talkmagic.co.uk

Hi guys. This year I've decided to join the magic circle. I understand that one is required to complete an audition before membership is granted, and since these auditions cost money, I really want to try and nail it first time. However, I'm not entirely sure what sort of magic would be suitable for the audition. The kind of tricks I like are esp/mentalism style effects like Derren Brown's Extreme Mental Effort (I couldn't find a video, but it's available on his 'Devil's Picturebook' DVD) and Ali Nouira's Steam. These are fantastic tricks, with real impact and which require confidence and strong performance skills. But I'm not sure that they're the kind of tricks I'd need to perform in order to prove myself as a "real" magician. I'm worried that the judges would prefer to see more traditional stuff like the cups and balls, ambitious card, sponge bunnies, or a TT routine. I've always been bored by that kind of magic and I've never really bothered to practise it.

I'm sure there are plenty of people here who have passed the magic circle audition, and I'd love to what sort of magic would be most appropriate to perform. Should I do traditional stuff to prove I've "paid my dues", or should tricks which are less traditional, but which I feel more comfortable with?

Many thanks in advance.

Hi

Have you looked at his page and read the downloadable guides?
http://www.themagiccircle.co.uk/join-us/examinations

You don't have to do the classics but you do need more than self-working effects. The application process starts with an interview with the Examinations Secretary, and he'll be pleased to advise you if you need any more guidance.

Barry

I would do what you are comfortable doing, just remember you are not there to fool them.

How does an audition cost money?

Ring them and ask them for advice. The audition is not difficult. They have plenty of mediocre members among the good ones. The standards are not sky high. Just do something that is not self-working, and do it competently.

Do something your used to doing and feel comfortable doing, they will be happier with that then something you don't enjoy or not used to performing.