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Mystic Menagerie 9

I was very happy to see Mystic Menagerie’s first issue of the New Year appear in my mail box, and so thought I’d offer a bit of a review…

I’ve been fan of The Mystic Menagerie ever since issue one. I feel that we really do have a publication that speaks to our strange and wonderful community. I truly believe it is important that we share our thoughts and ideas fully, openly and courteously. The Mystic Menagerie strives (and succeeds) to do this with its (un)usual and heady blend of thoughts and effects all assembled with its darkly distinctive art work.

The contents offered to the altar in Issue 9 continue to reflect the wonderful miscellany we have in the bizarre scene. Selected highlights include;

Faith’s Chair - A fully workable chair test – yes chair test – don’t walk away, I know some people sigh at the thought of another chair test, but there are some good ones out there and if they are framed correctly they don’t have to become a cliché. Jez Starr’s routine adds pendulum work for an excellent twist …

The Blessing - A wonderful extract from Pure Q&A that can work as a standalone piece. The author Paul Voodini is one of the top paranormal entertainers of the day. His work is simply so strong, and has to be seen to be believed, I’ve witnessed audiences in the palm of his hand (and you know what they say about men with big hands). The Blessing is one of those routines that epitomize his approach to making a deep attachment with the audience.

Blood Bank - This is freaky, but, oh, what a gem and with a very interesting method. The use of blood in any routine is edgy, the use of infected blood even more so. I’d really like to see Vincent perform this and simply watch the audience’s reaction as the effect moves through to its conclusion. The cover price alone is worth it for the consideration of the method; this is an effect that’s got me thinking. ..

The Strange Case of Mr Green - Stephen Ward presents an extract from his excellent Scripting and Storytelling for Paranormal Entertainers, although I’m probably a little biased here as I wrote an introduction to the book. The Strange Case of Mr Green is an example of Stephen’s ideas put into practice; if you like the ideas buy his book. ☺

Finally, The Curse of the Gypsy and Burn and Return, by Ed Loveland and Jeremy Lefebure respectively, represent excellent traditional bizarre effects, with an emphasis on story and atmosphere. The former being a tarot routine with a nod to H.P. Lovecraft and the latter being a séance routine themed around the Elephant Man. Both demonstrate some interesting ideas and use very clever, and reasonably easy to make props.

There’s so much more in the magazine though and I’ve only managed to cover some of it in this review. There are, for example, tips on using the Mento Mori, Horrifying revelations about Whitby, and many more ideas, effect and thoughts.

All of this at an amazing price of £3.50!

You really can’t beat that.

You really can’t.

N

Even tho issue 1 was fantastic, this publication has gone from strength to strength.

The design, time and effort that has gone into this is astonishing. The price is unbelievable seeing as its quality is so high.

While reading through this edition it struck me. Even if you are not a dark arts performer, the routines inside are easily modified to fit whatever presentation you see fit.

I would urge you to try this issue and make your own mind up.

Top work guys.

Alec

It is another great issue and full of good ideas

Alec Kobain wrote:While reading through this edition it struck me. Even if you are not a dark arts performer, the routines inside are easily modified to fit whatever presentation you see fit.

Agreed, there is plenty in there for other areas of magic. Mentalists can certainly get a lot from it without having to present it as dark.

The extracts from Paul and Stephen are excellent. The blessing from Pure Q&A is lovely. I've used as something to enhance the occasional reading when I've wanted to leave them with something extra. Heartily recommend buying both books if you don't have them. The other routines show the incredible creativity going on in bizarre magic currently. Another great read.

Thanks for the kind comments, chaps. There's also a great article by our very own Jobasha in this issue. We're really happy with ths one.