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Hi everyone,

I was just wondering how realistic it is to start magic at the age of 19, and turning it into a career. That's practically what I want to do, I'm willing to put in tons of effort to improve my skills, I just love magic so much and I'm actually quite good. Is 19 too late to start and to think about doing it for a living?

Thanks.

It is very realistic. And nineteen is not too late. I was about twenty nine when I decided to make the jump. Say yes to every opportunity, make sure you are agreeable (that ensures repeat business!) and don't limit yourself to one field. Most of the money is in kids magic, but in the UK (where I presume you are) there is also a solid business in close-up. Do it all.

As for skills, the chief skill you need if you want to make a living is showmanship and presentation. That beats all the magic skills you will ever have in importance. Best bet is to join a speakers club such as Toastmasters, or take an acting class. Do comedy clubs, busk the streets. It all helps develop the presentational skills.

All the magic you will need you can learn in a month. Six solid routines for close-up, or kids, or whatever you want to go for. Pick easy routines that will allow you to concentrate on the presentation. Best of luck with it.

Totally agree with everything that Tony said there, 19 is certainly not too late. There are plenty of people here who are working and started much later that you.

Xagan wrote:Hi everyone,

I was just wondering how realistic it is to start magic at the age of 19, and turning it into a career. That's practically what I want to do, I'm willing to put in tons of effort to improve my skills, I just love magic so much and I'm actually quite good. Is 19 too late to start and to think about doing it for a living?

Thanks.

Hi there Xagan, I think magic is what you make it, any age is good.. As long as you put the time and effect in what you want to achieve and how far you want to go, there nothing stopping you achieving your goals. Here's 2 samples, my son started reading and watching and practising like crazy when he was 12, he is now 18 and is about to take his final exam at the Magic Circle in London. I myself have been a fan all my life but never really got going to I was 37, I am 47 now and have learnt so much, but still know there is more and more to learn. But loving everything I am doing after 10 years. Good luck Garry

yeah I didn't get back into magic till I was 25ish and I have just gone full time pro

just do it!

I started at 18-19 I am now full time. Was semi pro in about 3 years full time not long after.

I started at 21/22ish, something like that.
Plan was to go pro now but some swine offered me a job that I could do in my sleep; plan is to do some prep now and have another stab when the contract expires at the end of May.

Promo shots.... here I come.....

Thanks so much for your replies everyone, I really appreciate it. I'm definitely going to give it a real go and know for sure that this is what I want to do