Issue No.51 Vol. 9. No.

3 July 2013
THE MAGIC MAGAZINE
FOR MAGICIANS & MENTALISTS

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
RRP $6.00 US/CAN ISSN 2163-0550

LUCA VOLPE
ITALY'S GOLDEN BOY!
FRITZ ALKEMADE
HOLLAND’S HOTTEST
IN THE PHONEBOX
WITH THOMAS BLACKE
PROS AND CONS
SO YOU WANT
TO BE A...
CREATIVE MAGICIAN

KEVIN JAMES THE MAN WHO KNOWS TOO MUCH!

MAGICSEEN: A CROSS BETWEEN ENTERTAINMENT & DESPAIR

 WELCOME

Issue No.51 RRP £5.50 Vol. 9. No.3 July 2013

THE MAGIC MAGAZINE
FOR MAGICIANS & MENTALISTS
he July issue I always think of as magical argument, the first being a discussion

T being our summer edition, and

since many of you may well be
distracted by sun, sea, sand and
holidays, we have to try that little bit harder to
on whether it is better to use games in
children's shows or just magic. We would like
your views too, so do join in. Then we have a
major article entitled So You Want To Be
MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE

get your attention! Well, issue 51 is crammed A...Creative Magician in which we get some
LUCA VOLPE
ITALY'S GOLDEN BOY!
full of great content, so if this doesn't grab you, fabulous advice on how to be a bit more FRITZ ALKEMADE
HOLLAND’S HOTTEST
quite frankly nothing much will. original with your magic from top creators Jay IN THE PHONEBOX
WITH THOMAS BLACKE
Sankey, Ian Adair and Dave Forrest. Then PROS AND CONS

In the celebrity corner....we are delighted to there is Part 2 of the excellent short series of SO YOU WANT
TO BE A...
CREATIVE MAGICIAN
welcome Kevin James to our cover. Kevin is articles by Morgan and West on how to put
one of magic's super successful guys who
seems as much at home performing at some of
together a performing character, and of course
for you trick junkies out there we offer a KEVIN JAMES THE MAN WHO KNOWS TOO MUCH!
the world's most prestigious venues as he does couple of routines to learn in the Masterclass.
MAGICSEEN: A CROSS BETWEEN ENTERTAINMENT & DESPAIR
sitting and creating unbelievable unique
illusions. Kevin is joined by Luca Volpe, the In the 'what else' corner.....we review Paul VOLUME 9 No.3 ISSUE 51
Italian mentalist who many readers may have Zenon's performance in the La Clique Show in
seen when he presented a series of lectures in Brighton, Christopher Congreave advises you THE TEAM
the UK recently, and Fritz Alkemade, the Editor: Mark Leveridge
on how to make the most out of lucky breaks
Deputy Editor: Graham Hey
young, creative Dutch magician whose unique when performing, Jay Fortune sneaks in as the Design Editor: Phil Shaw
style has made him a favourite wherever he Secret Agent, plus we review loads of products
Advertisement Enquiries: Sarah Logan
has performed. Then we spend a few minutes and offer you the usual mix of letters and [email protected]
in the phone box with record breaking news. Website Design: Number 23
magician Thomas Blacke, illusionists The Twins Circulation: Sarah Logan
Circulation Assistant: Jessica Culver
stop by to let us know what they have been up So there you are, that's a quick overview of
to recently and I also took the opportunity at Contributors: Jay Fortune, George Luck,
your summery edition of Magicseen. We're all
Christopher Congreave, Morgan and West, Friz
4Fs this year to catch up with Bob Swadling, off now to repose on a lilo somewhere where Alkemade, Josh Janousky
who now resides in Florida, and the result of we can catch a few rays and watch all the
Reviewers: Mark Leveridge, Phil Shaw, Chris
our chat is recorded for your information and pretty ladies walk by, and we wish you all Payne, Graham Hey, Stuart Bowie, Paul Preager
pleasure within these covers. happy holidays too. See you again when the Magicseen’s management board consists of:
nights are starting to draw back in again in Graham Hey, Mark Leveridge & Phil Shaw
In the information and instruction corner....we September. General enquiries and comments:
offer you a new feature called Pros and Cons in [email protected]
which we take a quick look at two sides of a Mark Leveridge Thanks to: Kevin James, Luca Volpe, Friz Alkemade

SUBSCRIPTIONS
USA/Canadian subscriptions (one year) are available from our
Distribution Partner in the States - www.lybrary.com/magicseen.
PDF + Printed version $29.90, PDF only $22.00. Subscriptions
WHAT’S INSIDE for all other countries are available from www.magicseen.co.uk,
or sending your details and a cheque payable to ‘Magicseen’ to
5. Welcome Magicseen Subscriptions, 13a Lyndhurst Road, Exeter EX2
6. Letters 4PA, UK. £30.00 for annual subscriptions, Europe £42.00,
worldwide £51.00.
7. Flukes Copyright. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine
8. Bob Swadling are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily
reflect the views of the publishers. All rights reserved.
9. News Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited without the
prior consent of the publishers. Colour transparencies,
10. Pros and Cons manuscripts or discs are sent at the owners’ own risk. Neither
the company nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss
11. News or damage. All unsolicited material should be accompanied by
a stamped addressed envelope.
12. Luca Volpe
16. All In Character - Part 2 36. The Secret Agent The US/Canada version of Magicseen
20. In The Phone Box 38. Friz Alkemade Magazine (ISSN 2163-0550) is published
22. So You Want To Be A... bimonthly by Lybrary.com, 14 Durham
43. Masterclass Str., Somerville, MA 02143. Periodicals
Creative Magician 48. Reviews postage is paid at Boston, MA.
26. The Twins FX 55. Paul Zenon Live Review POSTMASTER send address changes to
Lybrary.com, 14 Durham Street,
30. Kevin James 58. Next Issue Somerville, MA 02143.

MSM Issue 51 5
 If you have anything you would like to
tell us, whether it’s about the magazine
or anything magic related, please email:

LETTERS [email protected]

My wife passed away a couple of

years ago, and we often talked
about the great night we had
watching Steve’s show. I will
always remember that.
Norman Harrison, Lincoln
DERREN’S STILL
INFLUENCING Thank you Norman. We are
THEM! delighted that it brought
Dear Magicseen, back happy memories for
In the past month I have seen two you. Our man in New York
magicians performing close-up who interviewed Mr Cohen
mentalism at do’s. And on both said the same things about
occasions, both have them have him, too. He was a total
GAGGING FOR IT! developed a nervous ‘twitch’ not
unlike our man Derren. Either
pleasure to work with, and
we hope to keep you posted
Dear Magicseen, this point, I tend to get mentalism is a very stressful of his news in the future!
Please could you recommend on my high-horse about occupation, or performers are still
a good joke book? I am gags. Magicians generally copying Derren in the hope of ROUGH &
putting together an act and moan about magicians emulating his success. I’ve SMOOTH
want to add some funny having their tricks – or mentioned this to other people, While I was on holiday in the
lines. I’ve got lots of old jokes others’ – ripped off. But and they too have witnessed this US recently, a fellow magician
off the internet, but not many when it comes to gags, phenomenon. I wouldn’t be showed me a svengali deck
funny ones. Any help is they have no problem in surprised if these guys also have which had been treated with
greatly appreciated. nicking them, even a parrot and an invisible friend ‘roughing fluid’. This made the
Best wishes, though they didn’t create called ‘Andy’. deck a dream to handle – the
Liam Dunne, Oxford them, and they are not T. Barker, East Ham, London deck could be fanned, and
theirs to use. I suggest shuffled, without revealing the
Dear Liam, the trouble the best thing you could Issue No.50 RRP £5.50 Vol. 9. No.2 May 2013
THE MAGIC MAGAZINE
FOR MAGICIANS & MENTALISTS
key card. It looked great. Are
with old joke books is do is either re-vamp a these decks available to buy?
ISSUE
that the jokes are old, couple of old gags with a 50 Richard Farrar,
too. If you have a skill modern twist (try it, at Long Eaton, Notts
STEVE
for re-vamping jokes least) and also try and COHEN
A NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

from books and making come up with something STEFAN OLSCHEWSKI

GERMANY’S MASTER MENTALIST! Hi. You can make your
MEL MELLERS
them more topical, then original. The comedy THE CRUISE MISSILE OF COMEDY! own, quite easily. On ebay
PLUS:
that’s great. If you are writers generally THE 7 DEADLY SINS...
MAGICIAN’S ASSISTANTS
you can buy ‘Crystal Clear’
REVIEWS
lifting jokes straight off struggle to come up with MAC KING
MASTERCLASS spray which is very easy
AND A
PHOTOGRAPH
the page, then you are real gems, only to have OF MARK
MASON’S POOL! to use. Or, you can simply
likely to find maybe half people then say: “I’m do some practising with
a dozen decent gags in a going to use that!” MAGICSEEN IS NOW 50! (AND SLIGHTLY SENILE)
your normal svengali deck,
whole book, and people and you’ll be surprised the
may well have heard There, I think I’ve got CLASSY COHEN! effects you can achieve
them before. All the that off my chest. Oh, Thanks for the excellent feature without the use of rough
comedians on the circuit and don’t do the tricks on Steve Cohen (cover, issue 50). & smooth. You can shuffle
(99.9% of them) use like it says on the packet, I saw his show a few years back the cards and fan them
original material, either – otherwise you now, and it brought memories with practice. If you make
otherwise they will not will end up with having flooding back (for myself and my your own rough & smooth
get booked into comedy an act that is neither wife). We had a quick chat with deck, then you can use a
clubs. I must say, that at original nor funny! him afterwards. He was fancier deck, if you are
charming, friendly, and humble. that way inclined.

6 MSM Issue 51
FLUKES
by Christopher Congreave

If you are new to magic you might not know what I mean when I talk
about flukes. The way I would define it, it is that moment when you
ask a spectator to name any card as you are about to go into a
routine and they name the one you have tattooed on your left
buttock, well maybe that’s a bit extreme, let’s delve a bit deeper...

hen I first started performing You need to know the material you are

W for people, things happened

and afterwards I realised that I
had a perfect opportunity to
performing inside out and back to front. If
you are not concentrating on the tricks and
what your hands are doing, but interacting
go somewhere else - and had that perfect with your audience, it will allow you time to
thing lined up and missed it. Now it’s often think on your feet and really take advantage.
that I was concentrating so hard on what I
was supposed to be doing that I just missed One other very important thing is you can
the moment. actually stack the odds in your favour by
making sure you are prepared beforehand.
Now I absolutely LOVE these moments and I Let me explain. The card I placed in my
milk them for all they’re worth. Let me give pocket for the manager of that restaurant
you a few examples of flukes, and then talk was the Ace of Spades. If it had been a lady I
about how you can actually increase the would have used the Queen of Hearts.
likelihood of getting them in the first place. These are the 2 cards that are named more

I once landed a residency on the back of a

You just need to than any other. I will always have a thumb tip
set at a gig to do a bill switch, so the moment
fluke, here’s how. I had a meeting with the learn how to react someone says “You’re a magician, turn this
General Manager of a restaurant. We chatted ten into a twenty” I can.
and he was interested in me working there accordingly when
and he asked me to show him something.
Now I’d already put a card into my pocket
one comes along, A friend of mine, fellow performer Carl
Royle from Manchester is, as he puts it, a
beforehand. I asked him to name any card. I
removed his card from my pocket, his eyes
and most walking card index when he's working.

popped out of his head, and he hired me on importantly, stack Listen to your audiences when you are
the spot. Now, I was actually about to do a
quite different routine, but he happened to
the odds in your performing, and you will start to notice that
they say the same things, things you can
name the card in my pocket, so that was it, a
fluke, and a weekly spot thanks very much!
favour each time take advantage of.

you go out there! Flukes are a brilliant thing, that can make you
One night whilst out with friends I was seem like a demi-god in the eyes of your
performing in my local pub and I nipped audience (well, not quite, but you get the
outside and stuck a card on the outside of Hughes. He watched me ask people to name point). You just need to learn how to react
the window. Later on, and I’m not kidding - a card on 3 different occasions, and they accordingly when one comes along, and
someone actually said “Can you do that one named the card my daughter was holding in a most importantly, stack the odds in your
Dynamo does where the card goes through photograph I happened to have in my wallet. favour each time you go out there!
the window?”! He, and they, were gobsmacked. Flukes.
www.chriscongreave.co.uk
At a gig over Christmas 2012 I was working a Now here is the whole point. You can make
drinks reception with my friend Tracie the most of any flukes that come your way.

MSM Issue 51 7
A QUICK CATCH UP WITH...

BOB SWADLING
Mark Leveridge
dealership with his wife Valerie (who was the two of them got together and Mark’s
herself a well known and respected stage infectious enthusiasm rubbed off on Bob.
performer) called Bob Swadling Magic. It wasn’t long before Bob acquired some
Through his dealership Bob was able to new machinery and he started to make silver
market ideas both from his ‘back catalogue’ coin gimmicks for Mark. Bob had been
as well as new items, and the quality of his taught when he was young how to make
products, from the props themselves right expanded shells out of any coin, and this
through to the professional looking knowledge and the other skills he had
packaging, was high and in great demand. honed after a lifetime in magic, he was
As well as retail sales, Bob also spent a huge anxious shouldn’t be lost when he was no
amount of time manufacturing his longer around. So Bob has spent time
gimmicked coins for wholesale, and for teaching Mark how to use a lathe and how
several years he was almost snowed under to make expanded shells and thus has made
with the demand. sure that his many effects will continue to be
manufactured.
His daughter Kay was also a good close up
and stage performer, and Bob spent some of When Bob and Valerie first moved to Florida
his time and ingenuity devising special they knew absolutely nobody, but the local
custom made ideas for Kay’s act. She Orlando Magic Club soon discovered he

T he first magic dealer that I

became aware of as a youngster
in the mid-60’s was Harry
Stanley’s Magic Studio in London and
eventually met and married an American and
emigrated to the United States where she
has lived and worked ever since. She now
has twin girls and owns a shop in Boston,
was living in their area and the members
made him and Valerie feel very welcome. He
now has many good friends locally amongst
the magicians and outside of magic he and
for a while I used to save up to buy MA called Funusual. Valerie have been able to pursue their joint
various tricks from him. Being young I interest of ballroom dancing, while Valerie
didn’t have a lot of money to spend In 2009 Valerie became ill and Bob vowed has been able to continue with her hobby of
and so there were certain tricks which that when she recovered he would let her flower arranging, something which she is
I was really intrigued by, but which choose anything that she really wanted to do, particularly good at.
were beyond my financial reach. and he would agree to it. When asked what
she wanted, Valerie said she really wanted to Bob’s enthusiasm for magic and the many
Two of the products that I was fascinated by, be able to watch Kay’s twin girls grow up and stories that he has from his magical past
but which I couldn’t afford, were close up so Bob was faced with having to up sticks make for fascinating listening. His
coin effects called Blasted and the Swadling and move permanently to the US. knowledge of people such as Harry Stanley,
Swindle. Both were created and indeed Johnny Hart, Ken Brooke, Ali Bongo and
manufactured by a young magician called So it was that three and a half years ago Bob many others creates a link between the era
Bob Swadling, who not only had a got rid of all his lathes and other machinery of the 60’s and 70’s and now. But with none
wonderfully creative mind, but who also had that he’d used to manufacture his fake coins of Bob’s family left in the UK, and only one
machining skills which enabled him to make and other gimmicks, and he and Valerie or two of Valerie’s relatives still around in
some high quality fake coins. moved out to Florida to start a new life. Britain, Bob never comes back to the home
At first Bob intended to simply give up country, as he finds the long trip a bit much
Bob was one of magic’s talented back room magic, but all his family persuaded him that these days. But he seems very happy with
boys, who over the years created a lot of this really wasn’t a good idea, and when it his new life and let’s face it, the weather is a
quite brilliant effects using a range of special turned out that he was living only about 20 lot better in Florida than it was in Wantage!
coins and other gimmicks, and when 21 minutes away from magical dealer
years ago at the age of 52 he retired from extraordinaire Mark Mason, who by this Mark Leveridge was chatting with Bob
regular work, he set up his own magic time was also living permanently in Florida, Swadling at the 4Fs Convention, April 2013.

8 MSM Issue 51
 A quick look at what’s happening in the
weird and wonderful world of magic.
NEWS
NEW MAGIC RESOURCE BARRY MIXES IT
LAUNCHES
After three years in
WITH THE BEST!
development, a new, Ex-Magicseen cover star Keith Barry is back in his home country
revolutionary magic resource after walking the red carpet with David Copperfield at the premiere
has just launched called: of Now You See Me. Mr. Barry served as chief hypnotism and
www.closeupsuccess.com magic consultant for Woody Harrelson and the film’s writers.

Visit the website for a The movie is a “magic-based heist movie” and
FREE DVD download Keith dedicated more than six months to help
‘ALPHA’. It’s totally the team provide “a very real edge to the film.”
free – no strings
attached (see what it Keith will begin his 12-night run of The Dark
includes below!).*No Side at Dublin’s Olympia Theatre starting on
subscription July 10th.
necessary, just
download it now! DAVID KWONG’S MISDIRECTORS
GUILD MAKES MOVIE MAGIC
Over time, the producers expect this to be the nets largest resource, Magician and movie consultant
and will integrate with the magic and illusion channel soon. It will David Kwong founded The
include a comprehensive guide to tricks, and all the sleights, along Misdirectors’ Guild as “an elite
with much, much more! group of magicians who specialise
in illusion and deception for film
ALPHA by Chris Dugdale includes: and television.” He and his
• REORDER – first featured in Magicseen’s book “Best of British” colleagues have been busy of late
this is the first time it has ever been captured on film. Performance with Hollywood films like The
and explanation of this stunning effect, perfect for walkaround. Incredible Burt Wonderstone, Now You See Me and Red Lights
• YOU’RE UNBELIEVABLE – AKA The trick that fooled Roy Johnson! starring Robert De Niro as a mind-reader and mentalist. (It apparently
Based on a John Bannon idea, a prediction goes very wrong until had a limited release in the United States but we heard the first thirty
the twist at the end…this may well fool you! minutes featured the debunking of spiritualism tricks).
• THE ONE HANDED SECOND DEAL - a close look at this elegant
one handed solution. “Magic is all storytelling,” says Mr. Kwong who was speaking to
• The 2 ACE 4 ACE PRODUCTION – performance only of one of the FastCoCreate.com. “It has an arc that’s introduced, then played out
most visual ace productions with an added kicker… for the big reveal. There’s a foreshadowing along the way. I like the
• THE FLIP DOUBLE – one of the most amazing double lifts ever… idea of putting clues out there in plain sight–introducing the simplest
• ZEBRA CROSSING AND THE REAL INVISIBLE DECK – of magic tricks, then making their concept play out in a big way.”
performances only of these incredible effects. Mr. Kwong is not only a real-life magician, but he has also worked
• ELMSLEY FINESSE - make your elmsley count as natural as possible… with some of the true big names in the business; like Ricky Jay and
• THE FLYING CARD AT ANY NUMBER – AKA the World’s most David Copperfield. For ‘Now You See Me’, Mr. Kwong worked with
impossible card trick. A card is signed and shuffled into the deck. the director and screenwriters to “make the illusions in the film as
Then a number is freely named by the spectator. Suddenly a card plausible as possible, while furthering the plot.” That is a tough job.
spins out into the air and lands back in the deck at that exact There has to be a temptation to save the time and money necessary to
number. It is the signed card. TV RIGHTS RESERVED. teach actors sleight of hand with some well-placed computer-
• 30 mins of action packed magic! generated imagery (“CGI”).

If you want to subscribe to this resource, it’s Just $9.99 per month Mr. Kwong was on the Now You See Me set for about eight months
(2/3 cups of coffee – or 1 from Starbucks!). We recommend you visit teaching card sleights to the cast. He claims the film tried to keep the
the website and take a look – and we’ll be doing a review of this magic real. “All the illusions in the film are based on real practical
facility in the next issue. effects,” said Mr. Kwong.

MSM Issue 51 9
 PROS AND CONS
IT'S ALL A MATTER OF OPINION
Mark Leveridge

"Should you include games in your

children's shows, or just magic?"
Here are 10 reasons either for or before I can complete my show, it stops show, you take away that potential
against the use of games at a me from fitting in another booking. I can stress from the booker who can relax
children's party. What's YOUR make more from two separate shorter knowing that you will organise activities

7
opinion? Send any comments bookings than I can from one longer for the kids for the whole party.

3
you'd like to add and not already one. Nobody else offers games as part of
covered below to By doing a complete party and thus their show round us, so clearly no

3
[email protected] staying longer at one venue, you cut out bookers are interested in that option.

3 Offering games as part of a children's

wasted time in packing up and then Games provide fun and variety as part of
setting up again at the second venue, a big show - it gives the children a
show package makes you stand out plus you save on the costs of travelling chance to get really involved and active
from those who DON'T go that extra between venues and also on occasions in a way that just a magic show can

7
mile and thus makes your show different the stress of being in a hurry to get from never do.

7 7
from that of other entertainers. one show to the other. When I just do a magic show I feel
I want to be seen as a magician and if I If I include games I will have to carry a comfortable that I can control the
start offering games I feel people won't whole load of extra stuff around with me youngsters more easily as they are all

3
take me so seriously as a magic man. to run the games, so I'll need more sitting down in an organised fashion.

3
By offering games you can take over a boxes or cases to transport it all in. With games, especially active ones,

7
whole party and thus charge a higher fee. Many parents are a bit nervous about there's so much more chance of them
If I do the whole party and have to hang having to organise a large number of getting out of control.
about while the children have their tea children. By offering a games and magic

10 MSM Issue 51
 A quick look at what’s happening in the
weird and wonderful world of magic.
NEWS

DESPERATE ACTS OF MAGIC!

May 3rd, 2013 was the first showing in NYC Quad Cinema of a new
independent movie "Desperate Acts of Magic." From left to right are
Actors Hiawatha Johnson, Valerie Dillman, Richie Magic (President
Society of American Magicians Parent Assembly 1) presenting TOMMY COOPER IS
Presidential citation to Co-Producers Joe Gold and Tammy Caplan for
contribution to the Art of Magic in modern day cinema. Presenting the SHAMELESS!
award with Richie at far right is Dr. David Adamovich (Throwdini) Shameless star David Threlfall has been chosen to play comedian
President Elect SAMPA1. And they all had a jolly good time! Tommy Cooper in a new drama, ITV has announced. The one-off
film has been written by Men Behaving Badly creator, Simon Nye.

Threlfall, who is best known for his role of layabout Frank Gallagher
in the Channel 4 series, will star alongside actress Amanda Redman
as his wife Gwen.

Nye's script will focus on the dilemma faced by Cooper when he

fell in love with assistant Mary Kay, embarking on a relationship
which lasted 17 years.

The comic magician, one of the best-known TV stars in the 70s,

died after suffering a heart attack on stage, live on television, in
1984. ITV's director of drama commissioning, Steve November,
DAVID COPPERFIELD said it felt "fitting" to tell Cooper's story on ITV. The film, produced
EXTENDS CONTRACT by Left Bank Pictures, will explore how Cooper became torn
& MORE! between two equally devoted women, Kay and his wife, whom he
Robin Leach reports via his Las Vegas Strip nicknamed Dove.
Scribbles that Magicseen reader and favourite
David Copperfield and the MGM Grand have Andy Harries, chief executive of Left Bank Pictures, said:
agreed to a three-year contract extension. "Few comics have had such a lasting influence on UK culture as
According to MGM’s president, Scott Sibella, The Tommy Cooper".
Hollywood Theatre might be renamed The David
Copperfield Theatre later this year. Former London Weekend Television producer and award-winning
magician John Fisher, who was a friend of Cooper and the author of
The theatre will be dark for about a month this his biography, will work as a
September to convert the space into a new consultant on the film.
configuration. Mr. Leach also reports Mr.
Copperfield will have a new show with new The casting of Mary is yet to be
illusions for the show’s re-opening just before confirmed. Ken Brooke will be
Christmas. Yes, and we will be having a big played by top comedian Jason
exclusive in the future, ‘cos David loves Manford, and the magic advisor is
Magicseen! We love him more! the excellent Geoffrey Durham.

MSM Issue 51 11
 LUCAVOLPE
ITALY’S GOLDEN BOY
hen he isn’t performing

W on the best cruise ships,

entertaining the world’s
top bluechip companies,
you’ll find the charismatic Italian
Luca Volpe busy creating some of the
hottest effects around. magicseen
managed to grab a few minutes with
one of Europe’s hottest mentalists.

Born in Naples, Italy, Luca lived in Pozzuoli, a

little fishing town, throughout his childhood. “It
is probably because of this town that I became
close to the mystery art,” says Luca, “because
Pozzuoli is close to a lake called Lago D’Averno
where there is a famous cave called “the Sybil
grotto” (www.naplesnapoliguide.com/
grotto-della-sibilla-or-the-entrance-to-
hades/). The legend goes that people were
visiting this lady (a type of psychic) and
asking her questions about their future by “Mentalism has always been my real passion and
writing their questions on a leaf. The ‘sibilla’ I have been studying it from when I was young,
then collected the leaf and answered their everything from Jinx to Corinda, Bascom Jones
questions… well, when I was 7 years old I
visited this grotto and I remember that night
and anything I could get my hands on.”
and from then onwards, I had strange
dreams and visions of my life, and most of
these visions have become real...kind of Conservatory of Music San Pietro a Majella “Mentalism has always been my real passion
deja vù...which is why I now do what I do! in Naples (one of the oldest conservatories and I have been studying it from when I was
BTW I don’t use any leaf!” of music in Italy). Says Luca, “I never young, everything from Jinx to Corinda,
performed as a musician but I have written Bascom Jones and anything I could get my
Luca’s father Michele owned a delicatessen many songs for well known Italian singers hands on. I would save money to buy all the
shop, “good stuff!” for many years and his and I also write the music for my shows, so it books that were available about mentalism.”
mum Lina still does. An only child, Luca’s still comes in handy.” A few years ago, Luca met Titanas (Titanas
mum says that “another one like me would Magic Productions) and they immediately
have been too much!” Luca has a great He first started in magic when he was 7 became very good friends. “He believed in
sense of humour, and is very animated as he years old (after his experience in the Sybil my ideas and from that day he became my
chats enthusiastically. grotto!), and his first paid show was at the ‘magic producer’. It is thanks to him that I
age of 12. “I’ve now been performing have been able to share my ideas with the
While magic and mentalism is what we know professionally for 27 years,” continues Luca, mentalism/magic community. He is also co-
him for, Luca first studied music and gained who certainly looks younger than he is. I put author of some of my routines in my show.”
a hi-level degree in composition from the this down to a mediterranean lifestyle! His influences are many, and he tells me that

12 MSM Issue 51
LUCA VOLPE

MSM Issue 51 13
 LUCA VOLPE
he’s always been fascinated by Annemann connect the word ‘magician’ with ‘kids way of thinking and creating, but this is
and the devious thinking of Dunninger in parties.’” normal, I am sure I will think the same in 10
particular. “Obviously I am inspired by the years time. I feel a growing “maturity” and I
contribution to our art from Cassidy, Luca often performs a mindreading double think this shows in the scripting which is
Banachek, Osterlind, Maven etc. I like to with his wife Rebecca. “She’s is very good at more elaborate now. Also the researching of
study and analyse various ways of thinking, reading minds, this is why I have to be effects/routines has become more
sometimes you can find invaluable ideas in careful!” he laughs. “We met on a cruise ‘exclusive’ now, as everything I am doing for
very old books or clever ideas from very ship, she was a dancer and then when I saw the show is created from scratch.” What
young performers. The beauty of mentalism her… the magic began! She is a wonderful would you say is the one thing that you’ve
is exactly this, we never stop studying and woman and is incredibly supportive of me…” learned from all your experience? “That the
developing new ideas.” I ask Luca about his experience of doing a audience want to be “entertained”, it’s the
lecture tour in the UK. “It was wonderful!” magic word!” says Luca. “Often as mentalists
Mentalism in Italy has perhaps become more he says enthusiastically. “We had (I say ‘we’ and magicians, we look for something that
popular in recent years due to magic films because Rebecca organised it and came with fools other magicians, in part this is true, but
and the TV show “The Mentalist”, but Luca me to help out) a really great time! we mustn’t forget that we work for lay
says that in Italy there is not a big culture people and they don’t care about fancy
regarding magic/mentalism performances. ”I did lectures all around the UK and I have props on stage, they only want to be
“It’s very disheartening as the public always to say that I received a great welcome from entertained. So the best lesson is ‘always
every club. I was a bit shocked to hear the listen to the audience’ - this is the best way
great feedback from my lecture, it’s a great to grow in our work.”
thing as it means that years of work and
studying have been worth it! I was very Luca works mainly on his own, developing
pleased to be able to give back and pass original ideas and routines, but this year he
on to the community, it’s very reveals that he will have the honour of
encouraging when I hear fellow having his new show scripted and directed
mentalists wanting to try my by one of the most creative mentalists today,
effects. Luke Jermay.

“We finished the Lecture tour at ”I love his writing style and his ideas are
The Magic Circle and I found it brilliant,” says Luca enthusiastically, “we are
very emotional to perform there, working very hard to create new routines for
the theatre was full and I received a my new show. It’s going to be something
great review, it was very satisfying!” that the public has never seen before. The
concept behind the show is wonderful but I
He may be experienced now, but I can’t say any more for now!
ask him how he has developed as a
performer over the past ten “I also have my good friend Titanas
years. “We never stop developing, collaborating with me on the show. Every
learning from our mistakes! If I look time we speak we create so many new ideas!
back, I can see how I have changed my I’m also working with Paul McCaig, Mick
Hanzlik, Master Miracles in Germany and
Hakan Varol.”

With a new cruise ship contract about to

begin, I ask him about the industry afloat.
“Cruise ships are a great place to work.
Every night there are 2,000 people from all
around the world ready to see the show. You
need to sacrifice a little of family life as
sometimes we are on board for 8 months,
but I am fortunate that I have my wife
working with me. I have been working in the
cruise industry for 13 years and every
season is still very exciting.”

14 MSM Issue 51
 LUCA VOLPE
community and I look forward to that.
As I said before, the main project now is the
new mentalism show and I am giving my all
to make it the best I can!

My girlfriend comments that you

have a lovely complexion and hair –
she asks if you are a high-
maintenance metro-sexual?
Haha! Yes, I must admit that I do take care of
myself (I think every Italian does!) I may
have more skin products than my wife but I

QUICKIES: of and is the classic example of a routine

that’s easy to perform but can be very
emotional for the audience.
also put it down to the Italian diet and my
good genes. My grandmother is 92 and she
looks amazing.
How do you view the current state of
world mentalism? What are TV opportunities like in Italy? Tell us 3 things about yourself that
Very good but also very bad! Very good I had a great period of TV in Italy for several people do not know…
because we have some really great performers years. I was guest on many national TV 1. I am the only
and many of our ‘younger generation’ are shows and I even had my own street magic Italian who is
giving great contributions to our art. On the show on SKY. For 5 years I hosted an allergic to the
other side, mentalism has now become afternoon TV show and we did over 600 combination of
fashionable due to the Derren Brown effect. episodes in 5 years. That was a great pasta and
This is positive because it is making mentalism experience and I learnt a lot from it. Now, tomato (I can
popular but it also means that more and more apart from a few things, sadly the eat pasta and
people are trying to copy him and not opportunities in TV in Italy are slim. tomato but not together- weird I know!)
developing their own individual personality. Producers are happy to call “stars” from Big 2. That one day I would like to own a dog
Brother and other reality shows rather than and teach it magic tricks. It might even
Which is your favourite effect (that give a magician a slot! win BGT.
you’ve created) and why? 3. I collect smurf figures. I have hundreds of
Well, I have a few of them You were at Blackpool this year – them including magic smurf, obviously.
but probably my Ultimate what are your memories of that?
Chair Test Routine Act is I meet some nice guys from Magicseen, do Last book you read?
the one that has received you know them? One is called Phil and the Scryer’s Band of Readers. I
incredible worldwide other Graham, maybe you’ve heard of them? think this book will make
feedback. I had people history. For me it is the
from all around the I find Blackpool is not encyclopedia of reading!
world sending me only a great
emails and videos, it is convention but a Last movie you
really great to see the routine performed in brilliant social event! It watched?
different styles! was great to see James Bond Skyfall. I enjoyed it but
Titanas, Angelo thought it was a little over-hyped.
Another effect which I am really proud of is Carbone, Stefan
“The Key Of Fate.” This has been the most Olschewski and many What did you have for breakfast?
talked about effect at the lectures. It is a other friends. There is nothing better than A fresh red orange juice and some cereal
mixture of chair test, seven keys to baldpate, speaking about magic over an Italian dish! while looking out of my balcony at the Island
predictions and much more. It’s a very fun There are some good Italian restaurants in of Capri!
routine to do and also very flexible. I have Blackpool, but Bella Italia is not one of them!
included this routine in my latest DVD “IN Who would play you in a movie
MY MIND 2”. Are you happy with your career path about your life?
so far? What is next for you? Obviously George Clooney...no...just
Another of my favourites is the “Singing Absolutely, but I have a lot more to do. I kidding. Maybe Mr Bean!
Bowl Q&A” Act from my book “Emotional have many ideas and projects in my head,
Mentalism.” it’s something I am really proud waiting to be shared with the magic WWW.THEITALIANMENTALIST.COM

MSM Issue 51 15
 ALL IN by Morgan and West PART 2

CHARACTER
DEVELOPING A CHARACTER
haracter acts in magic have a long

C and illustrious history for good

reason (take a look at our article in
MagicSeen Issue 50), and have
included some of the biggest names in the
business since we first stepped in off the
street corners and upturned crates.
However, whilst it is easy to look at Cardini,
Max Maven, Iain D Montfort (to name but a
few) and say “that is a good character”, it is
much harder to pluck one from the depths of
your brain when developing one for yourself
- much like writing a new magic trick, a blank
slate often stays blank. In this article we
discuss ways of developing a character act.
acting appropriately to our environment. Victorian, smart has become educated, a
Before we begin, a bit of a definition: we will When we are in character as Morgan & West subtly different meaning, and elegant has
be discussing the development of a we act completely differently - our voices been usurped by silly, a trait we have grown
character, not the development of character. change, as does our vocabulary, we stand into over the years. These lists can be an
We imagine you are charming, witty and differently, we move differently, we respond excellent guide to the kind of character you
erudite enough on your own and don’t need differently. We are each playing a character. would enjoy playing.
our help. For the purposes of discussion we
will define playing a character as; Often examples help better that theory, so Let us say you came up with the list
we thought we would take you through the “Sarcastic. Bitter. Unwilling.” Perhaps you
Behaving or acting differently in a initial process for developing a character were watching Jack Dee (inspiration doesn’t
performance setting to how you from scratch. have to come from magicians) and
would normally behave or act in a something called out to you. Notice that the
performance setting. So, where to begin? Much like writing a trick three are not the same - you can be bitter
it is unhelpful to try and invent an entirely whilst enjoying your work (a flashy magician
The last part is the important part. When we new idea from nothing, so we need who resents his audience?) or unwilling yet
are not in character and not in a inspiration. What acts do you like? What do friendly (a kids entertainer who really tries
performance setting (for us this usually you like about them? Generate a list of key but deep down hates his life?), each
means a stage, for others this might mean a words that describe performers you would describes a different characteristic.
close up setting), we act normally. Put us on like to emulate, the more specific the better;
stage in a non Morgan & West situation, we “funny” is better than “like David Williamson”, So we have our three words. These key
act appropriately to our environment. We but “anarchic” is better than “funny”. words can then lead you to a character idea,
speak slower and project more, we swear and there’s still room for variation within
less and generally try to be a bit more When we started we would perhaps have these adjectives - a magician who used to be
engaging, because we are on stage. had “Smart. Elegant. Classical”, although in the big time but has since faded? A
now a more fitting list would be “Victorian. magician who never had the fame of an old
However, speaking louder and slower Educated. Silly.” Notice the differences - partner of his? A magician whose powers are
doesn’t mean we are in character, we are just classical has become the more specific real, but he can only get work as a magician?

16 MSM Issue 51
 ALL IN CHARACTER

“Much like writing a trick it is

unhelpful to try and invent an
entirely new idea from nothing,
so we need inspiration.”

MSM Issue 51 17
 ALL IN CHARACTER
looks at the robed figure of Maven with his
dark eyes and long plaited hair and thinks
“That guy looks like a Phil”. This does not
mean that everyone needs to be called Max,
Lex, Seth or some other name of that ilk, just
that you want a name that matches your
character.

Our “Copperfield’s Roommate” character is

defined by his lack of success and by his
brief friendship with the biggest magician of
the eighties, and as such needs a name that
shows that connection whilst also
suggesting an inferiority. It should be like
David Copperfield, but not as good. Allow
us to introduce Kevin Brasshouse.
Max Maven Ali Bongo
Secondly we decide how our character
looks. The way we look is one of the clearest
ways of establishing a character with an
“...your name is often the first thing an audience as people cannot help but judge

audience knows about you, and is an others on appearances. The public idea of
magic is inherently linked with costumes -
excellent way of putting across top hats, tail coats, bow ties. Embracing this
traditional magician image says something
information about your character.” about the performer you are, as does
deliberately going against it (such as
Dynamo, for example).
All of these are ideas for acts that we’ve performing your first trick may be only a
discussed amongst ourselves or with other handful of seconds, but in those seconds It is worth noting at this point that just as you
magicians, all of which we feel have people make snap judgements about you. don’t need to have a cool name to be a
potential. We are going to further develop The more detail you know about your magician, nor do you need to have a snappy
the second idea, which we like to call character, the more deliberate choices you costume. If you are meant to be
“Copperfield’s Roommate”. have made before you begin, the more disorganised and sloppy, don’t go out
control you have over people’s initial wearing a sharply pressed suit with matching
The next step is the easiest - describe the reactions. So continuing with Copperfield’s tie and pocket square. Your clothes on stage
character. Don’t worry about appearance or Roommate, let’s start adding some details. should reflect your character. When the
tricks yet, start a simple one sentence audience first sees Kevin Brasshouse, they
description that sums up the act to someone, Firstly, let’s pick a name. Names are should see a man haunted by his past,
keeping in mind our three keywords. “David important, which is why performers often obsessed with a magician who was at his
Copperfield’s old college roommate who has make them up. Dynamo, Ali Bongo, Criss biggest in the eighties and nineties. His
spent the last 40 years living in his shadow, Angel - your name is often the first thing an costume should look well worn and out of
and is horribly bitter about it” will do nicely audience knows about you, and is an date - something that would have looked
for a start. We could have instead opted for excellent way of putting across information good in 1989 that has since gone well out of
“The third member of Siegfried and Roy who about your character. Conjure up an image fashion, started to fade and wear out. A
was fired in the 80s” or to move away from of someone called Quentin, followed by knackered out sequin jacket and a shirt that
the famous magician angle, “one half of a someone called Candy, followed by is frankly too tight will do nicely. It is also
magic duo that split up, who still hasn’t got someone called Dave - names have worth remembering that your costume is
over the betrayal by his partner”. connotations with an audience, so choosing head to toe - what might Kevin’s hairstyle
the right name will help shape the be? What kind of shoes does he wear?
Once we have a description we can begin to audience’s view of your character.
flesh out the character. The time between Next, to think about the props - the things
being introduced onto a stage or ingratiating Think of Max Maven - the name Max is just you use say as much about you as the
yourself into a group at a close up gig and much cooler than the name Phil. No one clothes you wear. If you are trying to radiate

18 MSM Issue 51
 ALL IN CHARACTER
an air of refinement and elegance in your
performance, the illusion is somewhat
shattered by having someone sign their
name with a grey and black plastic marker
pen. Similarly if you are a modern street
magician in ill fitting jeans you have to
question how much those sponge balls in
your close up case fit your image. The same
goes for having a close up case in fact - if
you’re all about being edgy and cool, nicely
organised props betray your true nature.

Kevin Brasshouse will have props that look

like they were first used thirty years ago, and
have not been well maintained. Bright
colours that have faded, peeling paint, out of
date decoration. Not necessarily broken, just
not at their best, as a reflection of the “...as Morgan & West, a significant part
character himself.
of the enjoyment we get is from mucking
One of the most often ignored areas of
magical performance is how you sound,
about in character, completely removed
both musically and vocally. What is your from any of the tricks we are doing.”
walk on music? Do you even have walk on
music? Does it create a feeling in the room
appropriate for your act? If you are doing a on your current repertoire) and end up grumpy embittered old magician obsessed
classically styled dove act, The Arctic defining your character by the list of tricks with the success of a previous colleague, but
Monkeys is not appropriate walk on music. you perform, the props you own and the that isn’t the only choice available. The
costume you need for the pocket space. This character of Kevin Brasshouse might be a
Kevin Brasshouse will certainly have then leads to unclear character portrayals serious one - a capable magician haunted by
something out of date, like he is - perhaps that are shoehorned around a pre existing what could have been, obsessed with an
music famously used by Copperfield, or set of tricks, jokes and lines. The joy of imagined betrayal by Copperfield, miserable
some other suitably grandiose eighties track. character work is in the creation - in realising and lonely, his only way of connecting with
Why not have it played on a MIDI keyboard an idea from its initial conception as a people is through tricks that he has grown to
to really hammer home how cheap and tacky handful of words (like we have done with hate. The creation of such a darkly poignant
he is? Kevin) through to a full blown stage character would be difficult, but not
performance. impossible, and part of the point of
Kevin’s character is all about his back story becoming a character is to create something
with Copperfield, so his material will have a When performing as Morgan & West, a bigger (or possibly smaller) than yourself.
large vocal element to it. Perhaps his voice significant part of the enjoyment we get is
has a snazzy, polished American talk-show from mucking about in character, completely So we leave you with Kevin Brasshouse, a half
host feel to it that is lost when he begins removed from any of the tricks we are formed character idea. Feel free to try him on
talking about his past - perhaps his whole doing. After all, we know how the tricks will for size, or start afresh with something new,
accent and demeanour drops as he end, but we don’t know how Mr West will and let us know how you get on.
mentions Copperfield, briefly exposing a deal with the child determined to check the
sad, bitter man underneath. The quality and entire length of his sleeves in the run up to
tone of your voice is a hugely overlooked an escape routine - character work Morgan & West will be performing
tool in the performance of magic. eventually becomes as much discovery as it their new stage show, A Grand
does creation. Adventure, in Buxton and
All of these character decisions have been Edinburgh over the coming
made before considering what tricks Even in writing this piece, inventing this months. They’d love to see you in
Brasshouse will do. When developing a character in our minds, we have made the audience having a grand old
character it is easy to get bogged down in a discoveries. We’ve been imagining Kevin time.
list of what tricks you’ll do (especially based Brasshouse as a humorous creation, a

MSM Issue 51 19
IN THE
PHONE BOX
...with ace world record holder Thomas Blacke

We sent Mark Leveridge into his local

telephone box, with 30p and a
ham & pickle sandwich from
Subway, and asked him to
conduct a quick interview with
someone interesting. The interview
turned out well, but sadly he dropped his
sandwich while fumbling in his pocket for the I am satisfied with my success, but that could
always change!
money. Anyway, on with the interview…
MS: Where do you usually attempt your
records?
MS: The last couple of years has been great attempt yourself and mail it in to Guinness. It TB: I attempted all of my recent world
for your new records. Which was your is usually an 8-10 week process before records at a large hotel in Massachusetts
highlight, and which was your most difficult? Guinness would award you the record, who allowed me use their pool, guest rooms,
TB: My favorite record was “The Fastest providing all of the rules and regulations and meeting rooms at no charge.
Escape From Chains” record. It took me two were followed and all paperwork was
attempts for the record to be accepted by submitted correctly. MS: Which record of someone else’s are
Guinness, and once it was accepted as a you most envious of?
record, it was immediately retired by MS: Any other records you’d love to have a TB: If I had to pick one it would probably be
them. The most difficult was “The Fastest go at? David Copperfield’s record for the “Largest
Escape From Handcuffs Underwater” record TB: I currently have 11 world records with Collection of Magic Artefacts”. His collection
because of the time and effort it took to the Guinness Book of Records, and RHR, of props, books, posters and ephemera is
figure out a method of successfully breaking The Registry of World Records. At this point, unbelievable.
the record. My mentor in record breaking,
The Great Throwdini, The World’s Fastest
Knife Thrower, taught me that the secret to David Copperfield’s Museum
breaking records is in the engineering of the
record itself.

MS: If you want to attempt a record, what is

the process with the Guinness Book Of
Records?
TB: The first step is to register with
Guinness online. When you find a record
(not any of mine, of course!) that you want
to attempt to break, you file a form with
Guinness. This process usually takes about
4-6 weeks. Once they give you approval,
you can attempt the record with a Guinness
adjudicator on site, or choose to film your

20 MSM Issue 51
 SO YOU WANT
TO BE A...
CREATIVE MAGICIAN
By Mark Leveridge

n issue 43 (March 2012) we

I published an article called

Squeezing The Creative Juices
in which we identified 6 ways
that you can make your magic more
unique or different. As a follow on to
that article we thought it would be
interesting to get the view of some
of magic's top creative thinkers to
see what their take is on the whole
creativity thing, and to see if they
can explain what the unlying
principles are that enable certain
people to devise fresh ideas.

To that end we approached three highly

innovative, yet all very different, inventors
whose combined output of original magic “Putting a bit of yourself into
would possibly fill a small warehouse! Please
show your appreciation for ..... Jay Sankey,
your magic is essential. It's
Dave Forrest and Ian Adair, all of whom have
graciously taken time to give us some
very noticeable when
thoughts about how they do what they do! magicians do the 'standard'
presentation of a given
SO, WHAT'S THE POINT?
It could be argued that with such a vast
effect.Dave Forest
deluge of magic now generally available, why
would anyone need to come up with anything learned some 'lines' and matched it to a trick, and more on how to turn that trick into
for themself? Surely, it's just a case of trawling series of actions. It always looks false - rigid something that fits you and your performing
through the piles of ideas and products and completely unnatural and you don't personality. "I think performers should focus
already out there and selecting one or two to need to be a magician to see it - lay people less on 'being creative' and more on making
perform, isn't it? Not surprisingly, our experts can spot this from a mile away too. Half of the effect their own. Focus on how much of
would beg to differ... the joy is in expressing yourself. You can't do YOU you are able to bring to the effect. With
that by reciting exactly what you read on a scripting, routining, even just the way you
Dave says: "Putting a bit of yourself into your piece of paper or hear on a DVD." connect with people. 'Trying to be a little
magic is essential. It's very noticeable when creative' can be a set up. The key, don't try
magicians do the 'standard' presentation of a Jay thinks that it is better to spend less time to move away from the trick instructions.
given effect. It's clear that all they've done is thinking about the supplied method for a Instead, try to move towards YOU. "

22 MSM Issue 51
 CREATIVE MAGICIAN
So is it best just to completely ignore the
instructions supplied? Ian doesn't think so: "I "A broad knowledge of magic
feel that all instruction sheets or DVD
instruction must be studied and yes, and its principles definitely
changes can then be made. Suggested
patter presentations don't always suit
helps.Some of my best routines
everyone, but some bits of business and
some gags can be used."
have evolved because I have
injected 'bits' from other effects,
using other props which were
not originally part of the trick itself.” Ian Adair
Dave's view: "I generally start with the effect.
A SPECIAL TALENT
What impossible thing would I like to see
Magicians often dismiss the idea that they occur? Then, go from there....mostly. Other
should attempt to come up with anything of times I see a move or a gimmick and I think of
their own by explaining that they simply other ways it could be used or adapted. It
don't have the talent or aptitude for it. But depends...I don't really approach it with a rigid
isn't this really just a cop out? Surely anyone, set of rules. I just go where it takes me."
given the right frame of mind and routines have evolved because I have
application, can adapt, modify or personalise injected 'bits' from other effects, using other Ian has a three pronged attack, but has a
the magic that they do, can't they? All three props which were not originally part of the certain preference: "As a magical originator, I
of our creative thinkers accept that some trick itself," says Ian. use three - plot - move - principle. In my
individuals have more of a leaning towards opinion, creating a NEW effect is far the
innovation than others, but they also feel Without some understanding of what has best, since this is what the audience will be
that there is some spark in just about all of come before, you can waste a huge amount of viewing. Creating new methods to
us, as Jay explains: time re-inventing the wheel, plus a lot of accomplish old or standard effects may well
creativity comes from an ability to make be suitable for marketing purposes, but to
"You can learn attitudes and approaches. choices from established principles or moves audiences, the 'effect' remains the same."
And you can learn the HABIT of creating, and knowing which ones can be combined to
shifting focus, turning this around, etc." enable a particular illusion or effect to work
Dave believes that those who are good at well. Without this knowledge, your potential
this have an ability to sift through ideas to for producing good alternatives is seriously
find the gold nuggets: "Creativity is about reduced. If you only know one way to control a
ideas and we definitely all have them. I think card to the top of the deck, your handling
really creative people succeed by never options are instantly reduced down to that one
dismissing any ideas as ridiculous or possibility, whereas another move, unknown
unworkable. They just keep having them, to you, might well suit the trick far better.
idea after idea. Out of 100, maybe one or
two are useful. I'd say the most important
COLLABORATION IS A
part of being creative is realising which ideas SHARING THING
have legs and which don't." Sometimes your imagination can be a
restricting factor. If you can't summon up an
interesting new plot, or if you have a great
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
plot but can't think of a good way to achieve
So what are the essential building blocks that it, brainstorming with a trusted magic friend
someone needs in order to be a creative or friends and thus getting input from others
thinker? Presumably a reasonable knowledge may well push the process on. Jay thinks that
of principles that already exist is vital. "having a magic pal to toss stuff around is a
STARTING POINTS
great way to fuel your creative growth", but
"A broad knowledge of magic and its To come up with a new idea you have to start of course there may be some trust issues, as
principles definitely helps. Some of my best somewhere. So what are your options? Here's Ian explains:

MSM Issue 51 23
 CREATIVE MAGICIAN
Jay thinks it doesn't matter how you make a
“It doesn't matter what note of ideas, just make sure you do! "It
doesn't matter what method you use. As
method you use. As long long as you use one. Recording is very

as you use one. Recording powerful on many levels. Not just about
WHAT you record, but more importantly
is very powerful on many THAT you record."

levels. Not just about

WHAT you record, but more
importantly THAT you record.”Jay Sankey
"It depends whether or not the individual
wishes to disclose his/her effect/routine
with another. Some performers tend to keep
their original routines to themselves, not
SLOWLY DOES IT
wishing others to share it. I have found that
it helps to collaborate with a 'trusted' magi, It's sometimes imagined that good ideas
ideas bouncing off from each other, so that arrive like a bolt of lightning out of the sky, a
in the end, a well balanced effect/routine is true eureka moment. While this might very
the result." occasionally be true, as a general rule a
complete finished idea will be much more
Dave, it appears, is very protective of his likely to evolve slowly, one piece or
works-in-progress: " I have some trusted increment at a time. Dave explains how this
GOING, GOING, GONE!
friends in magic who I share stuff with and, of process worked for him in relation to one
course, I've collaborated with some very fine Ideas can occur to you at the most particular routine.
thinkers over the years. Sometimes though inopportune moments! You may get a flash
(most of the time, if I'm honest) I don't show of inspiration while driving down the "Ambitio is an effect that I released recently
anyone anything I've come up with. This'll motorway, as you are waking up in the and for me, it highlights the creative process
sound weird or selfish maybe, but there are morning, while you're in the shower, or perfectly. It's an ambitious card ending
certain effects where I think: I want to do this while you are doing your weekly shop in the where you get to see the card appear on top
my way. I appreciate that others may have supermarket. The problem is, although you of the deck while it's locked in the case,
valuable ideas to contribute but I don't really think you'll remember the idea again at a thanks to a large hole in the front of the
want to hear them. That sounds awful, more suitable time to do something about it, case. It looks great and is pretty easy to do.
doesn't it? What can I say. I can be very weird the fact is you probably won't. So the trick is I've been messing about with similar effects
about the creative process!" to get that idea recorded somewhere for years and I've even released a couple,
immediately before it vanishes into the deep most notably on my Project Zero double
The truth is that most creative people have recesses of your brain. Here's how Ian DVD set. If you go back and look at the
very particular ways of approaching the copes: Ambitious card finale on there, it's similar but
magic that they come up with, and in their a close comparison with the new Ambitio
minds they probably have a number of set "I always carry a notebook wherever I go - in really highlights how that idea has
views on what is, and what is not, a good my wallet, in the car, in the house, and I developed over the years. The rise is now
way to approach things generally. So when always take it with me when I arrive at the under your control. The whole deck is
they are creating new ideas, they like to go show venue. It's amazing what comes to placed in the case now (previous
through this process in accordance with mind whilst you are actually performing - an incarnations only had half the pack being
those rules, and if they allow others into the idea, a change, a new addition, an adlib gag placed into the case). Most importantly,
mix, sometimes it can start to fragment their which 'must' be remembered for the next everything can now be examined at the end.
structure in ways which they don't performance. My digital voice recorder is It's obvious how the idea has been
appreciate. You can actually have too many always on my bedside table. I often wake up continually developed until all the rough
variations and possibilities thrown into the with an idea and simply dictate a rough edges have been shaved away."
ring, and this can be as stifling as not having outline of it. Then I play it back in the This is where keeping notebooks or
enough! morning." audio/video records of your ideas really

24 MSM Issue 51
 CREATIVE MAGICIAN
pays off. Each time you make progress with waiting for a moment of blinding brilliance or Tucker, David Harkey, Lubor Fiedler plus
a particular idea, you record the latest inspiration to strike. many more, all of whom have different
version. Then at a later date you may come approaches to creating something a little
back to it again, and armed with some new different. If you study them and can identify
knowledge, or even a fresh outlook on it what it is that makes them more unusual or
generally, you can push the concept on a bit unique, then you can perhaps start to relate
further, making sure to record that iteration that to yourself and find ways that you too
too. In this way you can see how the project could develop a more individual style.
ROLE MODELS
is developing and at any stage you can go So, do you feel suitably energised and want
back to a previous version and go off again If you want to decide whether you have what to give it all a go? Well, I suggest you read
from there in a different direction if you it takes to be a bit more creative with your Squeezing The Creative Juices from issue 43
wish. magic, you can do a lot worse that watch and that I mentioned at the start as that will give
study those in the magic world who clearly you 6 specific ways that you can be more
Creativity is, in a nutshell, the ability to see do have a propensity of originality. Ian, for innovative. And if you want a bit more
variations and possibilities. It is being able to instance, is an admirer of Mel Mellers, while stimulus, why not also look at issue 47,
move an idea around in a number of Dave is a big fan of John Bannon, who he where we featured two highly creative
different directions, changing method, feels is nothing short of a genius when it magicians, Mickael Chatelain and Angelo
props, presentation etc in order to see comes to refining and devising elegant Carbone, both of whom revealed some of
where it takes you. It's not being afraid to try solutions to magical problems. the processes that they use to create their
things, to experiment and to think 'outside own brand of magic.
the box', to alter, vary and adapt as seems But there are many more .... Max Maven,
fun or interesting. It is NOT a question of David Williamson, Paul Harris, Stephen

MSM Issue 51 25
 FLYING HIGH (WITHOUT WIRES)
ast your mind back to the early

C days of Magicseen. In November

2005, issue 5, we featured the
illusionists,The Twins. Since
then, they have enjoyed worldwide success.
To bring us bang to up date, we thought we
would touch base again with the boys and
see what they have been doing…

What have you been up to

since you were in issue 5?
In a nut shell, it has been a crazy time! We
have toured the world, performing every
illusion thinkable and more, with tears and
laughter along the way! It’s been great fun.
entertainment experiences. Our creations outstanding reviews, and also worked with
Then production companies and illusionists are tailor-made to suit our customers’ needs the BBC to bring “Dr Who” to the stage with
started asking us to help with their shows, - we make the impossible possible for the Dr Who Live “The Monsters are coming”
designing, manufacturing and installing theatre productions, film and television arena tour. Their piece de resistance was
effects/illusions, so we thought why not!? worldwide. making the Supreme Dalek levitate over the
This is what we have been doing for the last heads of the stadium audience! Hopefully
7 years. What are some of your most this show is coming to theatres across the
notable projects to date? country soon! Other recent highlights have
What about performing? The team at The Twins FX have created some been a colossal sea monster, a giant spider
We still love performing which we do on a mind boggling effects. We've created effects that creeps across the stage, and making
regular basis, but the special effects have such as a flying car (with driver and Orville the duck’s dreams come true. The
just taken off in such a big way. passenger) that floats a few feet off the floor, Twins FX made Orville fly!
and then, with wheels folded, flies around an
So, tell us what your company empty stage in every direction. We custom- 2012 has been an amazing year for brand
does now. designed and built the car, which then soars new effects, including a 7-metre tall
We now focus on the field of theatrical, over a speechless audience, right over their animatronic silverback Gorilla, a 12m long
television and film visual special effects and heads and into the centre of the stalls. animatronic Snake, 4 metre tall flying
animatronics, creating weird and wonderful Another fantastic effect is a fully animatronic animatronic Genie and a brand new flying
effects, monster and creatures. We deliver flying dragon. The dragon has a wingspan of effect called the “Revolver”. With working
exceptional effects and turn ideas into over 10 metres and stands over 3 metres high. on television shows from Dr Who to Take
reality. Drawing on our wealth of experience Me Out, every day is so different at The
and knowledge, we produce special effects We've supplied special effects for ITV’s “Paul Twin FX.
to create intimate and powerful O’Grady Live”, which have received

26 MSM Issue 51
 THE TWINS

“WE NOW FOCUS

ON THE FIELD OF
THEATRICAL,
TELEVISION
AND FILM
VISUAL SPECIAL
EFFECTS AND
ANIMATRONICS,
CREATING WEIRD
AND WONDERFUL
EFFECTS,
MONSTER AND
CREATURES.”

MSM Issue 51 27
 THE TWINS
We have had the pleasure of working
alongside stars such as Brad Pitt, Polly
Walker, Gwyneth Partlow, Ewan McGregor,
Angelica Huston, Amanda Holden, Bobby
Davro, Jason Fleming, David Essex, John
Barrowman, David Hasselhoff, Jack Palance,
Harry Hill, Michael Mcintyre, Stefanie
Powers, Jason Donovan, Paul O’Grady, Keith
Harris & Orville to name but a few.

We are currently working with Butlins to

produce a new concept in magic shows in
specially built theatres on the Butlins sites
across the U.K.

Take us through the general

process that goes into making
one of your effects.
We start off with an idea - some can be very
strange...Then the all important budget
meetings follow. It’s then down to the design
and development...Next comes the fun part
- the build, and then installing the effect in to
the venue ready for it to go live.

So do you rent your effects?

Yes. We design, manufacture and install the
special effects, but most of the effects we
make for production companies are on a
weekly hire so once the production finishes,
the effect comes back to us to form part of our
hire stock. We have a large amount of hire
stock now, which is on www.special-effects-
hire.com as well as www.thetwinsfx.com
Chopper bike, surf board, making this an If you want to read more about what The
Where are you based now? amazing and stunning effect. Making a Dalek Twins FX do, and see more photos of their
We are still based in Poole, Dorset. We fly in an arena tour was another ‘WOW’ effects in action, visit their website
employ 5 people and normally have another moment, also working as part of the creative www.thetwinsfx.com
5-6 model makers working as contractors. We team on Jeff Wayne's The War of the Worlds
have 15,000 sq ft of storage for our illusions is a pleasure . We have been working on a So what’s next?
and effects and 20,000 sq ft of manufacturing new rock opera for the last few months in We have designed and built brand new
space! We have a fun office stacked full of Greece and a catwalk fashion show which illusions for this year, so watch this space.
magic, film and TV Props. From Posters, dead have both been great fun to do! Seeing We have been working on a Vampire film
bodies, ‘Spitting Image’ puppets, Dr Who people buy our new sculpture called “Harry”, and a Zombie film which are being released
props, Daleks, and even Wayne Dobson's from Blackpool on the Illusioncraft.co.uk in the summer. These films are goretastic
Head, the list goes on and on. stand was also very rewarding. and are going to be box office hits! We have
an 8 month build plan now for the 2013
What are your favourite What sticks in the memory for you? Christmas season with some very large, jaw
moments so far? Seeing the driver’s face as we loaded our dropping effects and we are building 2
Re-inventing the wheel with our truly unique, giant gorilla on to the lorry was a picture! He illusions for an illusionist in Europe! So we
“Flying Without Wires system”. The just could not believe it! have an exciting time ahead.....
performer flies around the stage and out over
the audience, with no physical means of Having Orville the duck as a house guest
support. The performer can fly with or was fun, we had a B&Q in his honour after
without a platform i.e. a magic carpet, he took his first flight.

28 MSM Issue 51
 KEVIN JAMES
THE MAN WHO KNOWS TOO MUCH!
illions of people became

M converted to the bizarre

magic of Kevin James
after witnessing his
stunning performances on America’s
Got Talent, but we’ve always known
that Kevin was so much more than a
great talking point on a TV talent
show. His unique creations and
powerhouse performances have
made him a genuine star of world
entertainment – not just magic. Yes,
he’s a huge star, but what do we
really know about this mega-talented
fellow? Graham Hey aims to find out.

Born on an American Air Force base in Toul, Kevin pretending to be Colonel Sanders with Brett Daniels.
France, Kevin’s father flew helicopters and
jets, and his mother was a nurse. “My
parents were both from Michigan so after 5 floors creaked with every step. There were The transition from close up to full time
or 6 years of travelling they settled back 10 to 15 big illusions in the centre of the stage performing was a fairly long time. It
there in a little village called Jonesville,” showroom with a velvet rope keeping them took many years to develop a product for
reveals Kevin. “That is where I really grew from me exploring every inch. It had a the stage that was really commercial.”
up. It was a tiny town of 2,000 people. I was delightful musty smell and was so
the only magician in town, with no magic mysterious. There were old black and white I ask him when he realised that his brain was
shop, no Internet, no DVDs. What it did photos on the walls and on the ceiling were different to everyone elses? “I am not so
have were 6 magic books in the public beautiful full colour posters of great sure that my brain is any different than
library and I was the only one checking them magicians of the past. I was walking around anyone else’s!” he laughs. “I made the
out, over and over again! just staring at the ceiling for a really long conscious decision to be as different as
time. It was overwhelming. Most possible from the rest of the magic shows
“When I was about 12, an elderly neighbour importantly I knew I was in the right place.” I that I saw. It was a lot of trial and error…lots
told me that there was some kind of magic can tell he’s right there in his mind! He then of error. My ideas are not all diamonds. I
place about an hour away, in a town called adds, “Abbott’s Magic also had a really large come up with 1,000 ideas and 3 are good. I
Colon, Michigan. I did some research and catalogue and I memorised every page. “ only show you the good ones. When they
couldn’t believe my good fortune that it was asked Thomas Edison how he invented the
only a 1 hour drive away. I talked my parents Before turning professional, Kevin had a light bulb, he said that he didn’t invent it.
into taking me there and it was the longest succession of part-time jobs to pay for his He found 1,000 ways not to invent the light
hour of my life. On the edge of town there expensive hobby. “I cut people’s grass all bulb first. It was just a lot of elbow grease. It
was a billboard that said, “Welcome to Colon through high school; I worked in a grocery is hard work to try and be original but every
Michigan, The Magic Capital of the World”. I store and cleaned a butcher shop, that one ounce of sweat is worth it in the end.”
about had a heart attack!” was especially disgusting. Then when I
moved to Los Angeles, I worked as a magic What was the first effect of yours that really
Kevin tells me enthusiastically that he can bartender. My favourite job was as a made you think you could be successful in the
vividly recall everything about his first real demonstrator in a magic shop. I got paid to business, I ask? “I think the Floating Rose was
magic shop experience. “The building was sit and read the magic books all day. Then I the beginning of that feeling. I was trying to
black with white skeletons painted on the was finally able to phase into strolling close figure out a way to become a stage magician
front. When you walked in the old wood up work in restaurants and private parties. so I thought why not take some of the things

30 MSM Issue 51
 KEVIN JAMES

“I made the conscious decision

to be as different as possible
from the rest of the magic
shows that I saw. It was a lot of
trial and error…lots of error.”

MSM Issue 51 31
 KEVIN JAMES
that I am getting a good reaction with in my
close up and just try to make them play bigger
for the stage. Sounds logical, right?

“I was getting lots of reaction with my

Floating Bill when strolling. One day I saw a
bartender make a rose for a customer from a
cocktail napkin and something clicked in my
head. It was the answer to the question I
had been asking myself for several months.

“The napkin was light enough to do the

animation part of the Floating Bill, and then I
could twist it into a paper rose and make it
do the full float. Then if it was flash paper, I
could turn it into a real rose, giving me a
guaranteed applause ending. It could even
have a romantic theme. It all came together
pretty quickly, faster than most.

“Then at a magic convention where I was

competing, Mike Caveney brought
Copperfield over and asked me to perform
the Rose for him. Copperfield liked it and
wanted it for his TV special. I think it was at
that moment, when my hero validated my
creation, that I thought I might have some
talent as an inventor. Later I flew to where he
was performing on tour and taught it to him.

“The funny thing is, if you see Copperfield’s

show today in Las Vegas, he is still doing the
Floating Rose. I think it is the effect that has
consistently been in his show the longest. It
was impossible to ever imagine that I would
have created the ‘most performed’ effect of
David Copperfield’s career.”

I ask Kevin to give me a potted history of his

career up until America’s Got Talent. “I
started performing in a chaotic dinner
theatre. I was doing a stand up comedy before I asked him if he wanted to work on a day an act fell out of the line up for a big TV
magic act. It was fairly classic with a few project with me. He said sure. I later found show. She called and said can you be in
original moments. It was a good training out that he used to work with Siegfried and Paris in 2 days. Sure we could.
ground as there were lots of drunken people Roy. They used to shrink Roy in the DeKolta
and you never knew what they were going Chair and it was Antonio. So we began “We did well on the show and the host loved
to shout out or do. It made me learn how to working on the Broom Suspension. Later I us. He just gushed about us. I told her to
deal with every possible situation. tried to figure out a good way to get this just take the video from this TV show and
interesting little character onstage. That is give it to the owner of the Crazy. She did
“I met my diminutive assistant there, Antonio when I developed the Chaplin Doll Illusion. and he booked us immediately. So we
Hoyos. His job was to walk around and play performed there on and off for 3 years.
with the customers as Charlie Chaplin. I “We started to do some international magic
noticed how they instantly connected with conventions, festivals and TV. I tried to get “Then we got an offer to headline in an
him. They loved this cute, funny character. the biggest agent in Paris to try and book me important show on the Las Vegas strip, called
We worked there together for about 2 years at the Crazy Horse but she wouldn’t. One Splash. Shimada was leaving and we were

32 MSM Issue 51
 KEVIN JAMES
going to take his place. That went on for
about 4 years. Then we did Caesar’s Magical
Empire at Caesar’s Palace. We opened for
several big celebrities and did lots of “I started performing in a chaotic
international travelling. I was performing for
about 6 years in a show in Las Vegas called dinner theatre. I was doing a stand up
The World’s Greatest Magic Show.”
comedy magic act. It was fairly classic
So that takes us up to America’s Got Talent
and Kevin tells me that Nathan Burton is
with a few original moments. It was a
responsible for getting him on the show. good training ground as there were lots
“I found it very stressful” he says, almost
relieved it’s all over. “Imagine being in front of of drunken people and you never knew
20 million and getting buzzed or even worse
verbally abused by Piers Morgan. They like
what they were going to shout out or
to put you in stressful and unprofessional
situations. For instance, they will tell you that
do. It made me learn how to deal with
next week you have 3 minutes to do your every possible situation.”
next segment. So you work hard on the
pacing of the effect, changing your blocking,
and editing your music. Then one day before
the taping they tell you that they don’t have
enough time so they want everyone to cut
their act to one minute. That is stressful!”

So, how did it go? “I got a great reaction for

all 3 of my segments. However the third
segment I got tossed under the bus! After
my beating from Piers, Jerry Springer thrusts
a mic’ in front of my face and says, “You have
thirty seconds to tell America why they
should vote for you.” I basically said ‘I create
all of my own illusions. You have singers
come out here and sing other peoples
songs. Imagine if they had to write and
perfect a new song each time. I think I
should get an A for effort. Plus, last week I
did this very same routine for the Prince of
Monaco and he loved it. The audience here
loved it.’ They didn’t air any of that. The
producers decide when it is your time to get
off the show, not the voting audience.”

Prior to going on, Kevin says he was

confident in his material and thought that he
should risk it, despite the obvious reservation
that “no-one wants to get slapped in front of
20 million viewers.” He reveals that just
before the first taping he had ulcers thinking
that he had chosen the wrong effect to start
with. “I chose to do the Chaplin Doll. There
is a fake mistake when his head falls off. I
thought I was going to get 3 buzzes when
that happened and not be able to finish the
illusion. That would have really sucked.

MSM Issue 51 33
 KEVIN JAMES
always there. It was probably on some TV
show. He is one of my very close
confidantes with whom I can share what I am
working on with and love to brainstorm with.
He, Gaetan Bloom, Sonny Fontana and
Adrian Soler are part of that circle. They are
all creative and generous brainstorm
partners. It is important to find a group like
this to help you exchange ideas. People you
love and trust.” What does your ‘team’
consist of? “I travel now with a team of 4 or 5
assistants. My wife Claudia is there with me
all the time. Then the rest of the team grows
or shrinks depending on what illusions we
need to do in that particular show.”

Kevin is soon to be performing in the UK as

part of The Illusionist show, and as I mention
this, it is obvious that he has positive feelings
about the place. “I love performing in the
UK. I have so many friends there. I just wish

“They loved this cute, funny character. we were spending more time in London. Let
me rephrase; more time off in London so I
We worked there together for about 2 can do the fun things!

years before I asked him if he wanted to “I am having a great time as part of The
Illusionists team. It is a show with lots of
work on a project with me.” flavours, there is something for everyone.
The cast is diverse and all great at what they
Fortunately they all laughed when the head With a show like Kevin’s, it’s so much more do. It keeps you trying to do your best every
fell off and were too busy to buzz me. I than just performing, and he tells me that the night. Backstage is like a mini magic
thought that with so many people seeing my most difficult aspect of his job is actually convention, it is a fun place to work!”
act, only good things could come from it. managing a lot of people. “I did a show at a
You don’t go on that show to win, you go on Sheraton Hotel in Korea for 17 months with The Illusionists show is something to really
for the exposure and to try and stay on as no day off, 2 shows a day, with a cast of 30 look forward to, and Magicseen will be
long as possible for the most exposure.” people. At the end of that time I took 4 featuring it in a future issue. But what else is
months off just to re-valuate things and see if happening for Kevin? “Well, there are
Fortunately, Kevin’s Operation Illusion went I really wanted to continue with magic. I was always 5 or 6 new effects in the pipeline at
viral, and he is still getting work from that burnt out. I was so busy putting out stupid any given time. I will hopefully have some of
video. “If I had a show in Vegas where I was fires. For instance, this person got drunk them in the show when we hit the UK.
trying to sell tickets, I would do it all again. I and started a fight. This other person got
was invited to perform for Obama in the into a big fight with the stage manager, “Another project that has got me really
White House because of that AGT clip on another guy tried to hit on this dancer. What excited is a book that I am publishing. It has
Youtube.” I ask him where he got the I realised is that I needed a company been about 15 years in the making and is
inspiration for what is now one of, if not THE, manager who could handle all of this day-to- finally coming to fruition. It is called Full
most watched illusion of all-time. “About 15 day stupid stuff. I needed a buffer from that Bloom and is a 2-volume set of all Gaetan
years ago I was at Mike Caveney’s house and junk. That is how you learn.” Bloom ideas. It will be about 800 pages in
he showed me some photos of a very old total. I suspect it will be a modern day
version of the sawing in half with a guy Here at Magicseen Towers, we are massive classic. There is so much good material in
named Johnny Eck. I was really intrigued fans of Rafael – not only is he a really lovely there. It is also a tribute to a great man,
with the method and decided to modernise it guy, his creations are truly brilliant – and he creator and career. You can find it at
for today’s audiences. I experimented a lot works closely with Kevin. I ask how the pair www.kjmagic.com.”
and finally came up with the version you see first met? “I don’t actually remember the first
today. I think it is still a work in progress. I time I met Rafael,” says Kevin with a puzzled
still have more to do with it.” look upon his face, “It just seems as if he was

34 MSM Issue 51
 KEVIN JAMES

QUICKIES!
answer will fall out of the air and into your great and unique, they will pay for it. It may
notebook. also be that thing that can get you noticed
and onto the next level of your career.
Early on I used to think that if it cost too
much or was too big to travel with, don’t Your aim should be to ask yourself the right
work on it. I used to edit my thought questions. What is the most amazing thing I
process before I ever got started. This was a could perform on stage? Don’t restrict your
mistake. I had a friend who, if the new trick brainstorming sessions. Some ideas you will
didn’t fit into the little case that he took on be able to use now and some you will be
the airplane with him, would not include it in able to use in the future, just write them
Tell us three things about yourself his show. That is a mistake. down and date them.
that people probably don’t know…
1. I love to experiment in the kitchen. At I try to let my mind be free to create without I started with The Illusionists about 2 years
one time I was seriously thinking about any limitations. Even if in the real world I ago. We are constantly thinking about ways
becoming a professional chef. have limitations like money, time or a place to improve the show. A while ago, the
2. I love dogs, tennis and naps. to perform a big amazing illusion, I ignore producer Simon Painter asked me what
3. I snore so loud, that at one time I actually that now and get the idea into my would I do in the show if money and size
thought about searching for a deaf notebooks. Some day you may have an were no object. I am still working on that
woman to be my wife. opportunity to do something big and question. So let your mind go free to
extravagant and then it will be sitting there discover the next great idea.
Your proudest moment in life? waiting for you in your notes. Maybe some
I think it was when my son was born. I day you will get an opportunity to do a TV Which other illusionists/performers
thought that this was real magic and how show and you will be ready. Just because do you really admire?
could I actually be a part of that. you can’t use it now doesn’t mean you won’t I am a huge fan of Penn and Teller. They are
in the future. very smart guys. I love the way they have
What’s your most guilty pleasure? directed their careers. They have done TV
I love a good back scratch. I must be half shows, Broadway, made movies, have their
bear. I thought it would great to get those own very successful Las Vegas show, hosted
bamboo back scratchers made with my game shows on TV, done reality shows, and
name and website on them. Like Robert written amazing theatrical plays. And at the
Houdin had little folding fans made. This same time, they keep coming up with an
way when they are in the middle of a great incredible amount of new great magical content
back scratch they associate that great feeling for their live show. They work very hard.
with you. You have fans for life.
I also like very much Gaetan Bloom, David
How do you create magic? Williamson, John Carney, Adrian Soler and
I get inspiration for magic ideas from many Juan Tamariz.
places. Some common ones might be
movies, literature, life experience, toy stores, I would have loved to have seen and met a
hardware stores, music, old effects that few people from the past like Devant, Jarrett,
could use a good revamping, etc. I live life It takes 5 people to perform my Operation Chung Ling Soo, Selbit, LeRoy, DeKolta,
expecting to have new discoveries every Illusion. Some of them have to be very Robert Houdin. I also liked very much the
day. I live with the curiosity of what the day special. Many people told me not to go down work of Hans Moretti and Richardi.
will bring. that road. I ignored them and discovered that
if you have a really impactful effect, See Kevin James live! The best place
I try to ask myself the right questions. If the producers will pay for the cargo, the extra to see the tour dates and to buy
answer doesn’t come right away, I sleep on airline tickets and hotel rooms, and the extra tickets is on the website,
it. Some morning you will wake up and the salary needed to bring everybody. If it is www.theillusionistslive.com/tour.html

MSM Issue 51 35
 AGENTS AND THE
‘BUSINESS OF
SHOW-BUSINESS’
Jay Fortune talks to Tobias Beckwith, who
has been manager to Jeff McBride and Marco
Tempest for over twenty years. He is the dance companies stay afloat by helping with
author of “Beyond Deception,” a series on their budgeting and writing grants for them.
I became obsessed with the idea that they
the business of magic for MAGIC magazine, shouldn’t have to spend all their time
and an upcoming book for the general begging for money, and that if they did
public, “Wizards’ Ways.” something with a bit more commercial
Tobias Beckwith
flavour – like building magic into their
dances – perhaps they could command
ticket prices and attract enough audiences
that they might actually make a profit. I
couldn’t sell the idea to any of the
companies, though, and decided to pursue it
on my own. I had lots of friends who were
dancers and choreographers, and the use of
the theatre where I worked during the
afternoons as a rehearsal space. I was even
able to get my friend Bob Fitch (still among
the most knowledgeable magic experts and
coaches I know) to come in and help out
with the magic and we got started. At some
point, I found I was less than excited about
the direction things were going, and Bob
suggested I should meet Jeff McBride. “He
knows more about movement and magic
Jeff McBride. than anyone I know, and he just lives a few
blocks from here.” And he gave me Jeff’s
Jay: Tobias, tell us a little about how you title. Later I got to work on the management number.
become involved as an agent and manager team of the original Sweeney Todd as
of magicians? assistant to the producers and later as an Jay: Chance moments that can change
Tobias: I trained as an actor, director and assistant company manager on the national your path!
designer for the theatre. After teaching at tour, and then spent 5 years as one of two Tobias: Indeed! A few weeks later, I got to
the University of Pittsburgh for a couple of managers keeping Oh! Calcutta! continuing see Jeff perform for the first time in Atlantic
years after receiving my graduate degree, I its undeserved long run on Broadway. City. He was the opening act then for
realised I was on the road to becoming one Again…we managed both show and theatre, Raquel Welch’s show at The Sands. We hit
of those horrible academics who teach the which helped managed costs, along with it off immediately, but not about my project
things they’ve never done professionally many, many other innovations that our – Jeff had a really strong opening act at the
themselves. I packed my bags and moved to producer Norman Kean had come up with. I time, but not a real full evening show. I
New York, where I suddenly found myself think I learned more about how wanted to produce and direct that show, and
working as a manager for The Fantasticks – showbusiness really works from working for we got to work on it right away. After a year
already the world’s longest running musical Norman than in all my schooling combined. or so, his manager at the time grew sick with
– and The Sullivan Street Theatre, where it Hodgkins disease, and it became apparent
played. One of the secrets to a long run is As it turned out, in my spare time from Oh! he was not going to recover. Bill Barnes had
keeping costs down – hence the double job Calcutta! I was also working to help several been a fantastic mentor to Jeff. He was a

36 MSM Issue 51
 THE SECRET AGENT
former William Morris agent who also
managed Tennessee Williams and Raquel
Welch, and he had been instrumental in
guiding Jeff from playing $200-300 a night
gigs around New York to working at the top
of the opening act market for 10-20 times
that. But now he was about to die, and Jeff
felt he needed help. He asked me to
manage him.

Jay: And what was your response? As

managing is a serious commitment for both
parties.
Tobias: I initially didn’t want to. Managers
seemed too much like agents, and I knew
too many agents that I didn’t respect, and
certainly didn’t want to become. Jeff
suggested I probably wouldn’t have to work
too much to sell him, as he was already quite
Marco Tempest.
well established, and that what he really
wanted was something he had already seen
me do: be professional on the phone, able to two of us we did the job it would otherwise Eugene come from a mindset where magic
draft and negotiate good contracts, and have taken a half dozen folks travelling to do. really matters – not just to us but to our
someone that he could trust. Well…that world, to our culture – we tend to have a
was 1989. Jay: Tell us about Mystery School? kind of unique approach to magic, and our
Tobias: The Mystery School was born from continuing activities in Master Classes,
A year or so later, Jeff introduced me to a desire of Jeff’s to spend more time with online sessions, Conferences and the like, all
Marco Tempest and recommended us to people like Eugene Burger, Bob Neale and help us refine our mission, explore new
one another. Marco was still living in Bob Fitch. The idea that a group of people ways of thinking about what we do, and,
Switzerland, and had management there, passionate about magic could take a few most of all, to help “raise the level of magic,
but was open to a second manager for the days off together just to spend time and talk one magician at a time,” which is the stated
US. We did a few things together, but he about issues unique to magicians. And so goal of the school. We seem to be
was so busy in Europe that it wasn’t that Jeff, ever the proactive type, called Eugene succeeding, as many of our students have
much until he actually moved over here in Burger and Bob Neale and asked them if gone on to win major competitions, and,
the late 1990’s. they would be interested. Then he invited more importantly, to create successful
25 of his favourite magicians, booked time careers in magic.
Jay: Do you think a magician makes for a for us all at the Ananda Ashram in upstate
better manager, as opposed to someone New York…and we were off. We tried all Jay: Thanks Tobias.
who comes from a non-magical kinds of things together. Drumming around
background? a circle, blindfold walks where we were Tune in next time for part two!
Tobias: Hard for me to say. I was a dabbler confronted with various magic “ritual”
in magic before I started, but the Broadway experiences. Lectures, experimental
and touring theatre was my real area of workshops and so on. We ate together, Jay Fortune ‘The Secret Agent’ © Jay
expertise. I do think it’s essential that a bunked in rooms with 6 or 8 others, woke up Fortune 2013. The Secret Agent is also
manager knows enough, and be interested at dawn after 3-4 hours of sleep, and featured on McBrideMagic.TV
enough in how a magician works so that he generally wore ourselves to the bone trying Monday’s 7pm PST.
can help them. When I started with Jeff I to milk every ounce of goodness from the www.facebook.com/mrjayfortune
wanted to learn everything. I’d go out and experience. We lost money for the first 2-3 @mrjayfortune
work as his backstage assistant, learning to years of doing it, but agreed it was the thing www.jayfortune.co.uk/category/blog/
pack and unpack the show, how to repair that fed our souls more than anything else ‘The Secret Agent’ concept was devised
various props, and so on. It was a bonus that we were doing. by Jay Fortune and Jeff McBride.
I had been trained and loved doing lighting
design, so I started early handling the whole That initial experience grew and split into all Check out JayFortune.co.uk/events.
technical end of shows as Jeff’s production the different parts of what we do in the Well worth your while.
manager and lighting director. Between the Mystery School today. Because Jeff and

MSM Issue 51 37
 FRITZ WITH A ‘Z’
ALKEMADE
Interview By George Luck

As far as I’m concerned,

A Fritz is the result of a

genetic cross-breeding
programme which took
place between James Bond and Al
Capone. He comfortably rocks a pair
of shades, is a part-time badass and
also a commendably accomplished
magician.

On deciding to interview Fritz, we flew him

(economy class) to the top secret magicseen
headquarters, chained him to a steel framed
chair, provided him with a glass of pink
lemonade (it’s how we roll), and we began…
I started by testing Fritz’s attention to detail
and asked him to tell us about himself in
exactly 200 words.

“My name is Fritz with a Z, last name “Magic is accepted more in the UK as
Alkemade and I live in Amsterdam, the
Netherlands. I’ve been a professional a form of entertainment than it is here.
magician for almost 4 years now having
begun after finishing university. At
People love magic over in the UK and I
university, I studied Arts and Social Sciences,
where I eventually specialised in Media
always get really great reactions.”
Culture. During that time I joined a student
theatre association where I acted in several
plays and took many courses. Improvisation performing card magic. Throughout my time “Magic is accepted more in the UK as a form
was my favourite and eventually, I taught at university, I was able to do a lot of of entertainment than it is here. People love
students improvisation for over one and a walkaround magic for other students. It was magic over in the UK and I always get really
half years. tough because students are very analytical great reactions. In the Netherlands, magic
and most of the time they would have had a has a very nerdy image. Also, we Dutch are
“I became fascinated by magic at a young few drinks. That said, it was a perfect more down to earth people so, for me, it’s
age but who didn’t?! I actually ‘borrowed’ opportunity to polish my magic and develop exciting if I can get people enthusiastic
two books from my school and practised but my style.” about magic. At the end of my act, people
I constantly thought, ‘they will figure it out’. come away having enjoyed themselves,
“During this time, other things (girls) With Fritz having frequently worked in the helped I think, by my enthusiasm which is
became important, but then I saw David UK, I was intrigued to know how the magic very infectious! I think that TV had a big
Blaine on TV. That got me hooked again and ‘scenes’ and perceptions differ in influence on the popularity of magic in the
I spent the next few years practicing and comparison to the Netherlands. UK. You had Paul Daniels, and more recently

38 MSM Issue 51
 FRITZ ALKEMADE

“I became
fascinated by
magic at a young
age but who
didn’t?! I actually
‘borrowed’ two
books from my
school and
practiced but I
constantly
thought, ‘they
will figure it out’.”

MSM Issue 51 39
 FRITZ ALKEMADE
Derren Brown, The Magicians and [Penn & “As far as creativity goes, I try to hang out
Teller] Fool Us. There is very little exposure with as many creative people as possible.
for magic on TV in the Netherlands which is Not only magicians, but painters, actors,
why I envy British magicians.” comedians, and musicians. You can learn a
lot from analysing their work and approach
Despite the different perception of magic in to their art. Eventually, you’ll become
the Netherlands, the magic community out creative. Never force it.”
there is flourishing with many creative
performers within their ranks (see issue 38). As you told us, you have an affiliation with
Although Fritz is too modest to say, he has a improvisation. Is there a particular ‘genre’ of
very defined and original style which has magic that you prefer and perhaps one that
lead to him being sought after worldwide. you would like to explore further?
“I wouldn’t say I have many original routines “I love the intimacy of close up magic, or as
as I’m standing on the shoulders of giants. I we call it here, table magic, especially the
do however like to look at classic effects and room for improvisation coupled with the fact
make them my own. ‘How do I make them that I’m able to interact with people. The
I hate my job... my own?’ I hear you ask. First of all, you magic is stronger and you’ll create a memory
have to sit down and create your own magic your audience will not forget and
paradigm. Once you know what kind of field subsequently share with their friends. More
of magic you like- what objects fit you and recently, I’m trying to do more stand up
what your character is- you can search for magic but afterwards I always get the same
effects that fit your paradigm. As for remark: ‘It is different when you see magic
constructing, I usually take a plot and on stage and up close’. It’s true. It’s harder to
research the various methods and handlings deny it when the magic happens under your
that have already been published. Then I nose.
take the ideas that I like and construct my
own routine. Sometimes none of the “I have done several one man shows now
methods or handlings suit me so I have to where I use stand up magic and some pieces
come up with my own interpretation. of mentalism. Also, I would like to explore
“Routining is what I like the most, especially thimble magic. Sarcasm doesn’t read well on
in my card magic. I like it when one effect paper, does it?”
flows into the next and the audience can
sense that on some level. That’s also what I Where do you take your inspiration from?
try to do when entering magic competitions. From within the magic world or elsewhere
as well?
What do you mean that’s not your card?

“In my early days it was no doubt David

Blaine. You either love him or hate him but
you have to acknowledge that he knows
what magic is about. David lets the magic
speak for itself with minimal presentation.
During my journey in magic, I have had
several influences, ranging from David
Williamson to David Regal and David Stone
to David Acer. I know, lots of David’s. Also,
the classic Dutch magicians, like Fred Kaps,
Richard Ross and Tommy Wonder shaped
how I perceive the art of magic.
“Nowadays I get inspired by reading the
classics from the UK such as Alex Elmsley
and Roy Walton or the old books of Paul
Harris. My other sources of inspiration come
Performing at Illusions, Bristol. from artists such as Banksy, composers like

40 MSM Issue 51
 FRITZ ALKEMADE

QUICK FIRE “I love the intimacy

QUESTIONS of close up magic,
or as we call it here,
Give us 5 things that we
didn’t know about you.
table magic,
1. I like watching football (or for the especially the room
American readers - soccer),
especially when Holland is playing
for improvisation
and everybody goes out in orange.
2. I was born in the Philippines so I am
coupled with the
half Filipino and half Dutch. fact that I’m able to
3. I don’t perform a lot of card magic to
my paying audience.
interact with
4. I enjoy biking to my gigs. people.”
5. I cannot count to five. Oh wait,
I just did!

Best effect you have seen in

the last year or so?
Not an effect, but Yann Frisch’s routine
was the best, no doubt.

Last effect you brought?

Richard Sanders’
Powerball 60. I
use it in
conjunction with
Greg Wilson’s
Exact Change. If
you have both,
you’ll know why
these two
routines are a perfect hybrid.

Mango or Passion Fruit?

Definitely mango.

Favourite film?
I like the more thought-provoking films,
like Inception or The Matrix. However,
the Avengers was also really awesome.
I saw it 3 times in less than 4 days!

Perfect night in?

Going out with friends for drinks and
having fun. Alternatively, hopping bars
or showing random strangers pieces of
astonishment, or both.

MSM Issue 51 41
 FRITZ ALKEMADE

Strolling magic. Groupies in Tokyo.

Nobuo Uematsu, or movies, TV series and “...you want give people the feeling
even computer games. The latter sounds
silly, but if you analyse it (as I have done), that you are perfect for their event as
you’ll notice that there is a focus on the
music, the emergent narrative, and a depth
a result of the goodwill which you
of character- all elements that are important
in magic.”
display. Be a fun guy to be around
(even when you are not doing magic),
As a professional magician, what advice
would you give to those hoping to get into a good listener and a team player.”
the full-time market?

“Make sure you over-deliver and over-

promise. In addition, invest time and effort in and eventually meet them in person. Who compete with those sexy Swedish
your clients. They are your ambassadors would’ve thought this would be possible ten magicians.”
who tell others how amazing your magic is. years ago?
Also, invest time in social media. It can be of And there you have it. This is what happens
great use to you when it is properly used. I “There is one concept which I feel is very when you try to interview someone who is
recommend studying the blogs and articles important but it doesn’t translate into English as equally at home performing a coin trick as
written about this. very well - it’s the ‘gun-factor’. No, it doesn’t he would be dealing ‘legal’ highs on the
have to do anything with pistols. It’s more streets of Amsterdam.
“If you are on Twitter, don’t solely tweet that you want give people the feeling that
about your performances. Say what else you you are perfect for their event as a result of He would like me to close by letting you
do. What do you like or hate? It shows your the goodwill which you display. Be a fun guy know that when you next see him, think of
human side which is much more interesting to be around (even when you are not doing anything* and ask him to perform it, and he
to others. Also, don’t use it only to promote magic), a good listener and a team player.” will - trust me. I have seen him do the
your website. It will get annoying and coveted ‘ambitious twisting the colour
people will ‘unfollow’ you. Try to find a What does the future holds for you? changing iPads across’.
balance in your tweets between marketing
and personal messages. “Magic wise, I’m going to the States next *Anything which involves nudity will incur a
year and travelling- something which I £23 per hour charge.
“Facebook allows me to interact with would like to do more. Also, I’d love to be on
magicians from all over the world. I’m able to the cover of Playgirl [we think he means
chat with them, share stories and pictures, Magicseen] magazine, but I guess I have to www.fritzmagic.nl

42 MSM Issue 51
MASTERCLASS
MONEYBALL
Fritz Alkemade
1.

The following is an interesting (photo 3) and immediately

three phase routine. It’s visual, crumple it up.
almost impromptu and it
involves money. Do I have your Ask the second participant to
attention now? Good. crumble up his note too. As he
does this, you place the bills
WHAT HAPPENS between the thumb and first
A balled up 10 euro bill fingers of each hand (photo 4).
vanishes and appears in another Take the 10 euro from the right 2.
crumpled up 10 euro bill. It’s hand and execute a false
done again but now in the transfer into the left (photo 5).
participant’s hand. As a climax, Now the left fingers manoeuvre
the bills are balled up again but the bill on top of the hole of
this time the two 10 euro notes your fist (sounds very dirty…).
somehow have fused together Slightly open your fist so the bill
into a single 20 euro! can drop in. Squeeze and open 3.
up your hand. One 10 euro
SLEIGHTS note has disappeared. With the
False transfer right hand (still holding out),
Bobo Switch (J.B. Bobo) take the bill and give it to one of
the participants. Have him open
NEEDED up the bill to discover the 10
For this effect you can use 5 and euro bill inside.
10, 10 and 20, 50 and 100 euro
notes or 5 and 10, 10 and 20 2. Vanish and appearance 4.
UK notes. For the explanation in participant’s hand
I’ll use a 10 euro and a 20 euro Take the 10 euro bill from the
bill (photo 1). Take both bills participant with the left hand
and ball them up (photo 2). (placing it in the right hand)
Place the 20 euro note in your and add the 10 euro as you
right pocket. The other crumple the 10 euro bill up.
crumpled up bill is Now you can do the effect
fingerpalmed in the right hand. again. 5.
The other two 10 euro notes are
borrowed from your To change it up, you’re about to
participants. do it in the participant’s hand.
Hand him the 10 euro bill
HOW TO DO IT (with the 10 euro bill inside) in
1 . Vanish and appearance his right hand and ask him to
Ask a participant to remove his make a fist. Take their 10
wallet and let him hand you a euro bill with the right hand and
10 euro bill. Ask for another 10 do a false transfer into your left.
euro from participant no. 2. As Give him a fist bump
the second participant searches and show your left hand empty.
for a bill, you add the Ask them to open up the 10
fingerpalmed bill to the 10 euro euro and again, the 10 >>

MSM Issue 51 43
 MASTERCLASS
MONEYBALL CONT.
Wilson’s Pitch and
>> euro bill made the journey Ditch instead of the Bobo
6.
inside. Hooray! Switch. See his video Off the
Cuff (1996) for detailed
3. Bill Fusion instructions on this move.
The created off-beat allows your :: Greg challenged me to come
right hand (still palming a 10 up with an alternative to the
euro) to dip in the right pocket Pitch and Ditch. This was my
and to switch it for the balled up solution: the 20 euro bill is
20 euro. I know, very sneaky. Ask fingerpalmed in the right hand
the participant to crumple his bills while its thumb and first finger
again. The 10 euro bill should be hold the balled up bills. Transfer
inside the 10 euro. Now the right this ball into thumb palm as you
hand comes over to take their open the finger and lay it on the
bills and execute a Bobo Switch left hand. Ask your participant
in the left hand (photo 6). This to cup their hands. The left •J.B. Bobo’s Bobo Switch was p.43) also deserves a mention.
hand closes immediately. Scream hand will go away from your published in Modern Coin •This routine is a variation of
“Help, help!” or any other magic body, while the right goes Magic (1952, p. 10). my own “Balls of Bills” which
movement and open up your left towards you. This results that •Other similar routines are: “As saw print in my lecture notes
hand. Let this note fall in the the 20 euro bill will spin in Should You” by Gerald Deutsch Let’s go Dutch again (2012, p.
participant’s hands. The two 10 midair. Aim for the participant’s and uses a “One-In-The-Hand- 22) and utilised a lot of
euro bills have changed into a hand and you have a visual Two-In-The-Pocket” sleeving. Furthermore, at the
single 20 euro. Cross your fingers change. construction. It was published end of the routine instead of the
and hope they will let you keep in Apocalypse (Vol.19, No.7, fusion, the bills turned inside
the 20 euro bill. If not, just tear REFERENCES 1996, p. 2671). Also in out. Thanks to Rob Watrin and
the bill in half, give back their half •The inspiration came from Jay Apocalypse (Vol.20, No.10, Greg Wilson for working with
and run! Sankey’s “Outside In” from 1997, p. 2853) is “One Plus One me on simplifying the handling
100% Sankey (1990, p. 64). He = Two” by Peter Marshall and described above.
NOTES uses a coin that appears in the Gerald Deutsch but utilizes
:: If you want a more visual and balled up bill using his Two- lapping. Mr. Sankey’s “Bill
clean ending, you can do Greg Way Toss. Fusion” in Sankey Panky (1986,

SHED7 hold of seven things to make

your life more bearable in your
With the ladies nuclear bunker, what are you
favourite Gregory going to take with you?
Wilson
1. Food.
Greg, we hear that you’ve just 2. Water.
completed a fantastic tour of 3. Playing cards.
the UK, and you sold out of 4. Megan Fox.
pretty much everything! Well, 5. A copy of How To Cheat At 7. And, of course the Holy
you’ve wasted your time Strip Poker. Bible, since some of the
because there’s a nuclear war, 6. Greater Magic in the hopes above is sure to get me into
GREG WILSON and you just have time to grab of actually finishing it. some kind of trouble.

44 MSM Issue 51
LETTUCE
Josh Janousky
1a.
This is the final phase of a three view) to show that the face up
1.
part routine and is a quick Joker on the bottom of the pack
'sandwich' effect in which a is apparently no longer there
selected card ends up trapped either.
between two face up Jokers in
the centre of the deck. Push the outjogged card back
flush with the deck and openly
WORKING give the pack a single cut (or if
Remove the two Jokers from you do a good pass, you might
your deck (or select two other care to perform that instead).
cards such as the two red Kings Immediately ribbon spread the 2.
for instance) and openly place deck face down across the table
one face up on the top of the and the two face up Jokers will
pack and the other face up on be seen to have come together
the bottom of the pack. in the deck's centre with one
face down card trapped
Spread the cards face down between them. Slide out that
and have one selected. It card and turn it over to reveal it
doesn't matter if you see the is the selection.
selection. Take the chosen card 3. 4.
back from the spectator and NOTE 1
turning it face down, apparently The Tilt Move. Hold the deck
insert it into the centre of the squared in the left hand. Bring
deck. In reality perform the Tilt your right hand palm down
Move (see note 1 below) so over the deck, and with the
that it ends up directly beneath right thumb, secretly lift up the
the top card. top card a little at its rear short
edge, keeping the subsequent
Holding the deck squared in break with the left little finger.
your left hand, perform an Fig.2. 5.
Erdnase Colour Change move
(see note 2 below) so that the The right hand takes the
Joker on top of the deck seems selection face down and brings
to instantly disappear. In reality it round to the rear short edges
it is now second from the top, of the pack. Using the front
covered by the face down short edge of the card, the right
selection. hand prods the front edge of
the card against the centre of
Regrip the deck so that it is now the pack so that a few cards are
held by the palm DOWN left pushed out of the front edge of
hand. Reach under the deck the deck a little. Fig.3.
and using the right fingertips,
push back the bottom card This gives the illusion that the
slightly (a Glide) and slide out selection is being inserted into
the second to bottom card for the middle of the pack. In >>
half its length (Fig.1 underneath reality, however, as soon as the

MSM Issue 51 45
 MASTERCLASS
LETTUCE CONT.
>> cards have been prodded out, in reality the second card from
7.
the selection is secretly inserted the top is slid backwards by
straight into the break held contact with the right palm so
under the top card. Fig.4. that it is pulled out from under
the Joker. Fig.8. This card is
Seen at the correct angle, it completely hidden from the
appears from the front as if the spectators' view by the back of
chosen card is going lower the right hand.
down in the pack than it really
is. Fig.5 shows an audience As soon as the slid card is
view. Once the card has been sufficiently far back to clear the
pushed in, the break is released bottom edge of the Joker, the
and the pack held squared. right palm moves forward so
that the face down card is slid
8.
NOTE 2 back on top of the Joker. Fig. 9.
The Erdnase Colour Change. As this is happening your left
Hold the deck in your left hand index finger extends to the
as in Fig.6. The right hand front edge of the Joker and
comes palm down over the pulls it back flush with the deck.
deck, and the fingertips push the Fig.10.
face up Joker forwards for about
a quarter of its length. Fig.7. The right hand ends up
covering entirely the top card of
The right palm lowers down the deck for a moment before
onto the cards so that the top of sliding itself away to reveal that
the right palm just below the the Joker has apparently
fingers is pressed against the disappeared as the top card is 9.
lower part of the card now a face down card. Done
immediately below the Joker. smoothly it looks as if the face
up Joker just melts away,
The right hand is slid whereas in reality it is now
backwards, ostensibly to reveal hidden beneath the new face
more of the Joker card face, but down top card.

6.

10.

46 MSM Issue 51
 ★ - poor.
★★ - OK, but could be better.
★★★ - reasonable middle of the road value.
★★★★ - good product.
★★★★★ - outstanding/exceptional.
REVIEWS
excellent interview conducted From the second disc I sections of the performance are
by Luis De Matos. personally like his handling for played on a screen behind
Cards Across, and a Miguel so that you have a visual
Each disc is structured in a straightforward and workable reminder of what is being
similar way. The performance Card On Forehead. On disc explained.
sections, generally filmed in three, the version of Paul
front of a live audience are Harris’s Stapled Card is super Miguel Puga’s emphasis is on
presented in Spanish. and Vernon’s Triumph caught creating entertaining magic
Explanations, in English, are my eye. Updating an old using subtle methods and
professionally filmed in a studio. principle, the use of ‘shadow performance skill blended to
Finally, the intriguingly titled cards’ opens up potential for deliver magic eminently usable
‘TICSIE’ section or ‘Things I apparently impossible effects, in the real world. The set of
ALLEGRO Can’t Say In English’, enable one of which featured in his DVDs comes highly
Miguel Puga Miguel to explain much of the award winning F.I.S.M. act. recommended. SB
Available from: detailed thinking that goes into
www.essentialmagiccollection.com his presentation. The switch The thing that distinguishes WHAT’S HOT: Practical
Price: 110 Euros (approx. between Spanish and English Miguel’s approach from other effects and excellent
£95.00) presents no problem as there is instructional DVDs is that performance advice.
Many magicians describe the option to use the very gestures, patter, timing and WHAT’S NOT: Nothing
themselves as ‘award winning’ comprehensive sub-titles which misdirection are as much part of ★★★★★
but Miguel Puga, professionally are available in English, French, the methods as the bare
know as Magomigue, is the real Spanish or Chinese. elements of the sleights.
deal. Five time winner of the Indeed, at times the intelligence GOT AN ITEM
National Congress of Spain, Most of the effects on these of the performance
FOR REVIEW?
second prize at F.I.S.M. in 2000 discs are within the reach of a choreography makes direct,
and F.I.S.M. World Champion of reasonably competent magician. relatively simple methods Items for review can
Close up Card Magic in 2003, Technically the five parlour possible. Every explanation is a be sent to any of the
he integrates magical expertise effects are relatively mini case study of the tiny
following addresses:
with the practical demands of straightforward, using at times detailed fine grain built into his
Graham Hey:
performing regularly for a lay bold moves which are presentations and it is these
6 St Everilda’s Terrace,
audience. This combination beautifully masked by elements that make the routine
Everingham,
produces beautifully crafted misdirection, timing and the so effective. The principles
York YO42 4JE.
usable effects. In this four disc presentational choreography. So involved are transferable, so
DVD set, Miguel Puga explains effective is this approach that even if you were never to Phil Shaw:
some of the routines from his even with a ‘magician’s eye’ I perform any of the effects, the 23 Stock Close, Norton,
professional parlour and close often missed the moment when performance lessons alone Malton YO17 8BE.
up repertoire and gives a the dirty work was done. The make the disc worthy of study.
Mark Leveridge:
fascinating analysis of his two bill in lemon illustrated this
13A Lyndhurst Road,
F.I.S.M. acts. approach, with the necessary With a running time of over nine
Exeter EX2 4PA.
switches masked during the hours and, excluding the two
Disc one contains five effects natural entertaining F.I.S.M. acts, something in the
Please also supply
from his parlour act. Discs two presentation. Similarly, although region of twenty six effects, the
information on price,
and three, contain about the card work on discs two and set offers real value for money.
postage and where your
nineteen card effects, the first three does require some sleight The quality of the production is
product can be purchased
using only a regular deck, the of hand, none relies on knuckle excellent. Professionally filmed
from. If you have a digital
second using gimmicked cards, busting technique. in a studio and produced by Luis
image (JPEG, TIFF, PDF) of
special decks or other items. de Matos, the production
your item too that would be
The final disc contains his two Picking individual items out standards are impeccable. One
appreciated, but not
award winning F.I.S.M. acts, two from the card work is quite touch I really liked was that
essential.
very usable coin routines and an difficult as it is all very usable. during the explanations relevant

48 MSM Issue 51
 The mechanics of the linking and cards (3), gifts and presents
unlinking moves are very easy to (3), silks (5), picture/letter
master so you shouldn’t have any cards (4), paper tears (2),
trouble with this. It’s very well balloons (2), candles (2) and
explained, as is all the 30 minute finally there's a miscellaneous
content of the DVD. The link on section (6). The book
to an elastic band is preferred concludes with a brief chapter
although a current type of low in which Ian recounts some of
priced fashion necklace is also the changes that have
LINKEY suggested because the necklace occurred in entertaining
Alan Rorrison is particularly thin. You have to children over the last 50
Available from: spot someone wearing one by years, although quite what the
www.worldmagicshop.com the way and not provide your point of this little essay is, I
Price: £23.50 own! I would worry about metal BIRTHDAY wasn't quite sure.
Alan Rorrison has come up with a on metal jamming up a bit MAGIC FOR
clever way to gimmick a key to personally and getting stuck so I KIDS' SHOWS The magic Ian offers here is
enable you to perform a visually would stick to rubber bands! Ian Adair typical of his creative output.
pleasing link on and off an elastic Available from: Using a combination of classic
band as well as a thin jewellery The trick is a very short bit of www.practical-magic.com props, dealer items and
necklace. As part of the routine magic so you might consider Price: £14.00 apparatus which the DIY
the key is taken off your own key making it either a prequel or This is Ian's penultimate book on enthusiast can make up for
ring and given out to be follow up to the Crazy Man’s magic for children's shows (the themselves, he provides a
examined. What’s particularly Handcuffs for example, or other final one we aim to review in our miscellany of fun magic, all of
nice is the key doesn’t have any tricks with elastic bands, to create next issue) and in this 111 page which at some stage ends
moving parts, is still solidly robust a longer routine. The link is very A5 size book, Ian collects with a Happy Birthday
and looks innocent enough visual which like some other together 27 routines which have message or the production of
except to those with absolutely elastic band tricks gives it quite a been specifically designed for some other birthday related
perfect eyesight. In which case wow factor that lay people seem inclusion in a birthday party item such as a gift or card.
keep it at a distance from 11 year to love. It’s the sort of trick you show. The methods are all simple -
olds who in my experience can could get asked to do again and it's harder to get some of the
spot a double lift from 20 paces! again. It's probably true to say that props together than it is to
birthday parties provide more perform the magic.
You will receive a fake and an This is a very nice gimmick that work for children's entertainers
ordinary key, as a ‘switch’ is produces a very visual few than any other type of kids' Self published to the same
involved, but I think this is a very moments, ideal for using in noisy shows, and although you standard as all of Ian's other
natural move whilst you are working environments. Bonus wouldn't want to create an act recent books, this is a handy
holding your bunch of keys, so it points are also awarded for the consisting entirely of specifically collection of routines that
shouldn’t put you off. The keys lack of any irritating music playing birthday related effects, having should provide plenty of
are blanks so you can have them over the chapter menu! PP several in your overall repertoire material for birthday party
cut to match any keys you will enable you to include a entertainers. ML
regularly use and keep them on WHAT’S HOT: Precision made couple and still leave variations
your own key ring. gimmick and a very visual trick. for re-books or for those WHAT'S HOT: It's amazing
WHAT’S NOT: An eye candy situations where you encounter how many variations Ian can
The fake is a precision machined moment of a trick which might the same children at different think up!
SC1 type key, common in the need to be joined on to other parties. WHAT'S NOT: Usual caveat
USA I believe although not as rubber band or key tricks to form that most of the routines will
common as the round headed a longer routine. The tricks in the book are require you to either purchase
Yale type we have in the UK. I ★★★★★ divided into categories. There or make specialised props
doubt this will matter much as it are tricks featuring birthday ★★★
looks like a common type of key.

MSM Issue 51 49
 ★ - poor.
★★ - OK, but could be better.
★★★ - reasonable middle of the road value.
★★★★ - good product.
★★★★★ - outstanding/exceptional.
REVIEWS
bands which makes it impromptu little complicated. Some repeated have been better value as part of
(sort of). It all looks very good, on screen practice time would a bigger collection of rubber
especially on video! also have been thoughtful to save band tricks.
the viewer frustrating rewinds to
That’s all the good news but of check the handling. For the more virtuoso rubber
course there are two sides to band magician, this is certainly
every story. To judge the Whilst the illusion does look worth a look but for most of us it’s
practicality of a trick you really good, the finger and thumb probably not worth worrying too
need to see the pre-trick pinching the band that links on much about. With so many DVD
moments and the post trick time and off can never let go of its tricks swamping the market every
so you can judge how practical it vice-like grip while it's linked. This week it’s not long before this will
is to get in to the trick and how starts to look like you are holding be replaced with the next most
clean the performer is left at the together a join in the band, which visually striking card/rubber
end. Unfortunately this brief in actual fact you are not, but you band/coin/bank
MELTING POINT DVD doesn’t show us any live can’t prove this until the unlink at note/pen/fireworks/milk bottle
Cashan Wallace footage with a real audience so the end. This unfortunately trick ever created! The ingenuity
Available from: the overall practicality isn’t plain compromises the impact of what is to be admired but The Crazy
www.penguinmagic.com to see. is otherwise a great illusion. The Man’s Handcuffs will live to fight
Price: $19.95 (approx £12.00) angles are quite good except for another day. PP
Another single trick DVD hits the In reality this already much over the top and underneath
market for 19.95 of your lovely lauded effect has a few which aren’t usually a problem. WHAT’S HOT: Ingenious and
US dollars and they seem to get weaknesses. It has a very tricky ungimmicked method for linking
shorter every time. Melting Point and fiddly ‘get ready’ which will So far this has taken up about 10 rubber bands.
is basically a ‘new’ linking rubber take much practice to do minutes of the DVD. The rest is WHAT’S NOT: Tricky ‘get
band trick, on and then off. That’s smoothly while you are talking. filled with three items, a friend’s ready’ and tight handling will
it! The good news is that it does Of course the trickier the set-up slightly easier alternative make it difficult for most.
look pretty good (cool), very slow the less impromptu it becomes in handling, Cashan’s version of the ★★
and deliberate, visually effective, performance. The teaching of the Crazy Man’s Handcuffs and
like watching how real magic set-up could do with a little more finally a rubber band though
would look (ish), very baffling detail as the configuration of the finger to take the running time up
and it doesn’t use any faked bands under the fingers gets a to barely 20 minutes. It might

I’ve used a ‘paper-to-money’ All three versions are expertly the part provided. This will
effect in the past, and I’ve seen explained, from the front and the take you two minutes, and
several items over the years performer’s view – and this looks you’re off! Brilliant! GH
which have all been pretty great! There is also a version
similar. It’s a very good effect, where you change the paper into WHAT’S HOT: A brilliant
but it can never be examined. a bank note and then back into examinable paper-to-note!!!
Marc Oberon’s Clean Cash has 3 paper, but don’t be scared WHAT’S NOT: Nothing!
versions for you to tackle – easy, because Marc is a world magic ★★★★★
intermediate, and advanced. champion – the effects on the
Most impressively, there’s also a DVD will not raise your blood
version where the note which pressure – you do not need to be
has just changed from paper can a sleight-of-hand master!
CLEAN CASH be examined! This takes the
Marc Oberon effect one step further than Everything is included with the
Available from your favourite anything before, and it’s not that DVD – though you will have to
magic dealer. difficult either! make your own gimmick from
Price: £15.00

50 MSM Issue 51
 featured on his DVD watches are really nicely made The DVD supplied is well put
‘Unknown’. Here’s the basic and will last if looked after. together and covers
effect: everything that is needed in
The effect isn’t really that order to perform the routines.
You hand out two small pocket difficult to perform either. There
watches (similar to a nurse’s is only really one move to learn Several live performances are
watch) to two spectators for so once you’ve mastered it you included so you can see how it
examination. The spectators are have a really excellent effect in plays to the public.
asked to remove the crown and your arsenal.
check that the hands move In a market that is flooded with
freely. Next, with the watches As well as the main effect there card magic it is refreshing to
facing downwards, they are are several other variations see such a great non-card
asked to turn the crown as taught on the DVD by Sean. effect released. This is one that
TICK TOCK much as they like, then when These include the use of cards, I will certainly be using, and I
Sean Goodman they are happy click the stopper and even a coin to create a time. recommend you do too.PS
Available from back into place to set the time. They all merit a viewing and are
www.magicdirect.com solid additions/variations of the WHAT'S HOT: Good solid
Price: £30 (plus p&p) When both watches are shown main effect. effect with quality props. Lots
Tick Tock is Sean Goodman’s the times match, exactly!!! of possibilities.
adaptation (with Mark’s Given just a little thought too I’m WHAT'S NOT: Nothing to
blessing) of a Mark Bendell I really like this effect, and it sure lots of other effects are report!!
effect Predicta Time which was really does play great! The possible with these watches. ★★★★★

cards transform next to the Jack and several clever top changes. pack can convincingly show
of Hearts, followed by the entire In the film “Amadeus” the King three full spread states) and is
deck. Finally the deck returns to says to Mozart words to the ripe for a complete rework from
its native state. effect “A nice piece of music but a “simplification genius”.
too many notes” – to which Anybody taking this routine on
This is a very strong presentation Mozart expostulates “Which are will have weeks of enjoyment
piece suitable for closing a the notes His Majesty would ahead of them.
formal “parlour” set, but it is not suggest removing?” Actually the
suitable for table hopping or a key candidate for removal is a Niggles? Only a minor one
“grabby” environment. The Kaps lapping card change, ....Dani DaOrtiz's heavy Spanish
Bicycle deck is beautifully because everything else could accent occasionally impedes
designed and produced. The be done standing up. easy understanding. Otherwise
THE MIRAGE accompanying DVD shows a this is a good value treat. CP
Dani DaOrtiz performance in typical high This routine needs skill way
Available from your local dealer quality EMC style, followed by a beyond the average magician. WHAT'S HOT: Cleverly
Price: 25 Euros full explanation. It is engrossing A competent card handler will designed deck. Eye popping
A red backed deck is shown to watch the thinking and the love learning and performing it magic. Beautiful performance,
freely, including all the faces. dozens of subtleties that make as described, no doubt educative explanation. Good
Two spectators choose cards in up what DaOrtiz admits (several stretching the envelope of their value for hours of satisfying
a fair manner, the King of Clubs times) is a difficult trick. own technique along the way. practice.
and Jack of Hearts. Three An experienced performer will WHAT'S NOT: Complex
attempts to find the first card No single part of the routine is deconstruct and adapt the routine, needs high performing
produce three aces which are very difficult, it's just that most routine to suit, including a likely ability. Deck not examinable at
tabled. All three change to the routine sleights in card magic are off beat deck switch at the end. the end.
King of Clubs followed by the included – double lifts, a cull, a At its heart this routine has a ★★★★★
entire deck. The three tabled half pass, a palm colour change relatively self working core (the

MSM Issue 51 51
 ★ - poor.
★★ - OK, but could be better.
★★★ - reasonable middle of the road value.
★★★★ - good product.
★★★★★ - outstanding/exceptional.
REVIEWS
pages, so I was intrigued to see end with a large block of ice and start performing straight
what all the fuss was about. Can landing in the spectator’s hand. away. But, if you are prepared
an effect live up to all the cyber- to put in the time this is one
hype? Let’s take a look. Once you know the secret there amazing effect.
are lots of effects possible.
Firstly what is ‘To The Max’? Well Imagine being able to have a The production values from
if you’ve ever imagined being card selected, a corner torn off RSVP Magic are once again
able to produce a solid block of and destroyed only to have the excellent and a joy to watch.
ice in one of your routines or corner re-appear inside a block
finish an existing routine with a of ice? Or being able to borrow a This is a great release from
TO THE MAX solid block of ice falling into a coin, have it signed and then this Keiron. Highly recommended. PS
Keiron Johnson spectators’ hand then look no coin appear inside a block of ice?
Available from further. This is what is possible Both these and more are easily WHAT'S HOT: Amazing
www.rsvpmagic.com with ‘To The Max’, and what’s achieved using the principle. conclusion with endless
Price: £24.99 (plus p&p) more, it’s super easy to do. Basically, anything you want can possibilities.
‘To The Max ‘must be one of end up in a block of ice. WHAT'S NOT: Preparation
the most talked about effects of The basic routine is very quick may put off some people (?)
the year so far on all the but super visual. Demonstrating Preparation is obviously needed ★★★★★
chatrooms and Facebook your ability to control fire you so don’t expect to open the DVD

at 506 large size pages, it is a out before you start. The trick is No table is required either as
HEAVY piece of work. entirely self-contained, as there the mat and the glass are held at
are no body loads or secret all times up in the hands.
Vortex Of Refreshment first saw holders involved. If you wanted,
the light of day in the above you could do the trick As already mentioned, the
mentioned book under the title completely naked - although instructions come on a DVD.
The World's Greatest Invention. that is not one of the You see two performances, one
It is a totally baffling routine in presentations recommended in being a live recording of David
which a large unprepared glass the DVD instructions! presenting the effect at the
of liquid is placed momentarily Magic Castle, and the
behind a straw mat and instantly There is a gimmick (supplied) explanation is as thorough as is
VORTEX OF seems to disappear. The mat is which is simple both in concept needed, given that the concept
REFRESHMENT shown both sides fairly openly, and in the way that it is used. It is simple to grasp.
David Regal the hands are clearly completely is based on an old idea for a
Available from: empty, yet immediately the vanishing egg and David has I think this is a terrific item for
www.davidregal.com performer can reach behind the cleverly adapted the idea to stand up work. The use of a
Price: $40.00 + shipping mat and bring out the drink make this new effect work. The glass of liquid creates a frison of
(approx. £25.00) again. The vanish and method is practical, danger and the spectators
I have to own up right from the reproduction is repeated three straightforward to do (although cannot begin to understand
start by saying that I am a big times in total, and each time some practice will be required how such a large glass of drink
David Regal fan. He is a really seems more impossible than the to get the handling as smooth can disappear and reappear
clever inventor who for years last, it really is a head scratcher. as David does it), and it is the without any spillage! ML
has consistently come up with perfect trick for parlour, stage
engaging and magically strong There are lots of good things or cabaret work. WHAT'S HOT: Fooling,
effects. His big book, about this idea. The plastic glass commercial magic for stand up
Approaching Magic (see review is totally unprepared, and the It would also make an excellent performers
in issue 23 Nov. 2008), should straw mat is not gimmicked in routine for MC's, as it is quick, WHAT'S NOT: If performing
be on every discerning any way either. In fact, if you magical and surprising, and it with liquids frightens you, look
magician's bookshelf, but make wish, you can hand both the has virtually no get ready other elsewhere
sure it's a strong shelf, because glass full of liquid and the mat than picking up the props. ★★★★★

52 MSM Issue 51
 identify the signs. Helpfully make what you say sound as
Ariel includes a number of
examples and exercises to help
authoritative and indeed
entertaining as possible.
COMPETITION
with this process, which should In the next section of the book
aid the reader to get to grips Ariel looks at where this form of
with what is required. He also entertainment can be used. He
provides a summary chart of the covers fairs, corporate and
signs too, which is an excellent private events, trade shows,
reference aid. hospitality suites, magic and
mentalism shows, cruises,
All this initial part of the book graphology parties, talks and
has been written as a general more. It's amazing at just how
introduction to the science of many different kind of events
READING WRITING Graphology, so next Ariel goes this can be used, and shows you
Ariel Frailich into more detail about what why some of the busiest top
Available from: handwriting can reveal. With a performers use it in their acts.
www.isawthat.com/ist- less accomplished author, this
shop/reading-writing/ could all be rather dull, but Ariel Not content with all this

WIN
Price: £40.00 (inclusive of is a good writer and explains information, Ariel also provides
shipping) everything in a very readable details of routines which can be
This 196 page hardbacked book and understandable style. He used in mental and magic acts.
measuring 6" x 9" covers the explains the different He explains quite a large number
subject of Graphology. In case techniques required to read of different effects, mostly A COPY OF
you're not entirely sure what this
is, let me explain that it is the
signs from both long text and
very short amounts of writing,
complete with patter lines,
something which is important for TO THE
science of character analysis
through the study and
interpretation of a person's
even dedicating one section to
the examination of what can be
read merely form a person's
this type of work. The routines he
explains show clearly how
readings can be incorporated into
MAX!!
handwriting style. For the last 20 signature. If you've never come standard magic and mentalism
BY KEIRON
years Ariel Frailich has been across this before you will be routines and how it can enhance JOHNSON
using readings in his shows amazed about just how much a them and add a further
Thanks to Keiron we have
based on Graphology, and in signature can reveal! dimension to the entertainment.
a copy of ‘To The Max’ to
this work he clearly and
give away to one lucky
intelligently lays out everything The next section deals with This is a very detailed book
Magicseen reader!!
that you need to know to add readings. Whereas the first part which is written by someone
this to your own skill set. of the book explained how you who clearly knows exactly what To be in with a chance of
can get information about a he is talking about. If Graphology winning, simply email the
The book starts with an person from the way they write, interests you this book will give answer to the following
explanation of what Graphology this second section goes into you everything you need to question by 30th July
is and a breakdown of the main how you then transform that know about it plus plenty of 2013 to:
signs which you need to knowledge into a coherent routines to use it with. ML [email protected]
become aware of and look for presentation. This is very
when trying to analyse important for entertainers WHAT'S HOT: Lots of detail, QUESTION:
someone's handwriting. Ariel because knowing how to plenty of routines, a highly What is the name of
offers succinct and clear present the findings of the thorough treatise on Graphology Keiron’s latest DVD
explanations of what each analysis is the equivalent of WHAT'S NOT: The readings produced by RSVP
handwriting element putting good presentation to a need to be presented with skill Magic?
supposedly reveals about a series of moves in a magic trick. and so this is not for those who A. Busy
person's character, and to use The presentation is all important are unprepared to do the B. Chaotic
this you simply have to commit and Ariel describes patter lines necessary graft and practice C. Manic
it to memory and be able to and presentational ploys to ★★★★★

MSM Issue 51 53
 ★ - poor.
★★ - OK, but could be better.
★★★ - reasonable middle of the road value.
★★★★ - good product.
★★★★★ - outstanding/exceptional.
REVIEWS
punched out piece after you’ve see in the video trailer. It is their handling! Given there are
used a hole punch. however oddly expensive no spoken words on the DVD
compared to a precision one wonders if the instructions
The dot now starts moving from engineered gimmick also could have been just as well
one end across the middle of reviewed. explained and illustrated on a
the card to the other end, from few sheets of paper and the
the face of one angel to the face The instructions on the DVD trick sold at half the price? Such
of the one at the other end. It’s are easy to understand and is the price commanded by
quite spooky and very visual. explain the method, handling, optical disc technology with the
PORTABLE INK The card can then be handed performing, repairing and slick packaging of its plastic
Takel out to the spectator who finds making of the gimmick and all display case!
Available from: just a black spot on the back of this without a spoken word! You
www.worldmagicshop.com the card that you drew a few would think the whole point of The mute style DVD offers
Price: £28.00 moments before and they can a filmed explanation would be nothing in the way of
For those attracted by holes and keep the card. The handling is to hear the explanation details presentational ideas or a
dots that spookily move across straightforward and requires spoken at the same time as rationale for drawing dots on
a playing card (and I admit I’m one universally well known card seeing it. In this case all the the back of a card. How could
one) this is a particularly move. The handling of the actions are accompanied by on it? You will have to give that
practical version that will work gimmick is also very easy screen captions. The only some thought on your own. I
under real world performing leaving you with a visual piece words that Takel speaks are a have to deduct points for the
conditions. Some look great but of magic. thank-you for purchasing it at dismal background music
require a special set-up and the beginning and a brief throughout though, better
reset that only works as a one- You are provided with a goodbye at the end! suited to the aftermath of a
off performance. This is easy to specially made gimmick ready disaster movie! PP
use for repeat performances. to go plus materials in case of Fortunately the handling and
breakage, although with normal mechanics of the trick are all so WHAT’S HOT: Clever
A card is chosen and signed on use this shouldn’t happen. This simple that this actually works gimmick creates a spookily
the face by the spectator. It’s also allows you to make up the with surprising clarity because it visual illusion and it is good for
replaced back on the top of the gimmick in a different brand of isn’t over explained, a fault I’ve repeat showings
pack and you draw and ink in a cards should you wish. The seen other over enthusiastic WHAT’S NOT: Rather
black dot on the back of the gimmick is low tech but creates magicians do, intent on expensive for a low tech gimmick
card, about the size of a the illusion perfectly as you will covering every nano detail of ★★★★

Using IYM you will be able to iPhone’s passcode by mentally helpful to be able to see a
secretly retrieve passcodes, PIN sending the 4 digit code to close-up of the screen as they
numbers, dates of births from them. A great effect in itself but talked about various options.
spectators which you can then you are now also able to unlock
use in any manner you choose. the spectator’s secret passcode This is one of the best apps
too on their iPhone. I’ve seen to date. With no
IUNLOCK YOUR The problem with most apps is memorisation needed it’s
MIND (APP) that’s exactly what they look The way the information is certainly one to look at. PS
Myke Phillips like, an app. So to a spectator it retrieved and store is simple but
Available from iTunes. looks like the phone did all the very effective and should only be WHAT’S HOT: Brilliant
Price: £32.49 work. With IYM (which was used for entertainment purpose. method for retrieving
Magic related iPhone apps are built by app developer Salah information.
nothing new. There are lots Aazedine) you can’t even tell an Several other routines are also WHAT’S NOT: Quite
already available, some good app is being used. A big plus! taught via video clips which are expensive as far as apps go.
and some not so good. built into the app. They are all Video instructions could have
However, iUnlock Your Mind The basic routine taught is to explained well but I think at been better.
(IYM) really is great!!!!! have the spectator unlock your times it would have been ★★★★

54 MSM Issue 51
ZENON’S Review: La Clique show,
Brighton. May 29th.

STILL THE MAN!

nother sell out show in the

A Spiegeltent – a brilliant circular

venue where everyone is just a
few yards away from the central
circular stage. What can you expect from La
Clique? Well, it’s a variety show of the
unusual, for people with open minds! Moira
Finucane - also known as The International
Chameleon - was the opening act. Everyone
thought she was a man, complete with
designer stubble – but then after much
comedy posturing, ‘he’ took off his clothes
to reveal that he was a she. Oh, you had to
be there – but it was a great ‘twist’ to start
off the show, which was hosted by Shay
Hooray who later performed an elastic band
routine by disfiguring his face with them. Melvin Brown – who sang and tap-danced at each year – but his routines still appear fresh
Yes, it does sound really weird, bit it was all great speed to the crowd’s delight. The Wau and original. He ended his third stint of the
very entertaining, and performed with Wau Sisters romped around the tiny stage as night with his ‘pint-of-beer-in-the-billiard-
humour and tasteful bad taste! sexy cowgirls (yeehaa! etc.), and then triangle’ routine which he’s performed for
performed a great arial trapeze routine years. It went down smoothly – especially at
Lilikoi Kaos took to the stage to perform an showing off their suppleness and strength. the end when he ‘downed-it’ in one. This
erotic hula-hoop act (I don’t get to write that topped off a really excellent show, and if you
phrase very often!) but she was totally fab. But what of magic man Paul Zenon I hear ever get the chance to visit the Spiegeltent,
This goddess of rhythm was stylish and cool, you all ask? Well, it wasn’t the best venue for then you won’t be disappointed.
and she could do amazing things with a pile a magician ( a circular stage, totally
of hula hoops – whatever position she found surrounded and with mirrors all over the LA CLIQUE: LA INFO!
herself in. In between the more traditional shop ), but Zenon won’t let the odds beat La Clique began in 2004 in
acts (and I really don’t mean traditional!) was him, and his first stint saw him performing Edinburgh and has played
a 6ft blue bunny rabbit called Scotty. And his excellent cut and restored microphone all over the world in the
no, I hadn’t taken any drugs that evening! lead, complete with cutting-out and restored famous Spiegeltent, and
He did plenty of camp gallivanting around sound. Very funny! Next he did his brilliant also in venues such as the
the stage, nibbling on a carrot, and fruit-cocktail routine, influenced, I suspect London Hippodrome and
performing miniature comedy skits with by Carmen Miranda. I really love this stupid The Roundhouse in Camden. Zenon guested
gusto. Stephen Williams performed a superb routine with the quirky music and rhythmical in the very first season, and has gone on to
couple of dance and balance routines way it’s performed - and if you haven’t seen perform in its shows in Australia, New
featuring strength and dexterity. With almost it, it really should be in the 10 greatest magic Zealand, Edinburgh and London as well as
super-human strength, and the body of a tricks of all time! Yes, I’m being serious. With Brighton. It spawned the sister show La
greek god (my girlfriend’s accurate excellent one-liners and his relaxed style, Soirée which is still playing and in which
description), he did impossible gymnastic Paul is still the number one, and the Zenon has also guested. In 2009 it won the
balancing feats, and never looked anything spectator to my left (from Canada, and in Olivier Award for Best Entertainment show in
but cool! With two straps hanging from the hysterics) said he’d never seen a comedy the West End.
roof of the tent, he managed to roll himself magician as good before – ever!
upwards without seeming to break sweat. For Paul though, this was probably just Photography by Dade Freeman,
Superb! Also on stage that night was ‘Movin’ another gig of the hundreds he performs www.krysalisphotography.com

MSM Issue 51 55
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Carl De Rome 59 The Card Collection 58
Discount Magic 29 Wizardcraft 4
El Duco’s Magic 59 World of Magic 60
Frankly Disillusioned 2
Lybrary.com 56
NEXT TIME IN THE MAGIC PERIODICAL Mark Leveridge Magic 57
FOR THE SOCIALLY CHALLENGED....
LISTINGS SECTION
ALAKAZAM MAGIC UK. MARK LEVERIDGE MAGIC.
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BARRIES MAGIC. MERLINS OF WAKEFIELD.
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BLACK HART. MAGICSUPERMARKET
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www.blackhart.co.uk NUMBER 23
CARL DE ROME. Creative design and branding
Tel: +47 61 29 45 79. for print and web.
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DYNAMO - Third time lucky! We finally pin down DISCOUNT MAGIC.
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EL DUCO’S MAGIC. www.cards4magic.co.uk

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whole host of our American buddies talking about FRANKLY www.wizardcraft.com
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LYBRARY.COM. www.world-of-magic.co.uk
Oh, there's probably lots more stuff as well, www.lybrary.com
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