Thursday, September 1, 2011

Magic Magazine Preview For September 2011

If you were not at Magic Live or you have yet to get your copy of this months Magic Magazine, here is a peek. It's the 20th anniversary.

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MAGIC Magazine September 2011 CoverMAGIC Magazine September 2011From The Editor

Here is a peek at the September issue, marking the 20th Anniversary of MAGIC Magazine. We've expanded to 116 pages to allow special coverage of our last decade of publishing.

If you're not a subscriber, please give us a try. Check out our risk-free, one-month-at-a-time subscription plan at the bottom of this email. Of course, we still offer our annual subscriptions as well.

MAGIC is also available for your iPad in the App Store. The cost is $3.99 and it arrives within a few minutes. And best of all, you only buy it once, then you own it forever and can enjoy it wherever you want (Internet connection not required!).

Whether you're a year-round or month-to-month subscriber, whether you download us to your iPad, or whether you just read a friend's copy — I hope you enjoy our 20th Anniversary Issue.

Stan Allen



Stories in MAGIC this month:

COVER: A Second Decade of MAGICCOVER: A Second Decade of MAGIC
Ten more years; 122 more covers. Continuing on from the display of MAGICfront pages included in our 10th Anniversary issue, here is a look at all our covers from the past decade.

In His Words: Stan Allen
By Shawn McMaster
Twenty years after launching MAGIC, the publisher looks at past and future trends in magazines, digital as well as print, plus ten years of producing unconventional conventions.

Cover Story 2Cover Story 2
By John Moehring
Every picture tells a story, and the cover of a magazine also holds a tale of its own, beyond the feature it represents. Former MAGIC editor John Moehring delves into some of the history and trivia behind ten years of the images on the front.
Piff the Magic Dragon
Piff the Magic Dragon
By Charlie Burgess
You may have heard of his older brother, but it is Piff people are talking about now — a skilled, funny, conjuring creature. There is a man inside that dragon, and he is award-winning close-up magician John van der Put.

Tales from the Phone Room
By Mike Straka
For roughly forty years, from the 1950s to the '90s, touring magic shows used an effective method of promotion: the phone room. Often colorful characters, the phone promoters are remembered here by a man who worked with them for two decades.

Musical ChairsMusical Chairs
By Steve Daly
Too many people, not enough places to land when the music stops. Magicians in Las Vegas not only keep appearing and disappearing, but swapping places, running around town to find a venue.
SAM in the Steel City
SAM in the Steel City
Over 500 registrants attended the 2011 Society of American Magicians convention in Pittsburgh this past July. Headquartered at the Wyndham Grand Hotel, the event boasted a strong lineup of talent.

Magic Never DiesMagic Never Dies
Dutch illusionist Christian Farla is currently enjoying a seven-month engagement at the Phantasialand amusement park in Brühl, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. His large-scale illusion show, Seven: Magic Never Dies, opened on April 1 and plays through November 6, with performances daily — a run of 650 shows in the 1,100-seat Wintergarten Theatre.
A Magical Ceremony
A Moment With... David DaVinci
Dave Womach, a.k.a. David DaVinci, has been performing magic for the past 15 of his 28 years. From theme parks to cruise ships, his own show in Saipan to a two-year stint starring with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, he has accomplished many of his magic career goals, yet he recently announced that he will soon retire from performing.

Plus...
Joseph Atmore brings his Dunninger radio show to life in San Francisco, Scott & Muriel take their "slapstick magic" to the Big Apple Circus, Richard Garriott gets married with a magical ceremony, and we bid farewell to Bill Andrews.





Tricks and advice this month:

Talk About TricksCoffeehouse ConjuringClassic CorrespondenceDirectionsTALK ABOUT TRICKS: My Tenth Anniversary Issue
By Joshua Jay
This month marks Joshua Jay's 120th installment of "Talk About Tricks" — its ten-year anniversary. That's 720 tricks so far, and more to come. As we dive into the second decade of trick talk, we'll explore some unpublished material from Joshua himself, including magic with cards and bills, and a strange effect that requires a body of water!

FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH: Succinctness
By Mark Kornhauser
Performing is fickle. You never really know what the audience is thinking. You can never really think like the audience members. You want to. You think you can. But you can't. One group of performers — let's call them "narcissists" — always think audiences love them. Their narcissism is reinforced when they judge themselves on video. But enough about narcissists, what about us?

COFFEEHOUSE CONJURING: Paid Under the Table
By Gregory Wilson and David Gripenwaldt
The performer introduces an inverted coffee cup, places a quarter underneath and proposes that he can grab the coin without touching the cup. He does so in a very clever wordplay kinda way, and thus wins a free cup of coffee. Offering to go double-or-nothing, he repeats the effect and grabs the coin from under the cup in a magic kinda way. That's when the sleight of hand/con artist lifts the cup slowly to reveal the indebted second cup of coffee in the form of a Starbucks "Double Shot" can.

CLASSIC CORRESPONDENCE: Silent Mora to Mrs. Edward Maro
By Mike Caveney
September's installment offers a very sad story, not only because this letter was written a few days after Mrs. Maro's husband died, but because of the guilt that had consumed Silent Mora for years. The first bit of irony concerning this letter is just how well known Silent Mora is today, while Edward Maro is completely forgotten. One hundred years ago, the exact opposite was true.

DIRECTIONS: Slow Down, You Move Too Fast
By Joanie Spina
Dr. Shigeru Tashiro, president of the Japan Close-Up Magicians' Association, recently brought two of his young students to Pittsburgh for the FISM North American Championships of Magic hosted by the SAM and then to Las Vegas for an educational vacation. Joanie Spina had the opportunity to work with the students, and what transpired was most impressive.



Click here to see the entire list of what's coming in the September issue of MAGIC Magazine.


Seventeen products are reviewed this month by Michael Claxton, Farrell Dillon, Peter Duffie, Jason England, Gabe Fajuri, Will Houstoun, and Francis Menotti:

Open Triumph by Dani DaOrtiz
Devious Standards by Jamy Ian Swiss
Invisible Pass by Chris Dugdale
Tug's Tales: My Magic Life in Variety
by Tug Wilson and Christopher Brinson
Bruce Bernstein's Linking Pins
incREDiBULL by Eric Buss
Streets by John Archer and Ivan Markovic
Pop Art by Mark Southworth
Adventures in Magic by Henry Ridgley Evans
Gambling Scams by Darwin Ortiz
A Cut Above by Msgr. Vincent Foy
The Dixon Drop
A Lifetime of Magic by Charles Gauci
Visible Chinese Coin Mystery System by Marcel and Tango Magic
Jumbo Backstage Monte by Devin Knight
BOLD by Russ Andrews
CHOP by Craig Petty

Reel Magic August 2011 Issue Arriving Shortly

Although it's the end of August... err... 1st of September. Reel Magic is on it's way. Paul Gertner is on the cover and it's sure to be awesome.

Gertner Screen shot

Hey Guys,

I wanted to let you know that Issue 24 is on its way to all subscribers and Magic Shops NOW!

Now if you're not a current subscriber just take a look at what's inside issue 24 below and then hit our web page.

I also wanted to let you know that we've made some changes to the video file that's on all of the newer issues (Starting with issue 14) of the magazine that will help you navigate easier, it's such a great improvement. I think you will all like it. Put it on your Ipad or smart phone, any mobile device and take it on the go. It's just another reason why Reel Magic is the best deal in magic today!

Also there's a link at the bottom of the page for TWO NEW KILLER EFFECTS from kozmomagic. Make sure you check them out!

Thanks for the support!

Koz


Garrett Thomas'

"Stand Up Monte"

and

"BANDED"



Garrett screen shot

Marcus Eddies'

"Empty"

Produce anything that will fit inside a Card Box From and EMPTY Card Box!

empty cover

Click to see the Trailers Here!


Gertner back cover

Kozmomagic INC

18 Fox St

Owego NY 13827

Kozmomagic@me.com (607)-725-5377

Monday, August 29, 2011

This Week at the Magic Castle

This week is awesome. Kevin James is back in the Castle but in the Parlor. I have no idea what he will do. David Minkin is in the close-up room and he is a delight to see. Luis is a fantastic performer. Tom Ogden will be sure to make to laugh. My favorite David Regal will be entertaining at the bar. I am a little disappointed but I won't be in town this weekend. I am moving out my roommate and taking a road trip with him.



Monday, August 22, 2011

This Week at the Magic Castle

Lots of good stuff this week. Holy Shoot is just one thing I would say. How about the Magic Apple owner Brent Geris. Jon Armstrong and Michael Feldman too. It's going to be awesome.



Thursday, August 18, 2011

This Week at the Magic Castle

I didn't post this on Monday because I was in Vegas but I am going to the Castle on Friday to see Jimmy H. and Mark Collier!



Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Magic Live Update

August 8, 2011


IN THIS EMAIL:
  • Wondrous News
  • The MAGIC Shop
  • Fill In Your Collection
  • A Night at the MAGIC Museum
  • Late Night Live
  • Arrival
  • Departure
  • The Orleans
  • Schedule

Dear tommEE,

Hello from Rory Johnston at MAGIC Live!

We are only days away from MAGIC Magazine's 20th Anniversary Celebration. The insanity in our office right now promises the best MAGIC Live ever.

Here's our last update.


Wondrous News

Yikes! As hard as we try to keep secrets around here, this one slipped out. Rumor has been traveling like wildfire around the magic community, so we thought we might as well confirm the exciting news.

Yes, Carnival of Wonders, starring Kalin, Jinger, and Hobson, will be the final night show at MAGIC Live. In addition, this critically acclaimed production will stick around town to play The Orleans Showroom on Saturday, August 20th, and Sunday, August 21st.

Now that you know, feel free to tell your friends so that they don't miss this rare opportunity to see magical theater at its best. We have a few registrations left, plus tickets are on sale for the weekend shows at The Orleans Box Office.


The MAGIC Shop

Remember that wondrous feeling when you stepped into your first magic shop? This year, we're teaming up with the world's finest magic manufacturers and merchants to create the most incredible magic shop (a.k.a. "dealer room") you've ever seen!

Here's who will be setting up in The MAGIC Shop:
Steve Axtell
Beckett Studios
Big Blind Media
BJW Magical Jewelers
Buck Industries
Card Shark
Mike Caveney's Magic Words
Tony Chris
Cresey Products
Daytona Magic
Ellusionist
Elmwood
Fabric Manipulation
H&R Books
Hocus Pocus
Hottrix
Kevin James
JB Magic
Joker Magic
Losander
Magic Apple
Magic Backdrops
MAGIC Magazine
Magic Smith
Magic Stars
MagicTricks.co.uk
Magic Warehouse
Magic Ventures
Make Magic Money
Mike Michaels
Neilsen Magic
Paltergeist Unlimited
Brian Platt
Porper Originals
Potter & Potter
Pro-Mystic
Reel Magic
Schoolcraft Precision
Send Wonder
SEO
Tannen's Magic
Twister
Wellington Enterprises
Johnny Wong
Tom Yurasits
Plus many of our fine presenters will also be offering their wares.

A number of special events will take place in The MAGIC Shop over the four days. Here are just a few:
  • The world's longest mouth coil will be unraveled by Cresey Products, and you'll have a chance to predict just how long this will be.
  • The smallest set of gaffed coins ever will be made by Schoolcraft Precision, then auctioned off with the proceeds going to charity.
  • Once again, H&R Magic Books will have special book signings.
  • A complete auction of collectibles will be held by Potter & Potter.
  • And with every purchase at JB Magic, you'll get a chance at a free $20 trick, but you'll have to beat the carnival game.
Plus, the Grand Prize Giveaway on Sunday night will once again have one-of-a-kind prize packages — 20 amazing gift boxes to celebrate 20 Years of MAGIC! You could be a winner!

Finally, if you've been thinking about updating your marketing materials with striking new images, Richard Faverty (Beckett Studios) will have a photo studio setup at The Orleans for the entire convention. Contact him directly to make a reservation: www.beckettstudios.com.


Fill In Your Collection

If you're missing a few MAGIC Magazine back issues, MAGIC Live will be an ideal time to pick them up. We'll be running our "buy two, get one free" deal, which makes it three copies for just $12 — and no postage.

While we'll have quite a few back issues with us, there just isn't room for all of them at the MAGIC Magazine booth. So, send us an email listing any back issues that you would like to purchase at Live, and we'll pre-package your order and have it waiting for you upon your arrival. You can check out our website to shop around, and if you see one that's out of print, go ahead and list it. Who knows? We might have it, as we've stumbled across some "hidden" boxes.

Please, don't delay! Email Annalise at subscribe@MAGICmagazine.com by end of day Thursday, August 11th.


A Night at the MAGIC Museum

At our first MAGIC Live in 2011, we featured a museum that brought the magazine to life by showcasing many of the objects seen in the articles and stories that first decade. It was such a hit that now, with ten years of additional material, we've brought the idea back. On Tuesday evening, you're invited to peruse an astounding collection of props, memorabilia, and history making items. The museum will be open from 6:00 to 11:00 — the perfect compliment to our Close-up Experience. Don't miss it!


Late Night Live

Tell your friends back home that they can get a taste of this unconventional convention by tuning into Late Night Live on the Internet. Host Jonathan Levit will be recapping each day with highlights and behind-the-scenes bonuses. Nightly, August 14th through the 17th, 12 Midnight (Pacific Time), at www.MAGICmagazine.com/latenight.


Arrival

MAGIC Live will begin with registration at noon on Sunday, August 14th. Come to the Conference Center, located on the second floor, over the Showroom.

The first event at Live does not begin until 7:30 that evening, but if you can't wait to get started, there are a few magic shows playing on the Strip on Sunday afternoon.
  • The Magic of Paris starring Stephane Vanel and Mark Kornhauser, 4 p.m. at the Paris.
  • The Magic and Tigers of Rick Thomas, 3 p.m. at Planet Hollywood.

Departure

The last event, our Finally Party on Wednesday, August 17th, runs late into the night, so we recommend that you enjoy the beautiful accommodations that evening and arrange your travel home for Thursday, August 18th. Speaking of accommodations...


The Orleans

We're very sorry, but the MAGIC Live room block is sold out. To make a reservation, you'll need to call the hotel and mention that you're attending the convention. Rates vary daily. Call (800) 675-3267.


Schedule

If you'd like to take a look at the MAGIC Live schedule, click here

It is, of course, subject to change, whimsy, and flights of fancy.


I hope you have a safe trip into Vegas, and I look forward to seeing you at MAGIC Live — simply the best!

Rory Johnston
Associate Producer MAGIC Live

This Week at the Magic Castle

I am back from Vegas and I see the talent doesn't stop at the Magic Castle. I hope to see some magic this weekend before I head out to Magic Live. The Peller is alive with Misty Lee and Jonathan Pendragon. Helder Guimaraes and my friend Fitzgerald are in the Parlor. Can't wait for this fun.