* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* Magic New Zealand®
* Proudly sponsored by International Entertainment Ltd (New
Zealand)
* www.magicnewzealand.com
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Issue Number: #1170
Date: Sunday 15th February 2015
Editor: Alan Watson QSM
www.watson.co.nz
E-mail: editor@magicnewzealand.com
================================
Hi here is the latest news
================================
1.
Editor's Message
2. MAGIC Live! 2015
3. Shawn Farquhar - Tales From The Sea
4. Dean Dill Final Curtain Call
5. Master Of Magic, Emotions René Lavand Dies At
86
6. Raymond Crowe The Unusualist - February Tour Dates
7. New Backstage Magic Podcasts Offered On Line
8. Remarkable Magic #379 - Nick Lewin
9. Masters Of Illusion: Live Taping - #350 - Kyle Peron
10. In Conversation With Abigail Spinner McBride #3
11. FISM Sismondo Castle
12. 87th Annual I.B.M. Convention In Jacksonville, FL
13. Conjurors Cardsharps And Conmen By Bernard Reid
14. Updates So Far This Week on VanishLive.com
15. The 41st Annual Winter Carnival Of Magic
16. Tony Green R.I.P.
17. The South Tyneside International Magic Festival
18. Wellington Convention - Win back your Registration Fee!
19. New John Bannon Book Now Available!
20. e-zine Archives
21. Privacy Policy and Copyright Notice
--------------------------------------------
1. Editor's Message
--------------------------------------------
Michele and I are really looking forward to seeing Raymond
Crowe The Unusualist Show this Saturday night in Auckland.
More information on Raymonds tour go to item #6
For
all those who would like to read the Magic New Zealand e-zine
in a HTML format go to: http://www.magicnewzealand.com/ezine-archive/2015-Jan-to-Dec-2015/1170-Feb15-2015.html
Remember
if you have any magic news drop me a line:
Editor@MagicNewZealand.com
--------------------------------------------
2. MAGIC Live! 2015
--------------------------------------------
Message by Stan Allen, MAGIC Live!
It seems that every magic convention is busy announcing
their list of talent booked for their upcoming event. And
then there's MAGIC Live!
It's not that we don't have names. It's just that we like
surprises. And so far, we've been fortunate enough to fill
up our theater without tipping who's backstage about to
perform.
Still, it's fun to list a few names:
Gene Anderson, John Armato, Mike Bent, Michael Carbonaro,
Lubor Fiedler, Goldfinger, Mark Kornhauser, Tina Lenert,
David Regal, Rory Johnston, Mark Setteducati, and Larry
Wilmore.
Those were from Monday of 2013. And I mean Mon-DAY!
Monday NIGHT offered three different possibilities of shows
featuring:
Les Arnold & Dazzle, Denis Behr, John Carney, Mike Caveney,
Simon Coronel, Dana Daniels, David Deeble, Yann Frisch,
James Hamilton, Kevin James, Mark Kalin & Jinger Leigh,
Armando Lucero, Randy Pryor, Johan Stahl, Victor & Diamond,
Steve Valentine, Michael Weber, and David Williamson.
And we're busy putting together an equally impressive lineup
for 2015. Join us August 9- 12 in Las Vegas. Surprises await!!!
www.MAGICmagazine.com/live
--------------------------------------------
3. Shawn Farquhar - Tales From The Sea
--------------------------------------------
Message by Scott Wells, M.I.M.C. with Gold Star
In
last week's part one of the two part podcast with Shawn
Farquhar, he told tons of stories about his early days and
particularly about working behind the scenes on television
and in the movies. That podcast received lots of compliments
and comments, like, "You have the best stories!",
and "Your stories are the best!!!!" and "You
are a fast talker, but a joy to listen to. What great stories!"
among many others.
This
week in the second and final podcast with Shawn. He talks
about competing in magic contests, working on cruise ships
and being a magic dealer and manufacturer. If you liked
his stories from part one, then you will love the tales
from the high seas he shares in this podcast.
You
can read the blog, see some photos, listen to the podcast
online or download the MP3 file at: http://themagicwordpodcast.com/scottwellsmagic/shawn-farquhar-part-two
You can also download the podcast through the iTunes store.
Next
week's podcast: Nick Lewin
--------------------------------------------
4. Dean Dill Final Curtain Call
--------------------------------------------
A Profile by Pete Biro forwarded on by Mel Kientz (US)
Dean
Dill's Shoppe, in Glendale, California is a must-visit for
magicians when they come to Los Angeles or work at the Magic
Castle. On any given day you might find somebody in from
China, Japan, Germany, England or Sweden. Many regulars
like R. Paul Wilson come in and work all day long and late
into the night sessioning with other magicians like Michael
Weber, John Carney, Tom Frank and your humble correspondent.
Not too long ago David Blaine was in, as was Juan Tamariz,
Dani DaOrtiz and Cyril all visiting to find out what new
things Dean was working on.
Of course magic isn't the only thing that goes on in Dean's
Shoppe. It's also a barbershop. Dean is an incredibly good
barber. He's been at it for over 30 years. One of his first
early customers was Dai Vernon. In 1989 when he was finished
cutting Vernon's hair Dean swept the bits of his hair up
off the floor and put them in an envelope, sealed the envelope
and wrote Vernon's name on the outside along with the date
and a list of the other magicians in the Shoppe that day.
He has clippings from a large number of very well known
magicians.
Dean also gives lessons on magic. One of the most famous
people Dean has tutored is Johnny Carson. Many people don't
realize Carson's hobby was magic, and he actually started
out as a magician before he went into radio and then television.
One day Carson came into Hollywood Magic to buy a couple
of tricks and he met Dean. Dean did a few coin tricks for
Carson, and he was very impressed, asking if he would come
out to his house in Malibu, and give him lessons. Dean did
teach Carson a number of coin tricks over the next couple
years and ended up performing on the Tonight Show.
Dean's current student, and protégé, is a
young teenage magician named Griffin Barry, who advanced
quite rapidly and was accepted as a junior member at the
Magic Castle in Hollywood. Griffin moved right up the ranks
and has now performed at the Magic Castle receiving high
marks. Following his Castle stint he was selected to be
on the TV show Superstars of Magic.
How Dean became a barber is interesting. He was in the Navy,
and the barber on board the ship was about to retire and
leave. So Dean inquired about replacing the barber and got
the okay. The only problem was Dean had never cut hair,
but he figured he could hang around the ship's barbershop,
watch and learn, which he did. And since then he's turned
into a really good barber. He's a perfectionist with everything
he does.
Dean has created some classic magic tricks. Probably his
most famous is Dean's Box. A real spooky effect using ropes
that link themselves inside a mysterious box. You will see
this performed all over the world. Probably the most famous
is Paul Daniels, in England, who uses it to close his shows.
Dean's Blizzard is one of the strongest card tricks you'll
ever see, and his Explosion. A matrix type coin routine,
winds up with the table literally filled with coins that
seemingly come from nowhere.
Probably the most important thing about Dean Dill is his
ability to see a trick, work with it and improve it tremendously.
Whenever I work out a trick or an idea, as soon as I get
to a point where I think it might be finished I visit Dean
and he starts playing with it, and by the end of the day
he's not only improved it but made it easier to understand,
easier to follow for the spectators and easier to do for
the performer.
Probably the best example was my trick with walnuts, Nutty
Surprise, winding up with a production of a huge, heavy
steel nut. I was having problems getting this out of my
pocket and secretly loading it. Dean came up with the idea
of having it on the table all the time at the very beginning
of the routine hidden behind a handkerchief. As soon as
we started doing it this way we fooled almost every magician
that came into watch the trick.
Dean was honored by the Academy of Magical Arts in 2012
when he was presented with a Creative Fellowship by his
pal Michael Weber.
--------------------------------------------
5. Master Of Magic, Emotions René Lavand Dies At
86
--------------------------------------------
Article forwarded by Mel Kientz (US)
Rene
Lavand
September 24, 1928 - February 7, 2015
The without-equal illusionist died today at 86 years old
in a Buenos Aires province city of Tandil clinic where he
had been hospitalized due to a pneumonia.
Héctor
René Lavand was born on September 24, 1928 and became
a true master of magic although he had only one arm, turning
his performances into theatrical, emotional presentations.
René Lavand gained fame during the 60's when he decided
to bring his magic to BA City's main theathres such as the
Maipo and the Tabaris.
His
"It can't be done any slower" card trick became
a world hit. He was invited to the Ed Sullivan Show and
The Tonight Show hosted by Johnny Carson in The United States.
The Argentine magician also performed in Las Vegas, Hollywood,
Europe and Japan.
--------------------------------------------
6. Raymond Crowe The Unusualist - February Tour Dates
--------------------------------------------
Message by Raymond Crowe The Unusualist (Australia)
New
Zealand February 2015 New Zealand Tour Dates:
Sat 14th - ASB Theatre - Auckland
Tickets through Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.co.nz Ph:
0800 111 999
Mon 16th - Forum North - Whangarei
Tickets through www.ticketek.com Ph: 0800 842 538
Tues 17th - Founders Theatre - Hamilton
Tickets through www.ticketek.com Ph: 0800 842 538
Weds 18th - TSB Showplace - New Plymouth
Tickets through Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.co.nz Ph:
0800 111 999
Fri 20th - Regent On Broadway - Palmerston North
Tickets through Ticket Direct www.ticketdirect.co.nz Ph:
0800 224 224
Sat 21st - The Opera House - Wellington
Tickets through www.ticketek.com Ph: 0800 842 538
Mon 23rd - Civic Theatre - Invercargill
Tickets through Ticket Direct www.ticketdirect.co.nz Ph:
0800 224 224
Tues 24th - Regent Theatre - Dunedin
Tickets through Ticket Direct www.ticketdirect.co.nz Ph:
0800 224 224
Thurs 26th - Theatre Royal - Timaru
Tickets through www.ticketek.com Ph:0800 842 538
Fri 27th - Isaac Theatre Royal - Christchurch
Tickets through www.ticketek.com Ph: 0800 842 538
Sat 28th - College - Nelson
Tickets
through Ticket Direct www.ticketdirect.co.nz Ph: 0800 224
224
--------------------------------------------
7. New Backstage Magic Podcasts Offered On Line
--------------------------------------------
Message by George Schindler (US)
Backstage
| S.A.M. (Society of American Magicians) is a new bi-weekly
free podcast appearing on their website. Produced by veteran
talk show radio host Bruce Kalver, the series will feature
the "behind the scenes" stories of interesting
events relating to their conventions and their long history,
as recorded in interviews with the people who will reminisce
and provide oral histories on each podcast. Plus you can
win prizes by interacting on line.
These Backstage podcasts are available to all magicians
by clicking on the banner as it appears at the top of the
page at www.magicam.com Hear it on line or download the
show to your smart phone or tablet. Perfect to listen to
on your commute to work.
--------------------------------------------
8. Remarkable Magic #379 - Nick Lewin
--------------------------------------------
Message by Nick Lewin (US)
Magic
on the Internet.
Like
so many other magicians I spend rather a lot of time on
the Internet checking out what is going on in the magic
world. In fact I think it is probably fair to say that I
spend a little too much time trolling those digital dens
of magic. I thought I would dedicate this column to a couple
of fairly non-vitriolic rants on the topic. I could have
got a lot more heated if I said everything I really feel!
In
years gone by if you wanted to mix with other magicians
your three major choices were; your local magic store on
a Saturday morning, the local meeting of a magic club or
a full-scale magic convention. The brick and mortar magic
shop is fast becoming a feature on the endangered species
list. Happily the local magic club is still on the scene
and magic conventions seem to be multiplying and increasing
in quantity and quality every year.
With
the decline of actual magic shops most magicians now keep
up with the latest releases in the magic world by viewing
videos on the new effects on the various online magic stores
websites. It is interesting and somewhat amusing to see
how these online commercials have taken over from the old
printed catalogues that we all used to spend hours poring
over. They can be just as deceptive in the way they present
their products but in all honesty a certain amount of guile
in sometimes needed in promoting these items.
As
an owner of an online magic store I can see the problems
involved in these video demonstrations. Everyone would love
to just have a straightforward performance of your latest
effect, however, if you are retailing an expensive item,
this isn't always something that appeals to the digital
dealer for very good reasons. Some viewers seeing a funny/clever
routine are then apt to "cherry pick" moves, ideas
and jokes without purchasing the routine and this really
isn't fair to the retailer, creator or legitimate purchaser
of the routine.
If you want to get a little more information about the effect
you are interested in you can always visit a magical forum
such as (but certainly not limited to) The Magic Café.
While this should prove ideal in theory, in practice it
is often a fruitless effort and sometimes downright maddening.
The ability for anyone to comment on this kind of forum
gives a democratic element to the proceedings that is sometimes
unfortunate and frequently unhelpful.
When
you visited a magic shop and the owner gave you input on
a routine, he was usually pretty accurate in his assessment
of the value of the trick to you. He usually also knew a
lot more about the effect than is usually the case in forums
or Facebook pages. The disassociated and anonymous nature
of the Internet can allow totally false premises be presented
to the reader. People who know nothing, or very little,
can often make bold and sweeping statements.
Let
me give an example, I made a trip to the Magic Café
and followed a thread about one of my releases "Nick
Lewin's Ultimate Linking Finger Routine" and was amazed
to see the manner in which someone who had absolutely no
idea about the routine presented a series of statements
that were actually laughably incorrect. He did so with an
air of authority that totally belayed his pitiable lack
of information on the topic. Did I correct it? No, I decided
not to bother or to comment on the issue, life is too short.
In
a similar instance I read a very earnestly written question
on SME by a young performer about what he needed to do to
become a professional magician. As a performer with over
45 year professional experience, I was astounded by nearly
every response he received. It was amateur advice that was
being rendered to boost the egos of the people responding.
Almost none of the advice was of any possible practical
use to the person posting the question. I took the time
to contact the young man involved and actually spend some
time on the phone with him trying to be of some practical
assistance. I felt that it was the right thing to do, but
no I don't do this all the time.
The
Internet is fun but it isn't always as accurate as it could
be and I believe we need to all be aware of the limitations
inherent in it. However, the scariest part of the Internet
to me is what is being presented to non-magicians on sights
like YouTube. The amount of magical secrets available to
the public is downright alarming. A whole new breed of folk
are arriving whose interest in viewing magic doesn't stretch
to becoming a magician, or even finding a book, they just
Google a description of the effect.
The
amount of (usually) badly presented "How To" videos
on YouTube is both alarming and sickening. I really do not
think lay audiences should be casually allowed to watch
the inner secrets of a stunning magical effect such as Penn
& Teller's Bullet Catching Routine. Call me old fashioned,
but seeing some gawky kid explain someone else's routine
to the general public in order to create an "Internet
identity," flies in the face of everything I feel sacred
about our art.
Well,
I don't have any real answers to my rants in this week's
column. Internet has changed everything and there is no
going back, however I do feel more than a few misgivings
about the new directions it is heading in. Needless to say
there is also much that I love and approve that has appeared
alongside the negative aspects of the technological twists
that the Web was introduced to the magic world, but that's
another column!
You
can visit my online store at www.lewinenterprises.com
(And even watch a couple of performance videos,) or you
can subscribe to my blog at www.remarkablemagic.com
--------------------------------------------
9. Masters Of Illusion: Live Taping - #350 - Kyle Peron
--------------------------------------------
Message by Kyle Peron (US)
magic4u02@aol.com
http://www.facebook.com/perondesign
http://www.kpmagicproducts.com
We
are very fortunate this day and age to see magic on TV and
enjoy what is being presented. Seeing a show can inspire
and also gets the magical arts out to the masses.
Perhaps
the future of magic may be started from a show a young person
decided to watch.
Recently
I had the privilege to attend a live filming of Masters
Of Illusion. To be able to see what goes into the creation
of a magic based TV show was inspiring, educational and
empowering to me.
We
arrived at the parking lot as instructed and then proceeded
to walk over to the studio with the help of guides positioned
outside. As we walked we passed a film set up. Pretty common
in and around the LA area.
Getting
to be friendly to the security crew pays off. We got to
find out they were shooting for NCIS LA for a night seen
shoot out. Was fascinating to see how things were set up.
Once
on the lot, one must follow the rules of the studio. You
must keep in mind that filming is going on at all times
on the lot and inside each of the film sound stages. Red
lights outside indicate filming is taking place.
Noise
must be kept to a minimum and because of this you will often
see only golf carts and bikes being used on the lot. As
we stand in line talking is kept low and rules are stated
by the studio crew.
As
you walk into the sound stage you are taken back with just
how different it appears in real life. What we see as a
final product on TV is very different then what is seen
during the filming. The stage sets are often huge and lighting
prevalent everywhere.
Areas
on the stage and on the floor wide spaced to allow the usage
of multiple camera set ups and swing arm cameras. The extensive
lighting allows for the best filming of each act.
That
many lights creates a lot of heat so the sound stages are
often kept pretty cold. You are told how to dress once you
get your tickets. Shows vary but this one wanted us to dress
business casual.
Each
seat is filled and expect the studio crew to position you.
This simply means they will seat you to what they feel gives
the best look and feel for the show. You will be filmed
so they want the audience to look natural and diverse.
Once
seated you will not be able to leave or use the bathrooms
during filming. If you must, you must tell a crew member.
They will then have folks as fill ins. They will sit in
your seat so as the cameras pan, every seat is filled.
Do
not expect to see the show as you would going to a theater.
Remember that this is being filmed and so there is no MC.
The first person you hear is usually the warm up act. This
tends to be a comedian whose job it is to get you warmed
up, excited and telling you how to act, react and when.
The
first thing filmed is usually reaction shots of the audience
and audience pan shots. The crew will inform you what to
do and action is called. There are several takes to get
what they are after for usage in editing later.
Cameras
are everywhere and at times may block your view. However,
you are there to be a part of the show and so getting the
best angle for the cameras always comes first. As each act
goes on, there are a lot of tech and stage crew moving sets,
cables, cameras and lights. It all must be done carefully
but quickly as time is money at any studio.
Several
takes might be done at the request of the director or of
the act no taken again. The pace is quick and once an act
is done, they simple walk off stage as the next set up and
act is positioned on stage to start.
As
acts are presented, special camera crews are recording the
audience. The camera is looking for reactions to what is
being presented. The wow, gasp, applaud and laughter are
keys to what they need to make the show flow in post-production.
It
is an amazing experience and one I wish many can experience.
To see what goes into a show like this is to really see
team effort and a lot of hard work. So the next time you
see a magic show on TV, remember a little of what I mentioned,
you may appreciate it on a whole new level.
As
always, I welcome your comments and feedback. It means a
lot to me. I can always be contacted at magic4u02@aol.com.
Thank you.
Kyle
--------------------------------------------
10. In Conversation With Abigail Spinner McBride #3
--------------------------------------------
Message from Anthony Darkstone
Europe/USA
Anthony
Darkstone In Conversation With Abigail Spinner McBride
AD:
Exactly. This is what Jeff does at The Magic & Mystery
School in various formats. We have touched lightly on your
role at The Magic & Mystery School, and that you and
Jeff open your home to your students. You play a vital but
not always visible role in the Mystery School. Share with
me a little about that side of you …
AM:
As you know, we send out Newsletters and often when Jeff
is away, I sometimes step in and contribute to them. As
to other functions well, my non-official title is Queen
Bee of the Magic & Mystery School, because I keep the
hive humming. Before classes, I help with marketing and
advertising, doing outreach to new students, answering questions
by email and phone, assisting in the scholarship approval
and registration process. I help with the writing and editing
of the bi-monthly Museletters we send out to our friends
and fans.
I take care of the printing needs of the faculty, prepare
materials for the students and assemble the binders for
each class. I make sure the guest rooms are ready for the
visiting faculty and the house is clean and stocked to meet
everyone's needs. During the class, I help with administrative
paperwork and getting students checked in. I make sure the
faculty are fed and caffeinated. I also lead the morning
focus session, answer questions and counsel students, as
well as making sure that everyone has a clean water bottle
to refill as needed and that there are plenty of snacks
during the breaks. After the class, I help write the follow-up
letters. So, I wear many hats, Renaissance woman that I
am….
AD:
Abbi, you just reminded me of some wonderful words by Dr.
Harlan Tarbell -"A magician is not a magician because
he knows tricks, but because he knows Magic -- the principles,
the fundamentals." I know The Magic & Mystery School
teaches this in varied forms but it applies to you and your
background…
AM:
Yes it does Tony. Just knowing how a trick is done is not
enough. We see too much of that nowadays. Perhaps, more
time should be devoted to studying allied performing Arts.
I did. I have spent time since childhood studying competitive
gymnastics, dance, movement, weight training, learning about
all kinds of things, seeking inspiration in all things and
learning how to see beauty in all things. All of that has
helped me to hone my skills as a Performer in both Magic
and other related performances. I would even go so far as
to state that to be a good Magician, it is necessary to
be aware of the Magic in dance, in movement, in living,
in breathing, in learning and then bringing all of that
to create our Magical characters.
The
true Masters of the Art of Magic have known this for centuries
and this is seen in all cultures. When different cultures
are observed with true seeker's eyes, we find a co-relation
that crosses all divides. Let me give you a perfect example
close to home. Jeff was a very competent Magician and was
recognized by his peers as such. However, after his return
from Japan, he underwent a transformation and applied all
that we were talking about earlier and truly transformed
the way he viewed Magic and, quite naturally, his performances.
We share this empirical experience with our students at
The Mystery School. It is not just some theory but empirical
and empathic.
End
of Part 3 - Tune in next week for more.
--------------------------------------------
11. FISM Sismondo Castle
--------------------------------------------
Message by Joan Caesar (Canada)
The
Sismondo Castle is an impressive sight and has an interesting
history. It was both the residence and fortress of the Malatesta
family who were the lords of Rimini in the 13th-17th century,
and was later used as a prison.
Of
the original construction, begun by the Lord of Rimini,
Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta in 1437, only the central
nucleus remains. According to contemporary thinking, Malatesta
himself designed it, although it is known that several architects
also worked on the construction. The work lasted 15 years.
Originally
the castle was encircled with a large moat, with a design
at the main entrance containing the heraldic symbols of
the House of Malatesta. The walls were thought to be thick
enough to bear a strike from the new artillery pieces appearing
in Europe in that period. Although originally positioned
externally from the city, it has no towers facing that side.
All towers are in fact oriented towards the city. These
towers are square, and once each housed a bronze cannon.
The
central part of the castle was the residence of the Prince,
the rooms decorated with tapestries, curtains and frescoes.
Also the exterior would have been decorated, as indicated
by the few fancy tiles still visible.
In
1821 the castle was turned into barracks for the local police.
Five years later, the external walls were demolished and
the moat filled. After a period of decadence, the edifice
is now used as place to show exhibitions.
Just
off the main square in Rimini, it's worth a look during
FISM.
--------------------------------------------
12. 87th Annual I.B.M. Convention In Jacksonville, FL
--------------------------------------------
Message by Bill Wells (US)
Eugene
Burger, Larry Hass And Guests Present The 2015 Lance Burton
Teen Seminar
Eugene
Burger and Larry Hass will be facilitating the Lance Burton
Teen Seminar at the 87th Annual I.B.M. Convention in Jacksonville,
FL on July 13-15, 2015. The McBride Magic and Mystery School
has been facilitating Lance Burton's young magician's events
since its inception in 2003. Along with Eugene and Larry
we are expecting participation from I.B.M. International
President, Shawn Farquhar and Oscar Munoz.
This
event is being sponsored by the I.B.M. Endowment and Development
Fund and is open to all magicians ages 13-19 that are registered
for the I.B.M. Convention at no additional charge. Stay
tuned for future announcements about the event! If you haven't
registered yet - don't wait any longer - register today!!
Registration fees increase on March 1, 2015!!!
To register go to http://www.magician.org/convention/upcoming-convention
Today! Jacksonville here we come!
--------------------------------------------
13. Conjurors Cardsharps And Conmen By Bernard Reid
--------------------------------------------
Reviewed by Paul Romhany
My
Thoughts:
As a professional performer of magic for more than 50 years
Bernard Reid has always had a passion for the evolution
and history of magic. For many years he wrote for Magicana
Magazine on the history of magic in New Zealand and during
that time has spent countless hours researching, around
the world, the history of magic dating from 1855.
The
amount of work Bernard has put in to this incredible book
I think is a book within itself. He had to go through every
newspaper looking for advertisements or reviews. Fortunately,
in the early days there were very few newspapers. The earliest
started in 1839 and by the mid-1840s there was a mere handful.
It was in 1855 when the first documented magical performance
in New Zealand took place. In total over 45 years, from
1855 - 1899, a total of 78 magicians and illusionists, many
internationally recognised, toured New Zealand. This book
by Bernard tells their story, and what a story it is. This
is a real insight in to the life and times of working and
touring magicians dating back to that period as well as
the type of magic they performed.
This
book is filled not just with rich history but stories that
will make you gasp and laugh. This one tickled me in particular.
"Very
famous internationally at that time also was Carl Hertz
who, ironically, came to New Zealand a year later and I
am sure would have been bemused to find he had been preceded
by Carl Hartz! As the result of a court case that came up
later in 1881, Professor Hartz's legal name had to be used
in the deposition where it was revealed that his birth name
was William Charles Hazel and that he was from Wellington."
Who
would have thought magicians would be doing something like
this even back then? You will read stories of success as
well as stories of failure as times were very different
back then. Having said that I do think some stories could
still apply to today. I thoroughly enjoyed this book on
so many different levels. The deluxe hard-bound edition
is not just a great read, but it is also a gorgeous book
to hold.
One
thing I always note when looking at quality in the production
of the book is the binding. Bernard has chosen to go to
the highest grade of binding and it really has paid off.
This is a book I would be proud to have in full view in
my home when people come to visit. Bernard has a natural
flair for storytelling and takes us on a journey that makes
for fascinating and riveting reading. The research is outstanding
from newspaper reviews to graphics and the way Bernard links
it all together. It is obvious when you read this that Bernard
has a deep understanding on the history of magic in general
as he is able to link illusions that were performed during
these times to original performances elsewhere.
It
shows just how the world has changed because there is no
way a person could claim originality of an illusion today
and get away with it - or has it? While this book might
be aimed at those who love the history of magic and collectors,
I would not hesitate recommending it very highly to every
person who has a deep love and respect for our craft. Our
history in magic is so very important so we can all grow
and help our craft develop. Bernard has produced one of
the BEST books I've read in a very long time and with only
a very limited number of copies available I would strongly
recommend you get your copy now before they all go.
Available:
www.nzmagichistory.com
Price:
$100 US plus shipping
--------------------------------------------
14. Updates So Far This Week On VanishLive.com
--------------------------------------------
Message by - Mick Peck (NZ)
Online Content Editor
www.VanishLive.com
Latest
updates on VanishLive.com include:
-
Dynamo Announces More Live Dates
- Merlin Award: Best Gospel Magician
- Broken Wand: Dean Dill
- Broken Wand: Rene Levand
- The Art and Science of Doing Nothing: Nick Lewin
- Joshua Jay's Apartment Profiled
- Magician Michael Jordan Back on Stage
- Raymond Crowe New Zealand Tour
- Review: Criss Angel At Easton State Theatre
Video
of the Week: Dynamo's Fiat 500X Launch
Daily
magic news, articles from around the world and reviews from
working professional magicians.
Visit
us today at:
http://www.VanishLive.com
-
Mick Peck
Online Content Editor
www.VanishLive.com
--------------------------------------------
15. The 41st Annual Winter Carnival of Magic
--------------------------------------------
Message by Tom Vorjohan
The
41st annual Winter Carnival of Magic is the first weekend
of March, and it will be incredible! Beginning on Thursday,
March 5, at noon, this year's WCM has some new activities
and some stellar talent. There are still a couple spots
open in both the close-up and stage contests as well.
Stage
shows will include Murray Sawchuck & Chloe, Shawn Farquhar,
Reed Masterson, David & Leeman, quick change artists
Natalie & Eli, Joel Ward, Eugene Burger, juggler Niels
Duinker, and illusionists John Shryock & Mari Lynn!
The
Close-up show has Reuben Moreland, John Shryock, Shawn Farquhar,
Eugene Burger, and Bill Goodwin.
There
are seven lectures including ones by Lee Earle and John
Reid, plus a panel discussion about performing on television
hosted by Eugene Burger featuring Americas Got Talent's
David & Leeman, the Pawn Star consultant Murray Sawchuck,
and Tonight Show performer Joel Ward.
The
special highlight of the convention will be Darren Romeo's
debut Pigeon Forge performance of his multi-year contract
"Magic Beyond Belief" show! A special banquet
will follow.
Registration
is just $135 for magicians, $70 for companions and children
10-17. For complete schedule, registration, hotel information
and more: www.WinterCarnivalOfMagic.com
March
5-7, 2015 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee -- this should be our
biggest in our 41-year history!
--------------------------------------------
16. Tony Green R.I.P.
--------------------------------------------
Message by Quentin Reynolds
Tony
Green passed away on Thursday, 5th February in Ipswich.
Before turning pro, Tony was a cabinet maker and that skill
came in very handy in making his own props and puppets.
For many years he performed Punch & Judy, Vent and Magic
in the Clacton area. Multiple daily performances on the
beach during the summer season led him to devise many extra
interludes and bits of business for his Punch shows. These
were published in two books, Professional Punch, and Puppets
With Punch, by The Supreme Magic Co.
For
a number of years Tony also made all the Punch puppets for
Supreme.
Tony
retired from performing in the 80's and moved to Ipswich
opening a toy and joke shop Gags and Giggles. Condolences
to his wife Rosemary and son and daughter.
--------------------------------------------
17. The South Tyneside International Magic Festival
--------------------------------------------
Message by Claire Buchan (UK)
The South Tyneside International Magic Festival returns
for its 12th spellbinding year this March, including a three-day
convention for professional magicians
A
number of this year's international performers are available
for interview and I wondered whether you'd be interested
in a phone conversation, or one of your set features, with
any of the artists listed below?
Michael Finney (USA) - multi award-winning, comedy magician,
with more than 30 years in the business. He performed at
the 2004 Inaugural Gala for President George W Bush and
is returning to the Magic Festival's twelfth year this year
after performing there 10 years ago. He also has his own
charitable foundation.
John
Archer (UK) - star of children's television show, Help My
Supply Teacher is Still Magic, award-winning magician John
has been assisting with the organisation of this year's
festival and will also be performing
Luke
Jermay (UK) - Probably the most incredible man you've never
heard of, Luke's mind reading powers have earned him high
profile fans, including Uri Gellar, Dynamo and Derren Brown
Russ
Brown (UK) - Winner of CBBC show, The Slammer, Russ' unique
style combining crazy gags, great music and lots of audience
participation has made him a firm favourite with all ages
High
Jinx (UK) - award-winning illusionists, made up of young,
newlyweds Michael and Tamsyn Jordan. Michael has appeared
on various TV shows, while Tamsyn is a trained actress,
dancer and singer
The
Great Nardini (Scotland) - developed by duo Paul and Mhairi
Nardini, the act has picked up many awards including British
Magical champion and World Champion of Comedy Magic.
Atlas
(USA) and Looch (UK) - two of the world's greatest mind-readers,
who have joined forces to transmit and receive thoughts
with unnerving accuracy
John
Carey (UK) - a passionate magician, specialising in sleight
of hand, with five critically acclaimed DVDS to his name
Diamond
and Jade (UK) - This Liverpool-based duo perform large-scale
illusions. It was founded by Michael Diamond, who devises
many of his own tricks and illusions and has authored two
books on magic
I
look forward to hearing from you soon
Thanks
Claire
Buchan
Senior PR Consultant
Sorted
Public Relations and Event Management Ltd
Suite 3, Maling Studios, Hoults Estate, Walker Road, Newcastle,
NE6 2HL
Tel
0191 265 6111
Fax 0191 265 6011
Email
claire@sortedpr.com
Web www.sortedpr.com
--------------------------------------------
18. Wellington Convention - Win back your Registration Fee!
--------------------------------------------
Message by Nopera Whitley (NZ)
Wellington
Magic Convention - October 24th - 26th, 2015
Win
back your Registration Fee!
One
lucky person will win back the cost of their registration
fee within the first hour of the Convention!
How
To Enter:
All you have to do is register before October 24th, 2015.
Register before 10th of November, 2014 and get 3 entries
into the draw
Register before 1st of May, 2015 and get 2 entries into
the draw
Register before 24th of October, 2015 and get 1 entry into
the draw
The earlier you register, the more entries you get!
Refer
A Friend For Extra Entries:
If you have registered and refer a friend, you can gain
an extra two entries per person that you refer.
For
every person that writes down your name as the referee,
during registration, you will get an additional 2 entries!
For
conditions and more information, go towww.wellingtonmagic.co.nz/raffle
Registration
is Open!
We
have an "Early-Bird" rate for those who register
before the 1st of May, 2015.
- Seniors: $290
- Juniors, Parents & Partners: $190
Register online at www.wellingtonmagic.co.nz to download
the registration form.
Headliners
already confirmed include:
- Charlie Frye and his partner Sherry
- Phil Cass and his partner Philippa
- Nick Nickolas
Like
Us on Facebook:
To stay up to date, make sure to like our Facebook Page:
www.facebook.com/WellingtonMagicConvention2015
For
more information, or to get in touch, visit us at www.wellingtonmagic.co.nz
--------------------------------------------
19. New John Bannon Book Now Available!
--------------------------------------------
Message by Gabe A Fajuri
A
new book by John Bannon, Destination Zero is now available
for pre-order.
A
total departure from Bannon's usual form, this hardbound
collection is filled with 25 self-working material from
the mind of one of the most respected creators of card magic
of the 20th century. Each effect is described in the familiar,
conversational style Bannon's books have become known for.
These are not your typical non-sleight-of-hand tricks. Bannon
has thoroughly analyzed each effect and backed up subtle
principles with careful, layered consist ructions.
Anyone
can cobble together a couple of principles and call it a
"trick." Bannon looks for synergies and leverages
the methods as much as possible. His objective: "One
pulls one should equal three--or more. Otherwise, why bother?"
Every
effect in the book can be accomplished with regular cards--and
without gaffs, crimps, pencil dots, punches, or marks. These
highly-refined constructions will change the way you think
about self-working card magic.
Destination
Zero is a quality hardbound volume with full color jacket
and two-color stamped case. It is 209 pages long, and illustrated
with over 100 crystal-clear photographs.
Destination
Zero is now available for pre-order from the publisher at
www.squashpublishing.com. Books will ship during the first
week of February.
--------------------------------------------
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)
---------------------------------------------
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