5 Tips for Perfect Practice

5 Tips for Perfect Practice

Posted by Unknown  |  at  04:19

Here are 5 tips that I would reccomend that everyone use when practicing their magic.
# Use a mirror
# Be alone
# Practice every day
# Experiment
# Rinse and repeat

Firstly, use a mirror. You don’t have to stand in your bathroom for hours on end practicing, but I would really reccomend purchasing a mirror that you can sit or stand in front of that you can place on a desk or something. That way you can see what the spectator sees to know if you are flashing anything.

Secondly, you should be alone. Find a time when you don’t have to have anyone around you and you won’t be inturrupted. Even if that’s only 10 minutes a day (I would reccomend at least 30) be alone when you practice.

Thirdly, and I can’t emphasize this one enough, practice every day. Whether its for 2 hours, or 20 minutes, you need to practice your effects and routines as often as you can if you intend on being any good. Even if you are just a hobbyist, I would still reccomend practicing a trick or two a day that way you can perfect it and get some great reactions from friends and family.

Fourthly, this one is the most fun in my opinion, experiment. Try new things. Find a new way to use the French Drop. Try out using a ring instead of a coin. Why not come up with some new tricks and think of a couple methods of performing them?

Lastly, but hands down the most important, rinse and repeat. Repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, and repeat some more. Doing the same trick over and over and over again will help you immensely. Start out going slowly and if it’s longer, do it in segments. Make sure you are doing the moves correctly though, otherwise you will get some bad habits.

They say that practice makes perfect. That’s not all the way correct. You can practice, but what if you don’t know how to do it correctly? Well, hopefully this will get you off on the right foot and let you get the most out of your practice time.

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The hype for real mentalism

The hype for real mentalism

Posted by Unknown  |  at  22:50

You have been fooled, and it's not about dishonesty, it's all about good showmanship. Much of you have logged on youtube and saw experienced mentalists do something which tickle your brain, over-heat your neurones and certainly baffle and entertain you in the best of the ways. WE ALL want it, the best way to fool people, to leave them speechless, but maybe our perception is blurred by the pseudo-presentational ideology behind those routines?

Great performers does exactly this, they suspend your belief for a moment and make you believe that what is presented is in fact real, great magician can do it too, and that is the beauty of this art. You are left floating within your imaginary world which contains no laws, no limits... You are in fact becoming a layman in front of that performer...Which force you to take your credit card and buy the next fashioned effect...

There are still people which consider themselves psychics, and that's showbuisiness, they make a charming or not so charming caracther and they keep it, and that's how people identify them, that's how they get... attached with them. If Homer Simpson would change personality tomorrow, would you still be looking at the series?

However a new vagues of entertainer hit the market, the psychological illusionists, I have nothing against them, in fact I associate myself with those kind of performers. But then you may ask; why are you talking about this topic?

Open your eyes and read this: People often goes for the magic thougths when they forget to rationalise what they saw in the first place, and that's normal from the human psyche, when you look a good horror movie, you want to believe in what you see, you don't want to be suspended from the thrill because you feel sensations of fear and exictment, the same sensations you get from watching Derren Brown doing an incredible routine. You don't want to be suspended from his routine because he makes you believe that such things are possible.

Thus make you see the wall from outside the window

On the other side of the wall there is:
- Pre show.
- Trickery.
- Showmanship.
- Misdirection.
- Clever edits.

What you see, is what you do on stage every day, you migth make the audience believe that you can read with your fingertips, however psychological illusionists makes you believe that they can influence your thougths and hack your brain.

This is why it's so easy to fall in the psychological trap, people believe that the METHOD is actually what is the PRESENTATION, if you would use your method as a presentation you would probably tell your audience: «... So with clever trickery I am going to read your mind, just let me peek what is inside that envelope while you are laughing... why is everyone laughing? ...»

However I'm not starting to get a rebellion here, in fact there are ways to use psychology to create effects, book such as psychological subleties by Banacheck, Sleight of Mind by Ian Harling and Marting Nyrup, Building Blocks wouldn't exists.

However (coming with the point of this essay), people seem to rely so much on those techniques now, they get the Magical thougths of «... We can't do this with trickery, let's learn a bunch of NLP books that will teach us ...»

For those not experienced with Neurolinguistic programming (or structure of hypnosis, also miscalled as Not Likely Possible.) it is used for therapeutic use or for those who whish to use their powers for evil, to influence people into buying something from you or believing into something. There are ways to make routines with NLP, however I frankly never saw a mentalism routine with this (depending on your interpretation of what modern mentalism is).

Coming back to this point, psychological techniques looks good on paper and it migth be amusing to write them wishing them to work, however would you use those routines in a paid gig? I would drive mad if a signer would build to a climax with his song and at the most curcial part the mike stop workings and weird noses comes out of the amps, it's the same thing with your routines.

Why would you need to influence someone to pick a certain object when you can just use an equivoque or different outs, where are the double outs envelopes?

Mentalism happen's in the mind does this means no prop?

I love prop-free mentalism, I like the fact that you can just walk up to someone and just read someone else mind, predict the future, divine someone grocery list make a boomrang change color! (I got a bit carried here).

What's wrong with props? Are they poisonous? Do they hurt you (not talking about russian roulettes here) ?

Psychologists use pads to take notes, people hide information in envelopes because they are confidential, people write reminders on small billets... Why wouldn't you use them! What you see on TV isn't necessarely real, the peformer migth have used an impression pad, but that's not shown ''Because it removes the overall experiences of the viewer''.

Have you seen Derren Brown live? What does he use? ...

Of course there are great impromptu routines out there, however I feel a connection '' the clean everywhere, anytime no preparation psychological technique '' which most people would wish they exist.

Nurture your creativity

You already have it all in front of you, in your bedroom, on your shelf, in your mind! Those ideas that are begining to form, take those ideas, create a routine which you can present as a psychological performance, because now you understand that it is only an illusion.

People spend too much before thinking, they get bligthened by all the adds that make you believe that you can do it, then you get really dessapointed that you didn't found what you expected, and then you lie to people because you want to look like that pseudo-psychological entertainer so you can mislead more people into buying Psychology books to create their mentalism routine.

Make sure that the person which is coaching you give you good advice and he is knowledgable.

In the end

In sum, what you see is an illusions, and much of it is just mental masturbation, it's a great form of misdirection and you already use it all, however don't get fooled and think before buying.

Of course nothing prevents you of learning about Hypnotism and Suggestion like I did, and I still buy books teaching it, however, be creative with them!

Work hard on your scripts, listen, watch and learn to make people feel the same you you felt before this essay...

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Fun Questions Mind Tricks Article

Fun Questions Mind Tricks Article

Posted by Unknown  |  at  02:04

If you want hard tasks in life you may want to pursue a career in magic. It will be a very difficult road ahead, but the rewards may be grand. To have fame (not necessarily fortune) just follow the following tips.

1. It may sound very corny, work hard in your studies and if your grades are good enough you might get a scholarship and even earn the very hard to get degree. Magic is a great hobby to have, however it is not an ideal career choice because the employment rates for a magician doesn�t come around very often. Honestly you have as good of a chance to become a rich and famous magician than getting hit by lightning or win a singing contest when you know you don�t have the voice. We just want you to be aware that it isn�t always a rosy career and that it�s extremely difficult to succeed and make it a living so just in case it doesn�t work, you should consider a second career. As a historical fact did you know that many magicians have died without having any money?

2. If you get the chance when you attend high school and college, take a drama class. If you learn to act, know how magic sets are built and know how to produce this will help you building your new career. Another class than can get you improved is speech classes. This last class will help your presentations.

Of course you will gain an advantage if you know all the secrets in the book of magic but all and all you will have an even better advantage if you know the secret to great presentations.

3. Try to invent yourself a character. You should have a costume to build your character. This will get you help become your character. Why? Well why does a clown wear make up and a nose? Why does a doctor wear a white cloak? Because that is what they are and this is what they do. It is their job and it helps them get in the action and remind them of their job. Secondly, you should think of either having a stage name or not. It�s your choice, a stage name or your real name. The personality trait you have will also determine the kind of character you will be on stage. As time goes on you�ll learn to like your character as he will become part of you.

4. The act. This is the crucial part. Begin by selecting the tricks you know. Find out what kind of magic tricks they are. Next step is to put the pen to paper and make an order in which you want to do them. It�s advisable to do the tricks that have no wow reaction at the beginning and as the show goes on, impress them with bigger tricks.

You should try and get your crowd�s attention by doing the flashy stuff first. This will get your audience in the right mood.

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7 Magic Trick Tips Using Invisible Thread

7 Magic Trick Tips Using Invisible Thread

Posted by Unknown  |  at  01:50

Have you ever been to a magic show, sitting there mesmerized as you asked yourself, 'How did they do that?' As you know, magic is more an illusion, creating the vision that something is happening although it is not. While magicians use many different tools of the trade, one of the most popular is the invisible thread. Trying to get magicians to divulge their secrets associated with the invisible thread is near impossible.

However, we do want to provide you with some highlights and tips about the top seven magic trick tips performed using invisible thread.

What is Invisible Thread?

The first of the seven magic trick tips using invisible thread is to understand what it is. This type of thread is actually a very fine stand of nylon used primarily for getting small objects to levitate. For years, magicians worked with invisible thread and their hands only, meaning they had to be very precise in their movements for the magic tricks to appear flawless.

Today, magicians can use an invisible thread reel, which not only dispenses the thread but it is also designed to retract it.

Because of this, the magician is able to maintain a constant tension on the line so there are no mishaps in the performance.

Invisible Thread Reel Size

The second tip when using a thread reel is to use the appropriate size. Since different objects need different types of control, thread reels are made in a number of different sizes. Typically, the longer the tube the more distance you will get from the reel while the more tension the less distance.

For magicians, the idea is to use the smaller size invisible thread reels for close-up work opposed to a larger reel for distance. As far as size, a stage reel is capable of extending 35 feet, which means a magician could easily perform a 'floating bill' trick in the center of a room with no nearby walls.

However, if you want to really impress a crowd, you could perform the same floating bill trick outdoors simply by anchoring the reel to the ground. With this, it would appear the trick was impossible and the crowd cheers.

What about Tension?

Third on the list of seven trick tips using invisible thread is using the right tension. As you pull the invisible thread out of the reel, there will be an increase in tension. What happens at some point is that the pull will become too much for the thread, causing it to break. If you want to put more tension on the thread reel, wind more of the invisible thread into a wax ball. What you do not want to do is add additional winds on the elastic, which would only make it cumbersome.

Floating Objects

Next on the list is insight into working with floating objects. When using invisible thread for a magic trick, keep in mind that you want something that is light enough not to sag by putting too much weight on the thread. The key is to choose objects that you can easily move and maintain in a position in space, which is why the floating bill is such a popular choice. Other choices to use an invisible thread magic trick include ring fingers, an empty soda can, etc. The greatest benefit of using a thread reel is that when you walk away from your floating object, you are actually transferring energy to the reel, which can then be used to make the bill float from the floor to your hand - magically.

Lights

Next, to use invisible thread, you have to know how to use correct lighting. If you are a magician or just practicing to be one and you want to perform tricks with the invisible thread, remember that lighting is crucial. The two main factors to consider when using the thread reel are light source and clothing. Typically, the best conditions for a magic trick with invisible thread are cloudy days and the worst, direct lighting that comes from behind you. With this, the light will only reflect off the thread, thus being seen by the audience. For clothing, anything dark will serve as a backdrop for the thread, thus making it easier to see. For this reason, you should go with lighter, non-reflective type clothing. Magic is always fun and with some practice, you will soon learn a number of magic tricks with invisible thread, perfect for entertaining family and friends.

Methodology

The sixth of the seven magic trick tips using invisible thread has to do with methods of performing the tricks, such as the Hoop Pass. This is actually considered one of the greatest tricks you can do with the invisible thread reel, which involves passing a solid hoop over a bill. The key is to use a ring with a relatively thick stock, which will put less strain on the thread as it goes over the metal hoop. Lay the hoop on the thread so it is between you and the floating bill. Then, with your hand, scoop the ring through so the thread is now on the back of the left hand. Next, use the right hand to pass the hoop over the bill. To complete the trick, all you do is let the thread slide off from the back of your hand. Remember, this is just one of many methods used with the invisible thread, so have fun practicing them all.

Finishing the Show

The final tip is that whatever trick being performed using invisible thread and/or a reel, it should never kill the effect.

In other words, you want to keep your audience wanting more. If you carry a trick on too far, you will lose the interest of the audience so it would be far better to keep the tricks short and sweet. In addition, put some meaning and emphasis in your performances to leave your audience with a memory of your magic ability. We recommend you use the invisible thread late in your show, which will end the performance on a fun note.

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David Blaine - Buried Alive

David Blaine - Buried Alive

Posted by Unknown  |  at  09:53

David will perform Monday April 5th, 1999. It will be at Trump Park, 68th Street at West End Avenue (Riverside Place) at 10:00 A.M.

David will attempt to be buried alive for one week under six feet of Plexiglas tank filled with 4000 pounds of water, an attempt no other magician has tried. (the 7 day thing)

David did keep his word when he said "in your face pure and undeniable" by allowing the curious to look down in the coffin through the Plexiglas tank to see David in a trance like state only with a torch. David will be fed four tablespoons of water a day, hopefully enough for him to survive.

Houdini has always fascinated David. Blaine notes that he is performing a trick Houdini never accomplished but always wanted to do. Lance Burton also compared himself to Houdini when he was buried alive.

Lets all hope Blaine gets the respect he deserves. Unlike Houdini or Burton, Blaine will be there seven days and seven nights. Is it a trick, or reality?

Day 2

After day one day of the reporters and newspapers David Blaine turned to his side. Masked Magician Valentino supports Blaine. Keep watching Entertainment Tonight and Inside Edition for the latest news.

They say they can get him out in two minutes if something goes wrong. The air tube is critical.

Day 3

Regis came down to view David in the casket. He offered him a hotdog and told him to come out of there. He made David laugh talking through a microphone telling him how crazy he looks.

David was under a blanket at some of the moments he was in there. I think that maybe he has some food hidden down there and the blanket is to hide him. I believe he is down there, but I don't believe everything down there is the way it seems. After all he does keep licking his tongue. A magician stopped by to examine him and states "David is down there." because of the way he moved.

On the preview for tomorrow, Inside Edition showed an infrared camera down there. It showed David's body in radar. But that is for tomorrow. Inside Edition seems to be "obsessed" with the story.

Why would David go down there? I don't think it is completely stupid if all is true. David stayed in several different stages. He even had his shirt off. David did this for money and more money. Everyone I know has heard something about some magician being buried alive. Event the local TV stations said something. But there is plenty more to come.

I have some images coming that will be taken by Isabela personally. Come back for updates.

It seems every day the line to see Mr. Blaine gets bigger. It was around the block! Instead of a crowd gathering together to see him, they had no choice but to change the system so that only seven or eight people can go at once!

Unlike the first two days he was awake a lot. Amazing. David is the talk of New York everywhere you go you hear something about him.

Day 4

With the sun in his eyes waking up, David Blaine is beginning to look a little weary. He seems to be hung up on licking his lips and looking at his fingers rubbing the edge of the box. Hopefully not a sign of delusions. I meant to mention yesterday, as his shirt was off, you could see the tattoo David got when he was in love with Fiona Apple. He wasn't wearing his pajamas today anymore so they are probably under the blanket. Two girls set up a camp and had been at the sight for four hours. They probably couldn't stay there long because of the long line to see him. I didn't get any new screen shots from inside edition because I didn't have time and there wasn't anything worth seeing anyway, but I will get some from today and tomorrow, tomorrow.

Oh, Regis talked about David on Regis and Kathy Lee this morning. If you have the newest "People Magazine" there is a small article about David's new special David Blaine: Magic Man. I will probably post it in my "In Print" section tomorrow.

My new front page is up due to the fact that the front page was an illegal image so if you copied it from this website, delete it.

There will be some new images coming up Friday or Saturday taken by Isabella Covino. I think I will also have some magazine articles scanned up and ready... maybe take a little longer to get up.

Day 5

If you have been watching David Blaine from the beginning you would notice it seems he is losing some weight. If you happened to go up there get the crowd to applause. It builds up his esteem. Today it is rainy and moist so there wasn't as many people there as usual. They had to put up a big tarp for the rain. I don't think it affected David physically because his coffin is temperature controlled. He has some kind of black pouch. Maybe water pouch. Who can tell? There are a lot of more people who love this. David is not one of them… at least till he gets out of there and eats a real meal.

Day 6

Sorry for the last minute updates. I haven't been here this weekend. I haven't seen anything on TV about him. I will soon have some pictures up send by Isabella. Come back for them. Barbara Walter and Cathy Rigby stopped by. Rosie O'Donnell says David Blaine will be on her show Tuesday April 13 at 3pm central time. She sent her limo driver and a crew out to do a story on David's burial stunt today. He is also supposed to be on Conan that night. The crowds are the biggest yet in the last couple of days. They say David won't be able to walk because of his muscles softened. They should go back to normal in training.

My brother was telling me that David Blaine is not really under there because he has a perfect goatee. I later found out he was watching Inside Edition. I don't know if he shaves in there, but that is something to think about. I have had so many people email me, so hold up till I can get back to you.

Day 7 - The Removal

David gets out finally. There was no big deal like I suspected. I bet there would be if David had so called hit the panic button. But David did look weak. He said a few words and went to the ambulance. He was happy and I bet he was eating like a fatty if all was as he said. Houdini's niece came by and said a few words. David Blaine was happy and she said she is David's biggest fan. Some of the few words he said when asked if it was nice to breath fresh air was "it's amazing".

"What I saw was every race of people, every age group, and every religion all gathered together smiling; and that made all of this worth it." - David Blaine

It seems David is happy to get out. "The first thing I did is take a three hour bubble bath." It seems David is preparing for a new publicity stunt. "Yeah I had plenty of time to think about that."

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