talkmagic.co.uk

Hi gals and guys,

Recently I bought the Scorpion UV kit from Ellusionist. I've posted my thoughts in the review section if anyone is interested.

Use of the kit requires skills that are fairly new to me: engaging the audience, keeping them entertained and wowing them at the end. I've come up with a routine that lasts a few minutes, uses two easy sleights and a force but leaves the specs floored. I have to say the kit has opened up a whole new area of magic for me. My aim now is to be able to captivate an audience and leave them spellbound and entertained without using a single 'move' or sleight. Perhaps my first steps into the realms of mentalism?

Anyway, what I'm after is a list of books or DVD's that deal with the performance aspects of magic. I'm not so interested in books that have tricks or routines in them, more the theoretical aspects of performance, holding an audiences attention, confidence, character development, how to design one's own routines, that sort of thing. I've heard that Strong Magic by Darwin Ortiz is very good, but this is currently out of print.

I would like to thank you in advance for any assistance you may be able to provide?

Best wishes
Gary

Watch other magicians mainly close-up ones in the flesh. This is the best I adviced I can give you. Watch the good ones , watch the bad ones. Watch the street performers in covent garden watch every one. The expirence you pick up isnt in any book.

If you can, if you're rich, or if you're a clever boy, try and get hold of Pure Effect or Absolute Magic by Deren Brown. There is some absolutely class stuff in there and will hopefully make you think about and then rethink your performance and the tricks you do.

"Pure Effect" and "Absolute Magic" (Brown) are excellent if you can get your hands on them. While I owned both when the news that they were going out of print came about, I still felt a bit saddened by the news, because the magic industry really is bereft of good, theory based materials that are available for those who are really seeking the knowledge of making magic, magic.

Still, there is available material, but you'll have to be prepared to really shell out some money for books.

"Mastering the Art of Magic" (Burger) is an excellent book that will help you to explore the theories of magic that will take your work to a higher level. I highly recommend this book.

"The Books of Wonder" (Wonder & Minch) is a two volume set. Basically, one chapter will deal with theory, the next gives a trick, the next more theory, the next a trick - and so on. The late Tommy Wonder was simply on a higher level than most of us and you'll find this two volume set will not only have a place of honor on your shelf, but will give you so much to think about in your own magic that this is a study in and of itself. A lifetime's study, really.

"The Magic of Michael Ammar" (Ammar) has a great deal of theory in its pages and you'll find it to be an excellent book to further your studies in magic. While it is trick heavy, you will find that even in the study of his sleight of hand, if you read between the lines, there is a wealth of information to be gleaned from Mr. Ammar. Highly recommended.

"The Secrets of Alkazar" (Kronzek), whilst being a "children's" book, contains a great deal of insight, quite often overlooked by advanced magicians and, considering the price for which it can be had, is certainly worth your due consideration.

Hope some of this helps.

Mike.

Try getting:

Our Magic (The Art of Magic -- The Theory of Magic) by Nevil Maskelyne. It includes the attitude the performer must have for street magic to grand illusions, how to build up climax in performances, how to start performances, good misdirection examples and tips, how to get good personality and appearences for magic, etc...

Alternatively, I'm not sure if this is what you have in mind:

Frank Lane's Book of Patter by Frank Lane. It includes examples of patter he uses or other magicians use when performing. He describes good misdirection and patter.

To find our own personality, only you can truly know that. Aside from reading through books, you've got to watch other magicians in performance. Books can only go so far. Watch magicians and do your own performances to see what works the best.

As a tip, your appearence will be very important. If you walk around in swim trunks, people usually aren't going to bother with you. If you walk around in a casual outfit then people would probably want to talk with you.

Also, choose your audience. Don't perform to the first person you see. Find people within an age group you can get along with, usually it's your own or slightly older. Don't start giggling away when performing even if there's something hilarious. Don't be too serious or else people may find it funny and not remember what happened. Act casual.

I'll back up what Michael Jay has said...

The Secrets of Alkazar mate!! It's brilliant....review here http://www.talkmagic.co.uk/ftopic19847.php

Win The Crowd by Steve Cohen
Magic and Showmanship - Henning Nelms

are two that I recommend. Lots of valuable advice in these two books.

Lord Freddie wrote:Magic and Showmanship - Henning Nelms

I second that book too. I also recommend Sankey's 'Beyond Secrets' book

I thought Beyond Secrets was a little dissapointing.

It contained some good ideas and I agree it was an interesting read, however it seemed that Jay was trying to be too philosophical and instead should have just laid in on the line and got stuck in. It didnt really go into any great depth, just touched on points and left you to figure it out for yourself.

I am still after strong magic as this is the best recommendation it seems. I will get round to buying it one day

I.D wrote:I am still after strong magic as this is the best recommendation it seems. I will get round to buying it one day

Strong Magic is the dogs wotnots and no mistake.

Do try and obtain a copy. I am currently in the process of getting one for a client/TM member, and it's proving a challenge even for my well-seasoned US supplier—who can usually get anything I ask for. (Except Jerrys Nuggets at less than $4 a deck)

Lord Freddie wrote:Win The Crowd by Steve Cohen

here here!

Hi everyone.

Thanks for the tips.

Unfortunately watching other magicians is a little difficult. I don't watch television (we don't have a TV license and only use the TV for watching DVD's) and only know one other person who does magic. I'm thinking of joining the Nottingham Magician's Guild; I do feel it is best to learn from those more experienced, if one can.

All the best
Gary