In preparing for my speech at the recent gathering of the BGSSA (Branson Gospel Singers Songwriters Association) I came across a fascinating study. It had to do with the visual versus audio aspects of performance. Although primarily a lesson for musicians, it is something to which magicians and variety entertainers should give attention. A Social

Almost everyone has heard this common definition of insanity: Insanity is when you keep doing the same thing, in the same way, while expecting different results. Strangely enough, although almost everyone has heard the definition, rarely does anyone think it applies to themselves. Many understand the need to change in order to achieve different results.

This no longer seems to be a controversial issue among gospel magicians, but there was a time when it was a major concern. In times past one regional conference of the Fellowship Of Christian Magicians even made a rule about it. They said, “No one will be allowed to lecture at our conference unless his

What is the secret to getting repeat bookings? What is the secret to getting referrals that result in many more shows? What is the secret to having audiences wonderfully excited about the opportunity to experience your performance? What is the secret to long term success as a variety arts entertainer? What is the secret to

This belongs in the category of “dusting off forgotten treasures.”  I certainly did not invent this trick, nor did I create the routine. I am offering my way of doing a thing that I learned from others. In particular, Hank Moorehouse, was a person whom I saw use this trick many times.  Hank had a

My biggest concern in structuring a show is how it will “feel."  By way of observation and experience I am convinced that even great tricks become unappreciated if they are used at the wrong time and place in a show.  Every trick and routine must be analyzed in light of the energy associated with it, and

  This is another routine that fits the category of “professional presentation.”  It involves a prop that is comparatively expensive ($159.00), yet, in light of the value it offers for those who truly want to work with their magic, it is a bargain. Even those who do not do many shows will find the prop

  Forgive the title of this article.  If applied to daily life and family, it certainly is bad advice.  However, when used to point out an important concept relating to show business, it can be extremely helpful.  Performers tend to have babies.  This means they have a trick, joke, idea or routine that they bring

  The cost of props is a concern to me. I realize that many readers are not professional performers and therefore must be extra careful about what they spend on magic.  It is a hobby, not a job, so they spend what we used to call “mad money” on their magic.  In other words, it

  During the off-season of our Grand Magic illusion show we do a variety of other programs, including shows for public schools. It seems our school programs are effective.  We enjoy doing them and response from administrators is affirming. We are almost always invited back again. As well, we normally are immediately recommended to other