Discourse in Magic

Jonah Babins interviews the world’s top magicians getting the best advice in performance, business, and all things magic. Topics like practice, scripting, learning, morality, creativity, getting started, adding comedy, originality, and getting booked. All to provide you with the advice and resources you need to become a better magician, get yourself out there, and enjoy this amazing art we’re a part of...all without buying any more tricks.

Rider or Die 11/14/2024

Rider or Die In this episode of Discourse in Magic, I explore the art of crafting the perfect artist rider for your magic performances. I break down the essentials of what a rider is and why it is crucial for your event's success. We'll go over the key elements you should include, from sound and lighting to stage setup and seating arrangements, ensuring that every detail is covered. I'll share insights on specifying microphone and lighting requirements, as well as how seating arrangements can make or break a show. Additionally, we'll discuss recording policies to clarify media usage and explore how hospitality needs can vary depending on the event type. To make sure nothing is forgotten, I'll offer tips on using a notes app to keep track of these requirements, making your rider comprehensive and effective. Listen in as we explore how a well-crafted rider can enhance event execution, emphasizing that while it's an essential tool, it shouldn't replace thorough planning. I'll provide advice on engaging directly with the booker to confirm all details and ensure seamless event execution. Plus, you'll hear a handy tip about maintaining a dynamic document called "Rider or Die" on your phone to update your requirements based on past events. If you're interested in booking larger gigs and understanding pricing strategies, I'll also offer my services for further guidance. Tune in to uncover the nuances of creating a standout event experience that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Advice on Riders What goes in it? Sound, light, stage, seating, recording, and hospitality. How to make it epic! Create a doc on your phone called Rider or Die that you keep always adding things to based on the events that you go to. Riders are important but… It is not a replacement for proper planning to make sure that you knock the event out of the park. Mentions Send an email to magic(at)TorontoMagicCompany(dot)com. We can talk about what the mastermind is like and see if I can help you! /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/33921812

The Heart of Magic With Dustin Tavella 11/07/2024

The Heart of Magic With Dustin Tavella Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented , winner of the 2021 season of America's Got Talent, who shares his inspiring journey from a young magician dressed as a clown to a celebrated performer captivating audiences worldwide. Dustin recounts how his passion for magic began with a simple magic kit and a special trick gifted by his uncle, setting him on a path of discovery and performance. His story takes a fascinating turn as he explores the music industry, producing and writing for significant projects before rediscovering his love for magic through a serendipitous encounter. Dustin’s experiences highlight the importance of storytelling and connection in making magic meaningful, and he generously shares how his creative process is influenced by his wife's intuition and his involvement in a homeless ministry. Explore the intersection of music and magic as Dustin reflects on his artistic journey and the challenges of finding a singular style. Despite his success in the music industry, he grappled with the desire for deeper fulfillment, leading him back to the enchanting world of magic. Drawing parallels between these two art forms, Dustin emphasizes the importance of audience engagement over technical perfection, both in music and magic. Through personal anecdotes, he offers valuable insights into balancing skill with the ability to connect and resonate with audiences, a theme that resonates throughout his performances. Listen in as we explore the power of authenticity and originality in magic, particularly in the high-stakes environment of . Dustin discusses the challenges of crafting unique acts and how personal storytelling sets performers apart. We touch on the influence of mentorship and collaboration, highlighting how diverse perspectives from friends and mentors enriched Dustin’s magic. Finally, Dustin shares his experiences performing in Branson, Missouri, a vibrant backdrop for his evolving magic show. Whether discussing the creative freedom found in Branson or the importance of genuine connection, this episode offers an inspiring look at how personal experiences and feedback shape a truly authentic magic performance. Music, Magic, and Finding Style Dustin takes us through a fascinating journey of transitioning between two artistic realms: music and magic. He reflects on his experiences in the music industry, where he had the chance to work with producers and contribute to significant projects like ESPN and the 100th anniversary of the Rose Bowl. Despite his success, Dustin grappled with the challenge of not finding a singular style due to his diverse interests in various music genres, which, while a hindrance as an artist, proved beneficial from a production perspective. This reflection led him to a crossroads, where he realized that neither end of the music industry's spectrum were fulfilling. Transitioning into magic, Dustin drew parallels between the two art forms, emphasizing the importance of connecting with audiences. Authenticity and Originality in Magic We unpack the unique challenges and opportunities of performing magic on a platform like America's Got Talent (AGT). We discuss the difficulty of creating new and unique acts in a space where many iconic magicians have already set high standards. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and personal storytelling as key differentiators in magic, emphasizing that while many can purchase tricks, the real magic lies in who the magician is as a person. We touch on the notion that people can sense authenticity, which becomes crucial for magicians who inherently deal in illusion. By embracing individuality and honesty, performers can resonate more deeply with their audience. This discussion offers valuable insights for current performers, underscoring the significance of being genuine and how that authenticity can become the defining element of a magician's act. Authenticity in Gospel Magic We discuss the intricate balance of performing authentic magic that conveys meaningful messages, particularly within the realm of gospel and inspirational magic. We discuss the challenges that arise when magic feels forced or inauthentic, drawing parallels to scripted and impersonal experiences often felt in churches. Emphasizing the importance of starting with a genuine story, I highlight the need for the message to stand alone, even without the magic trick. The conversation underscores the significance of sharing personal struggles and emotions to connect with audiences, rather than projecting an image of perfection. By revealing our own vulnerabilities and journeys, we aim to resonate more deeply with people, making the magic a supportive element rather than the sole focus. Endless Chain Mentions /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/33839657

The Lead Machine 10/31/2024

The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza Borchardt 10/24/2024

The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza Borchardt Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, , as we explore his magical journey from a passionate young enthusiast to a leading illusionist in Branson, Missouri. Reza takes us behind the curtain, sharing how his early exposure to magic through TV shows and the generous mentorship of magicians like and fueled his love for the craft. Discover the secrets behind his mind-blowing performances, where large illusions transform into spellbinding stories that captivate audiences, each show bringing something new and exciting through the power of storytelling and audience interaction. Embark on a fascinating journey through Reza's rise to success, revealing the innovative ways he turned his dream into a thriving career. From transforming old buses into tour vehicles to navigating the vibrant entertainment scene of , Reza opens up about the challenges and triumphs of establishing a dedicated theater and performing hundreds of shows a year. Learn how the blend of music and magic, inspired by live concerts and collaborations with bands like , enhances his performances, creating a unique and exhilarating experience that continues to draw audiences in. In the age of technology, Reza offers insights into the evolving landscape of magic, sharing how the digital era poses both challenges and opportunities for magicians. As he reflects on the intricate process of crafting new illusions and managing a talented team, Reza emphasizes the importance of innovation and feedback in keeping his shows fresh and engaging. Whether you're a budding magician or a seasoned fan, this episode provides a captivating look at the synergy between tradition and modernity in magic, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those daring enough to explore them. Growing Success in Magic Show Tours The fascinating journey of a magician who turned his passion into a professional career, highlighting the pivotal moments and strategies that paved his way to success. Starting with a personal story about learning tricks from a master illusionist in a parking lot, we explore the initial struggles and innovative methods employed to fund his dream of touring with a magic show. From transforming an old school bus into a tour vehicle to engaging in unique side hustles like selling candles door-to-door, the determination to achieve his vision is palpable. We also examine the challenges of marketing shows without established notoriety and the gradual growth in audience numbers through word-of-mouth. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the financial and logistical hurdles of running a grand illusion show, revealing the complexities of managing a crew and renting theaters while navigating the risks of potential financial losses. How to Conquer Branson Expolore the heart of Branson, Missouri, where the unique dynamics of establishing a theater are explored. Known for its diverse entertainment offerings, Branson attracts millions of visitors annually, providing a stage for both rising stars and top-tier performers. We uncover the challenges of setting up a successful show in this bustling yet intimate city, highlighting the importance of patience and perseverance. The journey from leasing theater spaces to owning a dedicated 1,000-seat venue is shared, alongside insights into the seasonal ebb and flow of show schedules. The balance between performing hundreds of shows a year and maintaining passion for the craft is examined, with strategies like audience participation playing a key role in keeping performances fresh. We also get a glimpse into the lifestyle of living near the theater, offering a blend of high-paced work with tranquil home life by the lake. Continuous Improvement in Magic Performance We discuss the collaborative and creative process behind crafting a successful magic show. We discuss how a blend of personal innovation, industry collaboration, and feedback from laypeople contributes to the development of compelling magic tricks. I highlight the importance of external perspectives, explaining how industry friends and regular audience members provide invaluable insights that help shape the performance to better connect with viewers. I share anecdotes about specific tricks, like the Oreo and card tricks, emphasizing how initial concepts are transformed into original pieces through experimentation and refinement. By testing these tricks on fellow magicians and gauging their reactions, I gauge the effectiveness and potential of new ideas. This chapter underscores the dynamic and iterative nature of creating magic that captivates and entertains audiences. Endless Chain Mentions /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/33592662

Marketing vs. Sales 10/14/2024

Mike Hammer's Vegas Adventure 10/07/2024

Mike Hammer's Vegas Adventure Magician and comedian Mike Hammer takes center stage, unveiling the secrets behind his 13-year run on the Las Vegas strip. From his humble beginnings with a simple magic kit in Chicago to captivating audiences in the entertainment capital of the world, Mike's story is as magical as his performances. With humor and heart, he opens up about the challenges of transitioning from small gigs in restaurants and strip clubs to the bright lights of Vegas, revealing the persistence, networking, and a sprinkle of serendipity that got him there. Mike's candid reflections on the art of blending comedy with magic can’t be missed! Crafting a standout act in Vegas requires more than just tricks; it demands a deep understanding of humor, audience engagement, and a strong stage persona. Mike shares his evolution from collaborating with a partner to performing solo, emphasizing the importance of scripting and developing material that resonates with diverse audiences. His advice for aspiring magicians is as enlightening as his performances: stay true to your style, but never stop refining your craft. Mike provides insights into the unique life of a Vegas performer. He contrasts the stability of a residency with the excitement of touring, highlighting the creative freedoms and logistical headaches that come with each. He offers a glimpse into the magic of performing in one location, where night after night, the show becomes a familiar yet ever-evolving spectacle. Whether you're an aspiring magician, a fan of comedy, or simply curious about the life of a Las Vegas entertainer, Mike Hammer's journey is sure to captivate and inspire! Building a Comedy Show in Vegas We discuss Mike’s early career challenges and successes of a magician breaking into the Las Vegas entertainment sceneMike landed a gig at the Four Queens Hotel and Casino, performing at an unusual time of 3 PM. The challenge of attracting audiences at this time led me to try street magic, a tough endeavor that demanded engaging the public one-on-one. Despite a slow start with small audiences, Mike sustained myself through corporate work and gradually built a larger audience over two years. Crafting Stand-Up Comedy Material We explore Mike’s unique approach to blending comedy and magic by focusing on writing humor that stands independently of the tricks themselves. Mike shares his journey from relying on the humor inherent in magic tricks to crafting jokes that enhance the magic without depending on it. We discuss the importance of writing and how it transforms a performance, moving away from stock jokes to personalized material that aligns with my comedic character. Mike emphasizes the value of recording live shows to capture spontaneous humor, allowing me to refine and build upon these moments. Through anecdotes, I highlight the necessity of balancing improvisation with prepared material to ensure consistent audience engagement, regardless of their reactions. The Realities of Performing in Vegas This chapter explores the contrasting experiences of performing in a fixed location versus touring as a magician. I share my reflections on the idea of owning a magic lounge in Toronto and the allure of corporate gigs that offer a good balance between enjoyment and financial reward. The conversation shifts to the joys and challenges of having a residency in Las Vegas, including the benefits of stability and the opportunity to continually refine material. However, it also touches on the logistical headaches like technical issues, ticketing problems, and traffic delays affecting show timings. Despite these challenges, performing in one place allows for creative improvisation and a stable life. There's also a nostalgic appreciation for touring, where audiences in different cities often provide unique, memorable experiences, highlighting the contrasting excitement of being a special event in a town compared to being one of many entertainment options in Vegas. Endless Chain Mentions Instagram TikTok: Facebook: X: Website: /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/33315242

3 P's of Magic Sales 09/26/2024

How to Prepare for December 09/19/2024

The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards 09/12/2024

The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards Join us for an exciting episode of Discourse in Magic as we welcome back Ben Train to discuss the launch of our latest project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our motivations behind creating this unique deck, our shared love for playing cards, and our desire to contribute something special to the magic community. We also touch on the practical enhancements designed to make these cards versatile for magicians, and the joy of seeing others use and appreciate our creations. In this episode, we take you through the creative journey behind the card deck’s design. From initial brainstorming sessions to the final camping-themed concept, we share the inspiration and artistic evolution that led to the deck's unique aesthetic. Listen in as we recount personal stories and inspirations, and walk you through the practical steps of bringing our ideas to life with the help of industry giants like Bicycle. Finally, we discuss the innovative marking system we've developed for these cards, designed to enhance magic performances. We also introduce our free PDF guide and an interactive Zoom session, tailored for both beginners and seasoned magicians. With our Kickstarter campaign well underway, we emphasize the importance of community support to make this project a reality and share our excitement for the upcoming launch. Don't miss out on this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Campers Playing Cards! Card Deck Launch Behind the Scenes We welcome back Ben Train to Discourse in Magic, where we shift our focus from magic performances to the exciting launch of our new project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our personal motivations behind creating a deck of cards, touching on our shared love for playing cards and our desire to contribute something tangible to the magic community. We discuss the functional enhancements we've included to make these cards more versatile for magicians, as well as the benefits of having custom decks for events, gifts, and personal use. Additionally, we reflect on the joy of seeing others use our creations and the practical aspects of distributing something that truly represents our brand. Design Inspiration for Card Deck We take us on a journey through the creative process behind designing a unique deck of playing cards. We explore the initial motivation for creating the cards, emphasizing the importance of having a clear purpose and concept. The discussion reveals the inspiration and brainstorming sessions that led to the final camping-themed design. Along the way, we recount how initial ideas, such as using a spray paint can or a dog shaking off water, evolved into the concept of using reflections in water for a naturally symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing back design. The narrative also touches on personal inspirations, like a commissioned artwork of a woman blowing dandelions, before settling on the final concept. Finally, we highlight the practical steps involved in bringing these ideas to life with the help of companies like Bicycle. Deck of Cards Aesthetic Design Discussion We explore the essential qualities of a perfect deck of cards for magic and cardistry. We discuss the importance of reflective back designs that maintain consistency across the deck, while avoiding symmetrical patterns that reveal reversed cards. Borders, particularly white ones, are a dealbreaker due to their potential to reveal card orientation and fraying issues. The color scheme for card faces should stick closely to traditional black and red for clarity, avoiding confusing variations. We emphasize the need for recognizable and distinguishable royal cards to facilitate easy performance and gameplay. Additionally, the aesthetics of a deck play a crucial role, as the design should resonate personally and fit various contexts, whether matching an outfit or evoking nostalgia. Lastly, we touch on our own approach to creating a deck that meets these criteria, encouraging listeners to check out our Kickstarter for visual details. Magician's Guide and Camping Tricks We reveal our offer for a free PDF, "The Magician's Guide to Camping and Card Tricks," which is tailored for beginners and laypeople, providing instructions on card tricks, marking systems, and camping games. We discuss the interactive Zoom video session where we will perform, teach, and engage in a Q&A, ensuring a tailored experience based on the attendees. Additionally, we introduce our premium $1,000 package, which includes two bricks of cards, the PDF, Zoom call, uncut sheet, recording of the session, and an exclusive all-expenses-covered cottage trip (excluding flight) with us and special guests, designed for an immersive magic experience with great amenities and magic jams. /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/33000862

The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold 09/05/2024

The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold Magician, comedian, and consultant joins us for an enthralling chat about his dynamic journey from a childhood fascination with magic to an influential career in Hollywood. Starting with a magic set he received as a kid, Bruce shares his path through the comedy club scene, where he learned invaluable lessons by observing both triumphs and failures. He talks about the gritty reality of being overworked and underpaid in the early stages of a performer's career, emphasizing how these experiences helped shape his unique style that blends magic and comedy. Transitioning from the comedy club circuit to the Hollywood entertainment industry posed numerous challenges for Bruce, which he navigated through relentless networking and adaptability. He shares personal anecdotes about the balancing act of performing magic and stand-up, finding an agent, and eventually carving out a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This part of the conversation sheds light on the perseverance required to make a sustainable living as a performer, and the strategic choices necessary to avoid being typecast in an industry that often discourages showcasing a diverse skill set. As the discussion progresses, Bruce delves into the evolution of magic performance, the significance of originality, and the art of developing a compelling stage persona. From the choreographed elegance of to the gritty street magic of , Bruce offers a fascinating perspective on how magic has transformed over the years. He shares insights from his role as a talent booker for 's House of Magic in Macau and provides practical advice on maintaining audience engagement and refining acts. Wrapping up, Bruce highlights the success of his coaching clients and encourages aspiring magicians and comedians to reach out for consulting sessions, underscoring the value of continuous improvement and mentorship in the entertainment world. Transitioning From Comedy Clubs to Hollywood Explore the intricate journey of transitioning from being seen as a magician to establishing a financially sustainable career as an actor and comedian. We discuss the challenges faced when first moving to California, where advice often discourages showcasing magic skills to avoid being typecast. By sharing personal experiences, including keeping magic on the down low, performing at comedy clubs, and gradually securing gigs through diligent networking, we uncover the hurdles and strategies for making a living in the entertainment industry. The narrative covers the balance of performing both magic and standup, landing an agent, hosting pilots and game shows, and ultimately finding a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This chapter provides insights into the perseverance and adaptability required to thrive as a performer in Hollywood. Developing Originality and Persona in Magic We discuss the evolution of magic performance, highlighting the shift from the clean, choreographed styles of Doug Henning and to David Blaine's gritty, urban street magic. We examine the importance of originality in magic, emphasizing how a unique persona like 's can make familiar tricks feel fresh. The discussion underscores the role of character in both magic and acting, noting that developing a stage persona is a journey of self-discovery influenced by admired figures. Additionally, I share insights on coaching magicians, identifying common gaps such as reliance on rote performance and encouraging choices that maximize engagement and entertainment. We also touch on exercises to help magicians find their unique style by comparing themselves to other performers. Maximizing Audience Engagement Through Performance This chapter focuses on the unique perspective of a performance coach, highlighting the crucial role of external observation in enhancing a performer's act. We explore how creators, deeply immersed in their work, often miss elements visible to an audience, and how having a trusted outsider can reveal these hidden aspects. Techniques for maintaining audience engagement are discussed, including the "IU" storytelling method, which encourages audience participation and connection. Additionally, we address the importance of viewing the audience as individuals rather than a collective group, and the significance of direct eye contact in fostering a stronger connection. Practical advice for performers, especially those transitioning from close-up magic to stage performance, is also provided to help them understand and master stagecraft. Endless Chain Mentions /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/32921442

Why Not Corporate? 08/29/2024

Trade Show Magic with Danny Orleans 08/22/2024

Trade Show Magic with Danny Orleans Unlock the secrets of trade show magic with , a master magician whose career spans from children's theater to corporate stages. You'll gain actionable insights into how Danny transitioned from performing at kids' birthday parties to captivating professional audiences at trade shows. Listen as he shares his journey, highlighting key strategies and influential mentors like r and who helped shape his career. Discover the often-overlooked opportunities in trade show magic, and learn how Danny navigated this niche market to secure and maintain high-profile bookings. From his initial break with a Canadian printer company to his successful techniques for integrating marketing messages with magic routines, Danny offers invaluable advice for magicians aspiring to thrive in the trade show arena. This episode is packed with tips on using technology for lead capture and the importance of blending seamlessly into the business environment. Finally, we discuss the evolving landscape of modern magic, including the impact of social media and televised magic shows on the industry. Danny shares his thoughts on the challenges of performing in high-stakes environments like trade shows, where rejection is common and resilience is key. Additionally, you'll hear about quality resources and communities, like a dedicated , that can support your growth in trade show magic. Whether you're a budding magician or a seasoned performer, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Trade Show Magic Danny Orleans is a versatile magician renowned for his expertise in trade show magic.. Danny discusses the challenges and strategies for making a career in magic, highlighting his early successes and the affordability of education and living costs in the past. We explore his journey from birthday parties to becoming a professional magician, emphasizing the opportunities in trade show magic and providing insights into marketing and pricing for aspiring magicians. Successful Trade Show Magic Strategies We focus on the unique attributes and strategies of successful trade show magicians. We discuss how integrating seamlessly into the business environment, both in appearance and demeanor, is crucial for attracting corporate clients. The conversation highlights the importance of blending a marketing message with magic routines to captivate and qualify leads without overwhelming the audience. Secrets of Trade Show Magic We examine the evolution of magic tricks and the practicality of incorporating them into a magician's repertoire. We explore the criteria for evaluating a magic trick's effectiveness, such as its ease of use, portability, and suitability for various performance settings like Instagram or live gigs. Additionally, we discuss the importance of understanding the intended audience and context when purchasing magic tricks. Endless Chain Mentions /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/32630207

How to Start Getting Gigs 08/15/2024

Captivating Audiences with Chris Michael 08/08/2024

Captivating Audiences with Chris Michael Prepare to be amazed as we sit down with the extraordinary magician, ! From his early days inspired by a local librarian magician to captivating audiences at high-profile corporate events, Chris's journey is nothing short of magical. He shares heartfelt stories about the emotional bonds formed through magic, particularly with his mother, and offers aspiring magicians invaluable advice on securing gigs and captivating audiences with charisma and close-up magic. Chris reveals the power of storytelling in his craft, emphasizing how compelling, truthful narratives from one's life can create memorable connections with the audience. By sharing vivid childhood memories and encounters with famous magicians, Chris illustrates how these stories enhance a magician's persona and engagement. The episode also dives into the business side of magic, exploring strategies for recognizing and capitalizing on the true value of a magician's craft, building genuine relationships, and growing a strong support team. Magician's Journey and Impact on Audience Exploree the journey of Chris Michael, an extraordinary magician whose career has skyrocketed over the past decade. We discuss his humble beginnings, from being inspired by a local librarian magician named to learning tricks from his grandfather and uncle. Chris shares a touching story about how magic helped him bond with his mother, revealing the deeper emotional connections that magic can foster. Additionally, we cover the evolution of his career from local and library shows to high-profile corporate events, offering invaluable insights for aspiring magicians on how to secure gigs and captivate audiences with charisma and close-up magic. Enhancing Stage Presence and Connection Chris offers practical advice for magicians looking to enhance their stage presence and charisma. We explore the importance of delivery in magic performances, emphasizing the need for clarity and self-awareness. Drawing from personal experience and insights from working with directors like Scott Neary, we highlight the significance of appearing seasoned and composed on stage. Through relatable anecdotes, such as an unexpected performance and a challenging live auction at the Embassy of Argentina, we illustrate the value of addressing audience concerns directly and maintaining honesty during unexpected situations. By setting clear expectations and acknowledging any mishaps, magicians can create a more engaging and authentic experience for their audience. Building Relationships and Growing Teams The importance of building genuine relationships in business, particularly through casual, friendly interactions rather than immediately focusing on transactions. Chris share strategies on how to remember personal details about people, maintain connections, and make others feel valued. We discuss the role of teamwork, emphasizing the need to hire help, even when it seems financially challenging, to grow the business. By creating a seamless blend between professional and personal interactions, I highlight how clients can become friends and how this approach fosters long-term success. Additionally, we touch on the logistical aspects of managing contacts and leveraging a CRM system, facilitated by gis team to ensure efficient follow-up and relationship management. Creative Fulfillment in Modern Magic Chris's creative journey as a magician who transitions from feeling cathartic fulfillment in performing a repeated story to seeking new projects. We discuss the distinct experiences between theater and corporate shows and the evolving role of technology in modern magic. There's a love-hate relationship with technology's impact on magic tricks, particularly with updates from companies like Apple. Endless Chain Mentions /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/32489817

Touring and Cold Emails 08/01/2024

Public Magic Shows 07/18/2024

Jandro's Magical Evolution 07/11/2024

Jandro's Magical Evolution Discover the remarkable journey of Spanish magician in this captivating episode of Discourse in Magic. Inspired by the legendary , Jandro recounts his serendipitous discovery of a local magician's academy in Valencia and his evolution into a renowned magician and TV personality. With anecdotes from his 15-year tenure on a Spanish late-night show, where he performed magic and wrote comedy for celebrities like Will Smith and Taylor Swift, this episode offers an enthralling peek behind the curtain into the world of magic and entertainment. Creativity and Technique in MagicWe explore the importance of joke writing and daily practice in honing one's craft, whether it's magic or comedy. Jandro shares experiences from working on a magic TV show, emphasising the need for creativity when resources are limited. He recounts how rigorous practice with card techniques gave way to innovative, intuitive performance styles when working on live TV. We also discuss the concept of using jokes and situational techniques as alternatives to traditional magic methods, highlighting the blend of technical skill and creative thinking in successful magic performances. Fooling Penn and TellerJandro shares an amusing anecdote about wanting to perform a "car trick" on , playing on language misunderstandings and breaking assumptions. We explore how the use of unexpected elements, such as shooting in a remote landscape with a printed background and utilising a drone instead of a webcam, enhances the performance. Additionally, the concept of integrating deeper messages into tricks is discussed, exemplified by a routine involving the consequences of lying, where each falsehood results in a cat's "explosion." The chapter concludes with insights into the strategies used to consistently fool seasoned magicians like Penn and Teller by always thinking ahead and presenting tricks designed specifically for one-time performances on the show. Magical Masters and Creative InfluencesWe discuss the joy and growth that comes from collaborating with iconic figures like Penn and Teller, and how their innovative ideas elevate each other's work. The conversation highlights the profound impact of Spanish magicians like Juan Tamariz and his mentors, including and , on the art of magic. We emphasise the importance of understanding the deep psychological and philosophical aspects behind magical performances, as well as the legacy left by these masters. The discussion also touches on the evolution of magic through the contributions of newer magicians who continue to build on the foundations laid by their predecessors, stressing the necessity of studying the masters to truly appreciate and advance the craft. Endless Chain Links /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/32087577

My Top 3 Magic Projects 07/04/2024

My Top 3 Magic Projects Unlock the secrets to making your magic performances more natural and convincing. Join Jonah Babins as he reveals his three favorite magic projects that have profoundly influenced his approach to magic and performance. From magic theory to practical techniques, these projects have reshaped his understanding and execution of the craft. Whether you're a seasoned magician or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and theoretical gems that will inspire you to rethink and refine your magical chops! Dani DaOrtiz’s Utopia We start with ’s groundbreaking . Learn the transformative lessons contained in this four-DVD collection, produced by . Dani’s emphasis on clarity and naturalness has reshaped his approach to close-up card magic, and why replacing suspicious maneuvers with straightforward actions can make your tricks more believable. Discover how these priceless insights have not only enhanced Jonah's performances but can also revolutionize your own magic acts. Whether you're a seasoned magician or just starting out, these DVD’s are packed with practical tips and theoretical gems that will inspire you to rethink and refine your magical craft. Asi Win’s Repertoire presents an extensive collection of repertoire that stretches over the last two decades. Asi's style of performance has led him to devise magic that seems as fair as it gets and magic almost happens by itself. These routines that have been kept under wraps for many years are laid out here for the first time in great detail. Asi also revisits several routines he published in the past and brings them up to date with added details and features that he developed over the years while performing them. Magic Rainbow by Juan Tamariz is the fruit of more than forty years of thought, study and analysis by , considered a genius of magic the world over. In 1988, Tamariz published The Magic Way, which became an immediate classic. In it he revealed a brilliant system for making the secret methods of magic effects impossible to detect. In The Magic Rainbow, Tamariz takes his readers and their audiences farther up The Magic Way until they are delivered to the ultimate destination, where logical analysis is abandoned to emotions of amazement, fascination and wonder; where the feeling of magic becomes, for a while, an impossibility firmly rooted in reality. MentionsDani DaOrtiz’s Asi Win’s by Juan Tamariz /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/32004382

Reimagining Magic with Gaetan Bloom 06/27/2024

Reimagining Magic with Gaetan Bloom Legendary magician joins us to share his journey from a curious child to becoming an iconic figure in the world of magic. Throughout our conversation, Gaetan opens up about the pivotal mentors who shaped his path and how these relationships inspired his most famous tricks. He discusses his innovative approach to magic, which involves transforming everyday objects through curiosity and problem-solving. Whether you're an aspiring magician or simply enchanted by the art of illusion, Gaetan's insights are sure to captivate and inspire. Magical Beginnings and Creative Insights Explore the fascinating journey of Gaetan Bloom, an incredible magician and creator. We discuss how he got started in magic, inspired by a magician he saw at a hotel show as a child. Gaetan shares his early experiences, including his first magic kit and his discovery of the legendary Mayette magic shop in Paris. He recounts his unwavering passion for magic despite his parents' conventional careers and the influence of a well-known lawyer whose passion for magic helped Gaetan's parents support his magical aspirations. Influential Mentors and Creative Insight We discuss how Gaetan proactively became known in magic clubs as a teenager and formed significant relationships with influential figures like and . These mentors played crucial roles in advancing his career. Notable highlights include his interactions with prominent magicians and the development of his famous standing card trick. We also touch on the impactful guidance from mentors such as , , and , each contributing uniquely to his growth and success in the world of magic. The Magic of Object Presentation We learn about the fascinating interplay between magic and objects, with a focus on the creativity involved in incorporating unusual props like boxing gloves. We discuss the inspiration behind using such unconventional items, tracing back to a comedic performance by the French entertainer , who played the violin with boxing gloves. We consider the approach to scripting and rehearsing, emphasizing the organic development of dialogue and presentation in magic routines. Simplicity in Magical Inventions We explore the balance between originality and tradition in magic. I share my passion for fooling magicians by reinventing standard effects with new methods, emphasizing the importance of personal creativity over instant solutions available online. We touch upon the early inspiration from the , where Gaetan challenged himself to develop unique methods for existing tricks. Endless Chain Mentions Links /episode/index/show/discourseinmagic/id/31902607