The Magic Word Podcast

695: I.B.M. 2022 Convention - Day Four Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 05:04:35 +0000

Saturday July 16th 2022

8 am Order of Merlin Breakfast Talk: Road to FISM with Stuart MacDonald Promenade

9 am - 1 pm Registration Open and 2023 Registration Chattooga Hallway

10 am Special Event - TALK MAGIC II
DAVID GOLDRAKE
TRIGG WATSON
LANCE RICH Grand Salon

11 am - 6 pm Dealers Open Chattahoochee Ballroom

11 am - Noon Lance Burton Teen Seminar Rabun 11 am Raffle Drawings in Dealer Room Chattahoochee Ballroom

12 noon Lunch Break (Cash Lunches Available) Promenade

1 pm - 3 pm Ring 2100 In-Person & Virtual JAM Session Grand Salon

3:30 pm Special Event - CLOSE UP SHOW
MC - DOC DIXON
ICE MCDONALD
ALYX HILSHEY
BRENT BRAUN
JOE M. TURNER Grand Salon

8 pm. Showtime - Grand Finale Show
MC - RAFAEL
TRIGG WATSON
JULIANA CHEN
RICHARD PRESTON
THE EVASONS
DAVID GOLDRAKE Grand Salon

10 pm Farewell Party Promenade

Contest Winners:

Close-Up Award Winners:

Youth Award of Merit: Jackson Oliver - Honolulu, Hawaii
Youth First Place: Anja Steyn, Cape Town, South Africa
Adult Award of Merit: Tetro - West Hollywood, California
Adult First Place: Micheal Bloemeke - Raleigh, North Carolina

Stage Award Winners:

Finalists:

Danny King - Garland, Texas
James Irwin - Arlington, Texas
Rena Cui - Fresh Meadows, New York
Anjya Steyn - Cape Town, South Africa
The Wushuong - People’s Republic of China
Artem Shchukin - Moscow, Russia

Youth Stage Award of Merit - Rena Cui - Fresh Meadows, New York

Youth Stage First Place - Anya Steyn - Cape Town, South Africa

Adult Stage Award of Merit: The Wushuong - The People’s Republic of China

Adult Stage First Place: Artum Shchunik - Moscow, Russia

Gold Medal: Artem Shchunik - Moscow, Russia

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Award winners names announced

00:03:22 - Stuart MacDonald talks to the Order of Merlin group with his speech on his Journey to FISM

00:24:18 - David Garrard and Tommy Ellison recap the previous evening’s contest show

00:35:33 - Jeff and Tessa Evason talk about this and other magic conventions they have performed in plus what they did during COVID

00:45:53 - Jeffrey Alan (an I.B.M Board member and American Museum of Magic Board Member) and his assistant, Angela, talk about this convention and the museum

00:52:54 - Trigg Watson was one of the evening’s performer who can now relax. He chats about his experience as well as part of what he talked about at the Youth Seminar

00:57:53 - Past International President of the I.B.M., David Sandy, has also chaired and produced several magic conventions. We recap this convention including the final night’s gala show.

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694: I.B.M. 2022 Convention - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 02:11:00 +0000

Friday July 15th 2022

9 am Close-up Contestants Meet Savannah C

9 am - Noon Registration Open Chattooga Hallway

10 am Spouse Social Hour Ogeechee Room

10 am Special Event - TALK MAGIC
GWYN AUGER
BRENT BRAUN
ALYX HILSHEY Grand Salon

11 am - 6 pm Dealers Open Chattahoochee Ballroom

11 am - Noon Lance Burton Teen Seminar Rabun

11 am Board Meeting - Billy Hsueh Finish Line

12 noon Lunch Break (Cash Lunches Available) Promenade

1 pm - 5 pm Registration Open Chattooga Hallway

1 pm - 3 pm Close-up Contest Oconee, Lanier A&B, Savannah A&B, Sinclair

3:30 pm Lecture - ALEX RAMON Grand Salon

5 pm Reception & Grand Banquet
Music provided by Joe M. Turner Promenade

7 pm Grand Banquet Show
STEPHEN BARGATZE Grand Salon

8 pm. Showtime - Gold Medal Contest & Awards
MC - ALEX RAMON Grand Salon

10 pm Centennial Group Photo, Social Time & JAM Session Promenade

A sold out trick offered at the Daytona Magic booth.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Alan Fisher recaps the previous night’s show.

00:17:57 - Harry Allen from Daytona Magic tells us about some of the hottest selling tricks at his shop

00:29:46 - David Ginn opened this convention with his lecture and is also selling some of his books and products in the Dealers’ Room. He talks a bit about his history with kids’ shows.

00:45:03 - Magician with a Paint Brush and former member of the Le Grand David Company of performers, Rick Heath talks a bit about the Company’s history.

00:57:47 - International President, Ken Scott talks about this convention and what it’s been like coming out of COVID

01:04:40 - David Goldrake is one of the performers who will be closing the gala show with his illusion act. He talks a bit about his schedule and his observations on this convention

01:08:58 - Stuart MacDonald is another performer at this convention who will be presenting his FISM act in tonight’s show that he will compete with in Canada soon. You can hear his entire speech on the final day podcast.

01:17:25 - Alyx Hilshey is a street performer and part of the talent at this convention. She was recently on the cover of VANISH Magazine plus she talks about some of her background.

693: I.B.M. 2022 Convention - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 02:33:18 +0000

Thursday July 14th 2022

8 am Stage Contest Rehearsal Grand Salon

9 am - Noon Registration Open Chattanooga Hallway

10 am Special Event - JEFF HOBSON Grand Salon

11 am - 6 pm Dealers Open Chattahoochee Ballroom

11 am - Noon Lance Burton Teen Seminar Rabun

11 am Annual Business Meeting - Ken Scott Finish Line

12 noon Lunch Break (Cash Lunches Available) Promenade

1 pm - 5 pm Registration Open Chattooga Hallway

pm - 3 pm Stage Contest Grand Salon

3:30 pm Lecture - ONE TRICK LECTURE
DOC DIXON
PUCK
TRIGG WATSON
ICE MCDONALD
JOE M. TURNER
CHRIS CAPEHART Grand Salon

7:45 pm Officers Assemble Promenade 8 pm. Showtime - FISM I.B.M. COMPETITORS SHOW
MC- CHRIS CAPEHART
ELLIOTT HUNTER
ERIK TAIT
ED RIPLEY
STUART MACDONALD Grand Salon

10 pm Social Time & JAM Session Promenade

11 pm Invisible Lodge Meeting Oconee

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Trade show magician, Charlie McFarland and his wife are attending this convention and is an old friend whom I haven’t seen in over 40 years. We catch up a bit. That’s what this convention is all about, meeting and seeing new and old friends.

00:09:30 - Past International President and Gold Cup winner, Oscar Munoz talks about the contests that are running at this convention.

00:17:07 - Elliott Hunter is a young magician who has competed and won several contests and is his first time as part of the talent at this convention.

00:25:54 - Past International President and multiple contest winner, Shawn Farquhar talks about booking the talent for this convention.

00:31:55 - Another past performer and contest winner, Tony Chapek, is a local resident in Atlanta and talks about his interactive act with a television screen.

00:35:52 - Jarvis is one of the contest judges plus he talks about his convention plus some of his military experience.

692: I.B.M. 2022 Convention - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 03:37:54 +0000

Wednesday July 13th 2022

8 am - 11 am Dealers Load in Chattahoochee Ballroom

9 am - Noon Lance Burton Teen Seminar Rabun

8 am Stage Contest Rehearsal Grand Salon

9 am - Noon Registration Open Chattooga Hallway

10 am Special Event - MARIO THE MAKER MAGICIAN SHOW Grand Salon

11 am - 6 pm Dealers Open Chattahoochee Ballroom

11 am Board Meeting - Ken Scott Finish Line

12 noon Lunch Break (Cash Lunches Available) Promenade

1 pm - 5 pm Registration Open Chattaooga Hallway

1 pm - 3 pm Stage Contest Grand Salon

3:30 pm Lecture - MARIO THE MAKER MAGICIAN Grand Salon

6 pm Welcome Party and Autographs Promenade

8 pm. Showtime
MC- JEFF HOBSON
PUCK
SIEGFRIED TIBER
MEADOW PERRY
LINDSEY NOEL & FRANCIS MENOTTI
LOSANDER Grand Salon

10 pm Social Time & JAM Session Promenade

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Join Scott Wells as he departs Houston for Atlanta. What donuts will he eat today?

00:07:03 - I.B.M. Registration and Past International President Bob Patterson talks about the numbers on this convention.

00:11:04 - One of the entertainers this weekend is Jeff Hobson talks about this convention and Marvyn’s Magic Theater and a possible opening of a new one in Michigan

00:18:31 - Incoming International President of the I.B.M. Billy Hsueh talks about his upcoming agenda for the year.

00:22:02 - Ed Ripley, part of the talent here at the convention, but also a previous contest winner and a contestant in the upcoming F.I.S.M convention. He gives some advice about competing in magic competition.

00:30:05 - National President of the S.A.M., the Most Illustrious Rod Chow talks about the S.A.M. convention and this one, too.

00:34:17 - Mike Woodward is a member of the Board of Directors for the I.B.M. and he also tells us about his “Unconventional Convention” in South Carolina.

00:45:10 - Multiple contest winner, Michael Dardant. We chat about his convention and contests and his Twitch channel as well as our previous podcast posted in July 2014. You can Click Here to visit that website and listen to that episode.

691: Rocco - A D'Lite-ful Magician

Scott Wells — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Conceived in Italy and named after a Saint, Rocco is a winner of several awards including the Golden Lion Award from Siegfried and Roy, among others that launched his international career. Performing from China to Guam and Paris to Monaco, his silent act has kept him in constant demand at all of the top nightclubs and casinos in the world. He was also the creator of the D’Lite which has sold six million across the globe. Rocco is also the “master of the sleeve” who has made a career of shooting items up and down in and out of his sleeve making for “enlightenment in the mind.”

In this week’s episode, Rocco shares stories about how he started in magic and the story of how D’Lites were created and stolen. He also chats about some of his highlights so far in his life from his many experiences of performing from the Crazy Horse in Paris to winning the Golden Lion from Siegfried and Roy. He also talks about his inspiration from Bill Wisch and Slydini that made him the magician he is today.

690: Jen Kramer - The Royal Road to Las Vegas

Scott Wells — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Jen Kramer is currently the only one-woman magic show on the Strip in Las Vegas. But not only that, she just celebrated her 500th performance and nearly concurrently, her 30th birthday! What an accomplishment for any young person…or older person for that matter! Jen started with the Society of Young Magicians (a group within the S.A.M.) in New York, later attended Tannen’s Magic Camp, went to Yale, then moved to Las Vegas and soon had her own show at the Westgate Hotel.

This week Jen tells us her story beginning with her humble beginnings learning magic at 10 years of age then her many experiences that eventually drew her to the Entertainment capitol of the world, Las Vegas. Jen has many stories and advice that many will fine helpful and inspirational in this week’s episode.

689: Jeff Scanlan - Thinking Inside the Bottle

Scott Wells — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

While at MAGIC Live! this year, one of the dealers was Jeff Scanlan who puts things in bottles. How he does it is a trade secret, but the results are pure art that many people have put on their shelves as oddities and conversation starters. Jeff is a full time professional magician who was a student and friend of the late Eugene Burger. So although this episode is shorter than most, it contains two different themes: impossible bottles and Eugene Burger.

In this week’s episode, Jeff not only talks about his impossible bottles, but also passes on a lot of advice he learned from Eugene Burger. You get free information passed down from the “master” at no cost to you, but I’m certain that it will be knowledge that you will think about, enjoy, and help make your magic stronger, too.

Happy Birthday to Bruce Lish on your upcoming 53rd birthday. Have a great day celebrating the anniversary of your birth. And thank you for your donation to The Magic Word Podcast so we can announce this special event to the world.

688: Losander - Master of Levitation

Scott Wells — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

From Germany, Dirk Losander has contributed to the zeitgeist of magic with his “Floating Table” that will forever remain in our history of brilliant creations. Losander is well-known in the magic community as a magic creator, dealer, and performer. Many magicians personally know Losander having met him at conventions and seen him perform on stage and heard his creative lectures, too. Living now in Las Vegas, Nevada, Losander and Luna Shimada operate the Las Vegas Magic Theater where they perform and often feature other international magicians on their stage.

In this week’s episode, we talk a bit during the early part of our chat about his theater and how it was developed. There are many clubs and magic performing venues popping up across the country and perhaps some of Losander’s advice might help those seeking to open their own venue. We also talk about how his fascination with levitations and how he thinks and creates magic.

687: Luis Carreon - La Bestia ("The Beast")

Scott Wells — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Luis Carreon has been a regular performer at the Chicago Magic Lounge for over a decade. He “earned his bones” by working at magic shops as a demonstrator and has parlayed his chops into performing for nightclubs (like Nashville’s “House of Cards” and Hollywood’s “Magic Castle” among others) and also for corporate events. He currently is a demonstrator for Magic, Inc. in Chicago and will soon have a “residency” at the Chicago Magic Lounge.

Luis talks about the importance of performing whenever and wherever you can to develop your skills. He also talks about being a Spanish speaking magician. We also go into some detail about what performers can and can’t say in today’s “sensitive” environment like nightclubs. He even talks about the workshops taught at the Chicago Magic Lounge and how to talk with your volunteers and audience. He also talks about the importance of scripting but being able to improvise, too. He also tells a horror story about a problem with a volunteer.

686: Master Payne - On Point

Scott Wells — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

“Master Payne” Fifield is a multidimensional renaissance character. A member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Payne (as he likes to be called) is one of the instructors at Jeff McBride’s “Magic and Mystery School” in Las Vegas. He is also a regular performer at the “Moisture Festival” and other medieval fests throughout the greater northwest. As his website says, “Seattle’s Premier Prestidigitator.” But many magicians who attend MAGIC Live! know him as the master of the PowerPoint with his clever and witty presentations at their events.

Join Scott as he chats with Payne about acquiring his name “Master Payne” as well as how he came to the attention of Stan Allen for MAGIC Live! with his PowerPoint Presentations. He also has a lot to say about working at outdoor festivals in the great northwest. He scatters a lot of advice throughout this episode that many of us will benefit from in our own presentations. He also talks about the importance of scripting and how public speaking is different from talking during your performance.

685: Puck - Getting to Know You

Scott Wells — Thu, 26 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Malcolm “Puck” Puckering traveled with Denny (Haney) & Lee for years assisting in their many college shows. Puck is one of the three who were “acolytes” of Denny, the other two being Scott Alexander and Alain Nu, both of whom have been featured in previous podcast episodes here. So, it is about time that we sit down to chat with Puck about his experience with Denny plus his many other ventures aboard cruise ships and on stages for Monday Night Magic, corporate events and so much more.

Join your podcast host as we get to know Puck along with you as we find out more about his life, his magic and his career.

684: MAGIC Live! 2022 - Day Four Report

Scott Wells — Thu, 19 May 2022 07:42:06 +0000

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

9:00 a.m. - 5:000 p.m. - Registration open
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. - General Session for YELLOW lanyard
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Focus Sessions for GREEN lanyards
- Making Tricks into Magic by Nate Staniforth
- In the Spotlight by Christopher Carter
- Emotional Graph by Shoot Ogawa
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - The Magic Shop (Dealers) Open
11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Focus Session for GREEN Lanyards
2:00 p.m. The Magic Shop closes
2:15 - 4:15 p.m. General Session for GREEN Lanyards
2:15 - 3:15 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards
3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards

LIVE Tonight!

Live Onstage! 90 minutes: 6:00, 9:00, p.m.
Exhibit: Museum of the Arcane 6:30 until 9:30 p.m.
Farewell Party 10:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.
Program Handout 10:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Jeff McBride talks about how he indexes his library at the Magic School

00:06:41 - Michael Mode helps recap a few of the events of the week

00:13:09 - Stan Allen talks about the convention, some of the challenges and successes of this year’s MAGIC Live!

00:29:35 - James Dimmare talks about this convention plus a bit about his show and keeping his doves

00:35:42 - Rocco and Perry Maynard talked a bit about the fate of MagicFlix and Rocco’s new show at New York New York Casino

00:39:47 - Hans-Joachim Brucherseifer was one of the presenters who talked about his upcoming documentary about the mystery of Erdnase.

00:47:11 - Derek Delgaudio briefly visits with us and chats about his “In And Of Itself”

00:49:01 - Craig Mitchell helps us wrap up the convention

683: MAGIC Live! 2022 - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Wed, 18 May 2022 09:46:39 +0000

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Registration open
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. - General Session for YELLOW lanyard
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Focus Sessions for GREEN lanyards
- Rules of Engagement by R. Paul Wilson
- Details in Adapting by Alex Ramon
- Close-Up Clinic: Cris Korn, Eric Mead and Erik Tate
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. - The Magic Shop (Dealers) Open
11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Focus Session for GREEN Lanyards
2:15 - 4:15 p.m. General Session for GREEN Lanyards
2:15 - 3:15 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards
3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards

LIVE Tonight!

Truth, Truth, Lie! 60 minutes: 6:00, 7:30, 8:00, 10:30 p.m.
The Close-Up Experience 70 minutes: 6:00, 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 p.m.
In Concert: The Historie of Magic 60 minutes: 6:00 7:45 9:45 p.m.
Exhibit: Museum of the Arcane 6:30 until 10:30 p.m.

Potter & Potter Auction

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Daniel Will and Scott recap last evening’s show plus some other highlights of the convention

00:15:00 - Nick Diffate tells us a bit about his new book and his recent presentation during the General Session about queuing your stage volunteers

00:17:35 - Gabe Fajuri is another dealer talking about the room and what’s been a big seller plus upcoming Potter & Potter Auctions

00:22:08 - Rudy Coby talks…just talks. :)

00:29:23 - Niels Duiner is a juggler who is also a magician who is looking for a story line for his juggling act here at MAGIC Live!

00:38:07 - Seth Kramer tells us why he attends MAGIC Live and David Regal gives us a summary of his talk in the General Session

00:45:17 - Tom Cutts used to work with L&L Publishing and their video production crew. He has a unique perspective on what went on back then. He shares some good memories from those days.

00:53:17- Alex Boyce tells us about his view of the convention

682: MAGIC Live! 2022 - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Tue, 17 May 2022 05:07:38 +0000

Monday, May 16, 2022

9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Registration open
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. - General Session for YELLOW lanyard
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Focus Sessions for GREEN lanyards
- Talk About Tricks: Very Best of by Joshua Jay
- A Perilous Tightrope by Christopher T. Magician
- Rediscovering Wonder with Michael Weber
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. - The Magic Shop (Dealers) Open
11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Focus Session for GREEN Lanyards
12:30 - 1:40 p.m. The Close-up Experience
2:15 - 4:15 p.m. General Session for GREEN Lanyards
2:15 - 3:15 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards
3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Focus Session for YELLOW Lanyards

LIVE Tonight!

Documentary Live 70 minutes: 6:00, 8:00, 10:30 p.m.
The Close-Up Experience 70 minutes: 6:00, 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 p.m.
In Concert: The Historie of Magic 60 minutes: 6:00 7:45 9:45 p.m.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:42 - Trigg Watson talks about this convention and Masters of Illusion and Matthew O’Niell (20 year old member of Magic Castle Juniors) talks about this being his first MAGIC Live convention

00:08:03 - Diamond Jim Tyler talks about some of the events we attended so far today, plus an update on his “Bamboozlers 4” book

00:16:14 - Joseph Daniels is one of the dealers and chats about Arcane Relics and some future “Bizzare” conventions coming this year.

00:22:09 - Chris Philpott (creator of “100 Monkeys”) moved to Canada during lockdown but has been working on other projects during that time.

00:29:05 - Ben Dentika is another person who is attending MAGIC Live! for the first time and shares his experience

00:35:21 - Earl Chaney is one of the original Ronald McDonald clowns and is a chronicler of old Las Vegas

681: MAGIC Live! 2022 - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Mon, 16 May 2022 06:57:04 +0000

Sunday, May 15, 2022

24 hours Back Room Lounge
10:00 a.m. Registration until 10:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. – Photo Badges until 10:00 p.m.

7:30 – 11:00 p.m. Welcome Celebration

7:30 p.m. until 11:00 - The Magic Shop (Dealers Room open)
11:00 p.m. Grand Prize Giveaway

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Join Scott Wells as he departs Houston for Las Vegas and MAGIC Live! Time to get excited.

00:03:58 - Sherry and Charlie Frye talk about what they have been up to during the past two years.

00:09:14 - Master Payne will be the first presenter on the General Session and talks about his experience(s)

00:15:39 - Gregory Wilson talks in his room about what he’s been up to and his reason for not having a booth this year.

00:28:51 - Karl Hein tells us about the differences between his Extreme Burn and Hundy 500

00:30:46 - George Reager - the Disney Tattoo Guy

00:36:52 - Laura London is representing the Magic Circle from London

00:41:26 - Curtis HIckman talks about “The Void” and the presentation he gave a few years ago here at MAGIC Live! in which he talked about AR/VR

00:48:09 Bruce Averbrook talks about next year’s Magic Collectors Expo in Cleveland where we will visit his collection

680: Kent Cummins - 70+ Years of Experience

Scott Wells — Thu, 12 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

After 70 years as a professional magician, there isn’t much that Kent Cummiins hasn’t seen or done. Not just a magician, Kent is also a noted national keynote speaker, a corporate trainer, author, a magic collector, a teacher and a juggler. Starting young with his first Mr. Mysto magic set, he took the moniker from the box for a short time as he forged his career early in life.He performed magic while serving his country in the armed forces, too. Kent is a co-founder of the Fantastic Magic Camp that has successfully trained hundreds of youth in the art of magic for decades.

In this week’s episode, we try to “take a drink from a fire hydrant” as Kent Cummins shares over seven decades of stories and background from his vast experience as a professional magician living in the capitol of Texas, Austin.

679: William Watt - A Crazy Adventure

Scott Wells — Thu, 05 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Four years ago, William Watt left a lucrative career as a corporate entertainer in Paris, France, to live on the remote island of Mauritius. It is a tourist destination and he seemed to have found his “pot of gold” there. But it seemed like a crazy ides that paid off. William in the sole magician on the resort island performing for tourists nightly. He also has plans to open a small theater featuring close-up magic. But you need to listen to this episode for all of that and more.

To watch this week’s episode, you can visit our YouTube channel. William also performs a magic trick during the last ten minutes of this video which is not included in the audio podcast.

This week we learn a bit of geography as we (or at least “I”) learn where Mauritius is located plus we hear William’s thoughts on theory of magic, performing, marketing, using business cards, and making life-changing decisions.

678: Obie's 4F 2022 Virtual Convention Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 01 May 2022 02:42:55 +0000

Saturday, April 30, 2022 - Organized by Michel Huot & Rune Carlsen

11:30 Zoom opens
11:50 Obie’s Broken Wand Ceremony by Meir Yedid
12-2:00 Teach a Trick - MC: Rune Carlsen
1-2:00 Zoom Rooms open
2-2:30 Dealer show
2:30-3 4F TED - Q&A: Lost in the Shuffle
3-4:00 Zoom Rooms open
4-5:15 International Gala Show - MC: Michel Huot
5:15-6 Zoom Rooms open
6-7:00 Surprise Guest Show (Ondrej Psenicka from the Czech Republic)

Our “surprise performer” from the Czech Republic

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Time stamps for this podcast: (to be filled in later after I’ve slept and eaten)

00:00:16 -

677: Prelude to Obie's 4F 2022 Virtual Convention V49.9

Scott Wells — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

As we prepare for yet another (and hopefully last) online convention, we chat with three of the people “behind the scenes” who are making this happen. Glenn Brown is the Registration person and the two main organizers of this virtual convention are Michel lHuot, from Canada, and Rune Carlsen, from Norway. This episode will hopefully whet your appetite for the “fork full of magic” that will be presented this weekend.

Watch our Zoom conversations of today’s episode on YouTube.

Time stamps for this podcast:

00:03:39 - Glenn Brown tells us why we are meeting yet again for another virtual convention and he also tells us who will be “in charge” since Obie O’Brien has passed away.

00:16:53 -Michel Huot and Rune Carlsen will be the two people “behind the scenes” making all of the virtual magic work. They also give us a rundown of what we might expect this weekend.

676: Ed Alonzo - In The Library

Scott Wells — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

While I was in Los Angeles to work on “Masters of Illusion” TV series, Ed Alonzo found time to sit in the library of the Magic Castle to chat about his career. As a former member of the Long Beach Mystics and the Magic Castle Junior group, Ed launched successful careers as both a magician and an actor having major roles in many television series including “Saved By The Bell.” He also went on to work with Britney Spears on her worldwide concert tour where he interacted with her on stage in his character as a magician.

Listen to “This American Life” podcast for details. Link on this website.

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In this week’s episode, Ed covers a lot of territory in a short hour podcast. He talks extensively about the Magic Castle and his love and dedication to the clubhouse. He also talks about his time as a youth as he was trying to “find his character” when he was a member of the Long Beach Mystics and the Magic Castle Juniors. He tells how he transitioned into acting but never lost his love for performing magic, which he still does to this day having just completed the taping of Season Nine of “Masters of Illusion.” By the way, he talked about running for office on the Academy of Magical Arts: he won the election and is now on the Board of Directors. Congratulations, Ed.

Towards the end of the episode, Ed talks about being on “The American Life” podcast with Ira Glass and David Kestenbaum as they talked about “The Lady Vanishes” or, David Copperfield’s vanish of the Statue of Liberty. Ed was part of the team that worked with David on this illusion and this episode goes into detail about the effect. The podcast website for this episode is HERE. “The Lady Vanishes” is the second part of this episode entitled “The Magic Show” and Ed Alonzo’s part comes very near the end at around time stamp 00:53:00.

675: Magic Collectors Expo 2022 - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 16 Apr 2022 03:13:40 +0000

Friday, April 15, 2022

9:00 – 11:00am Dealer Room

11:00am – 12:30pm Session #3: Mark and Sue Holstein “Dorny” followed by Lance Rich “A Very Special P&L Rose Bush” then Nick Lewin on “Ken Brooke”

12:30 – 2:30 Dealer Room / Lunch Break

2:30 – 4:00pm Session #4: David Charvet “The Great Jester” followed by Gabe Fajuri on “Max Malini”
7:00 – 8:30pm Evening Show: “Magic of Austin Show” with Pat Hazell as MC, Mark & Sue Holstein, Brad Henderson and Nick Lewin

Saturday, April 16, 2022

10:00am – 1:00pm Last chance in the dealer room plus “Magic Collector’s Corner Live”
1:00pm Departure!

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Gary Plants walks with us down 6th Street after enjoying a breakfast at VooDoo Doughnuts as we chat about this convention

00:11:00 - Lupe Neilsen is not a dealer at this collection but is enjoying this convention as she talks about what she is doing in keeping up with building up her inventory

00:19:08 - Editor of M.U.M., Alan Howard, is enjoying this convention as he talks about the magazine and how they compete in today’s digital world

00:26:07 -Trixie Bond’s presentation was the most talked-about session and she shares a few extra stories during our chat

00:36:22 - Mark Holstein talks about the presentation on Werner “Dorny” Dornfield that he delivered with his wife, Sue. They brought and set up a lot from their collection.

00:47:08 - Bill Smith talks about the success of this convention and when and where you can go to sign up for next year.

674: Magic Collectors Expo 2022 - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 05:03:54 +0000

Thursday, April 14, 2022

9:00 – 11:00am Dealer Room

11:00am – 12:30pm Session #1: Trixie Bond “Magic of Texas” followed by Ray Anderson interview with Stan Allen

12:30 – 2:30 Dealer Room / Lunch Break

2:30 – 4:00pm Session #2: Chip Romero “Doug Henning” followed by Roger Dreyer on “Al Flosso” then Cathy Daniel with Mike Caveney

7:00 – 8:30pm Evening Show: Presentation of “Stars of Magic for Hunger in Africa” with Lance Burton and Fielding West

Look at this upside down.

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Timestamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Convention attendee, Steve Troll, talks about his experience at this convention

00:02:57 - Ray Anderson, star of Esther’s Follies, talks about his show and some “behind the scenes” of preparing for this special show for registrants

00:09:48 - Julia Eng, from Magicana.com, talks about working with the experience of attending this convention

00:22:09 - Kevin Oliver, from Dallas, is a close-up magician and full-time attorney, talks about his convention and more

00:26:33 - Steve Beam talks about his experience at this convention and his collection

00:35:33 - Fielding West was one of the evening’s presenters who talked about the 1985 special event that was a fund raiser for USA for Africa. We are later joined by Lance Burton who was the other presenter and the co-producer of this special event.

00:47:45 - Brad Henderson tells us where to eat when visiting Austin

673: Magic Collectors Expo 2022 - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 04:39:42 +0000

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

10:00am Expo registration

3:00pm Hotel check-in

4:00pm Buses depart to Ransom Center presentation

6:00pm Dinner and Special Performance at Esther’s Follies

Esther’s Follies

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Esther’s Follies

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Timestamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Scott and Harriet Jacobson take to the road for a trip to Austin, Texas and the 2022 Magic Collectors Expo

00:09:11 - Organizer Bill Smith greets us as he prepares to welcome all the registrants

00:10":19 - Dr.. Eric Colleary, from the U.T. Ransom Center, chats with us following his scholarly lecture about the Houdini artifacts in the museum

00:14:36 - Lance Burton talks about this podcast and convention

00:19:03 - Mike Caveney sits next to us on the bus explaining that this will be his first time seeing Ray Anderson and Esther’s Follies

00:26:28 - John Gaughan and Pat Hazell wait with us in line for BBQ before the show begins.

672: Chuck Caputo on Anverdi, a Dutch Master

Scott Wells — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

This week we dip our toes into magic’s history to learn about a past Dutch Master, Antonius Albertus de Vries aka Tony Anverdi (1925-1995). Chuck Caputo keeps his memory and his apparatus alive in his collection and his recollection of Anverdi’s props and his life achievements. Anverdi may not be a name commonly known nor remembered by today’s community of magicians, but as we have more and more of our brothers and sisters excavating the lives of past masters, we benefit from that knowledge.

If you would like to view our chat via Zoom, then please enjoy this video of our podcast. Also, be sure to watch the last 15 minutes as Chuck displays some of his prized original pieces from his Anverdi collection.

This week, Chuck Caputo talks about the life of Anverdi and why he is important to our history and his relevance to our magic today. Anverdi’s creations spawned ideas that are accomplished today using digital technology that create “miracles.” And if you watch the YouTube video, you can see some of the props from Chuck’s collection in the last 15 minutes of the video.

This week’s episode is sponsored by the New Magic Academy. Join for free and watch bi-weekly magic lectures LIVE for free plus receive a monthly digital magazine from the New Magic Academy. Click on the banner for more information and to sign up today!

671: Erick Olson - Always Prepared

Scott Wells — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

As the Roman philosopher, Seneca, said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” This week’s guest is always prepared, even in the worst of times. From Disney World to restaurants and resorts to bar bets, theatre management and trade shows, Erick Olson has accomplished a lot and finally reached a level of professionalism and prestige in our industry that has rightfully earned him a “spot at the table” among the “big dogs.”

An example of a way to make a theatrical presentation for a mathematical magic trick

Erick Olson talks this week about his secret to success in the trade show business. If you listen and apply his ideas (based upon his years of experience), then perhaps you, too, can lead a “charmed life.” For more information on his Bar Bets and Tricks, please CLICK HERE or follow this link: https://www.barbetsandtricks.com/

670: The Zubricks - Sand Between Their Toes

Scott Wells — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

After more than a decade in Saipan and Guam performing grand, Las Vegas styled shows with dancers and big cats, Chris and Ryan Zubrick have settled in the U.S. finding St. Petersburg, Florida as their new “forever” home. After an exhaustive search across the country, they decided to open their new Zubrick Theater where they can be near the beach and feel the “sand between their toes.”

In this week’s episode, Chris and Ryan Zubrick sit down on the front row of their theater to chat about their history together and how they came to perform in Southeast Asia. They also discuss their search to find and the hurdles they overcame to open their theater in Florida. They share many stories of life on stage plus about their personal lives and the non-traditional conception and birth of their son.

669: Mark Byrne - The Balloon Guy

Scott Wells — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Twisting balloons is an integral part of many magicians’ repertoires and a topic that has been overlooked far too long on this podcast. We remedy that this week with a conversation with Florida magician, Mark Byrne. In addition to magic and “themed” parties, Mark is a balloon twister/sculptor who has been regularly performing at local restaurants and parties in his area. There is so much more to know about balloons other than the “common” twists that many magicians use in their birthday parties.

An example of a way to make a theatrical presentation for a mathematical magic trick

In this episode, Mark Byrne tells more than I ever knew about balloons including some of the history of balloon twisting, some of the “names” in the balloon world (past and present), balloon conventions, care and feeding of balloons, and so much more. This episode is really a “graduate course” in balloon knowledge.

668: Pete McCabe - Flipping the Script

Scott Wells — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Author of the two volume set, “Scripting Magic,” Pete McCabe joins us this week to tell us about some of his background in writing for television and teaching in middle school and talk about his seminal books on scripting with some tips from his workshop on how to think about improving your show.

An example of a way to make a theatrical presentation for a mathematical magic trick

During the 2022 Magifest convention, Pete McCabe sat down after facilitating two separate workshops to tell us about his background plus talk with us about how you can improve your show by writing a script for your act. He also shares some things that are not even in either of his two books.

Our sponsor this week is Magic Capital Close Up. Click on the graphic above for more information on this convention.

667: Jason England - Fool Me Twice

Scott Wells — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

While at the 2022 Magifest in Columbus, Ohio, we sat down with one of the presenters, Jason England. Although he has sporadically been on this podcast in convention updates, this is the first time we had time to chat without interruption. Jason lives in Las Vegas and is renown for his collection of gambling materials, interest in cons, and his expertise on the author of “Expert at the Card Table”, S.W. Erdnase.

In this episode, Jason England tells a few stories about the legendary con-man, Titanic Thompson, plus some stories about consulting for casinos, how he thinks about possible scams and illegal gambling equipment, plus a discussion about printing “Expert at the Card Table” and who Erdnase may have been.

666: Rob Zabrecky - The Other Side

Scott Wells — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Rob Zabrecky is a quirky, offbeat performer and the medium for the seances at the Magic Castle which makes him the perfect guest for our rather devilish episode #666. In both 2008 and 2009, Rob was selected as one of five top performers in the Parlour of Prestidigitation in the Magic Castle. His background as a musician transitioned into his success as a magician. He is also the founder of the Brookledge Follies that is held regularly at the Larsen home in Beverly Hills.

If you are more of a visual person, you can watch a YouTube video of our chat recorded over Zoom.

This week, Rob talks about his experience as the resident medium for the Magic Castle seances, his association with the Brookledge Follies, and a great story about performing at a birthday party for Michael Jackson’s son, Blanket.

665: Jania Taylor - Magic Lady

Scott Wells — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Jania Taylor is indeed a “Magic Lady” who performs on stage as well as out in the street for outdoor festivals. She also offers a lecture on some of the Women in Magic from over the years. Around the holidays she is seen as Santa’s Helper in a costumed character. And during her “off time” in the winter, she teaches snow skiing.

This was a video of “Now You See It with Scott Wells” from the MAES Convention in 2011 that featured Jana Taylor as one of my guests (as well as Denny Haney, too).

Bob Brown (of Bob Brown and Brenda fame) delivered a memorable lecture for the registrants at the 1983 International Brotherhood of Magicians convention in Honolulu, Hawaii. With today's marketing methods, much of his tips are outdated, but there is still much to be learned by this super salesman. Bob died on February 7, 2016, but I know he would like to be remembered for what he did best.

In this week’s episode Jania talks about her character in her outdoor festivals, promoting herself, some of the history of women in magic, busking, and more.

664: Dom Chambers - Cheers

Scott Wells — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

We continue our tour “down under” for a second consecutive week featuring a chat with Australian magician, Dom Chambers. Dom finished higher in the AGT competition than any previous Australian competitor. Although he didn’t win the big prize, he did receive notoriety and a slot with The Illusionists for their New York appearance. He has also produced his own one-man play, “A Boy and His Deck” with a full show between him and a deck of cards.

If you are more of a visual person, you can watch a YouTube video of our chat recorded over Zoom.

This week Dom Chambers talks about how he came all the way to America to be on the national TV show, AGT, and his journey that began on Penn & Teller Fool Us. He also tells us several stories about his time in New York with The Illusionists, his preparation for his one-man show, as well as sharing his methods for creating new material.

663: Tim Ellis - A Man of Thunder

Scott Wells — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Tim Ellis is an extraordinarily busy person who “brings the thunder from down under.” He joins us from Melbourne, Australia who performs on cruise ships plus he built, lives and performs in the Laneway Theater where he has an amazing venue that hosts the public who watch his magic shows. He has also founded the Melbourne Magic Festival that has featured many international performers including Carissa Hendrix who first debuted her “Lucy Darling” character and won first place.

If you are more of a visual person, you can watch a YouTube video of our chat recorded over Zoom.

In the southern hemisphere, Australia’s weather is opposite of that we have here in the northern hemisphere. In particular, while we are experiencing chilly winter weather, those in Australia is celebrating Christmas in their shorts. This week we chat with Tim Ellis who is in Melbourne, Australia, who tells us a little about Christmas traditions in Australia, his experience of working on cruise ships, developing new acts in his Laneway Theater and the Melbourne Magic Festival.

662: Jeffrey Alan - American Museum of Magic

Scott Wells — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

David Copperfield’s museum is private and only open by invitation. In another part of the country, The American Museum of Magic (AMM) is open to the public. This week, Jeffrey Alan talks about the museum, its history, how it came to be, how it expanded and much more. Jeffrey is on the Board of Directors for the AMM as well as the I.B.M. He is also a full time performing magician in the Michigan area. If ever you are in the Midwestern U.S., then you owe it to yourself to visit this wonderful collection of our history’s treasures.

If you are more of a visual person, you can watch a YouTube video of our chat recorded over Zoom.

Jeffrey shares a lot of information about the history of The American Museum of Magic that brings our history to life. For more information, directions, and to make an appointment for a private tour, please visit their website at: https://americanmuseumofmagic.com/

661: MagiFest - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 05:26:35 +0000

Saturday 22nd January 2022

110:00am - 6pm Dealers Open

10:00am - 11:00am Magifest University Session One

Choose from:
• Designing Miracles with Darwin Ortiz
• Marketing Magic with Kent
• Thoughtful Card Magic with Bernardo Sedlacek
• Gambling and Cheating with Jason England

11:15am - 12:15pm Magifest University Session Two

Choose from:
• Designing Miracles with Darwin Ortiz
• Marketing Magic with Kent
• Thoughtful Card Magic with Bernardo Sedlacek
• Gambling and Cheating with Jason England

2:30pm - 4.00pm Jeki Yoo Show and Lecture

4:30pm - 6:00pm Apollo Robbins Show and Lecture

8:00pm - 9:00pm Neils Dunker One Man Juggling Show

9:00pm - 10:00pm The Fool Us Gala Show

Featuring Stuart McDonald, Ben Seidman, Jeki Yoo, Garrett Thomas, and Amanda Nepo.

10:30pm, 11pm, 11:30pm Mike Pisciotta Bar Magic Performances

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Edmund Apperson and Jeff Kowalk review last evening’s show

00:15:43 - Steve Chezaday and John Wolfe discuss the format of this year’s convention and talk about why they came

00:35:53 - Adam Blumenthal from Tannen’s represented the dealers from the Dealers’ Room as he talked about some of the best seller tricks at their shop

00:39:27 - Nick Diffatte was a last minute fill-in for David Gerrard and he talks about his show last evening

00:44:06 - Don Wiberg has been attending the MagiFest for over 40 years and he tells us why he returns each year

00:50:14 - Carissa Hendrix (aka Lucy Darling) made an unexpected appearance in the crowd. She talks about her MasterClass which will be filmed tomorrow.

00:56:03 - Amanda Nepo opened this evening’s show and in our chat talks about her experience with fooling Penn & Teller

01:00:10 - Mike Thornton and Scott Wells give a wrap to the afternoon and evening’s activities.

660: MagiFest 2022 - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 22 Jan 2022 05:05:06 +0000

Friday 21st January 2022

10:00am - 6pm Dealers Open

10:00am - 11:00am Magifest University Session One

Choose from:
• Impromptu Card Magic with Caleb Wiles
• Maximum Entertainment with Ken Weber
• Scripting Magic with Pete McCabe
• Creativity in Magic with Garret Thomas

11:15am - 12:15pm Magifest University Session Two

Choose from:
• Impromptu Card Magic with Caleb Wiles
• Maximum Entertainment with Ken Weber
• Scripting Magic with Pete McCabe
• Creativity in Magic with Garret Thomas

1:30pm - 3:00pm The Magifest Session

With a performance by Rachel Wax, A Presentation on Comedy Writing in Magic by Pete McCabe, A Card Magic Demonstration by Bernardo Sedlacek, Gahanna Students Performance, and a Talk on the Art of Performance by Stuart MacDonald

2:30pm - 3:30pm Youth Program Event Session 2

3:30pm - 5:00pm Denis Behr Show and Lecture

7:00pm - 8:00pm Jason Ladanye Lecture

8:30pm - 9:30pm Guest of Honor Darwin Ortiz and Friends

10:00pm - 11:00pm Nick Defatte One Man Show

9:30pm, 11pm, 11:30pm Mike Pisciotta Bar Magic Performances

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Rick Herbert and Scott recap the previous day’s activities

00:05:10 - Randy VanderWall and Rick Howard chat about traveling to this convention and why they attend the MagiFest and why people should attend live conventions rather than depending upon social

00:12:46 - Gonzolo Ortiz Hahmann from Guatemala is attending his second magic convention ever. We talk about magic in his country and why he traveled to attend MagiFest.

00:18:34 - Tom Craven has attended the MagiFest for 58 consecutive years and he talks about his histtory in magic a bit in our chat

00:26:38 - Jared Schaugaard talks about this being his first convention in 10 years and why he attended.

659: MagiFest 2022 - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 04:45:51 +0000

Thursday 20th January 2022

5:00pm - 10:00pm Dealer’s Room Open

6:00pm - 7:00pm Jason England Lecture

7:00pm - 8:30pm Garrett Thomas Show and Lecture

9:00pm - 9:45pm Matt Holtzclaw One Man Show (suitable for 14 and up). Hosted by Michael Kent.

9:00pm - 9:45pm Youth Program Welcome Event

10:00pm - 11:00pm Mike Pisciotta Lecture

Magic and Martinis Thursday Virtual Happy Hour from the Magifest in Columbus, Ohio.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Scott Wells takes off from Houston for his trip to Columbus, Ohio and the MagiFest

00:03:33 - Organizers Joshua Jay and Andi Gladwin talk about what we might expect at this year;s MagiFest and why it will be different from past and future events.

00:12:46 - Mike Powers is a frequent registrant at the MagiFest and he tells us why

00:21:49 - Shawn Popp from Denver, Colorado and Cosmo Solano from Colorado Springs, Colorado discuss the upcoming MINDvention and Cosmo’s new magic theater.

658: From Paris With Love

Scott Wells — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Bonjour, mon ami! During my recent trip to France, some time was spent in Paris, the "City of Love." I certainly fell in love with the city and its people. And why not! I was warmly welcomed by three of my local magician friends, Alexandra Duvivier, David Stone and Boris Wild. They were so hospitable and generous and even showered me with unexpected birthday gifts! My travel companions (and fellow Texas magicians, Dick Olson and Trixie Bond along with her husband, Mark Axford) watched an amazing show at Le Double Fond that featured Alexandra and her father, Dominique Duvivier. The next day we had coffee at a little bistro with David Stone then met Boris Wild for a tour of the local Museum of Magic. While there we were entertained by Jérôme Cadeac who is the house magician at the Museum.
Enjoy this episode with conversations featuring three of the top magicians in Paris (if not the world), Alexandra, David and Boris.

In this episode, we open with a chat with Alexandra Duvivier at Le Double Fond immediately following her close-up show with her father, Dominuque. The next morning we meet up with David Stone is a French bistro for some coffee and conversation about the development of his new character, Klek Entos. Finally, we visit Musée de la Magie where we chat with FISM winner, Boris Wild.

657: Mike Powers - Interdimensional Thinking

Scott Wells — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Mike Powers is more than a thinking man’s magician. He is a retired science teacher, an author, an inventor, a mathematician, a creator, and even a sky-diver. He attends few magic conventions except for those focusing on close-up magic. He is the author of the new book, “Tesseract” and he discusses the use of this title in this week’s podcast.

Mike covers a lot of territory in this week’s episode and we go rather deep into a scientific discussion of what t Tesseract is. He also explains how to perform his “Science Friction” trick with a plastic straw. A lot of territory is covered this week including magic that you are sure to enjoy.

Hail and Farewell

to those in our Magic Community who left us this past year.

Although the list below is not exhaustive, it does reflect the names of many well-known (and some lesser known) magicians, spouses and assistants who passed on in 2021. Some may not be as well-known to you, but they were my personal friends (hey, it is my blog!). If you are unfamiliar with any of these names, then it would behoove you to do a little online search of what these people have contributed to our craft. If you have someone you think was overlooked, then please post the name in the comments below on this blog.

Those whose names are highlighted were featured or interviewed here on The Magic Word Podcast. You can click on their name to revisit and listen to their voices again.

Mark Wilson

George Goebel

Carole Greenberg

Steve Shain

Dr. Richard Mossey

Siegfried Fischbacher

Harold Twaddle

David Roth

Alouise Bergeron

Joe Porper

Jeff Marcus

Paul Emmick

Ray Henslee Thompson

Yuji Yasuda (An Song U)

Frances Robert “Robbie” Willmarth

Brian John Miller

Ronald James “Obie” O’Brien

Mike Shelly

John McClenahan

Edward “Ed” A. Morris

Patricia A. Mossey

Jack Kent Tillar

Melvin “Mel” B. Siegel

Aubrey Ronald “Ron” Cartlidge

Frank Seltzer

656: Megan Swann - Madam President...Finally

Scott Wells — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Megan Knowles-Bacon, best known by her stage name Megan Swann, is the first female president of The Magic Circle in their 116 year history. She was 28 when she gained the position in 2021. Until 1991 the Magic Circle did not admit women at all. Megan has been performing magic since she was five years old. Her career began via the Young Magician's Club, a youth initiative of The Magic Circle. She became a member of The Magic Circle at 18. In 2014, she became the first woman to be elected as an officer of the society and was elected as Vice-President in 2019.

Swann is passionate about nature, so she uses her magic performance skills to promote environmental issues. She performs and tours the UK with her ‘Green Magic Show’ for children. In this episode, she also talks about her interest in ballet and the stage magic show she designed around her dance. She has a degree in Wildlife Conservation from University of Kent in Canterbury and performs 'environmental magic' which she describes as 'a powerful tool for sharing important messages in a fun and engaging way'.

655: Mia Krejcik - The Great Escape

Scott Wells — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

In the 1980’s and 90’, the magic duo, Petrick and Mia, were everywhere. They were international stars appearing on television, casino showrooms, nightclubs, conventions and more. They also toured with Petrick’s lecture that included many original effects many of which that have been released on video. But in 2000 that all came to an end as the couple began moving apart both creatively and physically and their act was shelved.

Since that time, Mia Krejcik became a real estate agent in Las Vegas and was far outside of the magic community. Now that she is older, Mia is renewing many of the international friendships in magic she began many years ago.

In this week’s episode, Mia talks about first meeting Petrick and how they became a couple on stage and deciding to escape the country. She also .talks extensively about their harrowing escape from Communist Czechoslovakia to the free world and eventually settling in the United States.

Click on the image above to listen to our lively conversation with Fielding West and Ray Anderson over tacos and enchiladas at the Iron Cactus in Austin.

654: Melanie Kramer - Inside the Box

Scott Wells — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Magicians often talk about thinking outside the box. But magic assistant, Melanie Kramer basically lives “inside the box” on stage with some of the best magicians in Las Vegas. Melanie has assisted Criss Angel, Dirk Arthur, Jeff McBride, Fielding West, Kevin James, Joseph Gabriel, James Dimmare and many others over the past decade or so. As a “box jumper” she has a unique perspective as she can literally jump from one box to another and from one show to another, all the while keeping the secret…well, secret More than just an assistant, Melanie operates her own company, Posh Productions, where she also is an actress, stilt walker, emcee, dancer, mime, model, ventriloquist, and more.

In this episode, Melanie talks about what it’s like to be inside the box receiving all the bumps, bruises, cuts and scars plus some amazing stories about her travails. She also gives important tips for magicians who use assistants, what they should know, how they should act and respond on stage, and how much to pay assistants.

653: Murray Christmas - Our Annual Visit with Murray Sawchuck

Scott Wells — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is our eighth year of visiting with Celebrity Magician, Murray Sawchuck, in Las Vegas. He updates us on what’s been happening during 2021 in Las Vegas. During this past year Murray has been on the covers of VANISH and Genii magazines plus, most importantly, he got married this Fall in the historic Plaza Hotel and Casino in downtown Vegas. He continues to move magic forward as he maintains his residency at the Laugh Factor in the Tropicana plus a variety act in “Fantasy” at the Luxor. In addition to that, he also performs around the country for private engagements as well as comedy clubs and theaters. Watch for him when he comes to a venue near you!

Subscribe and watch our conversation with Murray this week on YouTube.

In this episode, Murray talks about the return of “live” shows and tourism and what shows have come and gone in Vegas in 2021 plus his defense of originating the locomotive vanish inside a theater which has been contested by The Illusionists and Copperfield. He also talks about how some shows are staying financially “in the black” due to the government grants due to the COVID payments and how and where these funds are being dispersed. He also gives some suggestions on what shows you should see when you travel to Las Vegas.

652: Michael Trixx - Up to New Trixx

Scott Wells — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

When we talk about those among us who are hard workers, this week we have Michael Costa (aka Michael Trixx) as the perfect example of someone who has been quietly doing it year after year. In fact, he has been working six nights a week for 22 years mostly in his outdoor venue “Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar” in Islamorada,, Florida in the Florida, Keys. This conversation is a good example of a successful, self-made magician who works hard and learned to even work through this pandemic with live shows. Michael has always been a rock-and-roll magician, and although he has maintained his basic character, he has not been afraid to try new things and new opportunities.

Michael Trixx has been a long-time friend who has an interesting story that will inspire young magicians to keep working hard and how to find success. He also talks about working with doves outdoors and some stories about doves flying off and retrieving them, getting sponsors for his show, finding a venue, the benefits of working charity shows, the importance of competing in magic contests, and how to be bold (or as Paul Diamond used to say, “It takes guts, dammit.”)

651: Steve Cohen - On Max Malini

Scott Wells — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

We continue our extended conversation with Steve Cohen in this second of two episodes. Much of this week’s chat is about the 500+ page book authored by Steve which is currently still with the printer but will include Max Malini’s life story and a multitude of tricks in a section of explanations. Max Malini was a guiding influence in Steve’s life and career though he died in 1942, nearly 30 years before Steve was born. Malini’s life is rife with stories that have become legends. Steve’s book will try to decipher and weed out the truths from fiction and follow where the stories lead.

This week we pick up where we left off last week with Steve talking about his performances at the Waldorf Astoria before he moved to the Palace Hotel in New York. But the bulk of this episode focuses on Max Malini and the book Steve has written about this legendary magician from the early 20th century. Steve shares stories about Malini that will be enjoyed by magic historians and collectors alike.

The graphic novel (aka comic book) by Steve Cohen. Order yours here and help support The Magic Word Podcast with your purchase.

650: Steve Cohen - Millionaires' Magician

Scott Wells — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

While attending the recent Columbus MagiFest, I sat down with the Guest of Honor, Steve Cohen. As most of you know, he is the star of his one-man show at the Palace Hotel in New York City, “Chamber Magic” that has been running for about two decades. He is known as the “Millionaires’ Magician” because of the cultured, cognoscenti and distinctive New York audiences he performs for every week. We had a rather lengthy conversation that covered his Chamber Magic show and his passion for his inspiration, Max Malini. So this first part is more about Steve’s history, life and build-up to and through his career as the Millionaires’ Magician.

In this first of our two part conversation, Steve talks about his preparation and magic training from Japan to New York leading to his residency at the Waldorf Astoria for nearly 18 years and landing him in his current location of the Palace Hotel in New York City.

The graphic novel (aka comic book) by Steve Cohen. Order yours here and help support The Magic Word Podcast with your purchase.

649: TRICS 2021 - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 07 Nov 2021 04:19:40 +0000

Saturday 6th November 2021

Dan Harlan 11:00 – 12: 00

Beam’s Door Jam 12:30 – 1:30

Lunch 1:30 – 3:00
Jonathan Levit 3:00 – 4:00
Henry Evans 5:00 – 6:00
Dinner 6:00 – 8:15
Public Show with Dan Harlan, Ryan Plunkett, Jonathan Levit, Garrett Thomas, Michael Ammar, and Henry Evans 8:15 – 10:15

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Kevin Raylek is one of the dozen dealers at TRICS and he talks a bit about this event and dealers.

00:04:26 - a Friend of The Magic Word, Rick DeNatale, talks about why he enjoys coming to this convention and a few things he has enjoyed most so far.

00:09:20 - one of the presenters on Friday in the “Insights” portion of the program was Rolando Santos. He gives us a recap of his “TED Talk”

00:18:39 - Steve Beam and Scott Robinson talk about their work with TRICS and keeping this event fun and fresh each year.

00:26:28 - Tiffany Allen performs a “Georgia Wonder/Magnet” show and has been a long time member of the local “Sleight Club”

00:35:41 - Dan Harlan is no longer associated with Penguin Magic by resides in nearby Raleigh, NC and tells us what he’s been up to for the past year including a “secret” project that he tips to The Magic Word as a scoop.

00:41:38 - Michael Ammar enjoyed his first TRICS convention, too, and talked about this, his family and upcoming projects.

00:49:57 - Scott Robinson gives a wrap and perspective on the 2021 convention.

648: TRICS 2021 - Days One and Two Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 06 Nov 2021 02:22:51 +0000

Thursday November 4, 2021

Selected Members of Sleight Club 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Kyle Littleton 9:00pm – 10:00pm

Friday November 5, 2021

Newcomer Lecture 11:00 – 12:00
Michael Ammar 1:00 – 2;00
Lunch 2:00 – 3:30
Ryan Plunkett 3:30 – 4:30
Insights 5:30 – 7:00
Dinner 7:00 – 8:30
Garrett Thomas 8:30 – 9:30
Pizza Party 9:30

The newest Friend of The Magic Word Podcast. Welcome, Andy.

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - On the road again with Scott as he heads to Charlotte, NC

00:03:32 - Charlie Randall meets up with Scott at the airport as they discuss the upcoming convention and their definition of “Sessioning”

00:12:36 - long time attendee, Glen Yost, talks about why he has been attending for so long

00:17:53 - John Miller from Atlanta, GA talks about the Obie’s 4F, Atlanta Braves, and TRICS

00:21:24 - Organizer and host, Scott Robinson, gives us some info about TRICS “by the numbers”

00:28:28 - Minotaur Co-Editor, Marvin Leventhal, offers to send the “missing issue” to any subscriber who never got Issue 4 of Volume 8. He also talks about Monday night’s lectures at TRICS.

00:33:45 - Dexter Cleveland, a.k.a. Algonquin McDuff discusses his contributions to the magic community and his best friend, John Moehring.

00:37:35 - Stephan Barksdale is a newcomer to magic conventions and gives his reasons for attending this as his first TRICS as his first convention ever

00:43:47 - Michael Kaminskas is at this convention but heads to Mexico City for another convention then on to the Magic Castle plus making cups and fake fruit as his side (?) business.

00:48:17 - Another first time attendee to TRICS and to any magic convention, Duane Short chat with us about why and how he found this to be his first.

00:52:55- Jonathan Levit and Scott do a wrap up of what the activities of the day have been.

647: John Cox - All Houdini Episode

Scott Wells — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Because we are in the middle of “National Magic Week” and nearing the 95th anniversary of Houdini’s death on October 31st, it seems only fitting and natural that we should revisit with noted Houdini scholar and blogger, John Cox. He was featured on an episode here in 2017, but much has happened since then, not the least of which has been his visit to the Houdini home at 278 West 113th Street in Harlem, New York. This recounting of his visit is just a small part of what makes this episode special with John talking about collecting, correcting mis-information, and more.

Watch this week’s chat on YouTube to see some of the things we talked about. And while you are there, please Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Thanks!

Donated by the Boldt Development Company. Tom Boldt (CEO of the company) has attended the “Official Houdini Seance” for over three decades.

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John Cox was one of the speakers and “hands around the table” at the “Official Houdini Seance” in Ft. Worth, Texas in 2012. This was our first meeting and introduced me to the fascinating mind of John Cox and the world of Houdini. He is often asked how there could still be so much information revealed that would make for a daily reporting (or blogging) about the legendary entertainer. The answer is that things just come to light if you search deep enough.

The next best thing to an actual visit to David Copperfield's museum. Order yours here and help support The Magic Word Podcast with your purchase.

For more information and/or to register for the NEMCA Virtual Convention on Saturday, November 6, 2021, please visit: https://NEMCA.com

646: Johnny Kats - Man About Town

Scott Wells — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

More than a reporter, Johnny “Kats” Katsilometes chronicles history in the making with his regular newspaper and online columns covering entertainment in Las Vegas. His many insightful observations has made him an integral part of that entertainment scene. And since magic is part of that world, Johnny covers it all from the small bars to the mega-casino shows where conjurors congregate. He loves magic and magicians. Some of you may remember that he was one of the guest “roasters” at the Mac King Roast at the S.A.M. Magic Convention in Las Vegas in January 2020. You can read his daily columns in the Las Vegas Review-Journal or catch him online with their digital edition, too. As he says, “I’m on page 3-A everyday and online all the time.” If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and want to know what’s happening, be sure to check out his column before you go.

Recording our conversation was delayed by a day because of a scheduling conflict with another guest for his column. I was bumped by famed guitarist, Carlos Santana (see picture above.) But when we finally got together in the home of Murray Sawchuck, Johnny talked about some of what has been happening in Las Vegas as the ever-evolving scene changes and the baton seems to be passing from Cirque du Soliel shows to AGT (America’s Got Talent) stars on the Strip. He also gave some advice on what shows he recommends seeing when you travel to Vegas.

If you have current magic news that might be of interest to our listeners, then please send it to Scott Wells at scott@themagicwordpodcast.com

National Magic week is traditionally the last 7 days of October (October 25th-31st). The purpose of National Magic Week is to celebrate the charitable work done by the S.A.M, S.A.M. Assemblies and S.A.M. members throughout the year. For more information on promoting yourself and/or your magic club, please visit the S.A.M. website by Clicking Here.

645: Sara Crasson - Resourceress

Scott Wells — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

New York attorney, magician and author, Sara Crasson, can now add another title to her name: Resourceress of the S.A.M. The Society of American Magicians recently created this position for Sara which allows her to put together those who need knowledge and those who have experience. She is also the producer and emcee for the “Flavors of Magic” shows that feature magicians of diversity. And her book, “Own Your Magic” should be a “must read” for any magician who considers themself as a professional.

This week’s video of the podcast on YouTube. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel.

Order Sara's book here and help both her and The Magic Word with your purchase!

This week, Sara tells us what the “Resourceress” does and how she puts together people in our colony of magicians to make us a better, more knowledgeable community. She also recognized that there are a lot of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, sexual persuasions, cultures and faiths within our magic world, all of whom need to have a platform and be recognized. So she founded “Flavors of Magic” which features those out of the mainstream, predominantly white male dominated field of magicians. She talks about how this came about and how she produces shows to highlight diversity.

But the bulk of this conversation is our discussion of taking charge of your magic “brand” and how to go about protecting your name and your intellectual property using copyrighting, patenting and legal documentation. This can all be done online and her book “Own You Magic” details how to navigate through the complicated websites to get it done. But she also gives some basic instructions here on what to do and how to do it.

If you have current magic news that might be of interest to our listeners, then please send it to Scott Wells at scott@themagicwordpodcast.com

644: Joseph Gabriel - A Bird In Hand

Scott Wells — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Multi-Award winning Broadway illusionist, Joseph Gabriel, single-handedly changed the face of magic with his iconic sleight-of-hand performance when he appeared on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” for the first time. Joseph is known for his signature style of producing various exotic birds and is equally adept at large-scale illusions, mentalism, and comedy audience participation. Soon after his appearance on “The Tonight Show”, Joseph began headlining in lavish Las Vegas review shows, such as the “Lido de Paris” at the Stardust Hotel and “City Lites” at the Flamingo where he headlined for nine years.

In this week’s episode, Joseph talks about the importance of “being so good, they can’t ignore you,” to quote Steve Martin. He has developed his own style of performing and talks about his journey where good things in his career kept happening, including his two year association with the Peruvian legend, Richiardi. In addition to his work with birds, he is also an accomplished artist and maker/performer of marionettes.

This week in magic, one of the highlights in our community was the “Las Vegas wedding of year” of Murray Sawchuck and Dani Elizabeth.

643: Jody Baran - Stories from the O.G.

Scott Wells — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0000

This week’s guest is affectionately called an “O.G.” because the commonly held definition for the “Old Guy” term means, “a slang term for someone who's incredibly exceptional, authentic, or “old-school.” Jody Baran certainly personifies that definition because of his decades of performances including years aboard cruise ships and 17 years performing in a hotel in Maui, Hawaii. His associations with some of the legends in our community have taught him a lot which he shares with us this week.

Jody shares lots of stories in this episode from his life that were taught to him by his friends like John Moehring, Lance Burton, Johnny Thompson, Channing Pollock, Jay Marshall and so many more. This episode contains more advice and wisdom than you can get from anywhere else. I think you’ll agree that this is a good one!

642: In the Classroom with Lior Manor

Scott Wells — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Lior Manor is more than a creative mindreader with fantastic products for the working mentalist, but he is also a very busy professional performer traveling around the world and specializing in entertaining the tech world of executives. This week we happened upon Lior quite by accident when attending the 2021 Abbott’s Get Together in Colon, Michigan. I was not expecting to see him there and he was not one of the paid performers nor lecturers. He was indiscreetly moving among the registrants for the most part quite unnoticed…except for me. We found a quiet office in the local high school and sat down for an interesting chat.

Lior tells about some of his travels and exploits and creations in this week’s episode.

641: MagiFest - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 04:51:53 +0000

Saturday 18th September 2021

10:00am - 6pm Dealers Open

10:00am - 11:00am Simon Aronson Memorial Event

11:30pm - 12.30pm Steve Cohen Guest of Honor Ceremony and Event

2:00pm - 3:00pm Carisa Hendrix Lecture

3:30pm - 5pm Nate Staniforth Show and Lecture

5:30pm - 6:30pm Asi Wind Lecture

8:30pm - 10:00pm Gala Show hosted by Lucy Darling with Danny and Stacy Cole, Jeff and Tessa Evason, The Passing Zone and Alex Ramon.

David Devant’s “Any Drink Kettle”

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Richard Hatch gives us an overview of the coming days activities and a look back at last night’s shows

00:13:39 - Scott Robinson reflects on the late Simon Aronson

00:26:00 - Brent Braun was the first lecturer of the convention and also a dealer at this year’s Magifest. He now consults for magicians including those who have performed and won on Britain’s Got Talent and America’s Got Talent

00:38:06 - Erik Tait is the podcast host for Penguin and chats about replacing Dan Harlan as the host of lectures

00:45:00 - Alex Boyce encourages magicians to compete and also consider performing with doves

00:50:35 - We catch up with Reuben Moreland who was a young winner of several magic contests

00:59:08 - We close the convention with the other partner and organizer of Magifest, Andi Gladwin

640: MagiFest - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 02:47:37 +0000

Friday 17th September 2021

10:00am - 6pm Dealers Open (Closed for lunch 12:30 - 2:00pm)

10:00am - 11:30am Eric Jones Show and Lecture

12:30pm - 1:30pm The Magifest Session: Hosted by Andi Gladwin, featuring Tim Hill, and Terry Ward

2:30pm - 3:30pm Alexander Boyce Show and Lecture

4:30pm - 5:30pm Joshua Jay’s How Magicians Think Talk & Interview

7:00pm - 8:00pm Lucy Darling Show

8:00pm - 9:00pm Terry Ward in the Lobby

9:00pm - 10:00pm Asi Wind Show

10:00pm - 11:30pm Terry Ward in the Lobby

“Fancy Nancy”

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Richard Hatch and Scott Wells recap the night before show/lecture

00:22:42 - Mark Pocan, Congressman from Wisconsin, talks about attending this convention and some virtual conventions he has attended

00:26:31 - Werner Reich, author of “Death Camp Magicians” talks about what he’s been doing recently

00:34:31 - “Fancy Nancy” Anderson talks about her excitement of attending this convention

00:39:57 - Master of the Rubik’s Cube, Steven Brundage, talks about all the new magic presentations he’s been working on during the pandemic

00:48:42 - Kevin Madden is on a nationwide magic tour of the lower 48 States in 120 days

00:56:40 - Chris Philpott recently moved from Los Angeles to Windsor, Canada and talks about what he’s been up to for the last several months

01:05:11 - Street Magic Legend, Kozmo, is getting back in the swing of things with his buddy, Garrett Thomas

639: MagiFest - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 04:04:24 +0000

Thursday 16th September 2021

5:00pm - 10:00pm Dealer’s Room Open

6:00pm - 6:05pm Welcome Address from Joshua Jay and Andi Gladwin

6:05pm - 7:00pm Brent Braun Lecture

8:00pm - 9:00pm Jon Armstrong Show and Lecture

10:00pm - 11:30pm John Graham Show and Lecture

Magic and Martinis Thursday Virtual Happy Hour from the Magifest in Columbus, Ohio.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Scott departs Houston with a cup of coffee and a Dunkin’ Doughnut offering

00:04:45 - Jeff Copeland and Caleb Morgan talk about the upcoming TRICs convention, the Magifest, coins and more

00:17:56 - Joshua Jay welcomes us and tells us what to expect this weekend followed by Jon Armstrong talking about his upcoming lecture

00:23:17 - Michael Trixx tells us this is his first Magifest and discusses why he chose to come here

00:34:08 - Tom Craven has been attending Magifest for 58 years and talks about his history with the event

638: Ian Keable on Hoaxes

Scott Wells — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Cons, scams, switches and swindles have been around for centuries and unfortunately have been associated with magic and magicians. How often have you heard, “watch your wallets and watches, he’s a magician!”? Perhaps it dates back to the street magicians as seen in the iconic painting from the 16th century, “The Conjuror” by Hieronymus Bosch.

This week we chat with Ian Keable from London, England, who has recently completed a book on hoaxes in the 18th century England. It is a rather specific area of interest and point in time, but nonetheless interesting and important. I believe this will have interest to all magicians, historians and the general public that will make for intelligent conversation at the right time when you need to pull out some bit of pre-Victorian trivia.

Ian shares some stories from his book this week as well as talking about his previous ventures as an author and performing magician in England.

637: 2021 Austin T.A.O.M. - Day Four Report

Scott Wells — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 17:53:50 +0000

Monday September 6, 2021

9am-12:00 noon: Next TAOM Registrations open

9.30am-10.30am: Lecture: Sterling

11am-12:00 noon: Lecture: Vince Wilson

12:00 noon: Convention Ends

2021 TAOM President

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Dal Sanders provides some “color” reporting on last night’s shows

00:14:54 - Sterling talks about his show in Cabo San Lucas and his history with the TAOM

00:30:49 - Vince Wilson shares with us why we should be booking Halloween shows

00:39:25 - Bertil Fredstrom, President of the 2021 TAOM, reflects on this year’s convention

636: 2021 Austin T.A.O.M. - Day Three Report

Scott Wells — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 03:25:20 +0000

Sunday September 5, 2021

8am-9am: Gospel Magic Service

9am-5pm: Registration Desk Open

9am-12pm: Dealer Rooms Open

9am-9.30: TAOM General Meeting

9.30am-5pm: Next TAOM Registrations open- Visit https://taom.org/2022 to register for next year’s convention

10am-11.30am: Close-up Contest

10am-11am: Lecture: Bizzaro

12pm: Dealer Show 8

11.30am-12.30pm: Lecture: Cody Fisher

12.30pm-1.30pm: Lunch Break

1pm-5pm: Dealer Rooms Open

1.30pm-2.30pm: Lecture: Carisa Hendrix

2.30pm: Dealer Show 9

3.00pm-4.00pm: Lecture: Paul Prater

3.00pm-4.00pm: Lecture: Cody Fisher 2

4pm-7pm: Cocktail on your own

7pm-10pm: Banquet

7pm-7:30pm: Award Presentation & Gift Drawing. Contest winners were:

James Irwin (Sr. Stage)
Richard Blake (Sr. Close-Up)
Bill Winters (Comedy)

7pm-8.30pm: Dinner

8.30pm-9.30pm: Banquet Gala Show: Sterling

11.30pm-12.30am: Saul Ravencraft’s “TAOM after Dark” – Séance Show: Vince Wilson

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Dal Sanders provides “color” and an overview of last night’s gala show

00:09:01 - Daryl Howard reports on the “TAOM After Dark” show with Paul Prader

00:15:07 - Carisa Hendrix was just signed by the William Morris Agency and things are looking up for her

00:34:36 - Harry Allen has been a long time dealer attending the T.A.O.M. convention over the years and gives us his perspective of brick and mortar shops

00:40:00 - Bizzaro is from Texas and chats about renewing old friendships here

00:50:29 - Magical Mystical Michael was on the gala show last night and talks about his street and Renaissance performances.

00:59:45 - Judy and Scott Hollingsworth are two past Presidents of the T.A.O.M. and talk about this convention in comparison with this one.

635: 2021 Austin T.A.O.M. - Day Two Report

Scott Wells — Sun, 05 Sep 2021 04:27:15 +0000

Saturday September 4, 2021

9am-5pm: Registration Desk Open

9am-12pm: Dealers Room Open

9am-11am: Stage Contest

11am-1pm: Order of Willard Brunch with guest speaker, Dr. Eric Colleary

11am-1pm: Lunch Break

1pm-7pm Dealers Room Open

1pm-2.30pm: Lecture: Brian Brushwood

2.30pm: Dealer Show 6

3pm-4pm: Lecture Kent Cummins

3pm-4pm: Lecture: JD Stewart

3.30pm: Dealer Show 7

4.30pm-6pm: Close Up Gala Show

6pm-8pm: Dinner Break

8pm-10pm: Theater Gala Show

10.30pm-11.30pm: Invisible Lodge

11.30pm-12.30pm: S. Ravencraft’s “TAOM after Dark” – Bizarre Show: Paul Prater

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - In the stage contest we have brief conversations with several guests in between introductions of the contestants. We visit with Hannah Ammar, Pattrick Pryzysiecki, Dr. Eric Colleary and Doug Gorman.

00:22:17 - Brian Brushwood talks about his participation in this year’s TAOM convention

00:27:40 - Dal Sanders reports on last night’s TAOM After Dark Show

00:35:58 - we visit with a room full of registrants during the professional close-up show

634: 2021 Austin T.A.O.M. - Day One Report

Scott Wells — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 03:38:07 +0000

Friday September 3, 2021

9.30am-11.30am - Collectors Meeting: Bill Winters presents “Walter Gibson, the Man Who Knew the Titans of Magic” and A virtual presentation of the Houdini collection by the Curator Eric Colleary.
Free for all!

12pm-5pm - Registration Desk Open

12pm-5pm - Dealers Room Open

1pm-2pm - Lecture: JD Stewart

2pm - Dealer Show 1

2.30pm-3.30pm - Lecture: Kent Cummins

3.30pm - Dealer Show 2

4pm-5pm - Lecture: Cody Fisher

4pm-5pm - TAOM Board Meeting

5pm-6pm - Dinner Break

6pm-8pm - Dealers Room Open

6pm-8pm - Cocktail Party

6.30pm - Dealer Show 3

7pm - Dealer Show 4

7.30pm - Dealer Show 5

8pm-9pm - Cocktail Gala Show: Brian Brushwood and Justin Robert Young

9.30pm-11pm - Lecture: Michael Ammar

11.30pm-12.30am - S. Ravencraft’s “TAOM after Dark” – Cabaret: Bizzaro & Carisa Hendrix

President of the T.A.O.M. 2021

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A presentation on Walter Gibson

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Houdini artifacts from Ransom Center at the University of Texas

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Lucy Darling

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Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - a chat with the Secretary/Treasurer of the T.A.O.M. Mary Cay Gold. She is also the Guest of Honor at this year’s convention

00:12:28 - T.A.O.M. 2021 President, Bertil Fredstrom, chats with us before the convention begins. A rare moment of early contemplation.

00:23:09 - Kent Cummins talks about his monthly magic column and his lecture he delivered this afternoon

00:29:38 - Saul Ravencraft talks about the Bizzarre Midnight Magic Shows coming up for the next three nights

00:37:24 - Ken Dickensheets talks about why sound and light are all so important at magic conventions

00:41:32 - Justin Robert Young tells us about this evening’s show along with Brian Brushwood that replaced Nick Diffatte in the evening’s gala show

633: 2021 Austin T.A.O.M. - Prelude Report

Scott Wells — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 04:58:04 +0000

Thursday September 2, 2021

11:30 - Unveiling of Houdini Way in Kingsland, Texas, the first and only street in Texas named after the famed magician.

12:30 - champagne reception at home of Trixie Bond and Mark Axford following the street sign unveiling

8:00 - Esther’s Follies featuring Ray Anderson

On Friday morning September 3rd we had a LIVE virtual tour of Houdini artifacts from the University of Texas, Ransom Center, Austin, Texas presented by Dr. Eric Colleary. This very special “kick-off” for the Texas Association Of Magicians (T.A.O.M.) was open to all at NO COST and a unique opportunity to see some of the collection that few ever get to see in their lifetime. The Ransom Center houses an amazing collection of Houdini ephemera including papers, documents, correspondence, and artifacts associated with the magician, escape artist, business man, aviator, author, and actor popularly known as Harry Houdini. Dr. Colleary took us through an assortment of memorabilia with stops along the way as responded to your questions.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Scott Wells explains what’s going on today prior to the official start of the TAOM

00:05:56 - Trixie Bond talks about the ceremony we are about to see

00:08:24 - official unveiling ceremony for the first street in Texas named for Houdini with Mark Axford, Scott Wells, Kent Cummins, Bertil Fredstrom and Trixie Bond

00:29:16 - Bill Winters gives us a preview of his talk about Walter Gibson that he will deliver at the Collectors Meeting tomorrow morning

00:32:31 - Ray Anderson answers some questions after Esther’s Follies

00:39:36 - Michael Ammar joins us in the back seat of a car with road noise and other conversations but he talks about “Discover Magic” and what he has been doing in recent years and currently.

632: Rick Thomas - Big Cat on the Porch

Scott Wells — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000

No trip to Branson, Missouri, would be complete without seeing the amazing stage show of Rick Thomas. Among the many honors presented to Rick Thomas include the coveted “Magician of the Year” by the Academy of Magical Arts and Magic’s highest recognition "Illusionist of the World" by the World Magic Awards. Thomas has also been featured on numerous national television specials including the NBC series "The World’s Greatest Magic" and “Masters of Illusion” on the CW plus other appearances on MTV, FOX, TLC, Animal Planet, the History Channel plus his own special on ABC.

Rick has completed five world tours covering over 50 countries, including sold out performances at Caesars Colosseum, headlining the Sydney Opera House in Australia and performing both on Broadway and Las Vegas.

Few entertainers have succeeded in Las Vegas like Rick Thomas. His show ran consecutively for 15 years in the most magnificent theaters on the Las Vegas Strip, performing a staggering 600 shows a year. He is honored to have received the Key to the City of Las Vegas and also titled the most successful show for families in its history.

In this podcast, you will get to know the man behind the illusions and the cats. Though Rick no longer works with big cats on stage, he is still committed to helping this endangered species. He chats about working with big cats and the dangers. He also talks about his career in Las Vegas and around the world that has landed him “softly” in Branson where he may end up retiring…if there is such a thing for a world class illusionist.

631: 2021 Magic Collector Expo - Day Three

Scott Wells — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 06:43:43 +0000

Saturday August 21, 2021

10:00am – 11:00am Dealer Room Open

11:00am – 12:30pm Expo Session #3 hosted by David Sandy with Richard Hughes, Gabe Fajuri and Les Arnold

12:30pm – 2:30pm Dealer Room Open

2:30pm – 4:00pm Expo Session #4 hosted by Lance Rich with Bill Schwartz, Retonio and Lance Rich

6:30pm – 7:00pm Cocktail Half Hour

7:00pm – 9:30pm Fabulous Las Vegas: Dinner & Show hosted by Mac King with Retonio and Natalie, Les Arnold, Lance Rich and David Sandy and closed by David Goldrake

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Ron Anderson tells his heartfelt feelings about seeing the Copperfield museum

00:07:43 - Stan Allen talks about this convention and MAGIC Live which didn’t happen this year. Also, we mentioned the talk by David Charvet but had forgotten the name of the person who became “Alexander, the Man Who Knows”. The name we were trying to think of was Claude Alexander Conlin.

00:31:50 - Bill Smith is the organizer of this event and sits down for a short chat about this and next year’s event which will be in Austin, Texas

00:39:35 - David Elliott gives his experience of this convention and visiting the Copperfield museum

00:46:14 - Lance Rich talks gives a brief history of magic in Las Vegas then he and David Sandy talk about the Collector’s Corner they did online for the past year.

630: 2021 Magic Collector Expo - Day One & Two

Scott Wells — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 00:47:50 +0000

Thursday August 19, 2021

10:00am - 4:00pm Registration Open

1:00pm – 4:00p Dealer Room Open

4:00pm – 5:00p Welcome To Vegas hosted with Paul Stone and Mike Caveney

7:00pm – 9:00pm Expo Session #1 hosted by Bill Smith with David Charvet (on Alexander) and Charles Greene III (on Ionia) and David Sandy and Lance Rich performing a trick by Andre Kole

9:00pm – Midnight Dealers Open

Friday August 20, 2021

9:00am - Tour 1 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

9:25am- Tour 2 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

9:50am Tour 3 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

10:15am Tour 4 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

10:40am Tour 5 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

11:05am Tour 6 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

11:15am – 4:00pm Dealer Room Open

11:15am – 4:00pm The Magicana

Screening Room

11:30am Tour 7 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

11:55pm Tour 8 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

12:20pm Tour 9 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

12:45am Tour 10 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

1:10pm Tour 11 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

1:35pm Tour 12 Leaves David Copperfield Museum

3:35pm - Last Tour Returns David Copperfield Museum

7:00pm – 8:45pm Expo Session #2

9:00pm – 10:30pm Blackstone

10:30pm – Midnight Dealer Room Open

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Scott Wells at the airport and ready with Dunkin’ Donuts to go to Las Vegas

00:02:57 - Paul Stone will be the first speaker this evening who will talk about the career of the Las Vegas icons, Siegfried and Roy

00:11:38 - Chip Romero happened upon a unique find: Doug Henning’s diary when he was traveling to the Magic Castle to meet Dai Vernon

00:15:28 - Blair Robertson talks about Walter Blaney’s new Vanishing Birdcage

00:23:05 - Paul Kieve talks about some history of the Sawing illusion plus Robert Harbin info and stories plus Richard Hatch talks about his experience of visiting the Copperfield museum

00:41:29 - Terry Magelssen tells us his thoughts about being on the tour of the Copperfield museum

00:47:41 - David “Silly Billy” Kaye talks about the history of children’s magic in the world

629: Escaping Reality with Garry Carson

Scott Wells — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000

It seems that illusionists are getting fewer in today’s entertainment world and the best way to see them in while they are in residence at a casino or showroom. Garry and Janine Carson have a show, “Escape Reality” in Branson, Missouri where they take their audience on a 75 minute whirlwind journey of illusion and fun. Their theater is not one of the larger ones in Branson, but they fill out the stage Having put their show in Branson in 2020 seemed to be bad timing, but tourism continued despite the pandemic and they captured the coveted awards of “Best New Show” and “Best Dinner Show” in the 2020 Best of Branson Awards presentation.

Branson, Missouri, hosts a lot of variety shows including magic. One of the many shows in town is “Escape Reality” with Garry & Janine Carson. After I watched his late afternoon dinner show, we retired to his dressing room to talk about his career on cruise ships to Las Vegas to Branson.

628: 2021 Abbott's Get Together - Day Four

Scott Wells — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 06:15:49 +0000

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7TH 2021
9:00AM VENT-O-RAMA at Abbott's Magic with George Schindler
9:30AM REGISTRATION OPENS at the Abbott Plant
10:00AM LECTURE at Colon High School - Franz Harary
11:00AM REMEMBERING THE GREATEST TALENT CONTEST at High School - Lance Burton - Mac King - Jeff Hobson - Kevin James
(Artwork auction benefitting the Kentucky Humane Society.)
12:00PM STREET PERFORMER (John Sturk) at Dawn's Cafe (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
1:00PM LANCE BURTON & FRIENDS Q&A at Colon High School
1:00PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with TBA; $5 cash at the door)
2:30PM-6PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
3:00PM DEALER'S SHOW in Dealers' Room
3:00PM STREET PERFORMER (Jon LaChance) at Abbott's Magic (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
3:00PM-5PM COLON HISTORICAL MUSEUM is open
4:30PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Joe Bennett; $5 cash at the door)
5:00PM-7:00PM Chuck Wagon BBQ Dinner at Lutheran Church (484 S Burr Oak Road, Colon; $12 cash dinner fee)
5:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Trino) at Curly's (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
6:00PM-7:45PM DINNER on your own
7:45PM PRESHOW LIVE ORGAN MUSIC - by John Sturk
8:00PM ABBOTT'S STAGE SHOW - (view seating chart)
Featuring Lance Burton, Fielding West, Keith West, Michael Goudeau
10:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM OPENS at Colon High School
10:30PM ABBOTT'S PERFORMER AWARDS at Colon High School

SUNDAY, AUGUST 8TH 2021 (Post Get Together Events)
12:00PM MAGICIAN'S TOUR OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF MAGIC
(This tour of the museum and archives is geared towards magicians and will include a special
selection of artifacts never-before-on-display. $10 per person. Reservations not necessary.)

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:18 - Tim “Skilldini” Wright talks about working in the Abbott’s Magic Company factory and gives us a virtual tour from his memory of the workshop

00:17:31 - Bobbie and Fred Becker talk about this Get Together and how Fred once lived and worked in Colon, Michigan

00:29:40 - Richard Cohn is the ultimate expert on magic in Coney Island, New York. This is Richard’s first time and he gives us his perspective of the event

00:39:39 - Derrick Kennedy, owner of Magic, Etc. in Fort Worth talks about traveling by train to this event each year

00:51:48 - Kevin James was another of the attendees who grew up with the Get Together and was one of the lecturers at this year’s event. He also shared his journey from Michigan to California where he joined the Long Beach Mystics.

01:01:43 - Debbie Bordner, wife of Greg Bordner, wraps up the Get Together with her assessment of this year’s event and encourages people to register for next year’s event on August 3-6, 2022. The sooner you register, the better the rate. Click Here to visit the registration site.

627: 2021 Abbott's Get Together - Day Three

Scott Wells — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 04:05:22 +0000

FRIDAY, AUGUST 6TH 2021
9:30AM REGISTRATION OPENS at the Abbott Plant
9:30AM ABBOTT'S STAGE TALENT CONTEST Colon High School
10:00AM-12:45PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
10:30AM SUPER SHOWROOM SPECIALS in Dealers' Room
12:00PM STREET PERFORMER (Trino) at M&M Grill (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
1:00PM LECTURE David Williamson & Chad Long
1:00PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Phil Mann; $5 cash at the door)
2:30PM ABBOTT'S CLOSEUP SHOW
Featuring Eric Decamps
3:00PM-5:00PM COLON HISTORICAL MUSEUM is open
4:00PM-6:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
4:00PM STREET PERFORMER (Gordon Russ) at Colon Historical Museum (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
4:30PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Joe Bennett; $5 cash at the door)
5:00PM-7:00PM Chicken Parmesan Dinner at Lutheran Church (484 S Burr Oak Road, Colon; $10 cash dinner fee)
5:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Jania Taylor) at Village Market (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
6:00PM-7:45PM DINNER on your own
7:45PM PRESHOW LIVE ORGAN MUSIC - by John Sturk
8:00PM ABBOTT'S STAGE SHOW - (view seating chart)
Featuring Ice McDonald, Trent Rivas, Doc Swan, Nick Diffatte, David Kaplan, The Holsteins, Mike Miller
10:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM OPENS at Colon High School
10:30PM ABBOTT'S TALENT CONTEST AWARDS at Colon High School

Time stamps for this podcast:

00:00:18 - John Sturk is the organ player for the evening shows plus he coordinates the street performers during the Get Together

00:13:16 - Len Radde has attended over 40 Get Togethers and he compares this event with past events

00:21:50 - 92 year old Dick Stoner is the owner of his own magic shop in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and a pioneer of magicians working in trade shows.

00:37:02 - Jania Taylor was one of the perennial street performers at the Get Together

00:42:20 - Franz Harary was one of the lecturers this year and talks about his part in this year’s Get Together

00:51:21 - David Williamson discusses his hedge clipper accident with his hand and what he’s been up to with the “Illusionists” tour.

00:54:54 - Ice McDonald talks about getting booked on this year’s event

00:59:00 -Nick Deffatte was one of the performers and lecturers at this Get Together and he talks about working on cruising

626: 2021 Abbott's Get Together - Day Two

Scott Wells — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 03:03:25 +0000

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5TH 2021
9:30AM REGISTRATION OPENS at the Abbott Plant
10:00AM-10:45AM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
11:00AM LECTURE at Colon High School Kevin James
12:00PM STREET PERFORMER (Jon LaChance) at Dawn's Cafe (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
1:00PM LECTURE at Colon High School Ice McDonald
1:00PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Jeffrey Alan; $5 cash at the door)
2:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Jania Taylor) at Abbott's Magic (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
2:30PM-6PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
3:00PM DEALERS SHOW at Colon High School
3:00PM-5PM COLON HISTORICAL MUSEUM is open 3:45PM FAMOUS MAGICIANS GRAVEYARD TOUR ushered by Al The Only
4:30PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Joe Bennett; $5 cash at the door)
5:00PM-7:00PM Spaghetti Dinner at Methodist Church (230 N Blackstone Ave, Colon; $ cash dinner fee)
5:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Nick Eaton) at Curly's (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
6:00PM-7:45PM DINNER on your own 7:45PM PRESHOW LIVE ORGAN MUSIC - by John Sturk
8:00PM ABBOTT'S STAGE SHOW - (view seating chart)
Featuring Mac King, Mike Caveney, Tina Lenert, Tim Wright, Joel Hodgson
10:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM OPENS at Colon High School

This is the act that David Charvet presented on the Thursday night show.

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:17 - Jeff Jackowski, John Dudley and Mark McDermott are registrants of this year’s Get Together and we get their perspective of the first day’s show

00:06:16 - Eric Decamps was one of the performers and lecturers at this year’s event. Eric talks about this being his first Get Together. We are later joined by Randy Wakeman who joined us and gave us an update on the health of Simon Lovell.

00:17:45 - Steve Chezaday, from Naperville, Illinois, is one of the stage crew for this Get Together

00:24:56 - Louie Foxx talks about his performance for the Amish families and his experiences for this, his first, Get Together

00:32:25 - Mike Miller was the Talent Coordinator of this year’s Get Together. He chats a bit about putting this all together and the challenges of doing it during the pandemic.

625: 2021 Abbott's Get Together - Day One

Scott Wells — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 04:36:36 +0000

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4TH 2021
9:30AM REGISTRATION OPENS at the Abbott Plant
10:00AM - 12:45PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
10:30AM SUPER SHOWROOM SPECIALS in Dealers Room
12PM STREET PERFORMER (Gordon Russ) at M&M Grill (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
1:00PM LECTURE at Colon High School (Eric Decamps)
1:00PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with BJ Mallen; $5 cash at the door)
2:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Nick Eaton) Colon Historical Museum (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
3:00PM LECTURE at Colon High School (Nick Diffatte)
3:00PM-5PM COLON HISTORICAL MUSEUM is open
4:30PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic (with Joe Bennett; $5 cash at the door)
4:30PM-6PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS' ROOM at Colon High School
5:30PM STREET PERFORMER (Jania Taylor) at Village Market (sponsored by IBM Ring 386-Percy Abbott / Monk Watson Magic Club)
6:00PM-7:45PM DINNER on your own
7:45PM PRE-SHOW LIVE ORGAN MUSIC - by John Sturk
8:00PM ABBOTT'S STAGE SHOW - (view seating chart)
Featuring Jeff Hobson, Kevin James, John Jansky, Stuart MacDonald, BJ Mallen
10:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM OPENS at Colon High School

Time Stamps for This Episode:

00:00:18 - Greg Bordner, owner of Abbott’s Magic Company, is our first stop as we pick up our registration for the Get Together

00:18:03 - Mark Holstein updates us on the Thursday night surprise guest, Michael Carbonaro, had to cancel and will be replaced by David Charvet

00:20:28 - Walter “Zaney” Blaney’s celebration of life graveside service with his daughter, Shannon Blaney, and hosted by Daniel Summers who introduced Past International President of the I.B.M., David Sandy, who did the “Broken Wand” ceremony followed by Lance Burton who performed Walter’s Vanishing Bird Cage.

00:45:24 - Chad Long was one of the attendees at the service

00:46:14 - Gay Blackstone talks about this convention that honors the Blackstone family

00:49:42 - Daniel Summers talked about the Blaney service, his headstone, and more

00:52:58 - John Jansky was one of the Wednesday night show who is a “speed painter” and created a portrait of Johnny Thompson

624: 2021 Abbott's Get Together - Prelude

Scott Wells — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 05:04:30 +0000

TUESDAY, AUGUST 3rd 2021 (Pre Get Together Events)
8:00AM THE OPEN COLON "NO FRILLS" GOLF CLASSIC
(with Al The Only - The cost is $10 plus the cost of golf)

2:00PM MAGICIAN'S TOUR OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF MAGIC
(This tour of the museum and archives is geared towards magicians and will include a special
selection of artifacts never-before-on-display. $10 per person. Reservations not necessary.)

Time stamps for this episode:

00:00:16 - Scott Wells takes off from Houston, Texas

00:03:24 - Trixie Bond

00:10:42 - Mark Holstein

00:20:03 - Al the Only talks about the Open Colon golf tournament

00:28:16 - Michael Mode talks about the Amish dinner

00:31:48 - Alex Boyce

00:36:55 - David Seebach talks about the “Night Before” party

623: James Holmes - The Cane and Silk Road

Scott Wells — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

During a recent trip to Branson, Missouri, to see a couple of the magic shows in town, I was pleasantly reunited with an old friend, James Holmes. The name is probably not familiar to, well…nearly 95% of listeners here on the podcast. But for a variety of reasons, you should know who this person is and what he has contributed and continues to contribute to our magic community. James has been around for a long time and I probably made his acquaintance in the 1980’s. He is the creator of the “One Handed Cane to Silk” among other things.

This week, James talks about how he came up with the “One Handed Cane to Silk” effect and how he developed and marketed it. He talks about his close association with the late Fantasio as well as the late team of “Tom and Sherrie”. Unfortunately, piracy is a common thing in our community where unscrupulous “manufacturers” and dealers make and sell ripoffs of others’ creations. James talks a little about this and how it affected both him and Fantasio.

622: Michael Chaut - Monday Night Magician

Scott Wells — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Michael Chaut is one of the co-producers of Monday Night Magic in New York City. After 25 years, it is the longest running magic show in NYC. In this week’s episode, Michael shares the history of Monday Night Magic along with a brief history of some of the other magic venues and performers during the 20th century in NYC.

This week’s video of the podcast on YouTube. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel.

Producers of Monday Night Magic

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621: Chris "Saul Ravencraft" Walden - A Bizzarist Comes Out

Scott Wells — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Chris Walden, from “Keep Austin Weird” Austin, Texas, is a professional entertainer who has won a comedy award from the Texas Association of Magicians; however, he soon realized that was not who he was. As he continued his journey of introspection, he came to the realization that his path was going to be as a “bizarre” entertainer. For those not familiar with this term, the internet defines a bizzarist as: “One who is a magician but uses storytelling and word play to a much greater degree, and less emphasis is placed on the manual dexterity of the performer or the complexity of his equipment.” As a result of his life’s journey, he is now known as “Saul Ravencraft.”

In this week’s episode, Saul Ravencraft talks about his journey to “find himself” that might prove inspirational to some listeners who are questioning their identity and character. Along the way, Saul talks about his short-lived live, online paranormal radio show, The Shadow Hour, and some of the interesting guests he had on the show. He also discusses the Museum of the Weird in Austin, Texas, plus a little about his mentor and friend, the late Ed Solomon aka “Denomolos”.

620: Katrina Kroetch - A New Force Awakens

Scott Wells — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

“Magical Katrina” aka Katrina Kroetch, is one of the new breed of young (under 30) magicians who is making a name for herself in our business. Katrina has competed not only in magic conventions, but also on the “big stage” in Las Vegas on “Penn & Teller Fool Us.” She is adept at close-up. stand-up comedy magic and birthday parties. She also knows how to use her social media to her advantage and how to find the right people to save her hours of time. One such suggestion is to get a “personal virtual assistant” as suggested by Tim Ferriss in “The 4 Hour Work Week” (link to the book below) and by listening to his podcast.

This week, Magical Katrina talks about how and why she goes by a stage name and how she brands her identity in social media. She also talks about how she got on “Penn & Teller Fool Us” and how she got to know Penn Jillette. Katrina is not a name that is universally known, but I believe that if she keeps doing what she is doing, she will be a force to be reckoned with soon.

As mentioned in this week's episode, here is the book we both recommend.

619: Eric Colleary PhD - In Front of the Bookcase

Scott Wells — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

This week we travel to Austin, Texas where one of the world’s largest collection of Houdini ephemera resides. Dr. Eric Colleary is our guest who is the Cline Curator of Theatre & Performing Arts at the Harry Ransom Center, an international humanities research library, archive, and museum. He holds a Ph.D. in Theatre Historiography from the University of Minnesota and an all-around great guy. The title “In Front of the Bookcase” for this week’s episode comes from the massive bookcase (and its contents) once owned by Houdini that now is owned by the University.

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

In this conversation, Dr. Colleary tells us about how this Houdini collection came to Austin, Texas and what is in the massive collection. There are some interesting stories in this week’s episode told about Houdini and Eric also debunked a few myths around parts of this collection.

618: Jeff Hobson - World Class Host

Scott Wells — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Jeff Hobson is a name that is familiar with magicians and the lay public alike. After many years as the host of “The Illusionists” world tour (the “Trickster”), Jeff has made countless fans around the globe. But before that he was the “Host of Las Vegas” where he had his own show plus worked as the host for many variety shows. Besides being comedy magician and emcee, for a short time Jeff also pioneered the online lecture service out of Las Vegas. Of late, Jeff is the owner/operator of “Marvyn’s Magic Theater” in La Quinta, California.

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

This week, Jeff Hobson talks about his long career that has taken him from his roots in Michigan to Las Vegas to Atlantic City then around the world. He performed with Mark Kalin and Jinger in “Carnival of Wonders” then took off with “The Illusionists” as the emcee of that show. Jeff talks about all of that plus how he has “settled down” (at least for a while) with his “Marvyn’s Magic Theater” in California.

617: U.K. Kid Show Magicians

Scott Wells — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Kids are kids the world over and they all love magic. But there are some subtle differences in how and where magic is presented to children in the U.S. versus how it's done in the U.K. This week we chat with family and children show entertainers from the U.K. about these differences and some of their challenges (i.e. taking the tube and/or train in London between shows) and how they brand themselves by using memorable names for their characters.

Listen this week to our chat with Martin "Mr. Biscuit" Cox, Dave "Magic Dave" Allen and Paul "Colonel Custard" Megram as we hear how it's done "across the pond."

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

This week, Paul Megram, Dave Allen and Martin Cox represent a small sample of the complex and multi-levels of children’s show magicians in England. Someone could easily make a podcast devoted to just the kid show industry in the U.K. by featuring a different entertainer each week, but that’s not what The Magic Word Podcast is about. So please enjoy this 35,000 foot (or 10,668 meters) overview of this lucrative industry and accept our apologies if we have left out you as a guest or topics that you think we should have discussed.

616: Jon Allen - We'll Clean That Up Later

Scott Wells — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

From the U.K., Jon Allen is our guest this week who is the creator of “Silent Treatment” and “The Pain Game” and the 3 DVD set, “Connection”, among so many other offerings to the magic community. Jon continues to be a creator, performer and overall just an interesting gentleman who has been recognized for his talents by being a Member of the Inner Magic Circle (M.I.M.C. with Gold Star) among other accolades. He has also received “Close-Up Magiician of the Year” by The Magic Circle.

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

During our conversation, Jon talks about comedy in the U.K., working weddings and corporate events plus performing on the U.K edition of “Penn & Teller Fool Us” with his “Pain Game.” He also chats about creativity and theory and his philosophy of magic.

615: Shaun Jay - Bright Ideas

Scott Wells — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The future of magic lies in the hands of our youth. This week we prove that the next generation of magicians is in good hands and going in the right direction as we speak with Shaun Jay. Shaun was on the cover of the M.U.M. journal in 2020 and has appeared on the “Masters of Illusion” on the CW Network. He is involved in making magic and magical things. And he respects the history, inspiration and mentorship of those with more years of experience.

Shaun has his own podcast which is totally different from The Magic Word Podcast but worth your time to explore. See his “Making Magic with Shaun Jay” podcast video interviews at: https://YouTube.com/shaunjaymagic or you can listen here: http://bit.ly/makingmagiconapple

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

This week Shaun talks about his path on how he got on the national network television show, “Masters of Illusion” and he discusses some of the things he has made such as his wristwatches that are pieces of art, plus he talks about how he developed his act. For more information on his 3D design and prop making, please visit: https://utilitygaffs.com

614: Rob Lake - A Pool of Knowledge

Scott Wells — Thu, 27 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Great things come from the Midwest. Sometimes, great BIG things, like stage illusionist, Rob Lake. Following his inspiration of Doug Henning and his mentorship of Kirby VanBurch, Rob has taken his stage illusion show across the country and indeed, around the world having performing in casinos, arenas and theatres in London, Japan, the Bahamas and from coast to coast in the U.S. This week Rob talks about his incredible journey while paying tribute to those who got him to where he is today with a look at where he hopes to go in the future.

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube. Please subscribe to our channel while you are there.

This was the video screen production on America’s Got Talent [sic] that was discussed on the podcast.

In this week’s episode, Rob Lake talks about how he almost “blew off” performing on America’s Got Talent [sic] and a (now funny) anecdote about Joe Exotic (The Tiger King) who used his name and nearly ruined Rob’s reputation. He also discusses his performances abroad and what it takes to transport such a large illusion show across the country.

613 - Franz Harary - Think BIG!

Scott Wells — Thu, 20 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

This “long overdue” conversation with mega-illusionist, Franz Harary, is a very special edition. Franz is truly an international star of magic and his work has kept him busy for decades. In this episode Franz is finally taking a “breather” and relaxing so we can talk about his passions and career. We cover a lot of territory from creativity to the cosmos. He also shares some “never-before-told” stories and tips for stage performers that he has not discussed before now.

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

Franz Harary begins this episode talking about his passion for all things related to outer space, which might explain why one of his earliest illusions was to vanish the space shuttle. He also talks about international touring, working in outdoor coliseums and his time in Asia performing at his own theatre in Macau. Of course, he also shares some stories about some of the celebrities he has worked with from Janet and Michael Jackson to…well, you can’t get much more “celebrated” than the King of Pop!

612 - Bill Abbott - Gimme That Mic

Scott Wells — Thu, 13 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Magicians are “wired” to perform. We want the microphone. We love the bright lights, the sound of applause and especially laughter…at the right time and place. This week’s guest, Bill Abbott, is a comedy magician who understands comedy and knows how to perfectly blend it with magic.

Indeed it is a fine balance because in the end, we want our audiences to remember us but also to have had a good time. So there should be mystery and humor. If you are going to be a magician, then there should be mystery that fools people. If you are going to be a comedian, then you will be telling a series of jokes. But to blend the two together, you shouldn’t be a “prop comic” relying on your props for laughs, but rather, the emphasis should be on the overall experience your audience will take home with them.

This week’s podcast on YouTube.

Bill Abbott shares lots of tips and advice on how to structure your show with comedy and how to relate to your audiences with a performance that they will remember.

611 - Jack Brutus Penny and Shaun Rivera - In The Cards

Scott Wells — Thu, 06 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Why are magicians fascinated by playing cards? This week week have two separate conversations with two diverse people (one a creator and the other a collector) from two sides of the planet. Jack Brutus Penny is from England but lives in Japan where he is a teacher by day and a writer and playing card designer by night. Back in the U.S., Shaun Rivera is a magician in America’s heartland (Kansas City) who has a passion for collecting playing cards. This week the creator collides with the collector in an episode where we explore how cards are developed all the way to the retail buyer/collector.

For more information on Jack Penny’s Kickstarter campaign, please visit: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jackbrutuspenny/sensu

This week’s podcast episode on YouTube.

Jack Brutus Penny starts off our episode this week talking about the development, design and thought that goes into creating a new playing card. He talks about the card stock, printing, design, and marketing of his playing card creations that gives us some real insight into what goes into bringing these beautiful cards to collectors. Next we hear from Shaun Rivera who has amassed a collection of over 5,000 decks of playing cards. Find out this week how he started and why he continues his “obsession.”

610 - TC Tahoe - I Heart TC

Scott Wells — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

TC Tahoe is much more than a comedy magician. Currently hailing from the Sunshine State of Florida, TC is also an illustrator and a card reader. Yes, he has skills with playing cards, but I’m talking about Tarot cards. One of the skills he learned at a young, impressionable age was how to read Tarot cards and that has stuck with him all these years. TC has been nominated by the Academy of Magical Arts on multiple occasions for multiple awards but has yet to take home a coveted prize other than “also ran.” Oh well, perhaps some day. He has also worked at both Magic Island locations in California and Texas.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

This week TC Tahoe talks about his experience of performing at the Magic Islands in Newport Beach, California, and in Houston, Texas. TC is known to many people for various reasons. To some, he is a comedian. To others, he is an illustrator. Still others, he is a Tarot card reader. In this episode, he discusses all of these “hats” he wears and how he came to be where he is and how he does what he does so well.

609 - 2021 F.F.F.F. Virtual Convention Report V 49.5

Scott Wells — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 00:43:36 +0000

Saturday April 24, 2021

11:30 a.m. - Zoom room opens

12:00 p.m. - Teach-a-Trick: Richard Pinner (England), Jimmy C (USA), Joe Turner (USA), Rune Carlsen (Norway), Remy Robert (France), Shawn Farquhar (Canada)

2:00 p.m. - Dealer Show: Esouard Boulanger, Shawn Farquhar, Michel Huot, Mark Mason, Richard Pinner, Christian Schenk, Pattrick Przysiecki, Meir Yedid

4:00 p.m. - International Show: David Corsaro (USA), Carisa Hendrix (Canada), Rune Carlsen (Norway), Jon Allen (England), Keith Fields (USA), Erik Tait (USA), Clemens Ilgner (Germany), Lodewijk de Widt (Netherlands), David Regal (USA), Boris Wild (France), Henry Evans (Argentina), Alexandra Duvivier (France), Steve Bargatze and Rick Merrill (USA)

It has been over a year since posting a convention report. Even though this is a virtual event, it is an “invitation only” event and some might like to hear and see what went on and perhaps try to replicate some of the excitement for their own virtual convention.

608- Jeff Bibik - Bar Magician Extraordinaire

Scott Wells — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Jeff Bibik is a Chicago comedian and a magician. Originally from the Detroit, Michigan, area, he regularly performed magic in local restaurants and comedy clubs until 1985 when he moved to Chicago where he continued as a comedy magician in close-up and stage for the public and corporate audiences and he also performs a hypnosis act. Over the years he developed a large repertoire of jokes and gags that serves him well today as the house magician at the Chicago Magic Lounge.

Jeff Bibik pulls no punches this week in sharing the secrets behind getting work in restaurants performing magic, plus he tells lots of stories about working in bars and restaurants with a liberal sprinkling of funny gags, jokes and puns. This was recorded using StreamYard with Jeff joining us from the bar in his basement in his Chicago home. A video of our chat was also recorded and posted to YouTube. To view that video, please click on the video link below in this blog.

607 - Allan Kronzek - Grandpa Magic Teacher

Scott Wells — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Author, creator, teacher and grandpa, Allan Kronzek has a lifetime of magic to share. He and his daughter wrote encyclopedic books about the Harry Potter canon and well known in the book business. Living in Sag Harbor, New York, (Long Island area), Allan is a performing magician to the well-to-do community as well as the common folk. He is also an accomplished teacher of magic to youth in his area. He recently completed a book for the public, “Grandpa Magic” which is widely available and is intended for adults to help their children and grand-children to learn magic.

In this week’s episode, Allan Kronzek talks about his writing background, how he got published, how he structures his magic classes, where he performs magic, and the details behind the scenes that he hasn’t shared before this podcast.

606: Al the Only - Business Tips

Scott Wells — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

From Michigan to Hawaii, Al the Only has entertained thousands of people in restaurants, at trade shows, and for corporate banquets over the decades. He is also a mainstay of Abbott’s Get Together in Colon, Michigan, where each year he conducts the “magic graveyard” tour about which he literally “wrote the book” on who is buried there.

Al has a lifetime of experience that he shares in an encapsulated hour. He gives us some great business tips on working trade shows, performing in restaurants, and entertaining corporate audiences. He also discusses his role as the tour guide for the Colon, Michigan, “Magic Cemetery.”

Click on this graphic for more info on the Crown Royal egg bag by Robert Baxt.

605- Jason Byrne - Vegas BirdMan

Scott Wells — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Las Vegas based magician and winner of the Academy of Magical Arts (The Magic Castle) “Magician of the Year,” Jason Bynre joins us this week for a conversation about working, training and performing with doves, entertaining on cruise ships, developing illusion shows, and traveling around the world to venues like The London Palladium, The Lido, and The Wintergarten.

This week Jason talks about training and caring for his birds and how he has evolved to larger stage illusions on cruise ships that have taken him around the globe.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

604 - Andy Nyman - Magician of Many Faces

Scott Wells — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Award winning actor, producer, writer and magician, Andy Nyman, is indeed a magician with many faces. As an actor, he has played many roles that require physical changes in his appearance from Tevye the Dairyman in “Fiddler on the Roof” to Winston Churchill on “Peaky Blinders” among many others. But he has also collaborated with Derren Brown on many of his mentalism shows that have appeared from England’s West End to New York’s Broadway. As a Member of the Inner Magic Circle, with Gold Star, he is a performing member who keeps up his magic skills as well as his acting chops.

In this week’s episode, Andy talks about some of his various acting roles and his work with his friend, Derren Brown. But the meat of this conversation is hearing and learning from Andy’s commitment to being true to himself and his personal goals. He discusses the “imposter syndrome” and how important it is to “trust the process” and the the little phrase of, “perfect is the enemy of good” and how we should ponder these nuggets of wisdom.

603 - Doc Eason - The Doctor is In

Scott Wells — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Recognized as one of the top “bar magicians” in the country (if not the world), Doc Eason joins us this week from his home in Colorado. Doc was one of the house magicians at the former John Denver’s Tower Magic Bar and Restaurant in Snowmass, Colorado. He received “Best Bar Magician” by the Academy of Magical Arts and lectured around the world. After the passing of John Denver in 1997, the Tower soon thereafter closed and Doc took a little different direction as an after dinner motivational speaker.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

In this episode, Doc Eason talks about his career path that took him to Colorado and becoming the bar magician in residence in Snowmass. He has several stories about some of the shenanigans he has seen in the bar over the years, many of which will be going into a biography he is currently writing. He also talks about many of the people in his life along the way, like Eric Mead and Bob Sheets, who were pivotal in his life and career. He also shares some philosophy about life and a few emotional stories that you are sure to enjoy.

602 - Scott Robinson - TRICS-ter

Scott Wells — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 15:00:00 +0000

One of the “underground” guys who may be so far underground, that many of you may not know this gentleman nor the extent of his expertise. Mild mannered Microsoft business executive by day, Scott Robinson is a powerhouse of a prestidigitator and the organizer of the annual TRICS convention (an intimate conclave of conjurors) in Charlotte, North Carolina. He also is the dictator or “Scott-tator” of his “Sleight Club” where like minded creative magicians in his area congregate to share what they are working on and get advice on how to develop the trick and routine.

at the F.F.F.F. convention

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This week Scott Robinson talks about his Carolina Close-up Convention, TRICS, as well as his Sleight Club. In particular, he gives some great ideas on how others can replicate the success of Sleight Club in their own areas. Scott and his wife adopted an autistic son who he talks about in this episode, too.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

601 - P.A.N. on Scott Alexander

Scott Wells — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:00:00 +0000

As we kick off the 601st episode of The Magic Word Podcast, we welcome not one, but three guests this week, all of whom toured and worked closely with the late magician and dealer, Denny Haney. Scott Alexander authored a new biography of Denny called, “Collected Wisdom” which not only talks about his life but also describes in detail some of the tricks that made his reputation. Also joining us the week is Malcolm “Puck” Puckering and Alain Nu both of whom have made their own unique mark in our magic community after learning so much from their mentor, Denny.

“Collected Wisdom” contains many stories from the collected lives of Scott, Puck and Alain, But in this week’s podcast, they also share a few additional recollections that were not included in the book.

You can also enjoy this podcast on YouTube where the video of our conversation was recorded. In that video you can enjoy a couple videos that were shown during the recording of this episode but deleted in this audio portion.

Click on the picture to visit the website for more information on how to purchase your copy of “Collected Wisdon”

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

600 - Max Maven - Phil to Max

Scott Wells — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Called by MAGIC Magazine as one of the 100 "Most Influential Magicians of the 20th Century", Max Maven joins us this week for a chat. Max has appeared in nearly every magic magazine in the world and even on the cover of several. He is a noted mentalist and magician and recipient of many awards including The Allan Slaight Award for Lifetime Achievement. Max has appeared on this podcast from time to time when we ran into each other at magic conventions, but now at 70 years old, he has a little more time to spend chatting at length about what interests him.

This is the promo photo we talked about near the end of the podcast, represented by David Belenzon and not Tobias Beckwith, as I incorrectly mentioned in our chat.

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This week we hear Max talk about some of his awards, his philosophy on performing, what kinds of books he enjoys reading, and even what color of clothes are in his closet.

599 - Suzanne the Magician- Suz with a "Z"

Scott Wells — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Winner of the Academy of Magical Arts (the Magic Castle) trophy for “Close-Up Magician of the Year”, Suzanne the Magician joins us this week to talk about her experience of preparing then fooling Penn & Teller on their hit television show and also discuss ideas for performing in restaurants.

As discussed on this podcast episode, never make fun of your volunteer particularly when they become “easy targets.”

This week we learn how Suzanne had to rework and retool her signature “Band Aid” trick "(A Mother’s Love) to make it work for Penn & Teller Fool Us. She also shares stories from her decades of experience of performing magic at high end restaurants plus some advice on trick selections, approaching tables, and more.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

598: Tim Wise - The Genie is Out!

Scott Wells — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Las Vegas-based magician, Tim Wise, talks about 3-D printing, working with David Copperfield, leaving school to tour with Dennis Loomis, hosting Jeff McBride's "Wonderground", Abra.TV and more. Tim has so many stories that it was hard to keep this podcast to one hour as we could have easily spent the entirety of our conversation on any one subject.

Tim discusses how he came to become The Genie, thanks in large measure to Jeff McBride. But his humble beginnings in magic take him back to his teenage years when he basically “ran away with the circus” and pursued a career on the road touring with Dennis Loomis. Tim talks about that experience near the end of this episode that alone could have filled this whole episode with stories.

This week’s podcast video on YouTube.

597: Ken Scott - Kids! Conventions! Corporate!

Scott Wells — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Atlanta-based magician, Ken Scott Wisenbaker, dropped his legal last name to a shortened stage name of “Ken Scott.” Find out this week why he changed it and who recommended it. Ken is a multiple year winning Magician of the Year for the Atlanta club. He will be the incoming International President of the I.B.M. at this year’s annual convention slated for July 7-10 in Pittsburgh, PA. He is also the organizer of the annual Atlanta Harvest of Magic convention. But Ken is perhaps best know (certainly around Atlanta) as one of the premiere kid show performers entertaining at birthday parties, libraries and schools. But he also performs for corporate functions as well.

Ken Scottmagic. Baseball hall of famer Ozzie Smith joins me as well.Ken Scott predicts what card you will pick! Left to right: Simone Marron - International Secretary, Ken Scott - International President-Elect, Alex Zander - International Past President, Stephen Bargatze - International President, and Charles Arkin - International Treasurer

Photo Credit: Michael Messing

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This week, Ken talks about magic conventions and we discuss a little about the current state of these events and their possible future. Of course, Ken tells about his work with performing for children and a little about his corporate work, too.

596: Luna Shimada - It's a Hard Knock Life

Scott Wells — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Luna Shimada is the second generation of the Shimada family dynasty but she has made her own way into the world of entertainment. Not to be defined by her father’s fame nor style, Luna has forged a successful stage persona that caused Jeff McBride to say, “You are a female me!” Indeed, her “mask” act is unique and not a copy of Jeff’s but is her own character. And that is just one part of her performances.

This is a full act version of Luna Shimada in 2007 in the World's Greatest Magic Show in Las Vegas.What it's like for your children to come to the Las Vegas magic school

This week Luna Shimada talks about her difficulty as a child of entertainer parents who had their financial “ups and downs” both at home and abroad. She discusses the challenges of her early schooling and her parents fights to overcome xenophobia and racism in some countries.

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