So
what have I learned that has helped make a HUGE difference
for me? That is the ability to write down goals and to create
a consistent daily to do list. I cannot tell you just how
much this has changed my approach to my business and the success
I want to achieve. It works and works amazingly well.
Before
you can have success, you must first define it for yourself.
So the first step is to define the goals you are after for
each part of your business. It is not good enough to just
have them in your head. You must take effort to write them
down and to be specific about each one.
To
state "to be a success" is not defined well enough.
However saying "I would like to reach the profit goal
of $25,000 by year's end," is a goal that is specific
and has weight to it. It is defined by you.
When
you have these written down, post them in your office so you
can see them every single day. This is to remind you what
you are after and seeing it every day helps you to take the
next steps.
The
next steps is a means in which to get to the goals. In many
ways we need to take steps or set up small tasks to help us
reach the summit. How do I do just that? I use a daily to
do list.
I
use a program called Evernote. Evernote allows me to create
and update lists and have the ability to obtain that list
file anywhere I am. I can look at it on any computer and on
any phone as long as I have internet access. My To Do list
is then available no matter where I am.
A
to do list is as easy as it sounds. I write down small tasks
each day that I need to accomplish and I assign dates for
when I need to get it done by. By marking down these tasks,
I am ways in line of getting them done. As I get them done,
I erase them. As the status on a tasks changes, I can update
it.
It
is simply amazing how much you can do and accomplish simply
by using this system. It energizes you and it takes the confusion
totally out of the picture. Each day I review my list and
each evening I update it. Very simple and easy. The key is
making sure that I do this every day and make it a habit.
Imagine
how much further you can be if you accomplished even one tasks
a day, every day for a solid year? It could and can take you
places you never thought of before. Suddenly those lofty goals
do not seem so hard to reach. You tend to get there faster
than you may realize.
I
challenge each of you to start doing this system for yourself.
It is an amazing thing. If anyone has any questions or wants
more information, PLEASE let me know. This is too good to
keep to myself. Contact me at magic4u02@aol.com.
--------------------------------------------
7. In Conversation with George Schindler - #7
--------------------------------------------
Message by Anthony Darkstone Brook - Europe/USA
AD:
He! He! Now that's really funny Kuda Bux crossing the street
without a blindfold!!! Speaking of blindfolds, decks and other
paraphernalia, I've been privileged to have been taken by
you to your secret magic warehouses and had a fun time playing
with some of the goodies . tell us how and when ShowBiz services
got started and who can purchase from you. ..
GS:
It was a pleasure Tony but there is no brick and mortar shop.
I got into the dealer business the long way. I used to write
gags for comedians. One guy, I worked for did a vent act and
asked if I could get him a vent doll. I found Paul Stadelman
who sold them and made a deal for a wholesale price. I discovered
that some magic dealers did not have a source. So Showbiz
Comedy Service sold gags and vent dolls. When Frank Garcia
asked me to write Million Dollar Card Secrets we became partners
and sold the book to the shops. I added a few tricks and Showbiz
Services became a magic jobber. I won't turn down a retail
order but normally, I sell only to dealers.
AD:
I'm glad you mentioned that about the gag-writing; you have
done a lot of that over the years and if I may say, your best
"signature" piece is your wit. You have a very quintessential
New York style in the same vein as Henny Youngman, Milton
Berle, etc . I am continually amused by your creativity, delivery,
pace and timing .. Say a few words on this essence of George
Schindler .
GS:
As a young magician appearing at the Catskill Resorts I met
many of the great one liner comedians. I wrote for a few of
them and my gag-file grew. I can't resist a pun and while
studying to be an English Teacher (I never made it!!!) I got
a flavor of the language and how it can be twisted to other
comical meanings; I would rather go for the laugh than "fool"
someone with "trick".
End
of Part 7
--------------------------------------------
9. Las Vegas Magic - September, 2012
--------------------------------------------
Message by David Neubauer - www.dnmagic.com
Amazing
Johnathan
Opening August 28
10 pm (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - Bally's.
Criss
Angel - Believe
7 (except Wed. & Thurs.) & 9:30 pm (Dark Sun. - Mon.)
- Luxor.
www.cirquedusoleil.com/crissangel
David
Copperfield - An Intimate Evening of Grand Illusion
7 & 9:30 pm & also 4 pm Sat. - MGM Grand.
www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/hollywood-theater.aspx
Gerry
McCambridge - The Mentalist
7:30 pm (Dark Wed.) - Planet Hollywood.
Comp Tickets and info: www.mentalist.com
Illusions
- Jan Rouven
7 pm (Dark Wed.) - Riviera.
www.illusionsvegas.com
It's
Tricky - the "Original Nerd of Magic" Kyle Marlett
Starring the 5 pm, (Dark Wed. - Thurs.) - Royal House Resort.
www.royalhotelvegas.com/entertainment
Jeff
McBride's Wonderground
3rd Thurs. each month 7:30 to midnight - The Olive (3850 E
Sunset Dr.)
Non-stop Magic & Variety Performance Art. A whole new
show each month. Free
with 2 drink minimum.
www.vegaswonderground.com watch live: www.streetofcards.tv
Mac
King Comedy Magic Show
1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - Harrah's.
www.harrahslasvegas.com/casinos/harrahs-las-vegas/casino-entertainment/mac-king-detail.html
Free tickets (buy 1 drink) usually available at the concierge
desk or handed out by showgirls.
Bring California ID for 1/2 price tickets at the Box Office
through Labor Day, 2012.
Magic
and Mayhem starring Michael Turco
4 pm - Saxe Theater, Miracle Mile Shops - Planet Hollywood.
http://SaxeTheater.com
Magic,
Mind Reading & Mystery with Paul Vigil
7 pm (Wed.) - King Ink, Mirage.
www.kinginklasvegas.com/events.html
Magical
Mix starring Christopher Karpiak
7-10 pm (Dark Tues. - Wed.) - Mix Lounge, Mandalay Bay.
www.mandalaybay.com/dining/mixlounge.aspx
Free to locals until 10 pm.
Mike
Hammer Comedy Magic Show
7 pm (Dark Sun. & Mon.) - Four Queens.
tickets.fourqueens.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=35
$14.95 discounted tix + free drink:
www.vegas4locals.com/couponmikehammercomedymagic.html
Mind
Blowing Comedy - Kevin Burke
9:13 pm - The D.
http://www.thed.com/entertainment/
Two for One: www.vegas4locals.com/couponfitzoflaughterlasvegas.html
Dinner & Tix: www.vegas4locals.com/couponfeastoflaughterlasvegas.html
Murray
- Celebrity Magician
With Douglas "Lefty" Leferovich.
7 pm - Laugh Factory at the Tropicana.
www.troplv.com/entertainment/events/murray-sawchuck
Nathan
Burton Comedy Magic Show
4 pm, (Dark Mon.) - Flamingo.
Armando Vera's Up-Close "VIP Experience" is performed
pre-show @ 3 pm
www.harrahs.com/EventsDetail.do?locationCode=FLV&detailName=nathan-burton-detail&eventTitle=Nathan
Burton
FREE Balcony Tickets:
www.vegas4locals.com/couponnathanburtoncomedymagic.html
Penn
& Teller
9 pm, (Dark Thurs. - Fri.) - Rio.
www.riolasvegas.com/casinos/rio/casino-entertainment/penn--teller-detail.html
Magic
In Production Shows
Bram Charles
2 sets between 10 pm - 2 am (Dark Mon. - Thurs.)
The Can Can Room on Industrial.
Crazy
Girls
Tony Douglas - 9:30 pm (Dark Tues.) - Riviera.
www.rivierahotel.com/entertainment/entertainment.asp
Crazy
Horse, Paris
Jason Andrews - 8 pm & 10:30 (Dark Tues.) - MGM Grand.
(may change venues in Oct.)
www.mgmgrand.com/entertainment/crazy-horse-show.aspx
Haunted
Vegas Show and Tour
Jac Hayden, Robert Allen.
9:30 pm, picks up at the Royal Resort.
www.hauntedvegastours.com
V
The Ultimate Variety Show
Featuring Melinda - First Lady of Magic
7 & 8:30, V Theater, Planet Hollywood
www.vtheshow.com
Vegas
Close-Up Magic
Shimshi - Resident Magician - Wynn/Encore.
Seth Grabel - Fri. & Sat. 9-11 pm - Foundation Room, Mandalay
Bay.
Ben Seidman - Resident Magician - Mandalay Bay.
Cameron Shadow - Resident Magician - Pure Nightclub, Caesars
Palace.
Craig Keith performs bar magic, various times - Dick's Last
Resort, Excalibur.
JungleJosh - House Magician - Señor Frogs at Treasure
Island (Dark Mon.), 5
pm to 1 am. Table-hopping and Comedy Magic on the stages.
No Cover, No Min.
Smoothini - Wed. to Sun. 8 pm-10:30 at Hard Rock Café
(2nd Floor Bar); 11 pm
to 2 am at Zingers, 3743 Las Vegas Blvd. and after 2 am at
New York New York's
Pour 24.
Jamie
Porter's Radio Side Show
Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230.
Las
Vegas Magic Organizations
Fantasma I.B.M. Ring 257, 7 pm - 8:45, 1st Monday each month
at Denny & Lee's
Magic Shop, 5115 Dean Martin Dr. #102 Free Children's Classes
at 5:45. No meeting if the 1st Monday is a major Holiday.
($24 a year to be a member).
www.ibm257.com
Darwin's Magic Club 9 pm Wednesdays at Boomers, 3200 Sirius
Ave.
Upcoming
Special Events
September, 2012
September 20: Jeff McBride's Wonderground 7:30 to midnight
at The Olive -
Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger and an ever changing cast.
www.magicalwisdom.com
Sept.
30-Oct. 3: Innovention 2012 - Dedicated to Master Magician
and World
famous Hypnotist Peter Reveen and honoring Circus Legend TIHANY.
Jeff Hobson, Amazing Johnathan, The Great Tomsoni & Co,
Fielding West, Michael Holly, Armando Lucero, Michael Goudeau,
Christopher Hart, Ben Stone, Farrell Dillon, Sos & Victoria,
Paul Vigil, Scott Alexander, Gabrielle Lyster, Bill Smith,
Kyle & Mistie Knight, Bob Kohler, Seth Kramer, Paul Stone,
Sos Jnr. Gold Coast. Limited to 250 attendees. For details
and register, contact info@innovention2012.com
October
4-7: World Stars of Magic Hosted by Ben Stone, line-up includes:
Jeff Hobson, Sos & Victoria, Christopher Hart, Kyle &
Mistie Knight - Gold Coast.
October,
2012
October 12-14: Magic & Mystery School: Focus on Street
Magic with Jeff McBride.
www.magicalwisdom.com
October
17-20: Magic & Mystery School hosts: The Magic & Meaning
Conference
Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger, Larry Hass, George Parker.
www.magicalwisdom.com
October
18: Jeff McBride's Wonderground 7:30 to midnight at The Olive
- Jeff
McBride, Eugene Burger and an ever changing cast.
www.magicalwisdom.com
November,
2012
November 8-11: Magic & Mystery School presents Magic &
Medicine (now with CME Credit) Eugene Burger, Jeff McBride,
Ricardo Rosenkranz, M. D., and Lawrence Hass, Ph.D.
www.magicalwisdom.com
Nov.
11-13: MINDvention - Kenton Knepper, Max Krause, Patrick Redford/George
Tait, Roy Zaltsman, Colin McLeod, Larry Haas, Satori, Ross
Johnson, Tony Chris, Christopher Taylor, Paul Draper. (more
details on the website) - Palace Station.
www.MINDvention.net
November 14-16: Magic & Mystery School: Master Class for
Mentalism - Ross Johnson, Eugene Burger, Jeff McBride.
www.magicalwisdom.com
November
18: Jeff McBride's Wonderground 7:30 to midnight at The Olive
- Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger and an ever changing cast.
www.magicalwisdom.com
December,
2012
December 18: Jeff McBride's Wonderground 7:30 to midnight
at The Olive - Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger and an ever changing
cast.
--------------------------------------------
9. Night Of Zabrecky
--------------------------------------------
Message by Rob Zabrecky
Live
Performances at LA's Steve Allen Theater!
September 5th, & October 10th
Current
Magic Castle "Stage Magician of the Year", Rob Zabrecky
presents a one-man variety show quite unlike any other. After
several recent sold-out performances at the Steve Allen Theater,
Zabrecky's laugh till you cry act returns with a revised program
featuring highlights from his award winning Magic Castle act,
song & dance, conversations with outmoded satellites,
audience interaction, absurdist parapsychology, and more.
With
very special Musical Accompaniment by Kristian HoffmanDirected
by Jack Lovick
"Rob
Zabrecky - the name means 'Abracadabra,' sideways" -
LA Weekly
"Zabrecky's
art often involves opening a door on the mysterious and the
bizarre and walking people through it. These new shows, at
The Steve Allen Theater, allow Zabrecky to combine his many
talents - acting, music, magic, and dance - into one highly
entertaining bundle with a distinct point of view." -
LA Times
"A
fascinating and entertaining unique persona. One cannot help
but wonder, however, just how much of a strange fellow on
stage is the real Rob and how much is acted by design."
- Magic Magazine
Get
Tickets Online
http://trepanyhouse.tix.com/Event.aspx?EventCode=491329
--------------------------------------------
10. Science And Magic
--------------------------------------------
Message by Joel Moskowitz (US)
Those
of us who are bewitched by magic are often skeptical. We,
in the know, recognize the frailties of human perceptions.
The psychology/science of magic has been thus far uncharted.
Jay Olson, a teaching assistant at Simon Fraser University
writing in Scientific American teamed up with another researcher,
Alym Amlani and with Professor Ronald Rensink utilizing techniques
from vision science attempted to study card choices. Their
work triggered my opinion about the essential worth of magic.
The
authors attest to their surveying over a thousand people and
identified that the most frequent card chosen or visualized
was the Ace of Hearts. Asked to name a card, over 50% of the
people chose an ace, a queen, a king. No magician will trust
his fame on this incidence.
While
the mystery of the appreciation of magic is a tantalizing
theme, this study contributes little. We don't know the demonographics
of the study group i.e. males/females - ages? - ethnic composition?
- level of education? - and what was the education focus -
sociology or science? - religious devotion?
In
my monograph, The Sorcerer's Apprentice or the use of magic
in psychotherapy of Children, I emphasized that children tend
to be concrete - they are not easily deceived by feints i.e.
the sponge ball must be in the hand no matter what gestures
the magician does. Also there is the concept of 'magical thinking'.
Infants 'conclude' that their wish to be fed is magically
transmitted to their mother who arrives with the bottle. This
'talent' makes motions by a magician seem to be an inferior
way to effect a production of a silk...of a bird?
Maturing
and disappointments that 'magical thinking' is less and less
successful, converts the child to leave this primitive 'explanation'
for wonderful magic. He/she now is an audience for the tools
of the conjurer - examples are misdirection and slight of
tongue,
Olson's
findings that hecklers will shout out "The Six of Clubs"
He writes that most magicians believe that is the least chosen
card (how did he survey these magicians - are they cardicians?
- do they work on cruise ships? walk around? etc. One of the
Black nines is actually the least chosen card out of 1150.
Only chosen four times!
Simulating
free choice but actually forcing: the magicians' choice is
a standard technique for conjurers. Until scientific studies
will be more convincing and less full of unknown variables,
equivocae is the charm.
A
favorite illustration of the magician's choice: Six cards
of which one is a joker False shuffle the packet retaining
the joker as third from the top. Deal the cards from left
to right face down. Ask the spectator to choose a number i.e.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Should they choose 'one', you say 'O; 'N',
'E' counting from the left. 'Two'? saw 'T' 'W' 'O' counting
from left to right. If '3' , count from lft to right'1' '2'
'3'. If they say 'four' Count from the right 'F' 'O' 'U' 'R'.
Similarly if they say 'five': from the right count 'F' 'I'
'V' 'E'. Should they say 'six': Count from the left 'S' 'I'
'X'. All land on the joker which is the third from the left
and the third from the top of the packet.
Analytic
audiences may challenge the counting procedure but the psychology
of those who glom onto magic theater is to side with the magician.
They want to see magic. Most adults unconsciously yearn for
the marvel of magical thinking of infancy where wonderous
happenings occur.
Arthur
C. Clarke postulated 'any sufficiently advanced technology
is indistinguishable from magic'. With androids, ipads, gps
and ships that visit Mars, one might think that the phenomenon
of sawing a girl in half would have no appeal. Yet people
throng to David Copperfield, are fascinated by the likes of
Max Maven and even are mystified by Uri Geller.
This
author suggests that a more intriguing target scientific study
would be directed towards understanding the usefullness of
primitive magical thinking rather than knowing the preferences
of card choices. To paraphrase Clarke's third law, magic (magical
thinking) is the basis for the pursuit of advanced technology.
Magic can be admired for stimulating curiosity which is the
foundation for scientific achievements. What wonderous effects
would be achieved by knowing and understanding the value of
magical thinking.
--------------------------------------------
11. Latest Issue Of Magicol
--------------------------------------------
Message by Ellise Ramos
Yes,
it's true! Magicol is now in the hands of our printer! And
we are proud of the beautiful issue No. 183, The Joy of Posters.
A
massive collaborative effort, No. 183 focuses on the bliss
of magic poster-collecting, the meaning and significance we
place on the posters we posses, and the colourful history
that each magic poster emanates. From "The King of Handcuffs"
to "The Great Herrmann", this issue will feature
numerous, graphically astounding posters gallantly provided
by collectors. A sure treat for our dear subscribers!
We
start by revisiting Mario Carrandi's wonderful article introducing
readers to the lost art of lithography, originally published
in Dr. Albo's More Classic Magic With Apparatus in 1976. It
is the perfect introduction, in fact, to the series posters
which follow in, A Magical Oasis.
Then,
Charles Greene III and Pietro Micheli enlighten readers with
a pair of terrific articles on the essentials for Poster Preservation,
Parts I and II. Anyone who has any artwork hanging on their
walls will find these articles quite insightful and very helpful!
But how much does one invest in all that paper preservation
and restoration? How much is your paper worth - to you? Well,
David Ben explores this
question by outlining his 'metrics guide' of how to determine
the value of magic posters. It's actually an open conversation
which solicits your thoughts and comments on how to measure
a magic poster's weight in coin.
Dustin
Stinett then provides an overview of our 43rd Magic Collectors
Weekend, followed by an appreciation by Tom Ewing of long-time
Magicol subscriber, Frank Dailey who sadly passed away earlier
this year.
This
is our largest issue to date and we hope you agree with us
that it was worth the "weight".
--------------------------------------------
12. Danny Archer Lectures
--------------------------------------------
Message by Danny Archer (US)
Part
of the time, Danny Archer lectures and performs for conventions
and magic clubs all over the world. At some time he has produced
over twenty magic and mentalism conventions. At one time he
has released to the magic community more than twenty-five
effects and DVD's. But mostly Danny is a full time working
close-up magician who performs hundreds of gigs every year.
If you are in the area, please try and catch Danny's lecture...
if you have questions, please contact Danny = danny@dannyarcher.com
Wed
9/ 19 - Chicago (Midwest Magic)
Thu 9/20 - Chicago (Magic Masters
Sat 9/22 - Minneapolis/St. Paul
Mon 9/24 - Oklahoma City, OK
Tue 9/25 - Branson, MI
Sun 9/30 - Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX
Tue
10/2 - Houston, TX
Wed 10/3 - McAllen, TX
Thu 10/4 - Austin, TX
Sat 10/6 - New Orleans, LA
Mon 10/8 - Birmingham, AL
Tue 10/9 - Louisville, KY
Wen 10/10 - Knoxville, TN
10/11 Atlanta, GA
-------------------------------------------
13. Weekend Of Wonder
--------------------------------------------
Message by George Schindler (US)
Current
And Past Presidents Mentor SYM ""Weekend Of Wonder"
Attendees.
A
half dozen Society of American Magicians Past National Presidents
and current President J. Christopher Bontjes mentored the
small group of SYM members at the "WOW" weekend,
underwritten by the SYM Fund of Society of American Magicians
Magic Endowment Fund.
The
mini convention offered attendees, one on one magic teach-ins,
and group sessions, with mini lectures that covered cards,
ropes, linking rings and general magic. Necessary props and
donated raffle gifts were distributed after each session.
Guest
teachers Mandy Davis of London's Magic Circle, Margaret Steele
and Dana Ring rounded out the event which also included slide
and film show sessions, an afternoon show by the "Bontjes"
and two evening shows. Dealer Eddie Gardner of Diamond Magic
demonstrated his wares. Parents had a special session entitled
"Help! I Am The Parent Of A Magician"
Matt
Roberts, winner of this year's Abbott's Stage Contest and
People's Choice Awards appeared on Friday evening with his
comedy magic act . Saturday evening's gala show was emceed
by Dean George Schindler and featured Margaret Steele, Bruce
Kalver, Vinny Grosso, Mandy Davis and Bob Carroll. Eric Lampert
worked the lights. Along with three meals, and an Ice Cream
Social, the girls and buys received additional; gifts donated
by several magic dealers. Surprise guest David Oliver visited
the event.
It
should be noted that all of the performers and mentors volunteered
their services at their own expense. Past Presidents in attendance
were Rich Doooley, Jann Goodsell, Vinny Grosso, Bruce Kalver,
George Schindler, and Ed Thomas. Producers Jann Goodsell,
SYM Director, and Bruce Kalver are to be congratulated for
their special efforts.
--------------------------------------------
14. Week Two Of Cafe Culture Shows - Elio Simonetti
--------------------------------------------
Message by Elio Simonetti (Australia)
This
week's Cafe Culture Shows details
Last
weekend, Eva and I began our series of one hour shows throughout
regional Victoria.
Our
first performance had to be relocated to a larger venue the
day prior to accommodate increased audience numbers.
Here
are the dates and venues for this week's performances:
8pm
on Friday 24 August
Marysville Country Club, 956 Marysville Buxton Rd, Marysville
SOLD OUT!
8pm
on Saturday 25 August
Ruffy Public Hall, Main St, Ruffy
Bookings at RuffArtz
Telephone 5790 4318
Come
along and enjoy some great live magic - Elio Simonetti.
-------------------------------------------
15. The Cardwarp Tour
--------------------------------------------
Message by Jeff Pierce
After
5+ years my new book "The Cardwarp Tour" is finally
available for pre-order. My obsession began in 1976 with the
first time I saw Roy Walton's Cardwarp effect. I was working
as a demonstrator in a magic shop in Orlando, FL. showing
the standard magic effects of the day. In walks a guy I had
never met before and he proceeded to fry me with the original
Walton Cardwarp routine. After seeing what I thought was real
magic, I begged him to teach me the effect, but he would not.
Instead he began my love of magic books by insisting that
I "look it up."
Of
course it wasn't in any magic book I could find at the time,
but my love of books began at that moment. I've now published
three magic books, a set of personal effects called "The
King Has Left the Building...With Amnesia", the second
was the biography "Kodell: Do Something Different"
the story of famed magician from the fifties, Jack Kodell,
and now my latest "The Cardwarp Tour."
If
you visit www.thecardwarptour.com you can read the Table of
Contents and view sample pages to see the high quality art
work that went into the over 400 illustrations.
If
you see fit, you may pre-order the book and save by clicking
on one of the two buttons available for pre-order.
I
hope you like my latest work, I'm very proud of it.
-------------------------------------------
16. Robert Haley - Mind Reader
--------------------------------------------
Message by Richard Webster (New Zealand)
I
was fortunate enough to attend the opening night of mentalist
Robert Haley's five-night season at Auckland's Basement Theatre.
Robert had the audience in the palm of his hand from the moment
he appeared on stage, and his relaxed, low key, gentle persona
made his effects believable and convincing. His show was fast
moving, with plenty of humour and audience participation.
I
was particularly impressed with his Q & A, as he used
considerable lateral thinking in the way he answered the questions.
His version of Energy Leg was a show stopper.
Robert
Haley will be back in Auckland on November 9th with his brand
new
show.
--------------------------------------------
17. Magic New Zealand App
--------------------------------------------
Magic New Zealand now has its very own app that can be launched
on any tablet.
Go
to: www.app.cat/magicnewzealand on your tablet to download
the FREE Magic
New Zealand app.
--------------------------------------------
18. e-zine Archives
--------------------------------------------
Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to:
www.magicnewzealand.com click on the red button center right
"Archives"
When
you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order in folders
for each year and are Coded, e.g. 001 Nov06 1999.txt first
three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06)
and the last figures the year (1999)
---------------------------------------------
19. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice
--------------------------------------------
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You
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Magic
New Zealand® E-zine is published each Sunday.
The
opinions and statements 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
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Readers
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All
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Notwithstanding
the foregoing, this publication may be freely redistributed,
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including the copyright notice below and the above disclaimer.
©
Copyright 2012 Alan Watson
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