talkmagic.co.uk

Hi guys and gals

First up this site is great. I'm a complete newcomer to this kind of stuff. I'm a singer/songwriter but have always had an interest in magic. In particular I'm facinated by mentalism (probably after seeing some Derren Brown specials when I lived in the UK). I have to say that I love how it isn't easy to find the 'secrets' easily on the internet. Respect to you guys - makes everything far more mysterious!

I have a few questions for you wise folk. I'm comfortable with performing in front of people and definately have skills in that area, but have absolutely no sleight of hand experience. I'm looking at purchasing 13 Steps to Mentalism (and any other beginners type books/dvds that you could recommend) with an idea of incorporating some techniques into my act.

My questions are:

1) Is it possible for me to do it? I realise these skills take talent, time and dedication (as does musicianship) - I have some showmanship skills but do mentalism effects require sleight of hand?

2) What books/dvds do you recommend for a beginner? (I'm talking about the mentalism style here - it's hard to explain but it would really suit elements of what I do)

Ok, I'm going to go back to watching the ashes (it's looking grim for the aussies - you brits must be loving it. Glad I'm not living over there at the moment!!!!

Thanks in advance for any help.

Cheers
Pete

longislandiced wrote:
1) Is it possible for me to do it? I realise these skills take talent, time and dedication (as does musicianship) - I have some showmanship skills but do mentalism effects require sleight of hand?

Answer - of course you can! If I can (and I can) anyone can). I have used Corinda's book and other material and have no problems so am sure you'll fare well.

2) What books/dvds do you recommend for a beginner? (I'm talking about the mentalism style here - it's hard to explain but it would really suit elements of what I do)

Ok, I'm going to go back to watching the ashes (it's looking grim for the aussies - you brits must be loving it. Glad I'm not living over there at the moment!!!!

DVD - not sure, will leave that to someone who can answer that!

Ashes - It does and we are loving it

Welcome to the forum. Look forward to getting to know you,

Vic

Welcome to TalkMagic!

What a fascinating first post. I am intrigued to hear how you get on with your new interest in mentalism, especially as you're a musician too.

I'm sure I'v eread somewhere that people have built whole acts using the effects in Corinda's book alone... your question about sleight of hand will be answered once you've seen the book - and yes, you can do it.

As for buying other books, well, I think I'd just get stuck into Corinda's 13 Steps, and maybe buy a couple Derren Brown DVDs and watch him in performance.

Good luck with everything, and I'm sure someone else'll be along soon to help you out and welcome you to TalkMagic!

Thanks for a few quick replies everyone.

Looks like I'll be purchasing 13 steps after reading the review. If anyone else has embarked on the mentalism journey without a background in magic I'd appreciate any advice.

To give you a bit of background, I perform 'story telling' type songs on guitar, combined with acting etc to create a performance. I'd like to add a totally 'out there' flavour, so I'm looking into magic. Who knows how it will go, but I love the mystery of it all so I'm looking forward to doing some reading.

So once again, thanks and let me know of any other essential books/dvd's that you think might work for me.

Nice idea

And welcome to TM

Hi, and welcome! =o)

~Sym~