The Writing on the Wall

Inspiration sometimes comes from the strangest places. Without a doubt, one of my most inspired moments came in a bathroom. Strangely enough, Jeff has had the same experience in the same bathroom. The bathroom of interest belongs to Gary & Tam Stadler. Gary is the Techno Wizard that you hear about from Jeff now and then (and my best friend). Tam is his wife and the first person to make me...

Illusionist’s Bookshelf

A recent workshop we offered here at the Las Vegas Magic School featured the Grand Illusions of the Pendragons. Our 2nd annual “Focus on Grand Illusion” was a fun and informative event. We had 13 magicians, men and women from all over the USA attending the 3 day event. Jonathan and Charlotte brought a few of their actual working stage illusions with them for a “hands-on”...

Learning Life Lessons from Children

The following interview was requested by and published on the Dutch website: kidsmagic.nl. How do you define your profession, or the work that you do? Do you find your self a magician, illusionist, or entertainer? All of the above. I feel that many people start out with an interest in magic, and by pursuing the craft, the “how, what and why,” of magic, they become entertainers. Illusionist is a...

Drawing the Line

Can you keep a secret? Do you think I’m joking? I’m not. As one who, as we say, “earns his living” entirely from the performance of close-up magic and sleight-of-hand for adults-in cocktail lounges and restaurants, and at corporate and private parties — I think secrets are important. Please don’t treat them lightly. I have long suspected, however, that the...

Handling Humans

Grand stage illusionists, clever sleight of hand performers, mysterious mind readers, and wise guy stand-up performers are in many ways worlds apart in their approach to the art of magical entertainment. But all of these modes of performance share a common challenge. Humans. We all have seen shows ruined by a poor choice of assistant from the audience. We all have seen routines sent tumbling...