Triumphs, invisible thread, invisible decks, change bags, nail writers, and almost impromptu mental magic… it’s all in Paul’s OPENERS AND CLOSERS 3. This book has a very decidedly mentalism / mental magic flavor.. which was fine with me, as I love to mess with people’s minds. Paul has also included videos and an abundance of photos in this edition, which is also fine with me, as I am a very visual guy.
I suppose what I’m trying to say is… I thoroughly enjoyed volume 3 of the Openers and Closers series. Paul’s writing ranks up there with the best of them, and his explanations ARE the best.
The 21 Card ESP Trick alone is worth the price. I am very partial to effects that look like big dollar effects and perform almost automatic. I literally went to bed last night playing this effect over and over in my mind and imagining how my fellow magicians will react when I perform it.
Writing about card tricks and magic in general is not extremely difficult. There’s a proverbial ton of material out there to offer fodder for the cause.. But writing about magic in a way that’s inspiring and insightful is very difficult.. and that’s why I respect Paul’s third contribution to the OPENERS & CLOSERS series.
(The parentheses are my thoughts on Paul’s descriptions..).
INTRODUCTION – An opener does NOT have to be a trick!
( Paul offers some seriously funny advice on winning your audience over at the start of your performance. Getting their support and earning their confidence is SO important, and cannot be underestimated.. You’ll learn a little biker humor along the way too.. )
The 21 Card ESP Trick – Show your version of the 21 Card Trick…but you seem to have goofed up! Then you not only deal out one card only, face down, but you also know the name of selection!
( This reminds me so much of an effect you would expect to find in Giobbi’s ‘Card College’ or Scarne’s ‘Scarne on Card Tricks’ – Very efficient, very rewarding and very much a mystery to your audience. There is NO sleight of hand, but you will fool the socks off your spectators..)
Above & Beyond – Three classics of magic combined into one fantastic card trick!
(Based on a Stewart James classic.. modified by three fellow magicians, and combined into a wonderful, sleight less effect by Paul. Above & Beyond does need a false shuffle or two, but I’m sure you guys can pull that off! Another effect you can add to your repertoire right away..)
Voodoo Reversal of Fortune – Here’s an EXCELLENT trick with the Invisible Deck!
( If you can manipulate an Invisible Deck.. you can perform Paul’s original effect with ease. Not only will you learn a convincer and a simple psychological factoid, you will also learn a cool move Paul teaches with an included video..)
Reading a Thought – Here’s is the REAL method for using a Nail-Writer and two different ways to reveal the thought-of selection!
( Not much I can add to this description.. Paul discloses HOW he uses a nail writer to fool his spectator. If you’ve ever used this extremely powerful weapon then you already understand the power. All the psychological aspects are discussed and explained..)
Invisible Thread Ideas – A 5-page treatise on the use and handling of Invisible Thread!
( This is a highly informative tutorial on the intricacies of invisible thread. If you’re afraid of invisible thread, welcome to the majority. It’s my personal experience the only guys swearing by IT are the guys who use it regularly… and they are probably NOT anxious for you to read Paul’s thoughts. He talks about floating bills, napkins, playing cards, and other inanimate objects like glasses and silverware. Paul also includes his thoughts on sellers of IT and the best thread to use. Good, solid thoughts.. )
See-Through Change Bag – Construct you own change bag for pennies and make it in 5 minutes.
( Not trying to direct you too far away from card magic, this is an ideal compliment to your routine, that will allow you to add a bit of mental magic to your already-stellar act. You can create this, as Paul aptly notes, in minutes. The KISS principle personified…)
A Quickie Triumph – Explain to the audience how difficult it is to practice when you drop the cards all the time. Make the cards “right themselves” in a flash…except the selection!
( You’ll need a couple of not-too-difficult sleights to complete this effect. Paul includes a video of Steve Draun’s Midnight Shift to make the process very do-able for even beginners. I am a big fan of Triumph, and this version has the impact… without the mess..)
This is the final version of Paul’s three part Openers & Closers. I think this one might be my favorite. I’m partial to mental magic and this ebook includes several very nice effects that are ideal for any skill level. The most productive $10.00 investment you’ll make in your magic this summer. Openers & Closers 3 will be available for sale at Lybrary.com on 7/24/17..
Welcome to a new Magic Roadshow Journal of Magic. If this is your first visit.. I hope you find something that makes you want to return next month. Sign up on our homepage to be properly notified when new issues publish.
Here in the states it’s almost Halloween. Ghouls and Goblins galore. I’ve included a couple of features to help with your decorations. Hey, if you don’t scare a kid or two.. what good are you?
Halloween isn’t the only scary day on the horizon. We will most likely have a newly elected president in the US by the time the next Roadshow arrives. I keep politics out of the Roadshow.. this isn’t the proper platform. With that said, I’m 100% in favor of the US electing our first female president… just not this election. I honestly believe this will be the first election where the public will not select a president.. but will vote instead for the candidate they dislike the least. Someone will no doubt win by default…
This is the time of year I begin to think seriously of magic and magical hopes. The days are shorter, the nights cooler, and there is less to occupy my time.. allowing my mind to concentrate on matters that should have demanded my attention all summer. I have a major desire to write, and the cognoscente in me, at least by my own standard, wants to shine. That doesn’t mean I CAN write.. only that I want to… I love the Fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas seasons.. and I try to fill my idle time with important things – like color changes, mental magic, marketing, magic books, and lesser things like what I want to do with the rest of my life…
There is actually a rhyme and reason to this issue. You’ll see subjects that link in some way or another with proceeding subjects, and Halloween features that lead into Ghosts, Nightmares, Delusions and Madness, Mindfreaks, Mental Magic, eventually..The Devil ‘s Picturebook, and tempered with 3 strong Gospel Magic features. We run the gambit..
Folks.. keep in mind that we survive with the help of others. We thrive off content shared with us by magicians from around the world. If you have an effect or article you would like to share with others, send it to the Roadshow! ( Don’t worry.. you retain all rights and can republish it wherever you wish..)
Help us credit.. If you see an effect you think is not in the public domain, and should be credited to a specific magician.. please email me and let me know. What you see here is NOT written in stone, and I can always go back and edit or correct anything on this page. For example.. It was brought to my attention that a video I featured in the Roadshow some time back.. Scam School’s ‘The Easiest Card Trick You Can’t Screw Up”.. is actually Paul Lelekis’ “The Trick That Can’t Be Explained“..(not to be confused with Dai Vernon’s effect with the same name.) I made the necessary corrections on my end, and Scam School was requested to do the same. Although I can’t control other performers, I can certainly control what goes in the Roadshow and whether or not it’s correct. Help me keep up my end!
Questions, Comments, or Contributions: Email Me ( [email protected] )
It’s All About Words – A Michael M. Breggar’s Effect by Al Albers
Business Card or Calling Card – Kyle Peron
Getting Your Entertainment Business Market-Ready – Part 2 – Mindpro
OSMOSIS II – Paul A Lelekis’ Latest Ebook – A Review
A Day-Time Nightmare – An Effect from Theo. Annemann
The Gambler in Person – Theo. Annemann
Hand Grab Scare and Floating Head Illusion – Tutorial and Video
A Pepper Ghost Alternative – Tutorial and Video
Printer Out to Lunch – A Magic Classic Re-done by Michael Lyth
Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Erdnase – PDF
Criss Angel Mindfreak – Archives – 92 Episodes
New Criss Angel A&E Special…
Mental Magic Reveal and Tutorial – Video
Snap Changes from Around the World – Video
Snap Change Tutorials – Video
Simple,Powerful Peek – Tutorial and Video
Visual Card Change – Erdnase Color Change Tutorial
Sleight of Hand 101 | The Duck Change – A Color Change Tutorial
Sleight of Hand 101 | Psychic (Beginner)
Magic Performance | Chris Hannibal | TEDxCharlotte
The Devil ‘ s Picturebook – Auction Catalog (2014)
Mission Magic – Full Service Gospel Magic for European Magicians
Duane Laflin Gospel Magic – Video
Gospel Illusions Made Easy Webinar – Almost 1 Hour Video Tutorial
How to Make Double Sided Silver Morgan, Peace Dollar Coin Rings – Tools Revealed
Making The Hooked Coin – Video Tutorial
Tutorial Library – The Most Comprehensive Free Magic Resource – 52Kards
One Funny True Story and One Funny Cartoon… from Jim Canaday
Magic Trick Reviews… Free to Everyone Facebook Group
More Important Stuff…
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“At first they will ask why you’re doing it. Later they’ll ask how you did it..”
“Work while they sleep. Learn while they party. Save while they spend. Live like they dream..”
“Always keep your love life, bank account and next move private..”
“5:00am.. the time legends either get up.. or go to bed..”
“Hustle until your haters ask if you’re hiring…” Steve Maraboli
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It’s All About Words – A Michael M. Breggar’s Effect by Al Albers
Effect: The performer removes seven business cards from his wallet and places them on the table – in an oval pattern – so the spectator can read them (each has an epigram). Next, eight cardstock circles, each with an alphabetic letter, are removed from the wallet and arranged in a straight line. It reads: A MYSTERY. A spectator is then invited to play a word game called, “It’s All About Words,” wherein a letter and an epigram are randomly selected. Pointing to the wallet, the performer asks the spectator to open it and remove the prediction that’s inside. One side of the business card matches the letter the spectator chose. The other side matches the epigram.
Background. This effect was inspired by Michael M. Breggar’s “Monopoly-S-P” routine in the August 2016 issue of The Linking Ring.
Magic effects requiring a spectator to make a choice are rarely what they seem. In a nutshell, the spectator’s choice is not as free as he would like to believe. My routine, as does “Monopoly-S-P,” uses the PATEO (Pick Any Two Eliminate One) force and the mathematical “Seven Force.” Although the PATEO force in my routine is a bit long, it has a logical justification. My use of it – a single-elimination spelling bee – is based on a game I played when my children were in elementary school … many (more than I care to remember) years ago.
“It’s All About Words” is one of those effects that can be carried in your shirt pocket and performed on a moment’s notice.
What You Need:
(1) Seven business cards each with an epigram.
(2) Eight, 2-inch cardstock circles with an alphabetic letter affixed on one side.
(3) A duplicate business card.
Set-Up:
(1) Choose a letter from the words “A MYSTERY,” and in a large block letter format, print that letter on the back of the duplicate business card.
(2) Arrange the business cards so the force card is second from the top, with the epigrams facing you.
(3) Place the business cards and the cardstock circles in one partition of the wallet.
(4) Place the prediction in the other partition so the alphabetic letter is face-up.
To Perform (Patter is in italics).
“I recently saw two sentences that when taken literally were bizarre. The first was an advertisement sign for an Area Storage Facility that read, ‘FREE TRUCK ON MOVE-IN.’ Most people would realize that the company meant they’ll ‘loan’ the new client a moving truck, not give them a free truck. But that’s not how the sentence comes across. The other sentence was on the back of a dump truck. It said, ‘DO NOT FOLLOW.’ Unfortunately, this is the only two-lane street that leads to my house. What now?
Remove the cards from the wallet and then put the wallet aside. “A few days later, I found some epigrams that made me laugh; perhaps you will too, after you read them.” (See Afterthoughts.) Starting from the bottom left and going counter-clockwise, place the cards on the table so the spectator can read them. ( The BOTTOM LEFT card is the starting point for the count.. and the BOTTOM RIGHT card is the force card..)
After the last card is revealed, say, “It used to be that kids inevitably say the darndest things. It’s a cliché of ‘out of the mouths of babes.’ But kids aren’t the only ones with funny explanations. Television comedy writers churn out some hilarious one-liners, and sometimes so do ordinary folks.
“When my children were first learning how to form words using the letters of the alphabet, we’d play a word game at home that I called, ‘It’s All About Words.’” Remove the eight cardstock circles and place them in a straight line so it reads, A MYSTERY. “I’d mix some letters (point to the phrase) and we’d randomly eliminate all but one. The exercise was to reinforce what they learned in school and to also increase their vocabulary knowledge by thinking of a two- or three-letter word containing the letter that was about to be discarded. As their vocabulary increased, so did the word count.”
Scoop up the eight letters and have the spectator mix them. Say, “Place them face-up on the table in a straight line or in a small circle.”
You’re now ready to execute the PATEO force. The procedure is simple enough for the magician: Don’t offer the prediction letter as an elimination choice to the spectator. However, if the spectator includes it in his two choices, always eliminate the non-force letter. Let’s assume “A” is the force letter.
You start by sliding out two letters and asking the spectator to eliminate one. Say he picks the “Y.” Ask him to say a word that contains a “Y.” The eliminated letter is then placed aside, face-down. The non-chosen letter goes back into the face-up pile.
“Your turn to slide out two letters,” you say to the spectator. This time, the performer eliminates one. Let’s assume it’s the “S.” As you move it from play, say a word that contains an “S.” Once again, the non-chosen letter goes back into the face-up pile.
Continue this back-and-forth process until just two letters (one of which is the force letter) remain. By choice, the spectator gets the last play. Since you don’t know which letter he will choose, you’ll need to use equivoque.
“We’re left with two letters. This time, place your forefinger on one of them.” (If you think it’ll get a laugh, you might consider whistling the “Sunny Day” tune from Sesame Street.)
It he touches the letter “M,” say, “This vocabulary lesson was brought to you by the letter ‘A.’ Discard the ‘M.’” If he touches the “A,” you’d say, and do, the same thing. Yes, it’s a bold move, but the spectator won’t question it.
Pause a moment and then say, “Congratulations; you win a prize … one of these epigrams. To help in the selection process, I brought my lucky dice.” Reach into your pocket, withdraw two invisible dice and place them in front of the spectator. “Roll them a few times so you see they’re not loaded.” Pause a moment and then say, “Different numbers each time, right?” Wait for the spectator’s reply. Continuing, “Roll them one final time; you can roll one or both. We’ll use whatever number or numbers you get.” After the spectator finishes, execute the “Seven Force.”
In our example, the spectator rolled a six using both dice. Place your finger on the “start count here” card and say, “Starting with this card and moving clockwise, use the letter ‘A’ to touch each business card as you count to six. Turn the sixth card facedown.” When he finishes say, “Once again, count six spaces – include the face-down cards – and turn over the sixth card.” Pause again. “Continue this until one face-up card remains. Place the letter on that card.” (The last face-up card is the force card.)
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Note: If he claims to have rolled a seven, he’ll automatically land on the force card. At that point, scoop up the other cards, turn them facedown, and place them alongside the cardstock circles.
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4Hand the spectator the business card wallet. “There’s a prediction inside; please remove it and tell everyone what it says.” The spectator will be astonished when he sees that the letter he chose matches the letter on the card. Continuing, say, “Turn the card over.” The epigram matches the chosen business card. Point to the card and say, “Thanks for helping; that’s for you.”
Afterthoughts.
If you’re doing walk-around and plan on performing this often, you’ll want to have different prediction cards at the ready.
If you want to forego eliminating business cards one-by-one, use a real die. After it’s confirmed to be normal, have the spectator roll it one final time. Whatever number they stop on, add the bottom (hidden) number to get seven. Have the spectator count to the seventh (force) card. Once they drop the letter onto it, pick up the other six and turn them face-down as you place them off to the side.
Here are the epigrams I use – in no particular order.
YO! STOP TALKING; SERIOUSLY. RIGHT NOW!
I’M GONNA GO STAND OUTSIDE, SO IF ANYONE ASKS, SAY, “I’M OUTSTANDING!”
IT WAS NICE TO MEET YOU! HERE’S MY BUSINESS CARD.
I SHOOT PEOPLE FOR A LIVING. IT’S OKAY; I’M A PHOTOGRAPHER.
I AM THE FUTURE. HAVE A NICE DAY.
RETIRED. GAINFULLY UNEMPLOYED, AND PROUD OF IT.
I MET TELEVISION’S ONLY TALKING HORSE, “MR. ED.” IT WAS A LETDOWN. HE HAD LARYNGITIS.
Lastly, if you’re entertaining a younger group, you may want to use some of today’s jargon
Al Albers…
Al has been studying the art of magic for over 40 years. A part-time professional magician since 1981, he has entertained thousands of people throughout the United States, and in such diverse locales as Palma de Majorca, Spain; Naples, Italy; Tunis, Tunisia; Barcelona, Spain; Alexandria, Egypt; Kingston, Jamaica; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; and the U. S. Naval Station Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico. Al is also a respected author, having published four mystery novels, Of Ghosts and Magic, House of Tarot Cards, A Pocket Full of Voices, and The Last Goodbye, feature protagonist John Michaels, a retired Master Magician living in Virginia Beach. Visit Al’s website at: http://www.alfredalbers.com/Pages/default.aspx
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Business Card or Calling Card – Kyle Peron
There are really 2 approaches to take with a business card. There is a branded calling card approach, and there is also a “business” card approach. I have done both for myself, as well as designed both for magic clients of mine. Both are different and do different things for you. The choice is really up to the individual and what he or she wants to get out of the card.
So, one thing you have to determine is if you want your card to be a true “calling card” or more “business” card. There is a difference between the two, and they both can work for you. It really is a matter of personal preference and what you want your card to do for you.
A calling card is mainly a continuation of your brand message and brand identity as carried across all forms of your marketing. It may have your logo identity on it, as well as your various contact information, website, phone number, etc.
A business style card is one that will have this information on it but will actually work as a way to generate business for you. It becomes more of a marketing vehicle and might include using the back of the card in some sort of way to give the person an incentive to take action to call you, go to your website, etc.
Also, business cards do more than convey the information that’s printed on the card. A card that’s ugly, dirty, printed on perforated paper, or full of corrections screams loud and clear that you’re an amateur. No matter how many wonderful services you offer, if your card brands you as unprofessional, you lose business. A clean, creative, professionally printed, and visually attractive card on the other hand, conveys a positive first impression that lingers long after your initial meeting.
Still, a savvy business person knows that adding your unique marketing-oriented text to a business card, in addition to contact information, pays off. One strategy is to add text that gives your unique, specific customer benefits.
For example:
1) Easy to PAY “Credit Cards Accepted”
2) Easy to get AHOLD of “Requests handled within 24hrs.”
3) Easy to get ADVICE or INFO “Use our simple Information form.”
4) “Present or mention this card for a free magic trick.”
5) “Receive your first show at 25% off by requesting a promo kit.”
6) “Log onto kyleandkellymagic.com for current discount coupons!”
7) “Free upgrade to our deluxe package by mentioning the number on this card.”
8) The back of the card can be a useful calendar.
9) Survey, redeemable for a free gift – could direct them to a web page survey, where they fill it out and get a free gift or discount.
10) Punch card for frequent clients – acts as a referral rewards system.
11) A fun optical illusion, magic trick, or question where they can be directed to your website for more like it or for the answers.
12) A calendar of your upcoming public performances.
13) The card could be a magnet to be used and seen on the fridge by the prospect.
14) Could have a listing of most common measurement conversion chart – gives them a reason to hold onto it for their use.
15) A list of your top 5 tips for a successful event.
Keep in mind that there is nothing wrong with having your card be just a “calling card”. If you have other marketing materials that have a call to action that you use, then a calling card may not be a bad way to go as it is a continuation of your brand identity. However, you could have your business card doing double duty by not only listing your contact information, but by having an effective call to action as well.
No matter which direction you go in, always remember that your business card is a direct representation of what you do, what you are about, and the services you provide. Do not settle for second best or for a card that looks “cheap”. A professional and high-quality card will say a lot about your services long before they even begin to read it. Make your card work for you.
It is hard this day and age to get folks to understand that the first impression you often ever make on a prospect is in the materials you send out to them. If this is the case, why wouldn’t you want these materials to be designed in the best way possible?
Too many folks have PCs and desktop publishing software. It is too easy to create artwork and get them done up that everyone thinks they can do it. What they forget to realize is that graphic design and communications through graphical means is a learned skill, and one that takes a long time to understand and to do well.
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 [email protected]. I would love to hear from you.
Please check out my many ebooks and books at my product site at http://www.kpmagicproducts.com. It would be most appreciated.
Getting Your Entertainment Business Market-Ready – Pt 2
Mindpro
In my previous article I discussed creating the foundational elements and initial decisions for your entertainment business. We covered the foundational questions that needed to be determined to start your business.
We also touched on some of the things you may need to start promoting your business. In this article let’s take a look a bit closer at what you need to become market-ready. The reason things are done in the logical and proper order is often in the structure of your business one element may make the other elements become more clearer or concise. The items you need to become market-ready will be based on and determined by the foundational questions you’ve previously determined.
For example, let’s say in the initial foundational questions you determined…
– That you would like to perform 2-3 shows per month
– That you would be targeting a 30 mile radius from your home
– That you prefer to work the kids and family market
– You will offer a stage show and strolling magic, also balloon creations
– That you will be performing under the name “The Magic Of Tyler
– And you have determined your pricing for your stage show, strolling and balloons, including a combination package
Now these decisions can help you in creating the things needed to become market-ready. Since you have decided on the kids and family market you know that your promotional materials, websites, business cards and video should be directed to and focused around this market. You will not need expensive, embossed folders and business cards with much more of a corporate look and feel to them. Instead you can perhaps use colors, a lighter, more fun theme or tone, perhaps photos of smiling kids or kids and parents in your printed materials and website, and other marketing components that are more conducive to this market. You know that “family fun” is a key appeal element. Since you don’t just want your service to be for kids but entire families, this needs to be represented in your photos. video, promotional material and social media. Perhaps creating a USP or descriptive liner specifically identifying and being directed toward families would be most appropriate.
Remember who you are targeting with your materials. It’s not the kids booking your services it’s parents and adults. Can you have a kids activity page on your website? Sure you can if you desire, but I wouldn’t suggest creating your entire website around kids.
You know you do not need an extensive promotional package, but maybe perhaps just a one page folded brochure or a one-sheet along with a website should suffice. Also because of the initial determinations you’ve made you know your 30 minute birthday party show won’t be priced at $3,000. This is not appropriate for the typical kids & family market. The point is the foundational decisions you’ve made can easily begin to direct you and dictate future directions and decisions offering you much more clarity and focus as you continue though your establishing process.
These materials will also allow you to pinpoint your marketing targets making your efforts more efficiently and cost-effective.
In determining your marketing you must first decide how you want interested prospects to respond. Do you want them to visit your website, call you, email you, text you, perhaps fill out an online inquiring form, or do you want them to come to your house, walk through your front door go into your bedroom and shake you awake with their interest? Again, this needs to be predetermined as it will affect how your approach and create your marketing materials.
In today’s very visual world, many consider a video a must for the kids and family market. While you may need to perform several bookings to get such footage, you can begin to outline your video and how you would like it to look, feel and the overall tone, remembering it may be viewed by both kids and their booking parents. What elements are important for the parents to see in your video? What best represents you?
As you can see, determining your foundational decisions can help you to create your marking and romotional material much more clearly defined and targeted for optimal results. So once you have created your desired response action from those interested in your services, and you have your promotional materials ready and in place, you must ask yourself what other things will I need to conduct and operate my business professionally.
Let’s think for a moment….what if the phone were to ring right now! Are you prepared and ready to handle it? Do you know how you would answer the phone? Do you know what you would say? Do you know how you would present your services? Do you know how to answer the inquiring client’s questions and learn about their needs and interests? What if they wanted to book, do you have the forms and documents to confirm their booking?
These are all things you need to have in place before going to market. Remember in the last article I discussed having the very important business operational system in place to properly prepare you for this situation, offer you the best chance of getting the booking and knowing exactly how to confirm such a booking?
This is not the time to allow yourself to become overwhelmed. You need to have the tools and resources in place to use in your business and to allow yourself to succeed. Realizing that most performers get to this point but may not have any idea of the many tools and documents needed to operate their business, last year I released The Entertainer’s Business Toolkit. It contains over 50 of the most important and useful tools that every entertainment business should have in their toolbox of resources. These include lead sheets, cover letters, e-mails, contracts, riders, invoice, marketing materials, promotional material templates, sample/demo video storyboard templates, phone scripts, testimonial generators and so much more! You can find the link to the website for this at the end of this article. These can be part of your business operation system.
I asked you these questions to see if you were truly ready if the phone were to ring right now. So many performers get so wrapped up in just being in a hurry to get to marketing that they overlook these crucial steps and components. There is nothing worse and more unprofessional than when someone inquires about your services and you become frozen like a deer in headlights because you weren’t properly prepared or worse yet, hadn’t even thought about this.
This is where the absolute most important component come into play – your presentation.
Exactly how you present your services to an inquiring client is an art and science in and of itself. Take the time to know and learn what you want to say and how you will deliver this information. Talking the time and effort to do this correctly can be worth literally thousands of dollars to you over time. Break it down – how do you want to start the conversation, how will you present your series, pricing and address their interests and concerns? How will you move to ask for the booking to confirm their date and event? How will you conclude your presentation if they confirm? If they don’t confirm?
By having all of these elements well thought out, predetermined and in place and ready to go, you will find yourself positioned to be able to get more bookings from less inquiries. Let me explain…
Let’s say you skipped all of these foundational steps I have offered, and simply create your show and started marketing. Let’s say you just stated random, general marketing and somehow you generated 20 inquiries. Because you really weren’t prepared and didn’t have a polished presentation in place, you would likely have stuttered and stumbled through your inquiries, maybe getting 1 or 2 bookings at most. That’s between a 5 and 10% closing ratio. However, since you took the time to create the proper foundational steps, created market specific promotional materials, have all of the necessarily tools in place and know exactly how you are going to present your services in a fluent and well thought out manner, out of the same 20 inquiries you might confirm 5 or 6 bookings, perhaps more. That is a 25-30% booking ratio. Can you see the difference here? That can be 5x or greater booking ratio when you have the proper system and tools in place. I know many performers following this foundational system that have over a 70% booking ratio with the proper tools and resources in place.
While there will always be thing you can add, improve or tweak, you now have put in the effort to get your business market-ready. In our next installment we will being marketing.
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MIndpro is an professional entertainment business specialist that has been coaching and consulting entertainers in entertainment business, press and media for over 30 years. He has enjoyed success as a full-time entertainer, owner of three entertainment agencies, as an international talent broker, producer and promoter, as well as being a press and media coach and consultant after 20+ years in radio and television. He has helped many start, grow and master the art of entertainment business.
He has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, ABC-TV’s All My Children, CBS, ABC, CNN and FOX News as well as being a frequent guest on many various television and radio shows throughout the country. Throughout his career Mindpro has worked with a virtual who’s who in the world of
entertainment including Tom Jones, Willie Nelson, Phyllis Diller, Don Rickles, Steve Allen, Michael Jordan, Tony Danza, John Stamos, Loretta Lynn, Kenny Rogers, Tom Petty, Billy Joel, The Monkees and The Beach Boys.
His Entertainer’s Success Series of professional business resources for entertainers and entertainment business owners are available at: http://wwwEntertainmentSuccess.com.
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“In every show you do, be sure to include at least one moment that makes you uncomfortable and nervous” -DelGaudio and Helder (Journal of Secrets)
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OSMOSIS II – Paul A Lelekis’ Latest Ebook – A Review
It seems as if I just reviewed the first Osmosis. Honestly, Paul writes ’em faster than I can review them. That said, it certainly doesn’t mean Osmosis II is lacking in content. I believe there is MORE content in the second edition than in the first.
As I mentioned in the first review, I really liked it, in part because there was such a wide array of effects, helpful tips and information. I like diversity. I like small doses of magic converged with insightful writing. And I like effects I can understand. Those of you who know me from the Magic Roadshow know how I like to create issues full of a little bit of everything. Osmosis II reminds me of a Roadshow – It doesn’t matter your skill level.. there’s something for everyone, from the beginner to the pro.
Paul has the ability to pick effects from some of the giants of magic, add his personal twists, and make it easily performable.. even for a klutz like myself. The first three effects are all good examples. Michael Skinner’s version of Marlo’s Poker Deal, Comedy Card Mis-call, and Paul’s reworking of a Stewart James classic Ace Cutting routine.
Now, when I say Paul makes effects ‘easily performable’, I wasn’t necessarily meaning all his effects are easily performable by everyone. These three are all in the intermediate range and take a little practice.. but that’s only fair as we aren’t talking ‘self-working’ here. Divided among the three effects, if you can perform nice double-lifts, a false cut, hold a little finger break, perform double undercuts to the bottom or top, and carry out a false count (after explicit directions from Paul).. you can perform all three like a BOSS.. The Ace Cutting routine is the more difficult of the three, but considering the spectator shuffled the deck prior to the reveal, is well worth the extra effort.
Paul includes his personal patter, and even a little ‘blue’ humor if you’re so inclined and in the right company, to each effect, along with handling tips that simplify the working and practicality.
‘An Example of Comedy Control’ takes advantage of crowd psychology and helps gain control of a small group of spectators through comedy, making them super-receptive to your magic -without- the use of curse words, firearms, ancient cutting weapons, obnoxious animals, and alcohol. Just a matter of saying the right
thing, and waiting on them to take the bait…
‘Osmosis I’ featured a brilliant bit of professional misdirection. ‘Osmosis II’ doubles down with another extremely useful treatise designed to provide ample cover for all those double undercuts, and other similar sleights, you used in conjunction with the first three effects. Nice…
Paul included another of his favorite coin routines in Jumbo Coin Production. Anyone who has experienced the look of amazement on a spectator’s face when you produce a big-ass coin knows the value of a good giant coin reveal.. I am not a good one to critique coin manipulation.. remember, I’m a klutz, so I’ll have to leave the validity of this effect to those of you who are..
‘Take a Break with some Optical Illusions!’.. One of those sneaky little diversions we renaissance men like to toss amongst our genius..
To quote Paul’s Table of Content, the next feature is… ‘ Hand Stuff – Here is an excerpt from Bill Spooner’s JOURNAL of MAGIC RESEARCH by Bill Wysong giving a list of creams, solids and powders for applying to our dry hands for manipulations… especially with cards!’.. I consider this so vital I ran an article in my last Magic Roadshow about properly preparing your hands for a performance. For years I couldn’t figure how certain magicians had fingertip control over a deck of cards, able to perform effortless second deals and false counts.. until I discovered it wasn’t ALL natural ability…. Welcome to the REAL underground…
Color Changing Knives, Torn and Restored Napkins, Coin Transposition, Money Transportation, An Idea and Routine with an Optical Illusion, Paul Curry’s Swindle Switch, Clippo, and a very detailed section on the Faro Shuffle converge in a section Paul calls:
“An eclectic collection of ideas and tricks for you to apply, peruse, and/or integrate into your shows..”
They are just that… a collection of magical thoughts and studies that cover a wide array of props. I think I mentioned in my last review that these can be the most valuable of all. As magicians, we are always looking for a useful tip or trick.. and often judge a book or dvd by how many ‘tips’ we garnered from it. I have so many ‘resources’, some very expensive, that resulted in absolutely nothing worthwhile, at least as far as my magic is concerned. Osmosis I and II both provided me with several effects/tips I added to my repertoire.. and that is my highest compliment.
The last section of Osmosis II turned from magic to magic history. Knowing the history of cards, or in this case, one particular card, the Jack, gives your magic a dose of authenticity and realism. We all think of the face cards as ‘Royalty’.. but that’s not completely true… Paul says: “The Jack or Knave was NOT a term used to indicate royalty as many think today. These terms were used to indicate a dishonest male, a male servant or a male of humble position in society. These terms are also used to indicate a deceitful male. Jacks or Knaves are also used to describe a thief, murderer, a villain or even a monster! Many will remember the most famous of serial murderers, Jack the Ripper. No one knew who Jack the Ripper was, but the term “Jack” was used to describe him!”… I can honestly say I didn’t know that… The complete history of the JACK is described in a way that makes you want to go out an impress someone right now!
Paul says, “Girls who wear glasses still can’t see your passes!”.. So, to add a definite professionalism to your performances he included videos of his three most-used passes.…the Classic Pass, the Jiggle Pass (my favorite), and Steve Draun’s Midnight Shift. This was a nice way to finish off Osmosis II, with a tutorial of perhaps the most honored of all magic sleights. So many magicians gave up on the pass long ago, and these three videos may be the motivation you need to reevaluate their essential qualities. Who knows.. maybe this time next year you will have mastered the greatest of the most humble of artistic pursuits… the one skill that, once mastered, goes totally unseen. Bummer… But you better believe that other magicians, unlike other artists, both know and appreciate it’s perfection.
OSMOSIS II is 35 pages in length and available exclusively through Lybrary.com for $10.00 (Instant download) Available October 15th, 2016.. This is Paul’s 37th ebook, and in my opinion, one of his very best… http://www.lybrary.com/paul-a-lelekis-m-163788.html
Rick Carruth
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A Day-Time Nightmare
Annemann
(Editor’s note: I performed this effect years ago with a newly bought ‘effect & gimmick’. They failed to mention when they sold it to me that it was created around 1929 by Theo Annemann and published in his “The Cabinet of Card Miracles” … Oh well… live and learn…)
In this effect, the spectator apparently sees IN HIS OWN deck, a card which he finds that he has placed in his pocket several minutes before!
A fake card is needed and is made by gluing the FACE of any BLACK CARD to the back of a RED CARD (at one end only) for half an inch. the rear BLACK card is left as is. But the RED (FRONT) card is TRIMMED slightly at its outer loose end. This makes a “short” CARD, that can be found and stopped at in deck by riffling the pack. The beauty of this idea is that this “feked” double card can be ADDED TO ANY BORROWED DECK regardless the back design–and cannot be noticed due to the handling of the deck.
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Get your double card on the face of any borrowed deck. Run through cards as if counting them to see if it is a full pack.–but really to locate the single DUPLICATE of the BLACK CARD of your glued pair. Get it on TOP OF DECK.
Have an ordinary envelope examined by the owner of deck, and then have him select a card from his pack. This top card (duplicate) of deck must be “forced” and the performer can use his favorite method. I generally riffle the pack asking to have someone call “STOP” at any point. In cutting, slip TOP CARD to top of LOWER
HALF and selector gets it. Or, deal a row of four cards with this card in secon dplace and force by the “between one and four” counting method.
TELL SELECTOR NOT TO LOOK AT THE CARD HE GETS, NOR TO SHOW IT–JUST TO SEAL IT IN THE ENVELOPE AND PLACE IN HIS POCKET.
Cut the deck (bringing double card near center) and turn face up. Hold pack facing him, and riffle the TOP END, telling him to say STOP at any time. Now, as the short card is near CENTER you can always stop at this spot–which stops you BETWEEN THE GLUED PAIR and leaves the BLACK CARD in view and looking at him. Ask him to REMEMBER the card stopped at. Let deck close. Turn cards face down.. Openly deal the cards
out, face up on the table in a pile. Tell him to stop you when he sees the card he noted. HE FINDS IT HAS VANISHED! This is due to the fact that the card he saw is GLUED TO THE BACK OF ANOTHER CARD.
And this, with his own deck, and without a single move or sleight.
Then, ask him to “NAME” his card. He does so and you apparently prove that he has been dreaming. Because when he opens his envelope himself, he finds the VERY CARD HE THINKS HE JUST SAW IN HIS DECK!
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One more from Annemann that fits nicely for those of you who perform gambling demonstrations.
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The Gambler in Person…
Theo. Annemann
IT is the desire of many magicians to really be as good as an audience considers them. How often, after a card effect or two, the remark is heard, ‘How would you like to play a game with him?’ Due to this thought there often comes a request for the performer to show them how a few good hands should be dealt and it is at this point that the average card man is in deep water.
These two methods for card table demonstrations will no doubt fill the bill for many a person who needs something like it but can’t bother to learn a lot of different sleights and shuffles. In the first routine, the performer has a spectator thoroughly mix any deck and taking same, the performer deals five hands of poker face up. He explains that this is what would happen should the spectator be dealing and he asks that they note which of the five hands would be the winner.
Picking the five hands up, the performer now states that he shall try to deal a few fair hands and he asks which of the five shall get the highest. One is designated and the slowly and fairly deals the hands, the selected hand always being the top or highest of the lot.
This is so extremely simple that it must be worked to realize the good effect. The first dealing of the hands is to build the hand for the next deal. When the hands are on table faces up, the performer must locate a fair hand, and it is important that he only take one card from each of the five out hands. I have yet to see a combination of cards which would not contain a possible hand of likely value. Starting, with a full house (three of a kind and two of a kind) you will be able to build four of a kind with an extra high card, a straight, which
is quite common and easy to get, or an ordinary flush which is probably the easiest of all. As you do this time after time, it gets to be second nature to spot the various cards to make a combination even as you deal them out. You do this dealing in a slow unhurried manner so that they may watch the various hands and see which is the highest the first time.
The picking up is the real secret. The hands are scooped up one at a time and dropped face down on top of deck and it is only necessary that the desired card from each hand be on top
or at the back of this heap. Thus in picking up each hand you pick one, two, three or four cards as the case may be and scoop up the remaining cards with these in hand and drop on deck and so your wanted card is on top.
When all hands have been picked up in this manner, if they were dealt out again, the first hand would contain the cards and be highest but the idea of letting them choose which of the five is to get the good hand this deal makes it appear as if the performer can just deal the cards wherever he pleases. All that is necessary, however, is to add one, two or three cards to the top of deck from bottom which will automatically do the
work. If the third man is to get the hand, add two cards, etc. This is easily done quite openly while you false shuffle or false cut the deck, as you must remember that you are doing this as an exhibition of skill and deft mixing. The psychology here is that if you didn’t shuffle or monkey with the deck at all, the idea of a stack is uppermost in their minds. However, if you shuffle and apparently mix the cards, they assume you are stacking
them in some uncanny fashion and will laud .your skill to the heavens.
From: Hugard’s ‘Encyclopedia of Card Tricks’
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Hand Grab Scare and Floating Head Illusion – Tutorial
I can let Halloween go by without at least one good tutorial to brighten your day.. This Hand Grab and Floating Head Illusion is not difficult to build and is the perfect ‘illusion’ for trick ‘o treaters..
The Instructables page not only features the video, but additional pictures and a tutorial to make the project easier. You can download a PDF file or see all the necessary info on the site… To quote from the site…
“I remembered that I had seen a version of this effect in an old magic book: Magic Simplified by Harry Baron (1954). The description is of an illusion where a magician carries a fake head to a table; when he puts it down, it appears to move and talk by itself. But – the crucial thing is that the mirrors face inwards at 90° rather than out to the surrounding area. This means that you don’t need to install a special surround for the effect to work and the audience can get fairly close without discovering the trick…” http://www.instructables.com/id/Halloween-Hand-Grab-Scare-Floating-Head-Illusion/?ref=magicians-scrapbook.co.uk
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A Pepper Ghost Alternative – Tutorial
Create a Hologram type ghost in a doorway with a projector, a thin cloth covering, and special effects, available very inexpensively, from ATMOSfx..
GHOSTLY APPARITIONS from ATMOS fx – Resources
The resources to complete your hologram ghost illusion… Ghostly Apparitions
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Printer Out to Lunch – A Magic Classic Re-done
Michael Lyth
I’m sure most of you are familiar with Out to Lunch, first marketed by Clare Cummings and Bob Ellis In 1947. Although probably originating in publication as early as 1898, it, like many of the more popular magic effects in history, can be credited to a variety of magicians. That said.. Cummings and Ellis’ version is the one we are most familiar with..
Michael has created his own version, based around a couple of products bought on Ebay and a small box instead of a deck of cards. As he and I both like to say.. “Find new magic among the forgotten or older classics..”
Check it out…
Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Erdnase – PDF
David Ben
Although I originally published this in the Roadshow several years ago, it’s well worth a read, or a re-read, by anyone interested in the history of Expert at the Card Table.. perhaps the most influential magic book of all times.
For those of you who can’t get enough of Criss Angel, there are now 92 episodes of Mindfreak available on A&E. You can watch any episode from any of the 6 seasons on demand.
Illusionist Criss Angel has a new special on the A&E Network October 12th at 9pm Eastern Time. Word has it that he will highlight over 30 illusions, including moving tattoos and levitations.
Celebrity guests include Paris Jackson, Andrew Dice Clay, Gary Oldman, Belinda, and UFC stars Frank Mir, Randy Couture, Paige VanZant and Chuck Liddell.
The special is produced for A&E by Angel Productions Worldwide Incorporated and executive produced by Angel, David Baram and Erich Recker. Executive producers for A&E are Elaine Frontain Bryant and Brad Abramson.
Criss Angel: Mindfreak, a reality series based on Angel’s magic act, ran on A&E from 2005 to 2010.
White Arts Magic brings you a very good tutorial that, if you’ll take the 18 minutes to watch, will give you a very strong mental magic effect. I feel like I should credit this effect to someone, but as it’s based on a mathematical principle that’s been around for many years, I don’t know that I can. If any of you can properly credit this to a performer.. please let me know and I’ll add it back to this post..
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“Don’t think, ‘Is this a great trick?’ instead think, ‘Is this a great trick that fits my performance character?‘” – Simon Lovell (Son of Simon Says by Simon Lovell)
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Snap Changes from around the world – Video
Dozens and dozens of snap changes. There’s something hypnotic about this video…
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Snap Change Tutorials
The Snap Change was one of the very first sleights/flourishes I learned. I thought I was something special. Since then, I still watch others performing the snap change, feeling perhaps I’ll discover some minute secret that’ll make mine better.
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Simple, powerful Peek
The Peek is still one of the more powerful weapons in all of card magic. Discovering the identity of your spectator’s card with one small move, in less than a second, is perfect. Doing so without drawing attention to it, or raising suspision, is even more perfect…
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VISUAL CARD CHANGE Erdnase Color Change TUTORIAL
Johnny Samoa provides a good handling of this Erdnase classic. I think the Erdnase Color Change is perhaps the first color change many magicians learn, and it’s still one of the most impressive to the general public. They are, after all, the ones we are SUPPOSE to be performing for…
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Sleight of Hand 101 | The Duck Change – A Color Change Tutorial
Jay Nation demonstrates and teaches a color change that occurs, visually, in mid-air. A card is selected, brought secretly to the top, and with a flick of the fingers changes from one card to the selected card. I’d call this an intermediate level color change.. but well within the range of anyone wanting to devote a night to the handling.
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Sleight of Hand 101 | Psychic (Beginner)
Jay Nation teaches a classic one-ahead effect that allows you to perform a bit of mental magic totally impromptu. Let the spectator shuffle the deck and get to work…
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Magic Performance | Chris Hannibal | TEDxCharlotte
Chris is one of my favorite performers. His style is all his own, and he is a master storyteller. Many of you will remember our interview with Chris in August 2014 (Magic Roadshow #157). Now, you get a chance to see this wonderful performer on stage in this 21+ minute special performance for TED.
“Not all magic has to highlight the magician’s skill or magical powers.” – John Guastaferro (One Degree by John Guastaferro)
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The Devil ‘ s Picturebook – Auction Catalog (2014)
Featuring Rare Playing Cards, Games, and Artwork; Antiquarian Books; Ephemera and Advertising; Tiles, China, Royal Bayreuth Porcelain; Cheating Devices, Dice, and Chips; Gambling Memorabilia & More..
Session One: Royal Bayreuth, Books & Ephemera… Saturday, May 31st 2014
Session Two: Playing Cards, Gambling Devices & Memorabilia… Sunday, June 1st 2014
This is a PDF of the original 146 page catalog of the Potter & Potter auction from 2014. This is a wonderful PDF to keep on hand to reference these rare gambling devices, playing cards, and assorted memorabilia.. The pictures are unbeatable..
Mission Magic – Full Service Gospel Magic for European Magicians
I gets requests for sellers of gospel magic, and I am sometimes at a loss, depending on the location. Michael Lyth forwarded me info on a very good UK based company called Mission Magic. Most of their magic is self-contained and ready to perform.. and very affordable. Be sure to check out the stage and assemblies magic and the workshops.
“All our Gospel Magic is designed to be easy-to-do and ready-to-go. Perfect for school assemblies, all age services and church events. Entertaining magic with a life changing message.” Mark Foster – Owner Mission Magic
Duane produced a number of videos related to gospel magic, several with specific effects to convey your message. After watching the video, click on the Gospel Magic Channel link beneath the video to see all the other videos.
“In this premier installment of Gospel Magic NOW Duane Laflin discusses the three goals of the series and demonstrates a couple of tricks, available from http://www.LaflinMagicStore.com, which are great to use in giving gospel presentations. As the name suggests…”Watch This First”!!” …. 16+ minute in length..
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Gospel Illusions Made Easy Webinar – Almost 1 Hour Video Tutorial
Free Webinar with Brett A. Myers, presented by ChildrensMinistryBlog.com .. I found this video interesting from either a gospel magic or regular magic angle. The tricks are well-thought out and include detailed tutorials and tips..
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How to Make Double Sided Silver Morgan, Peace Dollar Coin Rings – Tools Revealed
This 27+ minute video will show you how to make a nice ring out of a half or silver dollar. I understand not everyone will have all the tools shown, but if you will google ‘how to make a coin ring’ you’ll discover a number of other videos that use work-arounds to tools that may be unavailable.
Easy way to make a ‘hooked coin’.. This little utility allows you to ditch a coin in a heartbeat, leaving your spectator to wonder where in the world the coin went.. You can hook the coin on you, or if you’re really ambitious, on the spectator. The video is a little over 7 minutes.
Tutorial Library – The most comprehensive free resource for learning card magic on the internet. – 52Kards
52Kards call this the most comprehensive free resource on the internet. I’ll leave it up to you to decide. But, I will say this for certain.. it’s one of the best free resources available. I counted about 130 different video tutorials.. from beginner to advanced.. and each is thorough and well produced. Here are a few of the video tutorials… some are effects and others are moves.. but ALL are good..
Mousetrap
Card Shooting Technique
The Jumping Card
One Handed Spin Cut
Gryphon Roll
Back Palm Card Vanish
Kalushes Cut
LePaul Spread
Waterfall
Vallarino’s Free Card Production
Larry Jennings False Cut
Instant Snappy Color Change
Crystal Clean Card Control
Sponge Ball Vanish
The Bluff Pass
Tabled Running Cuts
“When you get in trouble with an audience, do something with a kid, an animal, or a grandma.” – Thurlow Spurr (Find The Stuff That’s You by Chris Carey)
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George Phillips, an elderly man from Walled Lake, Michigan, was going up to bed, when his wife told him that he’d left the light on in the garden shed, which she could see from the bedroom window. George opened the back door to go turnoff the light, but saw that there were people in the shed stealing things.
He phoned the police, who asked “Is someone in your house?”
He said “No,” but some people are breaking into my garden shed and stealing from me.”
Then the police dispatcher said “All patrols are busy, you should lock your doors and an officer will be along when one is available”
George said, “Okay.” He hung up the phone and counted to 30. Then he phoned the police again.
“Hello, I just called you a few seconds ago because there were people stealing things from my shed. Well, you don’t have to worry about them now because I just shot and killed them both; the dogs are eating them right now,” and he hung up.
Within five minutes, six Police Cars, a SWAT Team, a Helicopter, two Fire Trucks, a Paramedic and an Ambulance showed up at the Phillips’ residence, and caught the burglars red-handed.
One of the Policemen said to George, “I thought you said that you’d shot them!”
George said, “I thought you said there was nobody available!”
(True Story)
Moral of the story… Don’t mess with old people….
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Created by our friend.. Jim Canaday
Magic Trick Reviews… Free to Everyone Facebook Group
Please consider joining us at ‘Magic Trick Reviews’ on Facebook. You’ll find a very nice selection of reviews, particularly by our friend, Jim Canaday, who is now reviewing for Big Blind Media as well as Murphy’s Magic. Check it out…
Remember.. signing up for the Magic Roadshow Journal of Magic is Totally FREE. There is NO obligation and your email is 100% safe. (I don’t even share it with my closes fellow magicians..) You will be notified each month when a new issue of the Roadshow publishes and you can unsubscribe with one click.
MAGIC NEWS.
You can get your magic fix on Magic News every week. Don’t wait a month for the next Roadshow. Instead, go to Magic News for the latest, along with the more interesting stories in the world of magic. Honestly, no other site publishes the breadth of magic related stories and videos as Magic News. http://MagicNews.org
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Even MORE magic trick, card trick, street magic and videos.. http://magicians.website
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That does it for this issue. I hope you found something to help your magic along. Remember, if you have something you would like to share with the magic community, send it to: [email protected]
“Vive Tus Sueños – Live Your Dreams “ Rick Carruth / Editor
Senior Professor – Camelard College of Conjuring of Chemmis, Egypt “Magic’s Only Worldwide Honor Society” http://www.camelardcollege.org/
It’s so good to be back with another Roadshow. I’ve worked on this issue steadily for four weeks, and I think I have a little something for everyone. If this is your first issue.. Welcome, and feel free to participate or comment like you’ve known me forever…
First.. I want to sincerely thank all of you who took time to email me after the last issue. Carolyn and I are so grateful for all the kind thoughts and prayers. No one knows how important good friends can be until you go through a tough situation.
We did find time to make a quick trip to Myrtle Beach last week. I didn’t have time to visit all the magic shops, but I did get to spend a little time at Trickmasters at Barefoot Landing and pick up a couple of items. I still miss Conley’s House of Magic, who were a mainstay at Barefoot Landing for years, but Trickmasters had what I was looking for.. and the demonstrator (Alex ?) was very congenial and knowledgeable. If you are lucky enough to live within shopping distance of a ‘real’ magic shop.. support it. They need our business to stay in business. I’m going to find a way to support local shops in the Roadshow.. not sure how at the moment.. but I’ll figure out something..
My Asheville friends and I are meeting monthly at the Cornerstone Restaurant in Asheville NC. It’s about as informal as it gets. No affiliation, aside from a love of magic, and anyone who wants to attend is welcome to do so. Email me if you’re interested. ( We ‘usually’ meet the 3rd Thursday of the month.. and should you be passing through, you’re invited..)
Right now, most of my friends and I are patiently awaiting TRICS ( the Carolina Close-Up Convention ) the first weekend in November. Join Germany’s Denis Behr, Spain’s Pipo Villanueva, England’s Joseph Barry, Will Fern, Bill Goodwin and Steve Valentine (among others) in Charlotte NC at what those of us who attend yearly consider THE premier close-up convention in the country .. Scott Robinson does an excellent job at putting everything together and keeping the experience intimate. http://www.tricsconvention.com/index.html
Remember, the Roadshow is read by thousands each month. Also, because we are published online in the form of a blog/website, everything published serves as a permanent link to each site. This is beneficial in two ways: The search engines ‘award’ your site with a better ranking, and anything published in the Roadshow is covered by copyright laws. So, if you have something you would like to share with the magic world, getting it published in the Magic Roadshow is a good way to go. Magicians around the world will see your effect/article and I do not retain rights, other than initial publishing rights. You are free to re-publish your material wherever you wish, and, if it contains something proprietary, it is covered by copyrights from the date it publishes here… Sounds like a good deal to me!
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///////////////////// IN THIS ISSUE
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Floating Lemon Slice – ( David Blaine meets Bill Nye..) – Paul A. Lelekis
Establishing Your Entertainment Business – What Performers Need To Know – Mindpro..
Con Tricks – Article by Rob Eastaway
OSMOSIS.. – A Review by Rick Carruth
The Magic Of Shin Lim – by David O’Connor
The Merchant of Magic Podcast Episode 14 – Interview with Shin Lim
Podbean.com – Superior Podcast Hosting.
The Always-popular Magicians Podcast
A Little SHADE – JFX
SHADE Card Tricks w/ F. Paul Wilson & others..
Hollywood’s Magic Castle: The hardest trick is Getting In
SHADE – A Master of Cards.. and 15 Years of Devotion..
Learn the Strike Second Deal – The Russian Genius
Learn the Push Off Second Deal
The ‘Second’ Secret to the Second Deal.. – Rick Carruth
The Worlds Record Four Ace Second Deal – Video
Finger Exercises for Magicians – A Free PDF from Merchant of Magic
A Gilbreath Principle Magic Trick from Scam School
Con or Theft? – How to Fool a Bartender in 3 Minutes or Less.
Card Under Box – A Bold Card Trick Tutorial
How to Do the Great Escaping Ring Trick – Tom Ogden
Perfect Magic Then and Now – A Magical Blog by Evelyn Matlin
Hot Wings Prank – Video
Do You Get Stage Fright? – Article
A Psychic Card Feat – from Jean Hugard’s ‘ Encyclopedia of Card Tricks’
Another Cool Tool.. The Language Translation Earpiece..
Roy Buchanan – Live From Austin Tx
Introducing Roy Buchanan – The World’s Greatest Unknown Guitarist [full documentary]
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“The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why…. ”
Mark Twain
“An ounce of practice is worth a pound of theory.” —John Jacob Astor
“Sometimes you don’t know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory…” Dr. Seuss
“I am referred to as a comedy-magician because people laugh at my magic…and they are mystified by my jokes..” John Kinde
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Floating Lemon Slice – ( David Blaine meets Bill Nye..)
Paul A. Lelekis
Levitate a slice of lemon using a few simple ingredients found in any pub.
Ingredients:
• slice of lemon
• four matches
• pint glass
• ashtray
• water
Instructions:
1. Pour water into the ashtray until the water is ~1cm deep.
2. Push three matchsticks into the slice of lemon, in the shape of a triangular pyramid, with the match heads together at the top point of the pyramid.
3. Place the lemon and matchsticks in the centre of the ashtray, so that they float on the water.
4. Light the fourth match and use it to light the other three together.
5. Invert the pint glass over the lemon and matches, letting it sit inside the ashtray.
6. Watch as the lemon slice magically levitates within the pint glass!
How does it work?
The simplicity of this trick belies the complexity of the physical processes that contribute to the effect…
Firstly, there is a simple air pressure effect caused by the expansion and contraction of the gas within the pint glass as it heats up and cools down. The heat from the three matches causes the air inside the pint glass to get hot. When all the oxygen within the glass is exhausted, the matches go out and the air inside the glass cools down. The cooler air takes up much less space, so water gets sucked up into the glass to take up that extra volume.
Secondly, the combustion reaction changes the species present, thereby changing the volume of gas within the glass. When the matches burn they consume the oxygen from the air within the pint glass. The products of this reaction are carbon dioxide and water. The water will be a liquid, thus there will be less gas in the glass, causing the water to be sucked up into the glass to fill the volume.
Remember…
The lemon slices needs to be thick enough to support the matches, yet still able to float on the water.
Performance Suggestions
This trick was first developed for use in pubs, and draws on ingredients commonly found in most pubs. However, there’s no reason not to use it in other environments also. It is most suitable for demonstrating to small groups of onlookers – it won’t attract a crowd by itself, but will maintain the interest of audiences that you are already engaged with.
Did You Know?
This demo is based on a method used by Joseph Priestley to demonstrate that oxygen is a component of air, and to could actually estimate the proportion of oxygen in the air. Priestly was probably the first to show that air was NOT just empty space, but that it was composed of matter.
** This effect is one of many in the very diverse OSMOSIS ebook, just published by Paul and selling on Lybrary.com. Osmosis is $10.00. The Magic Roadshow is $0.00. So get ’em both an imagine you only paid $5 buck each.. See the full review below…
You can view ALL of Paul’s effects in 36 different ebooks at: http://Lybrary.com .. They are, undoubtedly, some of the best values in all of magic.. Many are considered underground classics and several NEW publications are climbing the ladder.. Look for Paul’s newest .. THAUMATOLOGY, scheduled to be released this weekend, and highlighted by Mike Skinner’s Version of Jazz Aces…
Establishing Your Entertainment Business – What Performers Need To Know
by Mindpro..
(This is the first part of a multiple part series created for readers of the Magic Roadshow..)
While most of us were lured to magic, mentalism or the related arts by the intrigue, fascination and that “something special” it made us feel, and eventually the joy, power and position it presented when we were performing for others, our original appeal is of the creative and performing.
We spend years practicing, improving and hopefully mastering our performance. Some choose to remain hobbyists enjoying it casually and occasionally. However, for others comes the desire for it to be much more. We want to perform for profit. Some even to the point of it becoming a larger part of their lives performing regularly part-time, while others pursue their dream of being a full-time performer making a living doing the very thing that they love.
Regardless of your level as a part-time or full-time performer, when performing for pay, you quickly find yourself operating on another level with new expectations, responsibilities and elements to consider. When performing either part-time or full-time you are conducting business with those that hire you for your services. It becomes a business transaction.
As creative people many performers struggle or have difficulty when faced with the business aspects of performing. Learning our craft is our specialty, not conducting a business. While this may be the feeling for many, the true fact of the matter is if you are performing for pay from others, they are viewing this as a business transaction and also perceive you as a professional (yes, even if you are only a part-timer.) So just as you took the time, patience and process to learn and evolve your performing skills, the same must be done for your business skills. It has often been said that success for a professional performer is created in the business behind the performance. In my 40+ years in entertainment, I have never found something to be more true.
So where do you start? What do you do? How do I create and establish my performing as a business?
These are great questions. As you will soon see, setting up the business side of your performing is very similar to when you first started to create your performance. It requires learning, knowledge, understanding and the proper execution. I’ve always said that the business side of what we do is also a performance. In our performing we think about what needs to be done to accomplish an effect, how it appears or is perceived to our audience, the perception we wish to project, and what is our final goal (hopefully thunderous applause and amazement.) We started with the basics, created a foundation and incorporated all of these other aspects on top of that to get the performance we desired.
Well the very same is true for the business side of our operations. It all begins by creating the proper foundation and making the proper choices to lead us to our final goals. Having goals and direction is important to any business. It creates a structure, plan and system that can be implemented every day and with every prospect interested in your show. Having the proper business structure in place allows you the greatest chance of getting and converting bookings, allows for the absolute best experience for the customers that book you, allows you to present the best performance possible and allows you to create a sustainable business operation that can continue to grow and thrive as you move forward.
So where do you begin? The first step is addressing some foundational decisions. Think these through carefully as the answers you provide will be what creates the foundation your entire business will be based upon. The one thing you do not want is a wobbly or unstable foundation, as everything built upon it will also become unstable, inconsistent and creates a plethora of problems, setbacks and unwanted derailments.
First, let’s look at some of the foundational questions to consider and decide upon:
How often do I want to perform?
What area do I want to be my performing area *geographically)?
What type of events do I prefer to work?
What type of performance or performances do I want to offer?
Am I currently prepared to do this? If not, what needs to be done to become ready?
Do I have a name for my performance(s) and/or what name do I want to perform as?
How much do I want to charge and why?
These are some of the most common questions to address. There can be others as well, perhaps even more specific. The better you think about, decide and know exactly who and what you are and how you want to be presented, the more you will create a solid foundation from which to build the rest of your business operation.
Do not continue on until you have given these questions the proper time, thought and importance they deserve for you to come up with the right answers for you and your business. The next set of questions to ask yourself is what do I need to get ready for business and to start? These may include things such as business cards, brochures, a sign or banner, perhaps a website or other identifying and promotional items. It also may be things like a cell phone, car or reliable transportation, perhaps some props, wardrobe or stage accessories. Perhaps a microphone and sound system. What else do you need?
Another great foundational question that you must ask yourself and clearly define is “why should the customer book me for their special event? This is a very significant question as it is the exact same question your inquiring prospects are asking themselves. Your answer to this question and how you present it will be directly related to how many bookings you will receive. If you do not know, there is no way you can expect to address this with your inquiring customers. Again, take the time, effort and research necessary to decide the proper and best answers for you, your business and your customers.
At this point you should be able to see your business and your performance as it relates to your business starting to be defined and coming together.
The other thing you may have noticed is addressing and doing this in the proper sequential order is most imperative to creating your strong foundation. So many performers want to skip over steps or perhaps don’t know the proper steps and order. So many just work on their performance and they think all they now need is to just start marketing to get bookings. Yet when they get inquiries and they do not get booked, they struggle to understand why.
Most do not realize is there is an entire segment missing between having the performance and starting to market to get bookings. This most-crucial segment is having the proper business operational system in place. This assures having a system to execute, promote, present and close the most amount of bookings. It is this business operational system that will minimize your learning curve, reduces potential risks and setbacks, allows for higher conversion (booking) rates, and most of all it is this system that assures your customers that they have made the best decision for their special event offering them peace of mind. It is also what will separate you from most other performers and create your image and perception as a professional. I can’t stress enough the importance of this major section in the establishing of your performing business.
You must honestly ask yourself… “Do I have a system in place to properly introduce my business and present my services?” “Do I know how to “sell” interested prospects on my performing services?” “Do know the process of converting interested prospects into bookings?” “Do you have the process of confirming the booking and receiving payment?”
Create your business system to bring this all together to allow you to get to the point of beginning to market and solicit bookings.
By having the right approach and perspective and by taking the time to create a solid foundation for your business by making the best foundational decisions, will allow you to best position and prepare you and your business for the success you desire.
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MIndpro is a professional entertainment business specialist that has been coaching and consulting entertainers in entertainment business and press and media for over 30 years. He has enjoyed success as a full-time entertainer, owner of three entertainment agencies, as an international talent broker, producer and promoter, as well as being a press and media coach and consultant after 20+ years in radio and television. He has helped many start, grow and master the art of entertainment business.
He has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, ABC-TV’s All My Children, CBS, ABC, CNN and FOX News as well as being a frequent guest on many various television and radio shows throughout the country.
Throughout his career Mindpro has worked with a virtual who’s who in the world of entertainment including Tom Jones, Willie Nelson, Phyllis Diller, Don Rickles, Steve Allen, Michael Jordan, Tony Danza, John Stamos, Loretta Lynn, Kenny Rogers, Tom Petty, Billy Joel, The Monkees and The Beach Boys.
His Entertainer’s Success Series of professional business resources for entertainers and entertainment business owners are available at http://www.EntertainmentSuccess.com
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Con Tricks – Article by Rob Eastaway
(Originally published on the NRICH site.)
NRICH is a website aimed at prompting young adults to master math skills. I can promise you, some of the math skills required are beyond my scope. I particularly enjoyed this page with Cons, asking the students to analyze the con and determine why it works…
“When you go out into the wider world, you discover lots of seemingly friendly people with big smiles who want to sell you things. It comes as something of a shock, therefore, to discover that not all of those people are entirely honest. In fact, some of them are what are sometimes known as ‘rip-off’ merchants or con-men (though they are just as likely to be women). And without being good with figures, you may be in danger of becoming one of their victims. I’m going to give you some examples of ‘cons’, and see if you can figure out where the trick is.”
A woman goes into a jewellers’ shop and buys a gold ring for £100 (which she pays for in crisp, $20 notes). As she is leaving the shop, she pauses, and then goes back to the counter. I’ve decided I don’t want this $100 ring – I want that $200 ring instead, she says. The jeweller takes back the $100 ring and gives her the $200 one. That will be another $100 then, madam. At which point the customer stamps her foot and says: I don’t owe you anything. Earlier on I gave you $100 in cash for the ring. And now I’ve just handed over the ring as well, which is worth $100. So I’ve given you $200, and you have given me a $200 ring in return, so we are quits. And with that, she walks out of the shop, leaving the jeweller scratching his head.
OSMOSIS.. A Renaissance Ebook from Paul A. Lelekis
A Review by Rick Carruth
It’s funny.. Each month I publish one of Paul’s many effects in The Magic Roadshow. Each month I put in the footer ” Paul now has 31 ebooks on the Lybrary.com site..”. Each month Paul emails me to gently inform me that should be ’32’ instead of ’31’… or ’24’ instead of ’23’…
I can’t keep up! I am constantly adjusting the writer credits to reflect the total, and Paul is constantly writing a new one.
Well, assuming I can publish this review quick enough, THIS is Paul’s latest… and definitely one of my favorites. It reminds me of my favorite magic books – those that include a little of this.. and a little of that. I love diversity, as I am not firmly tied to any one particular form of magic. Every audience is different, and every performance differs based on many factors.. not the least of which is my mood. Paul and I both work restaurants, and believe me, you have to perform for as diverse a crowd as imaginable. What works for one table may fall flat at the next. That’s why having an arsenal of ‘weapons’ is so important.. and why I enjoy this ebook so much..
OSMOSIS begins with two very different effects.. both well within reach of the beginner to intermediate performer.
“2002 Simplicity Aces – Aces jump to ANY packet chosen by spectator.” and ” Combo Bill Penetration and Bill Switch Routine – A hilarious double-revelation routine with a borrowed bill”
Alex Elmsley created a classic Ace effect called ‘1002 Aces’. Larry Jennings did him one better with ‘2002 Aces’. Paul introduces us to his version.. ‘2002 Simplicity Aces’, which is definitely the most simple of the three, but with the same killer ending.
The Combo Bill Penetration & Switch combines comedy and magic to provide the spectators with a complete performance piece, utilizing one of magic’s most powerful weapons… the thumb tip. The thumb tip isn’t the trick.. but a utility device to allow you to perform the effect with lots of laughs and applause.
“Mindreader – A brilliant Marlo double revelation ESP effect!” OK, I’ll tell you straight-up, this is not for the beginner. On the other hand, it doesn’t contain and knuckle-busting moves either. It DOES contain a number of moves that, fortunately, are in direct proportion to the number of eyes that pop out of sockets. You’ll really like this one…
The next two, “Reaping the Aces” and “Easy 4 Ace Cutting” are both ‘cutting the Aces’ effects. Reaping the Aces may be my favorite effect in the entire ebook. Originally published by Larry Jennings, this effect allows the spectator to cut to all four Aces. I judge every effect in my repertoire based on the effect it has on a lay audience… and cutting the Aces is far and away one of the most impressive sleights in a magician’s arsenal. Reaping the Aces looks so cool you can’t help but really, really like it. Even a beginning level magician can do this with a little practice. If you can hold a punky break and slip a card onto the bottom of the deck while taking one off the top.. you can easily do this effect.
‘Easy 4 Ace Cutting’ again allows the spectator to be the one finding the Aces. Based on the Balducci Cut-Deeper force, this is super easy to perform. It requires a small set-up on top of the deck, but you can false shuffle or shuffle around it to make it look totally impromptu.
The next effect is not an effect… it’s a technique to improve your magic. Paul describes it as.. “Professional Misdirection – Read this! Learn a little-known secret about misdirection that will revolutionize your card magic!” Once you know the secret, you’ll think back to all the times you’ve seen top pros do this, but had no idea it was a scripted part of their effect. Nuff said…
“Simplicity Itself” uses a classic effect, combined with Paul’s comedy patter, to create one of the centerpiece effects of this ebook. To quote Osmosis.. “The performer shuffles a deck of cards which may be borrowed.
A card is freely selected and freely returned to the deck. With a “snap!” a card turns face up…however it’s not the selection! After the performer “explains” why, the face-up card is used to count down to another card…this is the selection!” Paul goes to great length to explain his comedy patter, line by line, and then explains why the patter works. You really can’t be prompted more than this..!
“Coin Magic Sleights“. Next, Paul includes 5 of his favorite, and most critical, coin sleights. Each sleight includes an array of photos to help you get the proper feel. Remember, sleights practiced badly only produce bad sleights. If you want to learn a good matrix routine, or simply want a convincing vanish, these five sleights will serve you well.
“Some Cool Ideas and Routines From Skinner and Others” cover twelve different ideas and effects. Most are either less-detailed effects or well-explained suggestions. Paul’s Comedy Card Mis-Call is classic, and includes, like most of his effects, the comedy patter along with the moves. Others are Skinner’s Four Ace Reverse, Harry Lorayne’s Invisible Pass, Skinner’s Double Triumph, Fetchter’s Explain Trick, and Dai Vernon’s Fortune Telling.. among others. It would take you years to find all this ‘ magic stuff’ on your own..
Now, I’m not sure how to approach this.. but Paul got a Science bug up his… sleeve, and brought Osmosis to my kind of end.. interesting and off-the-wall. I have a soft spot for things I should have learned in school, had I been a good student, and both science and mathematics often find their way into my writings at a time in my life when one wouldn’t expect it. Thanks to Big Bang Theory, science is once again cool, and Paul has concluded OSMOSIS with two science effects.. disguised as bar tricks. The first is called Floating Lemon Slice, and shows you how to ‘float’ a lemon slice, in mid-air, inside an upside down glass. The second is called Water-Proof Hanky.. and gives you a great excuse to scare the dickens out of a perfectly well-behaved young man who is making your table-hopping a pure pleasure.. (right).
I recommend OSMOSIS to anyone familiar with Paul’s enormous volume of work on Lybrary.com, 34 total ebooks at the moment, and to anyone totally unfamiliar with Paul’s work. Either way, Osmosis is a great outlet for the magician looking for a really good read. You can do this… You will be teaching your buddies at the next meeting some of the effects in this ebook.. And you will be kicking yourself for some of the high dollar purchases you’ve made, and garnered not a single thing from its righteous pages. I love a good deal.. and at ten bucks, you absolutely can’t beat it.. (35 pages, numerous photos, and a video are included)
History of Magic: Shin Lim… Magicians from the Asian countries of China, Korea and Japan are making tremendous inroads into the wonderful world of magic artistry. At no other time in the history of magic have so many talented magicians brought so much innovation to our craft. One such highly talented performer is Canadian-born and Singapore-raised Shin Lim who in a few short years has lifted the art of magical entertainment to an all-time high. This former university music student has become a living legend in his own lifetime, with a string of awards and many achievements that are the envy of long-established magicians. Shin Lim would appear to be the leader of a new genre of magicians out there who not only carry on the traditions of the usual, conventional magic, but are broadening and expanding the whole concept of the craft.
Shin Lim’s name loosely translated means “seeking excellence,“ and this, though he is still in his early 20’s, seems to be his dictum. At the early age of 6, Shin Lim saw his first magic show but was not overly impressed by it at the time. When he was 16, his brother showed him a card trick called the ‘Slip-Force,’ which really impressed him. He was urged by his brother to study how it was done on YouTube. This Shin Lim did, and it was this that sparked his passion for magic.
Studying music at the time, Shin Lim underwent therapy for his hands which were strained from constant piano playing. His doctor suggested that doing magic with his hands would be both therapeutic and less strenuous. The ease with which he manipulates playing cards so poetically and effortlessly is beautiful to behold. Today Shin Lim has become the number one sleight of hand card performer in the world. He follows the tradition of the silent performer to music.
Shin Lim makes no claim of being a wizard or magician, but he is a self-taught, self-styled sleight-of-hand artist. He performs carefully choreographed routines, rather than pretending to defy the laws of physics. Shin Lim utilises finesse, timing, theatrics and natural skill to create wonderment rather than elicit that hackneyed question “How did he do that?“ He not only mystifies and enchants his live audiences; he also enables more people to appreciate his fine performances by using YouTube and video recordings. These performances create bewilderment and delight. While YouTube has hundreds of poorly devised magic tricks for the unwary, there are some wonderful tutorials available which Shin Lim made utmost use of to his advantage.
Shin Lim Dream ActNot only is Shin Lim a superb performer; he has also invented some wonderful magic tricks and innovative magical creations. The routine that earned him the recognition of being the world’s number one sleight-of-hand card magician at FISM in Rimini, Italy in 2015 was his ‘Dream Act.’ The act utilised smoke appearing from his fingers, and this is now available for direct buying.
Some of Shin Lim’s other popular card effects are Shenanigans and Triage, as well as 52 Shades of Red and his Gone Deck. He produces beautiful quality playing card decks, and his Vanishing is a utility device for making a coin or ring disappear. Each of his routines comes complete with clear, fully comprehensive instructions. The magic of Shin Lim is not for the faint-hearted magician but rather for those who aspire to become better magicians and who want to lift their magic to a new level.
Ever since his rise to fame and acknowledgement at FISM, Shin Lim has achieved a large number of credits to his name. His FISM prize as world champion earned him a headliner slot at the famous Rio Casino Hotel in Las Vegas and numerous engagements in the United States at conventions and seminars. Shin Lim also made a tremendous impact on watching audiences around the world when he appeared on Penn & Teller’s Fool Us television show, where he presented his double-signed card with two volunteers transition and exchange that became sheer poetry in his hands. His performance brought the audience to an absolute, hushed intensity of concentration while they tried to absorb the mystery of what they were seeing.
Shortly after the Paris, France terrorist attacks on November 13th 2015 that killed 130 people, including 89 at the Baclan Theatre, which left the world devastated and in mourning, Shin Lim, feeling the pain of this outrageous act, felt compelled to create a new wonderful playing card routine like the world has never seen. It was to be his tribute to the people of France during their sorrow and mourning. His performance was viewed by more than 1.17 million people on television and garnered more than 7,000 likes on Facebook. The effect began with the introduction of a blue deck and the remarkable production of the four aces. After producing court cards from each ace (except the ace of spades), Shin Lim made the court cards vanish. They melted away as did the three remaining aces, only to be reproduced from the ace of spades. The routine performed silently to music was sheer theatre magic and artistry never before seen. At this stage, I become unable to describe the routine as one piece blended into the next, with wonderful vanishes, appearances, and colour changes. The deck became blank then the words “Pray for Paris” appeared. Then four cards appeared, with one featuring the Eiffel tower and the three the French tricolour flag, only to fade away in a wisp of smoke, reverting to the original deck which then changed colour. Finally the deck was placed back into the card case only to completely disappear. I think that day I witnessed what I believe to be the ultimate playing card conjuring routine of all time.
I believe that Shin Lim is an active part of magic history-in-the-making and as such will deservedly become a very real part of our heritage. I am confident that Shim Lim will go onto greater things in magic, and we are fortunate to be living in these exciting magical times. Shin Lim now resides in Boston, Massachusetts and is in much demand at the higher end of the entertainment industry. We will be sure to hear more about—and be amazed more by—this excellent performer.
David J O’Connor is a semi retired professional mentalist and children’s entertainer. He has performed throughout South Africa, New Zealand and aboard cruise liners. David is a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and loves mentoring young people in magic.
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The Merchant of Magic Podcast Episode 14 – Interview with Shin Lim
Topics of discussion include:
His approach to creativity
The dangers of practising magic too much
Close up magic on stage
Card flourishing as magic entertainment
A detailed discussion of his Flash Card Switch
Advice for beginners
How he develops ideas for his magic and much more
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Podbean.com – Superior Podcast Hosting.
Have you thought of starting your OWN podcast? What if you could start it for Free? I’m talking hosting, custom podcast players and the whole enchilada.. All you have to do is sign up, upload your audio file,
add a pretty picture or two.. and you’re LIVE. You can also add your podcasts to the Apple App Store and Google Play. Check out all the features at Podbean…. :
“Welcome to Podbean.com. With Podbean, you can create professional podcasts in minutes without any programming knowledge. Our user-friendly interface allows you to upload, publish, manage and promote your podcasts with just a few clicks of your mouse. Just point, click and execute.
Click the banner below.. click on the Podbean logo in the upper left corner of the page to go to the Free signup.
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The always-popular Magicians Podcast also publishes on the Podbean platform. They just published their 69th podcast with the top magicians on the planet… See what they’re doing at:
Filmed at the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood, this extraordinary demonstration of cardistry possibilities will simultaneously inspire you and deflate you. F.Paul Wilson and others sit at a table and perform Scarney-like feats of magic. Again, this is not a tutorial.. but a demonstration of what is possible if you want to quit your day job and devote your life to endless practice.
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In case you missed it on Magic News.. this was featured on CNN last week, and is a highly informative ‘study’ of the Magic Castle, its rooms, performers, history, and why the greatest trick of all is…. getting in.
SHADE – A Master of Cards.. and 15 Years of Devotion..
‘Shade’ is a Las Vegas ‘performer’ who is probably familiar to some of you who are fans of the Buck brothers and other highly talented card manipulators who specialize in flourishes and extreme handling. Shade recently put together this 14 minute video.. which he calls ” ..my life’s work all in one video.” Watch and enjoy.
The second deal scares many a magicians. It shouldn’t… This tutorial explains the basics very well, and gives you a good, solid footing for mastering this classic gambling sleight. I’m going to explain the ‘second’ secret to mastering the second deal below, and if you’ll watch these two video and do as I suggest, I promise you’ll be successfully second dealing after a couple of hours practice. That’s not to say you’ll ‘master’ the second deal after two hours.. but you’ll be so satisfied with yourself and your potential that you will want to continue practicing until you DO master it…
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Learn the Push Off Second Deal
This is a second method of accomplishing the same thing. Some prefer the Strike Second Deal and others prefer the Push Off. Try ’em both and decide for yourself.
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The ‘Second’ Secret to the Second Deal..
Rick Carruth
The Second Secret is really simple… hand cream. Now, there are a number of lotions, creams, moisturizers, and the like magicians use to keep their hands moist. Some are available commercially from magic shops, and others are available at local shops and office supply stores.
Why is this important? Because, unless you have a great deal of natural oils in your hands, you do not have ENOUGH oil to successfully perform the second deal. Without the right amount of oil you cannot ‘grip’ the second card with the pad of your finger. Oh, you can get it out from under the top card with a little work.. but it shouldn’t be work to get it out.. it should slide out like butter.
I use O’Keeffe’s Working Hands primarily and SortKwik in a walk-around situation. Working Hands is a non-greasy, non-staining moisturizer that actually makes your hands/fingers a tad tacky.. and that’s exactly what you need. The same can be said for SortKwik. SortKwik is available mostly through office supply stores and is used by folks who deal with lots of paper and have to separate paper, envelopes, money, etc.. Working Hands is primarily a hand cream for guys who work outdoors and have problems with their hand cracking. I’ve seen Working Hands in hardware stores, Walmart, and on television.
All that’s necessary is to gently rub your thumb in the moisturizer, then, rub your other fingers with your thumb. A little goes a LONG way. I also add a little to the pads of my palms if I am going to perform something like an Erdnase Color Change where the palms are used to ‘drag’ a card. The color change becomes infinitely easier.
Brilliant cardician Martin Nash favored SortKwik and kept a dab behind his right ear. Right before performing a complicated handling, Martin would pull on his ear lobe with his thumb and forefinger, adding just enough SortKwik to make the manipulation look easy.
Another popular solution is Corn Huskers Oil-Free Hand Lotion. It works basically the same way as the other two I mentioned, except it’s a flowing lotion and is generally applied to the whole hand instead of the fingers. I was back stage at a conference recently and walked up behind a very famous performer who was prepping to go onstage. I said “Knock ’em out..” and stuck out my hand for a quick handshake. He laughed and said..” Too late.. I’ve already ‘Corn Huskered’ these puppies..:” as he briskly rubbed both hands together.. a bottle of Corn Huskers prominently sitting next to several decks of bikes..
Back to the second deal.. When you pull the second card out of the deck you do so with the pad of your thumb. When properly lubricated, you only need to ‘touch’ the short top edge of the second card and gently ‘pull’ it from underneath the top card with the thumb pad only. When you have a tackyness to your thumb pad the second card will slide out almost as if it’s ‘stuck’ to the thumb. Of course, you have to hold the deck loosely, giving the second card ample room to slide out.
You will be truly amazed at how easily the card clears the deck, and you’ll kick yourself for not stumbling on this much earlier in your life. I know some of you who use moisturizers regularly..wouldn’t leave home without it. But if you don’t, do yourself a favor and give it a try.
Two other opinions..
John Carney. ” I had moderate success with a product called Golden Touch, which was Vernon’s favorite. Another old world product is Corn Husker’s lotion. Others have had success with Sortkwik Fingertip Moisteners, used by bank tellers to count money. But perhaps my search is over, because I have happily found one of the best solutions … Chalk.” Read more at: http://carneymagic.com/2453-2/
Tim Quinlan. ” Papercreme is the solution. Yes, Papercreme. Never heard of it? Nor had we but now we swear by it. The substance works like Sortkwik but for some reason works better. It is the perfect consistency, easy to apply and lasts as long as a 20-minute routine. Cards don’t stick together when they shouldn’t and deal as they would if they were being handled by some know-it-all youngster in a magic club 40 years ago. We buy ours from Amazon and have not seen it in stores – and we always look. It is inexpensive and effective.” http://www.insidemagic.com/magicnews/2014/09/magicians-certain-age-dry-hands/
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The World Record Four Ace Second Deal – Video
Watch Rich Ferguson set a world record by dealing four aces, dealing seconds, in 0.37 seconds. While you’re at it, search through thousands of videos of folks setting world records in everything imaginable..
————— And while we’re on the subject of fingers…
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Finger Exercises for Magicians – A Free PDF from Merchant of Magic Techniques to Improve Finger Dexterity
The Merchant of Magic has created a free ebook that will teach you simple, easy finger exercises used by professional magicians as part of their sleight of hand practice sessions. This 21 page ebook will teach you how to:
-Develop dexterity, speed, and strength in your hands.
-Avoid R.S.I injury.
-Spot the symptoms of R.S.I
-Improve focus and coordination.
-Maintain healthy finger joints.
-Improve your ability to manipulate playing cards or coins.
-Understand how your muscles control your fingers.
-Know when, where and how to exercise your fingers.
-Much much more.
(Includes video tutorials of each exercise..)
A Gilbreath Principle Magic Trick from Scam School
If you have any interest in mathemagical magic, you’re probably familiar with the Gilbreath Principle. Discovered by a California mathematician named Norman L. Gilbreath, the principle states that a group of cards, arranged a certain way pre-shuffle, will maintain certain characteristics post-shuffle. This Scam School video explores the principle in a very creative way..
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Con or Theft? – How to Fool a Bartender in 3 Minutes or Less.. Video Tutorial
This trick may be a felony in 36 states… give or take a few. Actually, Brian shows us how to play a highly effective trick – on the bartender. With a little help, you can establish yourself as a local legend, hopefully because of your magic.. and not your crimes.
Card Under Box – A Bold Card Trick Tutorial
52Kards recently published a slick card-under-box trick that doesn’t require you to put a card under a box. It’s all in the placement.. that’s all I’ll say. If you can control a card to the top of the deck and then perform a half decent top palm, you can do this. It’s easier than it sounds because all the work occurs during an off-beat and without scrutiny… so you top palm doesn’t have to be perfect by any means…
Also, look for links to videos featuring the Striking Vanish, Elmsley Count, Torn and Restored Card, and Rub a Dub. All are quality tutorials and very thorough in their teaching.
How to Do the Great Escaping Ring Trick – Tom Ogden
I’ve developed an interest in ring tricks the past few weeks, and this is one of the better ones.. for sure. Tom composed this for the Idiots Guides series of books and I found this online. Easy to do and a real fooler when practiced thoroughly.
Perfect Magic Then and Now – A Magical Blog by Evelyn Matlin
Phil and Evelyn run Perfect Magic, which is an online and a brick and mortar Magic Shop in Montreal, operating since 1977. Phil and Evelyn are what magic is all about. I appreciate the fact that Evelyn has kept their blog going continously for over six years and right at 300 posts. She covers all facets of magic, new and old. I encourage you to visit and subscribe, as we have a sincere debt of gratitude to those who are fighting the tide and maintaining a true brick and mortar business. Yes, they’re online also, but you have to if you hope to eat occasionally. 😉
The Big Changes in Magic
“Phil and I started Perfect Magic almost 40 years ago. I posted my first blog 6 years ago. I’ve written almost 300 posts. I went to see what I wrote the first time. All I can say is that there were big changes from 40 years ago to 6 years ago, but from 6 years ago to now, there are no big changes. What changed is who is hot in magic! Many magicians today don’t know who Frank Garcia is although they are familiar with Daniel Garcia. They don’t know who Albert Goshman is but when they buy sponge balls they want Magic by Gosh brand. They never heard of Fantasio but they know about vanishing and appearing candles and canes. Now the names asked for are Shin Lim, Greg Wilson, Jon Allen, Dan and Dave to name a few. Most of the oldtimers are gone, unfortunately.
At one time a legend remained a legend, but now new kids come on the block quickly and often the star today is forgotten tomorrow. We have the internet to thank for that. It’s good and bad. Everyday there is tons of new stuff. We try to weed out the bad.” Read the rest at:
A Psychic Card Feat – from Jean Hugard’s ‘ Encyclopedia of Card Tricks’
ASK a spectator to take a coin from his pocket and write its date on a piece of paper. Then write the figures reversed and subtract the smaller number from the larger. Suppose the date to be 1935, this reversed would give 5391, and the remainder after the subtraction will be 3456. The spectator is then to take from the pack a card with the same number of spots as the first figure of the answer, and do the same with the other three figures. If there is a 0 he uses a K to represent it. The four cards must be of different suits. This done he is to lay them on the table face down and move them about so that even he cannot tell one card from another, then take any one and put it in his pocket without looking at it.
Pick up three remaining cards and as you add them to the top of the pack, slightly spread them so that you can see the indices. Note first what suit is missing, then mentally add the values and subtract the total from the nearest multiple of nine. In the case given above, suppose the three cards are the 3C, 4H, 6D, the missing suit is S, the total values 13, subtracting this from 18 leaves 5. Therefore the card in the spectator’s pocket must be the 5S. The result is surprising since the spectator 1 self cannot tell what card he picked up.
The Titanium Escape Ring
A useful tool for covert and undercover operators, those that travel abroad in unstable countries, or anyone at risk of being held unlawfully. (..and magicians and escape artists )
“The Titanium Escape Ring adds another tool to the operator’s E&E options for escaping captivity.
It’s a simple but elegant-looking ring made of titanium, cut from solid barstock and polished to a mirror finish.
But unlike all other rings, this one contains a saw and handcuff shim pick combination tool which is completely hidden from view when worn. Located on a finger, its always in the exact area needed to quickly access and deploy, even when handcuffed. The shim can be used to open single-locked handcuffs, while the saw can cut zip-ties, disposable handcuffs, duct tape, rope, and other non-metallic materials.”
Another Cool Tool.. The Language Translation Earpiece..
This could be the future of international communication.. An earpiece that translates foreign languages into the English language. I’m guessing it could be three or four versions before its stable.. but the idea is intriguing.
A Little Music to Sooth Your Soul…
I thoroughly enjoy adding a little music to the Roadshow. I know this is not what we are about.. but I’m the editor and I want to add it… So there…
This month I’ve added a little something from one of my very favorite performers…. Roy Buchanan.
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Roy Buchanan – Live From Austin Tx
I’m not sure if anyone actually reads these little music tidbits. Perhaps I add them to the Roadshow for my personal enjoyment. Music moves me. Music inspires me in much the same way as watching a maestro like Slydini perform minor miracles. My last musical link was to a Joe Bonamassa video, and I consider Joe the premier guitar player in the world. That brings me to Roy Buchanan…
Roy was a totally unassuming performer who could have become one of the most recognizable figures in the history of Rock. Instead, he played most of his career with lesser players, lesser bands, and did just enough to create a legacy that actually grows as the years pass. Roy was the only man to challenge Jimi Hendrix to a ‘pick off’.. and Hendrix declined. Roy never used a wa wa pedal, never used a wang bar, and never utilized electronic magic to achieve his sound. Instead, he mastered his guitar, and used unusually loose strings to generate his brand of the Blues. After watching Hendrix perform in 1967, he knew, as good as Jimi was, that he (Roy) could not reproduce Jimi’s sound.. but he also knew Jimi couldn’t reproduce his without electronic wizardry…. Hendrix, who was very familiar with Roy’s style, knew too, that he couldn’t match Roy straight up.
Actually Jimi Hendrix and Roy Buchanan shared TWO things in common… Both were at the very pinnacle of the guitar world, talent-wise.. and both couldn’t sing worth a hoot. Of course, when you could play the blues as good as these two.. who the heck cared?
Although probably politically incorrect in some circles, Roy’s version of a song Hendrix made popular, HEY JOE, remains as a true testament to the genius of Roy Buchanan, a man PBS called ” The greatest unknown guitarist in the world” when they aired a ‘made for PBS’ special in 1971. I’ve included a link to Hey Joe, and encourage you to listen to the ENTIRE song to understand a little something about one of my guitar heroes, cool hat, turtle neck, polyester pants.. and all. (Listen to the Hendrix tribute near the end..) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMcjPZgK9GM
Go to Youtube and search for Roy’s videos. There are some really great videos available to you if you want to familiarize yourself with this amazing artist. Like most great blues players, Roy was a troubled soul…. a rascal, a drunkard, a guy who would give you the shirt off his back. Unassuming in one moment and ready to rumble the next, Roy had friends in high places who tried their best to help Roy make it to the top. Unfortunately, he usually took the road less traveled. Everyone recognized Roy’s immense talent… except Roy.
In 1988, after a domestic dispute, Roy took to the bottle, got himself arrested for public intoxication, and was found hanging lifelessly in his jail cell, shirt around his neck. He was 48… Perhaps I feel for Roy because I’ve known folks just like him – troubled and super-talented. Unable to come to grips with whatever torture infused their childhood.. and spending their adult life clinging to God with one hand.. and a bottle with the other.
Introducing Roy Buchanan – The World’s Greatest Unknown Guitarist [1971]
Full documentary of The PBS special originally airing in 1971. Roy is spotlighted here the year of his first release “Buch & The Snake Stretchers.” Many of those songs performed Include clips of Bill Graham, Nils Lofgren, Merle Haggard and Johnny & Shuggie Otis. In interview segments Buchanan discusses his influences. Many of the live segments were filmed at Bill Graham’s Fillmore East in New York City. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg4Cj7NqGD4
Magic Trick Reviews… Free to Everyone Facebook Group
Please consider joining us at ‘Magic Trick Reviews’ on Facebook. You’ll find a very nice selection of reviews, particularly by our friend, Jim Canaday, who is now reviewing for Big Blind Media as well as Murphy’s Magic. Check it out…
Remember.. signing up for the Magic Roadshow Journal of Magic is Totally FREE. There is NO obligation and your email is 100% safe. (I don’t even share it with my closes fellow magicians..) You will be notified each month when a new issue of the Roadshow publishes and you can unsubscribe with one click.
MAGIC NEWS.
You can get your magic fix on Magic News every week. Don’t wait a month for the next Roadshow. Instead, go to Magic News for the latest, along with the more interesting stories in the world of magic. Honestly, no other site publishes the breadth of magic related stories and videos as Magic News. http://MagicNews.org
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Even MORE magic trick, card trick, street magic and videos.. http://magicians.website
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That does it for this issue. I hope you found something to help your magic along. Remember, if you have something you would like to share with the magic community, send it to: [email protected]
“Vive Tus Sueños – Live Your Dreams “ Rick Carruth / Editor
Senior Professor – Camelard College of Conjuring of Chemmis, Egypt “Magic’s Only Worldwide Honor Society” http://www.camelardcollege.org/
Right about now, a faithful Roadshow reader named June thinks I devoted this issue to her.. Summer is here, full force. But, before we get to that, I want to Welcome all the new subscribers to the Magic Roadshow. If this is your first issue, I hope you find something that makes a real difference in your magic.
Yes, summer has arrived on our side of the globe, and despite the heat, I feel sleightly invigorated, pun intended. The wife and I spent last week on the Carolina coast with friends, a well-deserved vacation of sorts, and right this moment I would love nothing more than to buy a condo at the beach and kick back.
There are some changes in store for the Roadshow. Issues are going to become a little shorter. These long issues are killing me, time wise, as I am totally reliant on me, myself, and I for all the editing and publishing. Remembering how I used to put issues together in three or four days is disheartening now that I must start a new issue as soon as the current issue publishes. Some of you guys have mentioned that shorter issues would be easier to read, and I think I agree. Of course, I remember saying the same thing a couple of years ago and I published shorter issues for three or four months.
Finding material for publication was a real task at one time. And it seems the volumn of magic on the internet has exponentially increased the past three or four years. My ability to ‘discover’ new magic has improved many times over too. I consider myself a very good user of the search engines.. along with some of my friends like Michael Lyth. Michael and I can toss a subject out there.. and suddenly we have a wealth of information between the two of us. I want to publicly thank Michael for all the invaluable assistance, and apologize for not crediting him with some of the links I honestly can’t remember who found first…
I want to Thank Paul Lelekis, Werner Miller, and Bob Solari for their invaluable contributions also. I think every issue in 2015 has contained something from Paul, Michael, Werner and Bob. I could fairly call each one an Associate Editor of the Roadshow !
Take a moment to click on the ‘PSYCHIC’ link in the navigation bar.. It’s MY site, and even I don’t know how it works..
This issue is dedicated to Elliott Michael Black. He performed around the world as Michael Elliott and spent many happy years in Chicago and Asheville NC, among other places. Elliott was an electrical engineer, a lawyer, a business owner, a mentalist, and my friend. He was known as “The Sherlock Holmes of Thought” and was a long time member of the Psychic Entertainers Assoc. (PEA), and was awarded the Bob Haines Memorial Award for Distinguished Service.
I publish each issue of the Roadshow as a PDF because Elliott wanted me to.. He enjoyed printing them out and reading them at his leisure. I could never figure how he dealt with the links… Elliott passed away last month in Chicago after moving there from Asheville to be closer to his family. Trent, Gary and myself will sorely miss your presence, Friend..
I try not to get too political in the Roadshow.. this is simply not the forum. But when I read this recently I couldn’t help but republish it. There will be a LOT of this between now and election time, so keep these thoughts by TOM WOLFE close..
“One of the things that I find really makes it worth watching all the Academy Awards, all the Emmys, all those awards ceremonies, is to see how today’s actors and television performers have discovered the formula. If you become indignant, this elevates you to the plane of ‘intellectual.’ No mental activity is required. It is a rule, to which there has never been an exception, that when an actor or a television performer rises up to the microphone at one of these awards ceremonies and expresses moral indignation over something, he illustrates Marshall McLuhan’s dictum that “moral indignation is a standard strategy for endowing the idiot with dignity.”
Amen…
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Everyone has a plan ’till they get punched in the mouth.
Mike Tyson
The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources
Albert Einstein
An amateur magician is one who performs many different tricks for the same people; a professional magician is one who performs the same tricks for many people…Whit Hayden
Watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. … Ronald Dahl
—————————————————- COMEDY SILK TO EGG CLASSIC – Paul Lelekis
Too many performers have passed this amazing classic routine of magic over…and it’s too bad because it is a HUGE audience-pleaser!
I have used this routine for years at all parlor, platform or cabaret performances. The spectators LOVE this effect! I first saw this trick on the Ed Sullivan show when I was a kid…and I’ll NEVER forget how amazed I was!
Below is my personal handling of this effect.
EFFECT: A black silk is stuffed into the performer’s hand. When his hand is opened, the silk has changed into a white egg! The magician shows how the trick works by showing the hole in the plastic egg and the silk is inside of it.
Then the performer produces a miniature wand (with some funny patter!) and hands it to the spectator to wave over the fake egg…but then the “hole” is peeled off and the fake egg is cracked over a glass to empty the contents of a real egg!
SET UP: You’ll need a real egg and a plastic egg (soft plastic) so that you can cut out a hole near one end of the egg. I found mine in stores like Michael’s Arts & Crafts.
You can also purchase a standard “Silk to Egg” trick at a fairly low price to obtain the plastic egg needed. You’ll also need a 12”-16” black silk. I use a black silk (though any dark silk will work fine!) because it plays beautifully to “camouflage” the fake hole on the real egg. Also, be sure to have a clear glass available to crack the egg into at the end!
To make the fake hole, I use a piece of stiff paper or thin construction paper and cut out a piece that is ovule in shape to match the size of the hole in the fake egg. I then color this piece of paper with a black Magic Marker.
Before the show, remove the egg from the ‘fridge about 2 hours before the show so that it will quit “sweating” as it approaches room temperature. Then dry the egg off and apply a small piece of double-stick tape to the oval piece of black paper (the “hole”) and stick this to the real egg at the same place where the real hole in the fake egg is. This set up is actually quite simple to do!
You’ll also need to make a miniature wand! I just buy thin wooden dowels from a home improvement store like Ace or Home Depot with a diameter of about 3-4mm or about 1/8 of an inch. Then saw off about a 4” length. Paint the ends white and the middle black! It doesn’t have to be exact. I took a couple of dowel rods and made about 20 or so wands, though you only need one wand.
Just before performance place the real egg (with black paper stuck to it) and the fake egg in your left coat pocket and the wand in your left, inside coat pocket. You should have the black silk protruding from your jacket breast pocket. Place your mini-wand in your inside left jacket pocket and you’re set to go!
METHOD: As you start your presentation, secretly go into your left pocket with your left hand and “steal” the fake egg into your left hand as you display the black silk. Talk about showing the audience an actual classic of magic – and then tell them that you “…will go against the magician’s code and show you exactly HOW the trick works…IF you applaud me loudly enough!”
Start applauding when you say the above line of patter and the audience will join in and applaud also. Then say…“Not NOW! I meant after I show you the trick!” This gets a good laugh. This patter will loosen everyone up and put YOU in charge!
Turn to your right and begin stuffing the silk into your closed left fist – actually into the hidden plastic egg!
The patter at this point is mainly innocuous. As you continue to stuff the silk into your left hand, slowly move your hands up and down as you continue stuffing the silk all the way in. Be overly dramatic when you do this!
After the silk has been pushed in, make some kind of magic gesture and reach into your left hand with your right fingers and remove the white egg!
You will be surprised how many spectators will “ooh and ahh” when they see the egg! A white egg always elicits a big response – try an egg bag routine out and see!
Some people may soon figure out that it’s a hollow egg…but before they start guessing, say, “Look! It’s just a hollow egg! See? I just stuffed the black hanky into the hollow egg!” (Notice that I said “hanky” and not “silk”! People don’t generally know what a silk is!)
Address the audience and say, “Now THIS is the part where you supposed to applaud!” Everyone will applaud loudly! Coax them on by applauding yourself and say, “Come on…I want to hear some yelling!” They will yell and laugh!
This is where you loosen everyone up and it puts the spectators on your side, so to speak! You’re obviously going for cheap applause but it makes everyone laugh!
Keep the fake egg out where in your left hand where everyone can see it and the black silk inside the egg. Announce how you ‘…hid the fake egg in my hand and I merely stuffed the hanky into it!’ Mime the actions as you say this line.
“O.K., I need someone from the audience to help me out with this next part!” Here try to get an elderly woman or a young girl or boy to help you out. Call her up and get the audience to applaud her. As she approaches, place the fake egg into your right hand so that it sits deep into it. Announce that you have something for her to use, to do the magic! Here is where you will perform Juan Tamiriz’s, Crossing the Gaze move!
CROSSING THE GAZE
Reach into your left coat pocket as if retrieving the wand, but the expression on your face indicates that it’s not there! Then look directly at the audience!
Secretly grasp the real egg from that pocket into your left hand (held deep in your left palm!) as your face changes to a look that the “something” is not there! Look to your left pocket and then immediately look over to your right pocket! As soon as you look to the right, your right hand (with the fake egg) goes to your left, at the same time that your left hand comes out of your left coat pocket. Immediately pretend to put the fake egg that’s in your RH, into your LH! You actually do nothing…it’s a shuttle pass – don’t be afraid of this…it works EVERY time!
Your right hand next “darts” quickly into your inside left coat pocket with the fake egg. Leave the fake egg in that pocket as you bring out the mini-wand! Because of the shuttle pass, everyone will think that the egg in your left hand (the real egg!) is still the plastic egg with the silk stuffed in it! This switch works beautifully!
The Finale:
Hand the mini-wand to the spectator and say, “Be careful…this wand may be small but it’s very powerful! You know what they say, ‘…it’s not the size of the wand that counts…it’s how you use it!’ Isn’t that right sir?!” Here is where you point to some man in the audience… and then watch the laughter!
I’ve used the above line hundreds of times! Everyone laughs out loud! It really lightens the room!
Have your helper wave her magic wand over the egg (everyone still thinks it’s the fake egg!) and say, “Look! You did it!”
Now hold the real egg up where everyone can see the “fake hole” in the real egg. Trust me…even up close, the black paper hole looks like the real thing! Then peel the black paper off!
“Milk” this moment! Everyone will be shocked that you peeled away the hole with the silk in it!
Now go over to the glass and very deliberately break the egg into the glass! You are clean! DO NOT underestimate this classic! It is a powerhouse routine!
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You can view ALL of Paul’s ebooks, all 21, at Lybrary.com .. They are, undoubtedly, one of the best values in all of magic.. Many are now considered underground classics… http://lybrary.com/paul-a-lelekis-m-163788.html
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Draw Stickman… got this from Paul too. You’ll like it…
EZ TO DO CARD MIRACLES – A Review of Paul Lelekis’ (Second) Latest eBook
When I found out Paul had a new ebook on Lybrary I couldn’t wait to read it. Paul Lelekis, as many of you know, is one of the very best card technicians on the planet and a True Friend of both the Roadshow and yours truly. Aside from being so skillful, Paul is both an excellent writer and shares invaluable advice based on years of real-world experiences. ( Aside from the many lectures and walk-arounds, Paul has spent literally thousands of nights as a restaurant performer..)
This latest, EZ To Do Card Miracles, is right up my alley.. Anything magical that’s also easy was written specifically with me in mind. In all fairness, not every effect is what I term ‘easy’. ‘Ghost Collectors’ and ‘You Must Be Lucky’ require a couple of manipulations that are easily within the scope of the average reader.
The other four effects are darn close to self-working. In fact, ‘Make the Cards Match’ and ‘Translation’ are both of the Martin Garner variety that, when performed step by step, will work correctly even though we know not what we do.. Don’t you love it when the magician is as impressed as his audience!
Simon Aronson’s ‘Shuffle bored’ is the last of the six effects. This version is based on Simon’s 1980 version, with personal aspects added by Paul, along with explanations. This is one of my all-time favorite effects, on any level. The fact that it’s self-working is an added bonus.
Paul begins this ebook with a treatise on performing effects for folks, particularly in a restaurant setting, that is alone worth the price of the ebook. He is absolutely right on with his observations, and I will always remember Paul telling of how his tips went up exponentially as he began to ‘show off’ less and ‘show less’. Suddenly, his magic began to appear effortless and his audiences were more impressed by what they didn’t see than by what they did. Priceless.
Buy the ebook. Enjoy the effects. And you’ll be a fan. POWERHOUSE ROUTINES – Paul’s Real Latest eBook
I try to keep up with every ebook Paul publishes, and lately he’s made it difficult. Not only does he wirte with style and swagger, but he writes faster than I can read! Jeez, it seems I just enjoyed his last ebook, EZ TO DO CARD MIRACLES, and now.. POWERHOUSE ROUTINES. Paul is an expert at both creating world class routines and sleights, and taking routines initiated by others to entirely new heights. PowerHouse Routines contains both.
‘Telekinetic Four Ace Reverse’ and ‘Find Your Own Card’ are Marlo ideas transformed to a hyper degree by Paul. Aside from the basic premise, everything about the handling is completely new to me. ‘Gravity’ and ‘Lelekis’Touch Switch’ are uniquely Paul. I particularly like the Touch Switch and can think of a half dozen effects I use regularly that will definitely benefit from this utility.
Last but certainly not least.. Paul has composed an intro worthy of the price of the ebook. The advice is sure and true. There are tips and advice here that will improve your performance regardless of your skill level. I read it, read all the effects.. and went back and re-read the intro. The handling tips are important.. but the performing advice is invaluable.
These are worker effects you will add to your repertoire immediately. These are effects that will make you impatient, hardly able to contain yourself until your next magic meeting. If you aren’t familiar with the library of work of Paul Lelekis, this is a great place to start.
You remove a deck from the case. Spread the deck face down on a table and ask the spectator to select a card. Once done, ask the spectator to place the card in the card case. Without any unusual moves or gestures, you can now pick up the card case, shake it gently, and immediately know the identity of the card inside. You can also show the card case from all sides…
First, gently shaking the card case has nothing to do with your reveal. Second, the card case itself does all the work. As with most of Bob’s gimmicks and utilities, a great deal of delicate work goes into each one. Bob himself often creates these gimmicks one at a time, by hand, to assure each works with precision and professionalism.
Please don’t assume, as Bob puts it, that VOYEUR is simply “a hole in a box”..
These cases are made out of the standard Bicycle cases. Mine is blue and I’m assuming they also come in red, but don’t hold me to it.
When I first opened mine, I couldn’t wait to ‘discover’ the secret myself. So, rather than read the instructions, I opened the box, inspected the flaps inside and out, and slowly turned the box end over end looking for the tell-tale sign of a doctored case. I couldn’t see it. I didn’t realize the way I was holding the box, the way almost anyone would hold the box, prevented me from ‘seeing’ the secret. Talking with my friend, Paul Lelekis, I found he experienced the same bafflement as I.. He too inspected the box top to bottom and couldn’t find the ‘secret’. We are two grizzly ‘ol performers, and I promise, if we can’t see it, your audience certainly won’t see it !
There are a couple of different effects provided with the gimmick. I immediate thought of a half dozen other possible uses. One of Bob’s suggestions has the spectator select a card as above, except the magician can put all the remaining cards in the case, and the spectator can then stick his card in the case at any location.. and the magician will still reveal the selected card.
This is one of those things that has many different uses, and not all are card related. Any object that can be placed inside a card box can be discovered, including various coins.
If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, this is it. Add a new level of effects to your performance. If this gimmick doesn’t get the creative juices flowing, may I suggest knitting ?
TRICKS WITHOUT NAMES – Another Mathemagical Medley of Semi-Automatic Tricks – Werner Miller
Trick #6
Secretly have the AS on top of your deck and the backs of the bottom nine cards lettered as
shown (Fig. 1).
To perform, force the AS to a spectator without disturbing the bottom stock of the deck or flashing the lettered backs. The Goldin Force, e.g., fills the bill nicely: While you are holding the deck in your left hand, your left thumb riffles down its outer left corner until the spectator calls stop.
Open a break between the riffled and unriffled cards, release the riffled portion and let it roll over and off the left fingertips so that it lands on the fingers of the palm-up right hand. By closing the right fingers, cause the riffled packet to turn over and end up face down in dealing position, then lower the hand and, with your thumb, push the top card to the left and place it before the spectator, still face down.
Announce that the deck itself will reveal the name of the spectator’s card. Turn the deck over, and deal the bottom nine cards face up into three piles, singly and rotationally, from left to right. Discard the remainder of the deck.
Flip the third pile onto the second one, then the combined second pile onto the first pile (as in Trick #3). Spread the cards: The top three cards are face down and their backs are displaying a word, the value of a card (Fig. 2). Read it out aloud (“Ace…”), close the spread (“… of …”), turn
the cards over and spread them again: Now the top six cards are face down, and their backs are displaying another word, a suit (Fig. 3) – “… Spades! Obviously, your card is the Ace of Clubs.”
Ask the spectator to confirm this by turning over the selection.
Variations: Force the JD. Have the bottom twelve cards lettered D-J-O-I-A-N-A-C-D-M-K-S, and deal them similarly into three piles. Or: Force the KC. Have the bottom nine cards lettered C-K-BI-L-N-S-G-U, and deal them “zig/zag” style into three piles (Fig. 4a). Or: Force the QH. Have the
bottom eleven cards lettered H-Q-R-U-E-E-T-E-A-N-S, and deal them “zig/zag” style into three piles (Fig. 4b). Or: Force the 7C. Have the bottom ten cards lettered C-S-U-E-B-E-L-V-S-N, and deal them “zig/zag” style into four piles (Fig. 4c). (To Be Continued.)
You would think that magic, as a hobby and a profession, would have gone the way of the typewriter by now. After all, there’s no video scene you can’t create digitally these days, and audiences know perfectly well that any prop you can dream up can be manufactured.
Yet magic is alive and well. Magicians on YouTube rack up millions of views. Magic shows in Vegas regularly sell out. And every birthday, thousands of elementary-school boys (yes, usually boys) joyously open up magic kits, smitten with the idea of fooling the grownups. I was one of them. I performed magic shows at about 400 birthday parties during my teenage years — and went on to write “Magic for Dummies.”
It’s no surprise, then, that smartphones should become the latest frontier for illusions. App stores offer long lists of magic-trick apps. Sometimes, the trick happens on the phone’s screen — the app does the magic. Sometimes, the phone is part of the secret — the audience doesn’t even know that it’s involved in helping you perform.
Some tricks are free or cheap little throwaways — the equivalent of the fun, self-working, plastic beginner tricks that you get in magic kits. Others are unbelievably powerful effects designed for professional magicians, costing $50 or even $100, good enough to perform at corporate parties or on TV.
Thanks to Mel Kientz “Magician’s Life” Web Notes..
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Chemistry Magic Show – A Blueprint
Would you consider putting on a magic show? A chemistry teacher explains in detail what you need and how to perform an array of ‘chemical magic’. This is a pdf that can be easily printed out for your convenience..
Michael Lyth pointed this site out to me. It fits nicely with the other chemical links in this issue. Learn to change the color or liquids, as in one of the classics of magic.. .. and over 150 other chemical and chemical magic effects. V.F. Johnson’s book is a great read..
Science and Magic Materials — Library of Congress
Materials on Science, Magic and Mathematics
This link is the beginning of hours of interesting research. I’m not sure I can find an actual ‘home page’, as many categories at the Library of Congress cross and interact, making the ‘beginning’ nearly impossible to find. If you go to the HOME link, you’ll find the Harry Houdini link which is a gateway to a mere 4000 books belonging to the personal library of the famous conjuror donated to the Library.
From here, you can find page after page of mystery and magic… each leading to other books and collections. Many works can be viewed in PDF form or ‘ordered’ from the Library for research purposes.
The Library contains much more than books. You can view old posters, letterheads, letters, and pictures.. anything related to history.
DON’T go to this site unless you’re prepared to lose track of time. I’ve been in one tornado in my life. As my loved ones sat in a small closet, I stood in the closet doorway, unable to take my eyes away from the picture window in the living room. The driving rain was literally at a complete 90 degree angle to the ground. I was so captivated by what was transpiring outside I was more afraid to look away than I was of the tornado. That’s very similar to what happens to visitors to the Library of Congress. They are afraid to turn away. Even the knowledge they must climb out of bed in progressively fewer hours can’t make them put away the mouse and give in to the sandman.. Don’t say I didn’t warn you…
Penn and Teller walk among the many books of the Houdini Collection in the Library. A 3+ minute video… https://youtu.be/R_PkSfIjlTE
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James Riser DIY’s ( Thanks to Michael Lyth for these next two links )
James knows what it takes to make magic props. To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, let me quote:
“Upcoming e-publications will include making a take-up reel, making a new style of Vanishing Bird Cage, a new type of ball vase, rising cards, a new type of billiard ball stand, new work on the ball and tube, a drawer box, a razor blade stand, a coin shooter, a new type of Kuma Tube, a center control Cube A Libre, a timer for creating a few seconds delay, a simplex card punch, making a Kepplinger holdout, a gravity holdout, making dye tubes, etc. Lots of fun if there is enough interest to make it worthwhile.”
Many of these publications are priced at $5.00 each, which is more than fair. In addition there are a number of free items, and I know you guys like free…. When accessing the DIY section, just keep scrolling after the page opens..
Here is a freebee …. Making an Inexpensive Card Trimmer
Here is a freebee …. Making Typewriter style Key Inlays
Here is a freebee …. A way to soften coins
Here is a freebee …. Making a Coin Stack
Here is a freebee …. Making a Folding Coin
Here is a freebee ….Things to do with a rubber walnut
Here is a freebee …. Making an Inexpensive Leather Cylinder
DIY Magic Props – Build Your Own Props With These Videos
If you are among the many magicians who are inclined to make plant stands, fix the kitchen cabinet, add shelves to the garage, and…. then these videos are right up your alley. Create your own magic props with these clear and concise videos to guide and inspire you.
How do you put a deck of cards in a bottle? (and I’m not talking a miniature deck).. Or maybe you’re curious about how they put a Rubik’s Cube in a bottle.. Probably the easiest of the three is how to put a tennis ball inside a bottle… a fully inflated tennis ball no less.
This Wiki explains with pictures how each of the above are accomplished. Even if you’re not planning on making one, this might be a good thing to know. .
Kathy Brown’s Impossible Bottles — A Deck of Playing Cards
This is the best of the videos. Kathy can put a whole deck of cards into a sealed card box inside a bottle in about one hour. Wow.. https://youtu.be/dMJIZRj-HKA
History of Bottlemaking and Cards in a Bottle for Sale..
Don’t have the time or patience to make your own bottle? Here’s the history of bottlemaking plus a complete line of cards in a bottle for sale.. http://bottlemagic.com/bottle/decked/
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Mind Magician – Michael Daniels
Be baffled and entertained by our interactive mind magic
– Learn some great tricks to amaze and impress your friends
– Learn powerful techniques to improve your memory
– Learn how to perform amazing feats of mental calculation
– Learn about mentalism and mentalists
– Download totally free ebooks on mind magic and mentalism
– View great video performances
– Check out the latest news on magic and mentalism
The amazing Tom Mullica has entertained the world with his unique brand of magic since about 1970. Born in Waupun, Wisconsin in 1948, Tom knew by the age of five he wanted to be an entertainer, but he believed his success would come as a clown. By the age of 21 he was working in Colon, Michigan, building magic props and illusions and demonstrating magic tricks for Abbott’s Magic Co.
Eventually, Tom moved to Atlanta and opened a nightclub which also functioned as a magic club. Open for eleven years, perhaps the single most important moment was when Red Skelton visited and he and Tom quickly became friends..
Following Red’s advice, Tom modified his act to accompany with music, allowing him to perform for anyone, anywhere. Tom eventually worked in the Crazy Horse Saloon in Paris, appeared on David Letterman, World’s Greatest Magic, Penn & Teller’s Sin City, and Viva Variety.
Known for his brilliant manipulation of cigarettes, Tom’s videos are a wonder to watch…
“Whit “Pop” Haydn (born July 19, 1949 as Whitney Wesley Hadden in Clarksville, Tennessee) is an American magician, the winner of seven “Magician of the Year” performing awards (for performances in showrooms at the Magic Castle) from the Magic Castle, the Hollywood clubhouse of the Academy of Magical Arts. He has been nominated by his fellow members for “Magician of the Year” in Close-Up, Parlor and Stage, Bar and Lecturer more than thirty times. In February 2006, he also became Vice-President of that organization, and served for four years in that capacity.”
“He has opened for Jerry Seinfeld, the Smothers Brothers, Loretta Lynn and others, and performed on cruise ships of many different lines, including Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth 2, and the Diamond Princess. Haydn has worked hotels and casinos including Caesars Tahoe, and was one of the first acts chosen in 1996 to open Caesar’s Magical Empire in Las Vegas.”
Pop is as good as anyone in the world in a close-up situation. Widely respected by all his peers, he is the perfect guy to watch to perfect your performance…
On all form of magic, close up is the oldest, the simplest, and the purest. At its heart there is a trick that hardly changes for thousand of years. https://youtu.be/z1esDVNQeuo History of Magic – Mind Reading/Mentalism
Published on Jan 18, 2013
History of magic – Mind Reading/Mentalism a documentary series by BBC about the history of magic – The history behind mentalism commented by modern famous mentalists and many others. It goes back into the beginning of its history. https://youtu.be/Y9T8p9OaGYA
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Xavier Perret – How to do the 4 Ace Trick
I always enjoy Xavier’s videos, and the 4 Ace Trick is no exception.. Check it out on Youtube…
Remember.. signing up for the Magic Roadshow Journal of Magic is Totally FREE. There is NO obligation and your email is 100% safe. (I don’t even share it with my closes fellow magicians..) You will be notified each month when a new issue of the Roadshow publishes and you can unsubscribe with one click.
Subscribe Here.. https://magicroadshow.com
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MAGIC NEWS.org
You can get your magic fix on Magic News every week. Don’t wait a month for the next Roadshow. Instead, go to Magic News for the latest, along with the more interesting going-ons in the world of magic. Honestly, no other site publishes the breadth of magic related stories and videos as Magic News.
—————————————————————— Notorious Crooks: Who Was Erdnase? ( One of many stories you missed if not reading Magic News..)
By Paul Drexler for The Examiner…
Born in Connecticut in 1872, Andrews picked up an early interest in magic and card manipulation and became a professional gambler at 18. By 1900, he was one of the best card sharks in the country.
In 1902 a man calling himself S.W. Erdnase self-published “The Expert at the Card Table.” This 143-page book explained and demonstrated the “shuffles,” “shifts,” and sleight-of-hand techniques used by card sharks and magicians. The first edition sold poorly, and the author reduced the price to $1 per copy.
By 1903, Andrews was at the peak of his career, claiming an annual income of more than $20,000 (worth $600,000 today). But life as a hustler had taken its toll. He had developed serious digestive problems and a raging temper.
He took up with Bessie Boutin, a prostitute with a taste for luxury. They fought frequently over her drinking and his jealousy. In October 1904, Boutin disappeared in Denver, and Andrews left town with her jewelry. When her body was discovered, he was the main suspect in her death. Andrews was later linked to two other unsolved murders. Read the rest of the article at:
I market in other areas aside from magic. Every now and again I’ll toss something out there to see if it sticks. One of the areas I promote is background checks. There are so many companies that advertise ‘Free’ background checks.. and they are certainly NOT free. You go through several pages of nonsense, only to get to the page that informs you that for ” $16.95″ you can access your report. For the record, my site charges $4.95 for seven days of unlimited, comprehensive searches. You can perform a LOT of searches in 7 days… your boss, your co-workers, your love interest, your children’s friends.. if they are of age, and many more.
FREE NLP Training: How To Spot a Liar – 1.5 Hour Video
David Snyder
In this exciting FIRST EVER Adventure into the art and science of lie detection we’ll show The key processes you need to be aware of in order to catch someone in a lie. The primary non-verbal cues to look for that signal someone may be lying to you. The psycho-physiology of lying and why not knowing it could cost you friends and lovers. The 20 most common verbal patterns liars use when trying to fool you into believing them. Body language secrets that automatically cue you in when someone is most likely being deceptive with you.
Who the heck is (was) Gary Halbert? Gary left us a few years ago.. passed in his sleep, and in so doing created the most massive of holes in internet marketing. He was one of the true pioneers of using the internet as a tool to make money. Not just money.. but LOTS of money. I’m not promoting a ‘get ri ch quick’ scheme. What Gary did was taught a generation of marketers how to sell, how to market, how to attract customers, how to copyright, and how to make your website a better place through quality ad copy.
Gary published a monthly newsletter.. and charged out the wahzoo if you wanted to read it – And thousands of folks did.. at $95.00 per month. Some believed this to be highway robbery.. and others swore that, for the inside information they received, it was worth every penny.. and then some.
Being sort of an eccentric genius, Gary wrote amazing adcopy, but was lousy at organizing his newsletters and website. Now, thanks to fans and family, his newsletters have been organized, dated, and pdf’d into one gigantic file, about 1100+ pages.
“If you want to write high-converting ad copy then you simply need to study Gary Halbert – he was one of the greatest copywriters who ever lived. The thing is, his website TheGaryHalbertLetter.com is terribly organized. The content is amazing but all the newsletters are completely out of order. You’ll be reading one where he refers to the last newsletter and you’ll be like.. I haven’t read that one yet. So I did my best to organize it a bit. I did this for myself but then realized it would benefit everybody, so I’m posting the links here.”
For the most part, everything is pretty organized from 1986 (the year the newsletter started) to the 2000’s. All the misc. stuff at the bottom was taken directly off the website, but since there are no dates posted, is impossible to organize.
Note: Since some of the newsletters seem to be missing from the website (or just not indexed in Google) I uploaded the PDF here where you can read the missing pages. If you also hate reading 1,000 page .pdf documents, here are the links so you can read them online.
Here’s a link where you can download a variety of free ebooks, including Erdnase’ Expert At TheCard Table… If you are not a subscriber, you can sign up HERE.. http://MagicRoadshow.com
That does it for this issue. I hope you found something to help your magic studies along. Remember, if you have something you would like to share with the magic community, send it to: [email protected]
“Vive Tus Sueños – Live Your Dreams “
Rick Carruth / Editor
Senior Professor – Camelard College of Conjuring of Chemmis, Egypt “Magic’s Only Worldwide Honor Society” http://www.camelardcollege.org/
you want to return next month. Sign up on our homepage to be properly notified when new issues publish.
so the spectator can read them (each has an epigram). Next, eight cardstock circles, each with an alphabetic letter, are removed from the wallet and arranged in a straight line. It reads: A MYSTERY. A spectator is then invited to play a word game called, “It’s All About Words,” wherein a letter and an epigram are randomly selected. Pointing to the wallet, the performer asks the spectator to open it and remove the prediction that’s inside. One side of the business card matches the letter the spectator chose. The other side matches the epigram.
