Magic Roadshow
Issue # 41 Feb. 22nd, 2006
Rick Carruth / editor (C) copyright 2006, all rights reserved
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Issue # 41 Feb. 22nd, 2006
Rick Carruth / editor (C) copyright 2006, all rights reserved
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Hello Everybody!
I am SO glad to be here, both literally and physically. I know this issue is late, but I have an excuse. Monday, February 13th was my wife's birthday. Like any loving husband, she ran to do a couple of errands while I did a little work, then went to a neighboring community to pick up her birthday present. We were to meet up at 3pm for a late birthday lunch at one of her favorite restaurants, and I was right on schedule...
Ten minutes away, as I was rounding a curve taking a shortcut through the country, a driver coming from the other direction suddenly swirved into my lane and hit my car head-on. All I can remember is thinking "this is not good", as I embedded myself into the steering wheel, and windshield. My next thought was " I'm still alive.." and, seeing smoke everywhere, telling myself to get out, and get out quick..
With much effort, I got out and worked my way to the back of the car. I'll leave out all the less pleasant stuff and just say that I couldn't walk and was pretty much a mess. Besides the expected busted nose, broken ribs, severe burns from being thrusted into the airbag, assorted cuts and deep bruses.. I had one nasty little injury -
I had hit my right knee on the underside of the dash so hard that my knee cap was broke into two distinct pieces, and was positioned about two inches apart..
Enough of the gore already? Good! Let's move on..
The good folks at Steadman-Hawkings Clinic, the same ones' who perform surgery on all the big-shot pro athletes, took me as a patient and operated on my knee two days later. That's good. Peyton Manning was in the waiting room with me.. well.. his 'thank you Doc ' poster was there. ;o)
The down side is.. I am pretty much down for the next ten weeks. Can't walk, can't get up without help from my sweetheart, and can't drive. Bummer..
I couldn't have composed a newsletter last week if my life had depended on it.. I still can't get to my main desktop computer to access resources I really need. If it weren't for my laptop and a big pillow, you wouldn't be reading this..
Sunday I composed a simple 'sorry for the delay - I'm recovering' email. That's all I planned on sending out, but Monday I decided to add a quick resource or two - just to be a good sport. By Tuesday I was spending hours composing a full-scale newsletter. Very therapeudic, I might add...
Anyway.. I wanted to offer my excuse, and ask that you be a little patient with me the next few weeks, and not hold me to a firm schedule. I WILL do the very best I can.. You guys are VERY important to me, and I don't want you to think for one moment that I've lost interest or forgotten about you.
You take time out of your busy schedules to read my humble work, and I am eternally grateful for that.. Maybe being here a home will give me a little extra time to work on some ideas I have for the future. I hope so..
If you're bored too.. Email Me with your ideas, request, rants, and raves...
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In this issue:
1) Magic Conventions - R.Carruth
2) Five Reasons - David Breth /associate editor
3) Target Marketing for Magicians - Dennis Regling / contributing editor
4) Magic for All.. Free Downloads
5) Mindbender.. Better than spoons
6) Hoodwinkings.. Mick Ayres latest magical feast
7) Do Card Tricks.. free tutorials & video's
8) Unlocking the Real Secrets of Magic.. Your own personal library of timeless info
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" Being a magician can make you money.. Being a performer can make you rich." R.Carruth
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Magic Conventions..
Rick Carruth
Have YOU attended a magic convention lately? If not.. why not? You don't have to be a member of any particular organization to attend most magic conventions. Oh, if you're a member of SAM or IBM you may get a discount for attending, but it's generally not a requirement.
Here's a review I wrote of the recent SCAM convention in Columbia S.C.. Perhaps this will give you a little idea of what went on, and what you miss when you don't attend conventions.
SCAM 2006
January 13th,14th, and 15th Columbia S.C. was host to Magic Weekend, an array of magical events for everyone of all ages. Centered around the 11th annual convention of S.C.A.M. (South Carolina Association of Magicians) held at the upscale Columbia Marriott and hosted by the Coe Norton Ring (I.B.M. 105), this years events spread outward from the convention center to such diverse locations as the Koger Center at the Univ. of South Carolina, the South Carolina State Museum, and the EdVenture Childrens Museum.
Early attendees Thursday the 12th were treated to a master class with Tony Griffith, a very special performer from England noted for his membership in the Inner Magic Circle, over one hundred performances at the Magic Castle, and years of highly successful public and corporate work in countries around the world. All the attendees, myself included, left with a cornucopia of new effects and ideas, plus classic effects with Tony's distinct fingerprint.
Friday arrived with everyone in full magic mode as the doors opened to a rapid, but well-timed, series of lectures and contests. Noted performer/director Mike Genevie, Houston's Daniel Garcia (who's new DVD "TORN" is a worldwide bestseller), and international award winner and San Francisco resident Jade, each offered unique lectures based on both their personal and professional experiences.
Young magicians and children of magicians were presented with a special treat, as they were all invited to attend a special "Dinner with Joshua Jay" Friday evening, hosted by Jay and held in the Marriott's luxuriant and expansive open dining area. Although I don't have exact figures, I did see quite a number of young, expressive faces dining with Joshua.
A late night cabaret show proved to be the perfect stage for the young and fearless Matt McCoy, and the fertile mind of the raucous Gazzo, probably the only man in all of magic who could successfully orchestrate a thirty minute cups and balls routine that left the audience wanting more.
Chris Hage was responsible for a festive Midnight Madness in the dealers room that saw magicians buying new effects and material non-stop until... midnight. Magicians and their families were provided with the perfect opportunity to kick back and relax and enjoy a re-broadcast of "John Tudor's Magic Theatre", a special magical feast taped at the Sumter Opera House and originally broadcast on PBS.
While Friday's events kept all the SCAM attendee's busy from noon to well past midnight, John Tudor and a very live "John Todor's Magic Theatre" presented four shows, Friday through Sunday, at the South Carolina State Museum auditorium for the entertainment of everyone in the Columbia area. Although convention commitments prevented me from attending, I've seen it, amazed at it, and know that everyone attending enjoyed it immensely.
Saturday presented it's own set of problems as lectures by Englands' Tony Griffith, Las Vegas' Gazzo, considered by many as magic's foremost street performer, Houstons' Julian Franklin, renown performer and Linking Ring columnist, and Akrons' Joshua Jay, close-up whiz and Magic magazine columnist, kept magicians frantically scribbling notes on anything capable of holding ink.
Saturday's events included two simultaneous, and very spirited, close-up shows featuring Gazzo, Josh Jay, Joe Jesse (via Myrtle Beach), and Daniel Garcia. The close-up competition was extremely competitive, but I did not have the names of the winners available at the time I wrote this article.. sorry..
Julian Franklin somehow pulled double-duty as a lecturer at SCAM and a featured performer at EdVenture Childrens Museum, where shows were held for excited children (and their parents) Saturday and again Sunday. I must congratulate all the various performers and lecturers who took great pains to entertain in any way possible, expecially when constantly pressed by fans and friends alike throughout their visit. Their willingness to share was extraordinary.
By 6pm Saturday afternoon a tired, but immensely satisfied, group of magicians and their families had a couple of hours to reflect on the wisdom, style, techniques, and trickery they had so gratefully ingested from this group of well qualified and diverse performers. Dealers tables came down as attendee's filtered out of the main convention area and caught their breath before the coup de gras, scheduled to begin at 8.
Two hours later everyone had found their way to the Koger Center for the Arts in anticipation of th SCAM Gala Stage Show 2006. As the stage lights dimmed, a full house of magic aficionado's from throughout the south watched as emcee and Philadelphia favorite, Hiawatha, provided the perfect voice and flair to simultaneously entertain and introduce the classic magic of Michael Lair, the hijinx's of the always-on Gazzo, and the big time illusions of Bret Daniel's protege - Jason Michaels.
Following a brief intermission, a very surprised David Parker of Charleston was awarded the title of South Carolina's "Magician of the Year", a fitting honor for a magician who is also a tireless worker-organizer, and one of my new-found friends..
Next, Charlottes' Fettucini Brothers performed what can only be described as -extreme- juggling and comedic relief, much to the amusement of magicians and the general public alike. All eyes focused on Jade and the "Beauty of Magic" as she dazzled the audience with her artistic, and award winning, performance to bring the Gala to a close for 2006.
It was rewarding to watch magicians from across the country make their way back to the Marriott for a late night buffet, courtesy of SCAM, and listen as they told their stories and demonstrated their magic for their fellow performers. Regardless of the high-powered talent at this years convention and the invaluable lectures, the friendships that are made in the late night hours are always one of the fondest of memories.
A special 'thanks' should go to Dave Tanner for making his personal collection of Houdini's tools of the trade, including Houdini's handcuffs and keys, available for public viewing throughout the convention and in the lobby of the Koger Center.
Of course, this years special event would never have come to fruition without the unwearied efforts of master magician John Tudor, the tireless Henry Pettit and Chris Hage, as well as many others whos names I do not know, but hope to know in the future..
Personally, I would like to thank Henry Pettit for extending to me an invitation to set up a table promoting my newsletter, Magic Roadshow, and giving me the opportunity to meet many very talented magicians who, I soon discovered, traveled from Florida, Texas, New York, and beyond to attend SCAM's 11th annual convention. Without fail, they all heartily agreed that SCAM has achieved the feel and prestige of a national convention.
I second that..
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OK Rick, what did it cost? Well, the master class on Thursday was limited to fifteen magicians and cost $75.00. Afterwards, I had to drive back to Spartanburg to pick up Carolyn (my wife). I spent the night at home and arrived back in Columbia Saturday morning about eleven. Registration for the two of us was about $120.00, if memory serves me. I booked a room at the hotel, Columbia's beautiful Marriott Downtown, over the internet. Since the convention just happened to be at the Marriott, that worked out real good.
I asked about the various packages available at the time I booked, and settled for a weekend getaway type package for $95.00 a night. This included a deluxe room for Friday and Saturday nights, a lobster and steak dinner for two each night in the hotels restaurant, and a full breakfast buffet for two each morning - including the made-to-order omelets, drinks, and ALL tips and gratuities. Not bad... not bad at all...
That looks like about $385.00 for both my wife and myself, including the master class for me. Heck, if I had gone with a fellow magician instead of my wife, my cost would have been around $150.00 for the weekend, not including the master class, but including the free meals.
I realize travel cost are always present, but that differs so from location to location that it's hard for me to calculate. In my personal example, I live about 110 miles from the convention. 110 miles x 2 x 2.20 a gallon for gas = $24.20. You CAN afford to attend a convention. Traveling with a buddy will cut your expenses in half.
Perhaps you don't have a buddy to travel and attend lectures with. That's not a problem.. there are always attendees at every convention who share the same situation as you. Walk down to the lobby area of the hotel and look for a guy sitting by himself - with a deck of cards in his hand.
( It's almost humorous, and a little sick, but it reminds me of these super-secret underground groups of sexual deviates who say " go to the lobby of the grand luxor, sit in a king arthur chair by the fireplace, and carry a copy of 'Magic Mountain'. Look for other folks in the same general area, carrying the same Thomas Mann novel, sitting near the same fireplace. They will be your contacts. They are into what you're into..." )
Yes, the guy with the cards is one of your new-found friends. He's looking for a fellow magician to walk up and say " Hi.. I'm Roger. You here for the convention? " That's all it takes... And you don't have to be a master magician to go. If guys are showing off their moves, walk up and say "Wow.. that's cool. How'd you do that?" Believe me, he'll show you. He WANTS other magicians to ask. You're accessing his ego, and chances are he'll show you several other tricks before you leave... if you leave.
I want each of you to attend at least one convention this year, if at all possible. If you don't know where or when the nearest convention to you will be held, and can't find out otherwise, write me and tell me where you are. I'll find out what's available for you to attend. And if I can't, I'll direct you somewhere where they can...
I'll see you there..
Rick C.
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Five Reasons You Need To Listen And Learn From Expert Television Marketing Masterminds David Blaine & Chris Angel
by David Breth
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"Connecting to another human on a human level. To me, that's where the strongest magic has come from."
-David Blaine in an interview with ABCnews. com
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1. The Power Of Amazement With Testimonies.
Before, during & after each effect, specials featuring David Blaine and Criss Angel shows the reaction of the audience members, interviews audience members, and has the spectators share their insights as to what they found to be amazing and what they just witnessed. When it comes to testimonies - be extremely liberal with them. Post Testimonies EVERY-WHERE, post them on your web sites, newsletters, phone messaging system, yellow page ads, etc. … Testimonies are a GREAT confidence builder for someone considering hiring YOU for their next event...
2. People Love Options.
When David and Chris walk-up to a stranger (most people are usually skeptical), they give people (options) the freedom to choose a card, an object, number, a place or a situation of their choice (this gives people the feeling of being in the drivers seat of being in control).
When we market, always give your clientele several options to choose from... people love this!!!! Offer them the option of choosing a Silver, Gold or Platinum Package; Offer them the option to add extras to the package they have freely selected (t-shirts, hats, party bags, books, etc., …)
3. Always offer at least a 100% Guarantee!
People like to feel secure, when you are marketing you and or your product. One valuable goal is to give your reader the knowledge that they can feel and know they are secure in buying you and or your product!
4. Raw equals more believable.
They do their work right in your face! Though both David and Chris execute some of the most mind-numbing, amazing and supernatural effects, both men are still perceived as being human. Walking and talking among their fans, both choose to "let you into their world". Both men are experts in the field of ‘magic’, yet people feel as though they know them intimately due to the fact that they deliver their effects in raw, real life situations. Both David and Criss deliver the message to those watching them on TV that they are real and understand you. They do not talk above or at you - but with you - striking your heart strings with tangible situations and stories.
5. Give them a reason to return to you.
Tell your clientele what they can expect WHEN (not IF..) they return to you as a repeat client - a 10% discount, a free package upgrade, a free item, a special add on, VIP invitation, etc…). Give them a reason to return to you, to continue to watch/use you and your services. Though your product(s) and service(s) are phenomenal, customers like to be patronized, they really like the feeling of being treated like a celebrity. Note: While watching Chris Angel’s and David Blaine’s television specials the commentator states before a commercial …"after the break, David/Chris will walk through a wall, levitate on the street, etc, "… ; always giving you motivation to stay with them/come back to them for more....
Later Friends..
David Breth / associate editor
http://www.davidbreth.com
editors note: I want to congradulate my trusty associate, David Breth, for being selected by USA Today Entrepreneurs Panel as a "entertainment & marketing expert".. Good work, David !
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Target Marketing For Magicians
by Dennis Regling
Most experienced magicians have the ability to do a variety of different show venues. The restaurant magician can certainly do strolling magic at corporate events, wedding receptions or even tradeshows.
Too many magicians however, make the mistake of trying to sell to all these markets at once. They take a shotgun approach to sales and marketing. Their business card or website says they do school assemblies, birthday parties, corporate events and festivals. Or, as my first business card said, "Comedy magic for every occasion." A magician for all events but a master of none.
If I was hiring a school assembly performer, I wouldn't want a birthday party performer. I would want an educational specialist, not a clown with a rabbit. If I was hiring a strolling magician for a trade show, I would want a specialist that understood my business' needs, not a family performer who knows fifty ways to tie a balloon animal.
Want to explode your magic business? Specialize. Determine what market you want and go after it with a gusto. Marketing efforts tend to have a geometric growth in response . If you split your efforts between two markets, you will get fewer bookings for the same efforts than if you focus on one with all your resources.
Does this mean you can't work other markets? No. If I get a call to do a party or a fair, I'm going to take it. But that is not my specialty. My marketing dollars do not go into soliciting those shows. They are a by-product of people getting to know about me.
Determine what market you want to pursue. Schools, restaurants, corporate meetings, trade shows, or parties. Your business card and your website should reflect that you are the specialist in this area. Let people know you are the expert.
Emphasize your abilities to solve their problems. Use references that highlight your experience in working with similar clients. When comparing your materials to other potluck performers, you should stand head and shoulders above the competition. This will get you more bookings and more money for your shows. As the expert, you naturally command the higher fee.
Silly Billy has made a career out just doing birthday parties. He has positioned himself as "the birthday party professional" in his market and commands higher fees than the average birthday party clown or magician. He makes a living many magicians would envy.
David Ginn has a wide experience in magic. He's done just about everything, but by specializing in school shows, he has supported his family and is recognized not only by his clients, but by other magicians as well as a top school performer.
Now, develop your potential client list. A school performer may want all the high schools within 200 miles of his house. A party magician may want all the companies with over 50 employess within 100 miles of home. A fair performer would want to join the state fair organization and target the directors of fairs and festivals in his own and neighboring states. Develop a mailing list with names and addresses and phone numbers. Identify conventions where you can showcase or rent a booth.
Rather than send out one or two advertising pieces to these leads, you will mail regularly to this list. A simple newsletter every month or two will keep you name in front of your prospects' eyes. Don't just send out advertising brochures. Send little articles or news bits about your business, what you are doing and maybe some industry news. Make it entertaining and educational. Of course you also include your contact information. When an event does come up, you will be remembered.
Your webpage should contain an article or two that relates to your business and the prospects. A trade show magician may include a free article on "How To Optimize Leads At Your Next Tradeshow." You should include some valuable information. Of course one way to optimize their leads would include hiring you. Be sure to have an opt-in list on your webpage so you can let them know when new articles are posted. This is another tool to keep your name in front of your prospects.
By specializing and building your name recognition in your market, your bookings should grow and your fees increase.
Once you have built your business in one market, you may want to expand into another market. When doing this, use a separate business card and webpage. If the markets are similar, such as starting in tradeshows and then adding corporate parties, you may want to have links between your pages. Indeed you may be using the same potential client list. It makes sense to offer to do the annual Christmas party or company picnic for companies already using you to do their show booths. Still, keep the separation between the two efforts. Send new prospects one offer only.
Over time, your business will grow, the markets you pursue may change. Just remember, for maximum results target your market and work one market hard. You can add others as you build your business, but always maintain expert status in each niche market.
Dennis Regling
captdenno@yahoo.com
http://www.magicministry.com
http://www.bellaonline.com/magic
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Magic For All - Free downloads
Derren Brown ebook, Houdini Excape , Poltergeist Spoon, Self folding Bill...
These are a few of the free downloads available at Magic For All. I realize some of these are duplicates of ebooks and/or downloads that I have offered, but this is still a site worth bookmarking if you like free magic. They also offer a number of instantly downloadable magic tricks in the three to four dollar range.
Although I have not personally downloaded them, they offer free downloads of old magic posters related to Houdini and other famous magicians of times past..
Look in the left side nav bar for the above links..
http://www.magicforall.com
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Mindbender - (Again)
Tired of bending forks? Borrow a deck of cards. Ask the spectator to pick out any card from the deck. It does not matter which.
You can barely even touch the card as it is placed on the back of your hand.
As you stare at the card intently you will draw your middle finger across the length of the card from a few inches above - at no time do you touch the card. Slowly, at first almost imperceptibly, the card begins to bend upward.
The only way a card can bend normally is for a person to apply pressure to the edges and actually bend it, but at no time does this happen. You. Don't. Touch. The. Card.
They see it happen. It happens before their eyes as the seconds tick by. They can stare at the card until their blood runs cold and they won't know what happened.
Watch the video..
http://www.ellusionist.com/cart/?aid=963
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Hoodwinkings
One of the many outstanding magicians I had the pleasure of meeting these past two years at the SCAM convention was Mick Ayres of Hilton Head Island S.C.. Now, Mick is a really laid back type who doesn't seem to get excited about much, but let me tell you.. put him on a stage, and in one blinding moment, Mick will command the stage with engaging characters from his very fertile mind..
That's not just my opinion.. That's the opinion of the thousands and thousands who watch Mick perform every year as he goes about his official duties as a full-time, contracted, professional performer for the Disney Corporation.
To quote from Micks excellent site, http://www.CardWorker.com (one of my very favorite)...
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"In the year 2000, after completing a successful month-long audition run at Disney’s Animal Kingdom resort in Orlando, I was permanently contracted as the resident entertainer for the exclusive Disney Vacation Resort on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Currently, my 'Evening of Magic' performance remains the only full-hour, one-man magic show Disney offers on any of its worldwide properties...as it moves into it's fifth straight year.
I lecture frequently throughout the southeast United States. Also, I have marketed many effects and written several books and manuscripts about the art of magic. In 2001, I was chosen as South Carolina Magician of the Year. In 2002, I was awarded a Presidential Citation after founding two Rings of Fellowship for the International Brotherhood of Magicians. In 2003, my effect 'RhymeTime' won a Linking Ring Award for Mentalism.
Internationally, my effects have been published in MAGIC, The Linking Ring (One-Man Parade), Channel One and in Steve Beam's Semi-Automatic Card Tricks Vols. 4 & 5.
So there you have it. That's who I am...."
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A couple of days ago, I received this from Mick..
"Anyway, I wanted you to know that I have decided to add another blog to the precarious stack that I'm sure must already exist. The blog is titled HOODWINKINGS and, in addition to being an avenue for free-range venting, it also offers presentation ideas, historical anecdotes and point-of-view commentary about the art of conjuring. It's an effort, but so far the whining has been kept to a minimum.
I'm doing my level-best to post every day so there should be something fresh everytime someone clicks in.
Check it out and let me know what you think..."
This is what I think. I think you should go to Hoodwinkings as quick as possible and bookmark it for reading each and every week. Mick is a true "performer".. not just someone who worked a restaurant once for six months and now demands you read his blog. Mick has more to offer his readers, in terms of experience and professionalism, than most four or five magic-related blogs combined.
Go NOW - and you'll be a fan forever ----->>
http://www.hoodwinkings.blogspot.com
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Do Card Tricks
Here's a variety of tutorials and video's to help you perform different flourishes and cuts, courtesy of Do Card Tricks. com. This is a discription of three of the moves featured on their site..
One Handed Drop Cut
The One Handed Drop Cut is a simple way to cut a deck of cards with one hand. This card trick might often be called by the simpler name of the "one handed cut." The trick only has four steps and is very easy to learn.
One Handed Lift Split Cut
The One Handed Lift Split Cut is very similar to the One Handed Drop Cut with some variations to spice it up a bit.
One Handed Twirl Cut
The One Handed Twirl Cut is a neat looking card trick. It is performed by twirling or twisting half of the deck of cards around and to the back of the other half.
All the tutorials and video's are free to their visitors without obligation. I like free..
http://docardtricks.com
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Unlocking the Real Secrets of Magic
I recently received notice from my Irish friend, Gary McCaffrey, that he has put together a package of many of the greatest works ever put between two covers. I'm talking about works that I refer to EVERY week to help me uncover a "new" effect.
How would you like to receive electronic copies of:
Expert at the Card Table, Bobo's "Modern Coin Magic", The Royal Road to Card Magic, Anneman's "Mental Miracles", Jean Hugard's excellent "Encyclopedia of Card Tricks", and Tarbell's Original Course in Magic.. all sixty courses.
And this is a Partial List !
These may be in modern electronic form, but they are true classics of magic that should be a part of every magicians library - and can be for LESS than the cost of one typical magic dvd. All I ask you to do is click the link and have a look... you may get a little "bonus" just for looking...
Click Here
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Well.. it's been fun... and it's been hard. But above all, it's be worth it......
I hope my next issue will contain a few additional resources for you. I have more resources available, but can't get to my other computer at the moment to access them in my bookmarks.
Contact Info: Please feel free to contact me with any questions, request, rants, or raves. Remember, I have a lot of time on my hands right now.. Email Me..
Till next time..
Rick Carruth / editor
http://www.StreetMagic.info
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I am SO glad to be here, both literally and physically. I know this issue is late, but I have an excuse. Monday, February 13th was my wife's birthday. Like any loving husband, she ran to do a couple of errands while I did a little work, then went to a neighboring community to pick up her birthday present. We were to meet up at 3pm for a late birthday lunch at one of her favorite restaurants, and I was right on schedule...
Ten minutes away, as I was rounding a curve taking a shortcut through the country, a driver coming from the other direction suddenly swirved into my lane and hit my car head-on. All I can remember is thinking "this is not good", as I embedded myself into the steering wheel, and windshield. My next thought was " I'm still alive.." and, seeing smoke everywhere, telling myself to get out, and get out quick..
With much effort, I got out and worked my way to the back of the car. I'll leave out all the less pleasant stuff and just say that I couldn't walk and was pretty much a mess. Besides the expected busted nose, broken ribs, severe burns from being thrusted into the airbag, assorted cuts and deep bruses.. I had one nasty little injury -
I had hit my right knee on the underside of the dash so hard that my knee cap was broke into two distinct pieces, and was positioned about two inches apart..
Enough of the gore already? Good! Let's move on..
The good folks at Steadman-Hawkings Clinic, the same ones' who perform surgery on all the big-shot pro athletes, took me as a patient and operated on my knee two days later. That's good. Peyton Manning was in the waiting room with me.. well.. his 'thank you Doc ' poster was there. ;o)
The down side is.. I am pretty much down for the next ten weeks. Can't walk, can't get up without help from my sweetheart, and can't drive. Bummer..
I couldn't have composed a newsletter last week if my life had depended on it.. I still can't get to my main desktop computer to access resources I really need. If it weren't for my laptop and a big pillow, you wouldn't be reading this..
Sunday I composed a simple 'sorry for the delay - I'm recovering' email. That's all I planned on sending out, but Monday I decided to add a quick resource or two - just to be a good sport. By Tuesday I was spending hours composing a full-scale newsletter. Very therapeudic, I might add...
Anyway.. I wanted to offer my excuse, and ask that you be a little patient with me the next few weeks, and not hold me to a firm schedule. I WILL do the very best I can.. You guys are VERY important to me, and I don't want you to think for one moment that I've lost interest or forgotten about you.
You take time out of your busy schedules to read my humble work, and I am eternally grateful for that.. Maybe being here a home will give me a little extra time to work on some ideas I have for the future. I hope so..
If you're bored too.. Email Me with your ideas, request, rants, and raves...
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In this issue:
1) Magic Conventions - R.Carruth
2) Five Reasons - David Breth /associate editor
3) Target Marketing for Magicians - Dennis Regling / contributing editor
4) Magic for All.. Free Downloads
5) Mindbender.. Better than spoons
6) Hoodwinkings.. Mick Ayres latest magical feast
7) Do Card Tricks.. free tutorials & video's
8) Unlocking the Real Secrets of Magic.. Your own personal library of timeless info
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" Being a magician can make you money.. Being a performer can make you rich." R.Carruth
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Magic Conventions..
Rick Carruth
Have YOU attended a magic convention lately? If not.. why not? You don't have to be a member of any particular organization to attend most magic conventions. Oh, if you're a member of SAM or IBM you may get a discount for attending, but it's generally not a requirement.
Here's a review I wrote of the recent SCAM convention in Columbia S.C.. Perhaps this will give you a little idea of what went on, and what you miss when you don't attend conventions.
SCAM 2006
January 13th,14th, and 15th Columbia S.C. was host to Magic Weekend, an array of magical events for everyone of all ages. Centered around the 11th annual convention of S.C.A.M. (South Carolina Association of Magicians) held at the upscale Columbia Marriott and hosted by the Coe Norton Ring (I.B.M. 105), this years events spread outward from the convention center to such diverse locations as the Koger Center at the Univ. of South Carolina, the South Carolina State Museum, and the EdVenture Childrens Museum.
Early attendees Thursday the 12th were treated to a master class with Tony Griffith, a very special performer from England noted for his membership in the Inner Magic Circle, over one hundred performances at the Magic Castle, and years of highly successful public and corporate work in countries around the world. All the attendees, myself included, left with a cornucopia of new effects and ideas, plus classic effects with Tony's distinct fingerprint.
Friday arrived with everyone in full magic mode as the doors opened to a rapid, but well-timed, series of lectures and contests. Noted performer/director Mike Genevie, Houston's Daniel Garcia (who's new DVD "TORN" is a worldwide bestseller), and international award winner and San Francisco resident Jade, each offered unique lectures based on both their personal and professional experiences.
Young magicians and children of magicians were presented with a special treat, as they were all invited to attend a special "Dinner with Joshua Jay" Friday evening, hosted by Jay and held in the Marriott's luxuriant and expansive open dining area. Although I don't have exact figures, I did see quite a number of young, expressive faces dining with Joshua.
A late night cabaret show proved to be the perfect stage for the young and fearless Matt McCoy, and the fertile mind of the raucous Gazzo, probably the only man in all of magic who could successfully orchestrate a thirty minute cups and balls routine that left the audience wanting more.
Chris Hage was responsible for a festive Midnight Madness in the dealers room that saw magicians buying new effects and material non-stop until... midnight. Magicians and their families were provided with the perfect opportunity to kick back and relax and enjoy a re-broadcast of "John Tudor's Magic Theatre", a special magical feast taped at the Sumter Opera House and originally broadcast on PBS.
While Friday's events kept all the SCAM attendee's busy from noon to well past midnight, John Tudor and a very live "John Todor's Magic Theatre" presented four shows, Friday through Sunday, at the South Carolina State Museum auditorium for the entertainment of everyone in the Columbia area. Although convention commitments prevented me from attending, I've seen it, amazed at it, and know that everyone attending enjoyed it immensely.
Saturday presented it's own set of problems as lectures by Englands' Tony Griffith, Las Vegas' Gazzo, considered by many as magic's foremost street performer, Houstons' Julian Franklin, renown performer and Linking Ring columnist, and Akrons' Joshua Jay, close-up whiz and Magic magazine columnist, kept magicians frantically scribbling notes on anything capable of holding ink.
Saturday's events included two simultaneous, and very spirited, close-up shows featuring Gazzo, Josh Jay, Joe Jesse (via Myrtle Beach), and Daniel Garcia. The close-up competition was extremely competitive, but I did not have the names of the winners available at the time I wrote this article.. sorry..
Julian Franklin somehow pulled double-duty as a lecturer at SCAM and a featured performer at EdVenture Childrens Museum, where shows were held for excited children (and their parents) Saturday and again Sunday. I must congratulate all the various performers and lecturers who took great pains to entertain in any way possible, expecially when constantly pressed by fans and friends alike throughout their visit. Their willingness to share was extraordinary.
By 6pm Saturday afternoon a tired, but immensely satisfied, group of magicians and their families had a couple of hours to reflect on the wisdom, style, techniques, and trickery they had so gratefully ingested from this group of well qualified and diverse performers. Dealers tables came down as attendee's filtered out of the main convention area and caught their breath before the coup de gras, scheduled to begin at 8.
Two hours later everyone had found their way to the Koger Center for the Arts in anticipation of th SCAM Gala Stage Show 2006. As the stage lights dimmed, a full house of magic aficionado's from throughout the south watched as emcee and Philadelphia favorite, Hiawatha, provided the perfect voice and flair to simultaneously entertain and introduce the classic magic of Michael Lair, the hijinx's of the always-on Gazzo, and the big time illusions of Bret Daniel's protege - Jason Michaels.
Following a brief intermission, a very surprised David Parker of Charleston was awarded the title of South Carolina's "Magician of the Year", a fitting honor for a magician who is also a tireless worker-organizer, and one of my new-found friends..
Next, Charlottes' Fettucini Brothers performed what can only be described as -extreme- juggling and comedic relief, much to the amusement of magicians and the general public alike. All eyes focused on Jade and the "Beauty of Magic" as she dazzled the audience with her artistic, and award winning, performance to bring the Gala to a close for 2006.
It was rewarding to watch magicians from across the country make their way back to the Marriott for a late night buffet, courtesy of SCAM, and listen as they told their stories and demonstrated their magic for their fellow performers. Regardless of the high-powered talent at this years convention and the invaluable lectures, the friendships that are made in the late night hours are always one of the fondest of memories.
A special 'thanks' should go to Dave Tanner for making his personal collection of Houdini's tools of the trade, including Houdini's handcuffs and keys, available for public viewing throughout the convention and in the lobby of the Koger Center.
Of course, this years special event would never have come to fruition without the unwearied efforts of master magician John Tudor, the tireless Henry Pettit and Chris Hage, as well as many others whos names I do not know, but hope to know in the future..
Personally, I would like to thank Henry Pettit for extending to me an invitation to set up a table promoting my newsletter, Magic Roadshow, and giving me the opportunity to meet many very talented magicians who, I soon discovered, traveled from Florida, Texas, New York, and beyond to attend SCAM's 11th annual convention. Without fail, they all heartily agreed that SCAM has achieved the feel and prestige of a national convention.
I second that..
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OK Rick, what did it cost? Well, the master class on Thursday was limited to fifteen magicians and cost $75.00. Afterwards, I had to drive back to Spartanburg to pick up Carolyn (my wife). I spent the night at home and arrived back in Columbia Saturday morning about eleven. Registration for the two of us was about $120.00, if memory serves me. I booked a room at the hotel, Columbia's beautiful Marriott Downtown, over the internet. Since the convention just happened to be at the Marriott, that worked out real good.
I asked about the various packages available at the time I booked, and settled for a weekend getaway type package for $95.00 a night. This included a deluxe room for Friday and Saturday nights, a lobster and steak dinner for two each night in the hotels restaurant, and a full breakfast buffet for two each morning - including the made-to-order omelets, drinks, and ALL tips and gratuities. Not bad... not bad at all...
That looks like about $385.00 for both my wife and myself, including the master class for me. Heck, if I had gone with a fellow magician instead of my wife, my cost would have been around $150.00 for the weekend, not including the master class, but including the free meals.
I realize travel cost are always present, but that differs so from location to location that it's hard for me to calculate. In my personal example, I live about 110 miles from the convention. 110 miles x 2 x 2.20 a gallon for gas = $24.20. You CAN afford to attend a convention. Traveling with a buddy will cut your expenses in half.
Perhaps you don't have a buddy to travel and attend lectures with. That's not a problem.. there are always attendees at every convention who share the same situation as you. Walk down to the lobby area of the hotel and look for a guy sitting by himself - with a deck of cards in his hand.
( It's almost humorous, and a little sick, but it reminds me of these super-secret underground groups of sexual deviates who say " go to the lobby of the grand luxor, sit in a king arthur chair by the fireplace, and carry a copy of 'Magic Mountain'. Look for other folks in the same general area, carrying the same Thomas Mann novel, sitting near the same fireplace. They will be your contacts. They are into what you're into..." )
Yes, the guy with the cards is one of your new-found friends. He's looking for a fellow magician to walk up and say " Hi.. I'm Roger. You here for the convention? " That's all it takes... And you don't have to be a master magician to go. If guys are showing off their moves, walk up and say "Wow.. that's cool. How'd you do that?" Believe me, he'll show you. He WANTS other magicians to ask. You're accessing his ego, and chances are he'll show you several other tricks before you leave... if you leave.
I want each of you to attend at least one convention this year, if at all possible. If you don't know where or when the nearest convention to you will be held, and can't find out otherwise, write me and tell me where you are. I'll find out what's available for you to attend. And if I can't, I'll direct you somewhere where they can...
I'll see you there..
Rick C.
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Five Reasons You Need To Listen And Learn From Expert Television Marketing Masterminds David Blaine & Chris Angel
by David Breth
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"Connecting to another human on a human level. To me, that's where the strongest magic has come from."
-David Blaine in an interview with ABCnews. com
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1. The Power Of Amazement With Testimonies.
Before, during & after each effect, specials featuring David Blaine and Criss Angel shows the reaction of the audience members, interviews audience members, and has the spectators share their insights as to what they found to be amazing and what they just witnessed. When it comes to testimonies - be extremely liberal with them. Post Testimonies EVERY-WHERE, post them on your web sites, newsletters, phone messaging system, yellow page ads, etc. … Testimonies are a GREAT confidence builder for someone considering hiring YOU for their next event...
2. People Love Options.
When David and Chris walk-up to a stranger (most people are usually skeptical), they give people (options) the freedom to choose a card, an object, number, a place or a situation of their choice (this gives people the feeling of being in the drivers seat of being in control).
When we market, always give your clientele several options to choose from... people love this!!!! Offer them the option of choosing a Silver, Gold or Platinum Package; Offer them the option to add extras to the package they have freely selected (t-shirts, hats, party bags, books, etc., …)
3. Always offer at least a 100% Guarantee!
People like to feel secure, when you are marketing you and or your product. One valuable goal is to give your reader the knowledge that they can feel and know they are secure in buying you and or your product!
4. Raw equals more believable.
They do their work right in your face! Though both David and Chris execute some of the most mind-numbing, amazing and supernatural effects, both men are still perceived as being human. Walking and talking among their fans, both choose to "let you into their world". Both men are experts in the field of ‘magic’, yet people feel as though they know them intimately due to the fact that they deliver their effects in raw, real life situations. Both David and Criss deliver the message to those watching them on TV that they are real and understand you. They do not talk above or at you - but with you - striking your heart strings with tangible situations and stories.
5. Give them a reason to return to you.
Tell your clientele what they can expect WHEN (not IF..) they return to you as a repeat client - a 10% discount, a free package upgrade, a free item, a special add on, VIP invitation, etc…). Give them a reason to return to you, to continue to watch/use you and your services. Though your product(s) and service(s) are phenomenal, customers like to be patronized, they really like the feeling of being treated like a celebrity. Note: While watching Chris Angel’s and David Blaine’s television specials the commentator states before a commercial …"after the break, David/Chris will walk through a wall, levitate on the street, etc, "… ; always giving you motivation to stay with them/come back to them for more....
Later Friends..
David Breth / associate editor
http://www.davidbreth.com
editors note: I want to congradulate my trusty associate, David Breth, for being selected by USA Today Entrepreneurs Panel as a "entertainment & marketing expert".. Good work, David !
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Target Marketing For Magicians
by Dennis Regling
Most experienced magicians have the ability to do a variety of different show venues. The restaurant magician can certainly do strolling magic at corporate events, wedding receptions or even tradeshows.
Too many magicians however, make the mistake of trying to sell to all these markets at once. They take a shotgun approach to sales and marketing. Their business card or website says they do school assemblies, birthday parties, corporate events and festivals. Or, as my first business card said, "Comedy magic for every occasion." A magician for all events but a master of none.
If I was hiring a school assembly performer, I wouldn't want a birthday party performer. I would want an educational specialist, not a clown with a rabbit. If I was hiring a strolling magician for a trade show, I would want a specialist that understood my business' needs, not a family performer who knows fifty ways to tie a balloon animal.
Want to explode your magic business? Specialize. Determine what market you want and go after it with a gusto. Marketing efforts tend to have a geometric growth in response . If you split your efforts between two markets, you will get fewer bookings for the same efforts than if you focus on one with all your resources.
Does this mean you can't work other markets? No. If I get a call to do a party or a fair, I'm going to take it. But that is not my specialty. My marketing dollars do not go into soliciting those shows. They are a by-product of people getting to know about me.
Determine what market you want to pursue. Schools, restaurants, corporate meetings, trade shows, or parties. Your business card and your website should reflect that you are the specialist in this area. Let people know you are the expert.
Emphasize your abilities to solve their problems. Use references that highlight your experience in working with similar clients. When comparing your materials to other potluck performers, you should stand head and shoulders above the competition. This will get you more bookings and more money for your shows. As the expert, you naturally command the higher fee.
Silly Billy has made a career out just doing birthday parties. He has positioned himself as "the birthday party professional" in his market and commands higher fees than the average birthday party clown or magician. He makes a living many magicians would envy.
David Ginn has a wide experience in magic. He's done just about everything, but by specializing in school shows, he has supported his family and is recognized not only by his clients, but by other magicians as well as a top school performer.
Now, develop your potential client list. A school performer may want all the high schools within 200 miles of his house. A party magician may want all the companies with over 50 employess within 100 miles of home. A fair performer would want to join the state fair organization and target the directors of fairs and festivals in his own and neighboring states. Develop a mailing list with names and addresses and phone numbers. Identify conventions where you can showcase or rent a booth.
Rather than send out one or two advertising pieces to these leads, you will mail regularly to this list. A simple newsletter every month or two will keep you name in front of your prospects' eyes. Don't just send out advertising brochures. Send little articles or news bits about your business, what you are doing and maybe some industry news. Make it entertaining and educational. Of course you also include your contact information. When an event does come up, you will be remembered.
Your webpage should contain an article or two that relates to your business and the prospects. A trade show magician may include a free article on "How To Optimize Leads At Your Next Tradeshow." You should include some valuable information. Of course one way to optimize their leads would include hiring you. Be sure to have an opt-in list on your webpage so you can let them know when new articles are posted. This is another tool to keep your name in front of your prospects.
By specializing and building your name recognition in your market, your bookings should grow and your fees increase.
Once you have built your business in one market, you may want to expand into another market. When doing this, use a separate business card and webpage. If the markets are similar, such as starting in tradeshows and then adding corporate parties, you may want to have links between your pages. Indeed you may be using the same potential client list. It makes sense to offer to do the annual Christmas party or company picnic for companies already using you to do their show booths. Still, keep the separation between the two efforts. Send new prospects one offer only.
Over time, your business will grow, the markets you pursue may change. Just remember, for maximum results target your market and work one market hard. You can add others as you build your business, but always maintain expert status in each niche market.
Dennis Regling
captdenno@yahoo.com
http://www.magicministry.com
http://www.bellaonline.com/magic
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Magic For All - Free downloads
Derren Brown ebook, Houdini Excape , Poltergeist Spoon, Self folding Bill...
These are a few of the free downloads available at Magic For All. I realize some of these are duplicates of ebooks and/or downloads that I have offered, but this is still a site worth bookmarking if you like free magic. They also offer a number of instantly downloadable magic tricks in the three to four dollar range.
Although I have not personally downloaded them, they offer free downloads of old magic posters related to Houdini and other famous magicians of times past..
Look in the left side nav bar for the above links..
http://www.magicforall.com
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Mindbender - (Again)
Tired of bending forks? Borrow a deck of cards. Ask the spectator to pick out any card from the deck. It does not matter which.
You can barely even touch the card as it is placed on the back of your hand.
As you stare at the card intently you will draw your middle finger across the length of the card from a few inches above - at no time do you touch the card. Slowly, at first almost imperceptibly, the card begins to bend upward.
The only way a card can bend normally is for a person to apply pressure to the edges and actually bend it, but at no time does this happen. You. Don't. Touch. The. Card.
They see it happen. It happens before their eyes as the seconds tick by. They can stare at the card until their blood runs cold and they won't know what happened.
Watch the video..
http://www.ellusionist.com/cart/?aid=963
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Hoodwinkings
One of the many outstanding magicians I had the pleasure of meeting these past two years at the SCAM convention was Mick Ayres of Hilton Head Island S.C.. Now, Mick is a really laid back type who doesn't seem to get excited about much, but let me tell you.. put him on a stage, and in one blinding moment, Mick will command the stage with engaging characters from his very fertile mind..
That's not just my opinion.. That's the opinion of the thousands and thousands who watch Mick perform every year as he goes about his official duties as a full-time, contracted, professional performer for the Disney Corporation.
To quote from Micks excellent site, http://www.CardWorker.com (one of my very favorite)...
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"In the year 2000, after completing a successful month-long audition run at Disney’s Animal Kingdom resort in Orlando, I was permanently contracted as the resident entertainer for the exclusive Disney Vacation Resort on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Currently, my 'Evening of Magic' performance remains the only full-hour, one-man magic show Disney offers on any of its worldwide properties...as it moves into it's fifth straight year.
I lecture frequently throughout the southeast United States. Also, I have marketed many effects and written several books and manuscripts about the art of magic. In 2001, I was chosen as South Carolina Magician of the Year. In 2002, I was awarded a Presidential Citation after founding two Rings of Fellowship for the International Brotherhood of Magicians. In 2003, my effect 'RhymeTime' won a Linking Ring Award for Mentalism.
Internationally, my effects have been published in MAGIC, The Linking Ring (One-Man Parade), Channel One and in Steve Beam's Semi-Automatic Card Tricks Vols. 4 & 5.
So there you have it. That's who I am...."
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A couple of days ago, I received this from Mick..
"Anyway, I wanted you to know that I have decided to add another blog to the precarious stack that I'm sure must already exist. The blog is titled HOODWINKINGS and, in addition to being an avenue for free-range venting, it also offers presentation ideas, historical anecdotes and point-of-view commentary about the art of conjuring. It's an effort, but so far the whining has been kept to a minimum.
I'm doing my level-best to post every day so there should be something fresh everytime someone clicks in.
Check it out and let me know what you think..."
This is what I think. I think you should go to Hoodwinkings as quick as possible and bookmark it for reading each and every week. Mick is a true "performer".. not just someone who worked a restaurant once for six months and now demands you read his blog. Mick has more to offer his readers, in terms of experience and professionalism, than most four or five magic-related blogs combined.
Go NOW - and you'll be a fan forever ----->>
http://www.hoodwinkings.blogspot.com
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Do Card Tricks
Here's a variety of tutorials and video's to help you perform different flourishes and cuts, courtesy of Do Card Tricks. com. This is a discription of three of the moves featured on their site..
One Handed Drop Cut
The One Handed Drop Cut is a simple way to cut a deck of cards with one hand. This card trick might often be called by the simpler name of the "one handed cut." The trick only has four steps and is very easy to learn.
One Handed Lift Split Cut
The One Handed Lift Split Cut is very similar to the One Handed Drop Cut with some variations to spice it up a bit.
One Handed Twirl Cut
The One Handed Twirl Cut is a neat looking card trick. It is performed by twirling or twisting half of the deck of cards around and to the back of the other half.
All the tutorials and video's are free to their visitors without obligation. I like free..
http://docardtricks.com
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Unlocking the Real Secrets of Magic
I recently received notice from my Irish friend, Gary McCaffrey, that he has put together a package of many of the greatest works ever put between two covers. I'm talking about works that I refer to EVERY week to help me uncover a "new" effect.
How would you like to receive electronic copies of:
Expert at the Card Table, Bobo's "Modern Coin Magic", The Royal Road to Card Magic, Anneman's "Mental Miracles", Jean Hugard's excellent "Encyclopedia of Card Tricks", and Tarbell's Original Course in Magic.. all sixty courses.
And this is a Partial List !
These may be in modern electronic form, but they are true classics of magic that should be a part of every magicians library - and can be for LESS than the cost of one typical magic dvd. All I ask you to do is click the link and have a look... you may get a little "bonus" just for looking...
Click Here
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Well.. it's been fun... and it's been hard. But above all, it's be worth it......
I hope my next issue will contain a few additional resources for you. I have more resources available, but can't get to my other computer at the moment to access them in my bookmarks.
Contact Info: Please feel free to contact me with any questions, request, rants, or raves. Remember, I have a lot of time on my hands right now.. Email Me..
Till next time..
Rick Carruth / editor
http://www.StreetMagic.info
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