by Miles More Magic » Jul 12th, '06, 20:28
Not sure if this is the sort of thing you're after, but here goes:
Try to:
Buy a couple of books, including some "self working" ones. If you are just starting out, this will allow you to build up your confidence by being able to do some easier tricks, without spending a fortune on one trick effects.
Be realistic, you aren't going to be ready to perform for anyone for a while.
Be flexible with the genre of magic you want to perform. I ended up by concentrating on childrens magic, but this isn't what I started out to do. Your personality may suit one style better than another.
Make sure you practise until you can put on a complete performance for the effect you are learning. This includes scripting, angles etc.
Think of what you want from a routine of several tricks. Do you want it to include humour or to just go for effects, or a mixture of both? How are you going to link effects together?
Try to avoid:
Rushing to show your magic, whether to your friends, or to the public. You want to perform magic, not show some tricks.
On forums, I have seen people ask what they should buy for a show they are doing the next week. The simple answer is: nothing.
If you haven't got a show to put on, you wont make one in a week.
Learn how to say "no" until you are ready.
Copying patter. Use it straight from the instructions while you are learning by all means, but work in your own personality to it. Change it to suit you, remembering to write ideas down. Think of ways you can change it to make your performance origional.
Tip:
Remember to know when to stop showing your magic.
Some people just aren't interested, so don't push them into watching you.
If someone is ruining your and other peoples enjoyment by heckling or being abusive, stop.
Remember also, for those that are interested and entertained by magic, can become bored after a while. the old saying is " to leave them wanting more."
Enjoy your magic.