Are You Having Any Fun?

Here is something about me that few people know. In fact, about the only people who would know this are those who have worked with me in a big show. Before all my secular stage shows, in my pre-show music, about seven minutes before the show is to start, I always play the song, “Are

I Learned Because I Listened

If you are a magician, here are some names you should know.  If you are not familiar with the work of these performers, it is to your loss. They all were, or yet are, treasure troves of magical knowledge and information. Ali Bongo. Karrell Fox. Jay Marshall. Billy McComb. Warren Stephens. Pavel. Trevor Lewis. Hank

Annoyed

I just returned home from the annual convention of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians. While there I was interviewed by Matthew Hill, the new owner of the Dock Haley Magic Company, about my life as a gospel magician and about my thoughts concerning gospel magic in general. During the course of the interview I was

Simple Ideas, but Kid Show Gold

In context of a magic show, I have a strong opinions about how children who come on stage as volunteers should be treated. Fundamentally I believe every helper should be a hero. Every child assistant should be shown great appreciation and respect. I do not think a child should ever be made to feel uncomfortable,

Just Getting Started in Magic?

I have heard it a number of times over the years and every time I hear it I feel bad.  It is when someone says,  “Oh, I tried magic, but gave up on it. I just couldn’t do it.” That statement troubles me for two reasons. First of all, I’m sorry to learn that a

Make a Production Out of Using Silks and Streamers

A few years ago in one of our shows, I dug out a prop I had not used for several years.  It is a production box, called the “Hank Box,” made by Joe Eddie Fairchild.  It allows for a huge production of silks.  We created a presentation, using that prop, that played extremely well.  In

Listen to the Music (When Planning Your Show)

A few weeks ago I put together a show for a new venue. I was to present an hour of magical entertainment to guests at a resort. In preparing the show I sat down, as I usually do, and wrote out a possible running order.  Based on things I have done in the past, while

What Audiences Want

As this article begins I must admit frustration. While researching a speech for musicians, I came across a fascinating blog written by a man who coaches country singers on how to put on a great concert. I copied a statement from the blog and moved on with my research. Later, when reviewing the copied statement,

Gospel Routine for the Square Circle Effect

The Square Circle trick is a great trick…if handled properly. When not handled properly it can be pitiful. I encourage gospel magicians to use the Square Circle, but also challenge us all to make sure we know how to use it well. Rather than about proper handling, this article is about the use of the

Is It Time to Go Full Time?

Not long ago I came across a Facebook post, made by a gospel magician, that went something like this… “I recently lost my job. This led me think it may be time for me to go full time with my performing. I’ve been doing magic in my hometown area for quite a while. It might

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