It may be that one of the most difficult issues to work through, when growing as a performer, is the identification of your on-stage character and personality.  The truth is, until you know exactly who you are, and how you want your audience to view you, you will never be a great showman. There are

Not long ago, at the end of training session wherein I taught for about five hours about being successful as an entertainer, a lady said to me, “I am surprised that you would be so open about what you do.  Do you really want other people to know your secrets?”   This person went on

  One of my goals in sharing routines is that of providing practical material that performers can use in shows.  I am committed to sharing material that works in “real world” situations. The truth is, not all magic is particularly useful.  Some tricks are based on clever principles, and involve intricate moves or mechanics that

I think almost all magicians know it is good to avoid sameness of effect.  Although, when viewed individually, they are great tricks, if an audience sees illusions such as Origami, the Sword Basket, and Spiker all performed one right after another, the impact is diminished.  People might think, Okay, I get it.  The girl can

The basic concept for this routine comes from Alan Shaxon of England.   The way the routine ends is my addition to his idea. I was privileged to work with Alan at a number of international venues and we were good friends.  Alan was instrumental in me becoming MIMIC with Gold Star (Member of the

Here is a collection of thoughts and ideas about tables and prop management. Many readers will already know this, but for those who do not it, it needs to be repeated.  For most magicians, a table with a top that is at least partially open is the way to go.  This means that, rather than

The above title is not a misprint.  This article is about the magic Magic Marker.  Along with being a fun presentation theme, it also is a lesson in manipulation in the sense that each aspect of the routine gives reason for necessary moves. To do this effect you must be able to handle a Hank

Advertising and promotion should not be left until the last minute.  I prefer to get such things going months ahead of time.  To do that, I have to have a good grasp on what will be in the show. Why is this important?  It is because advertising and promotion needs to be accurate.  People expect

A good showman understands the necessity of being able to immediately convince an audience that they have made a good decision in choosing to experience his performance. He knows that the following concepts are critical to making this happen. The Power of the First Impression The Truth of the Self-fulfilling Prophecy The 15 Second Rule

My first motivation in sharing this routine is my own pleasure in performing it. I am not exactly sure why, but I love to do it. It is simple, yet magical. It is silly, yet entertaining. I hope you will give it a try. What happens? The magician invites a volunteer on stage to assist