MAGIC! 1 - 499 The following was compiled from the magician's message section of MAGIC!(sm). MAGIC! was an electronic communications system for magicians. Access was free, except for normal telephone company charges. New registrants were required to leave a comment with their name, address, phone number and a brief resume of their magic background to be considered for membership. The material herein should be treated as confidentially as other magic information. Copyright 1990, 1991 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved. (The first 77 messages on MAGIC! were largely test messages.) Msg #78 Dated 0:09:13 03-20-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: MAGIC SECTION Welcome, again, to the MAGIC!(tm) section! We hope that you will find it a valuable service. Parts of the system are currently "under construction" so I would like to remind you to send any MAGIC! files that you may upload to SECTION 13. We picked 13 because we felt it would be an easy number to remember... Msg #83 Dated 1:18:25 03-21-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC! The file, PASSPORT.TXT, the USER'S HANDBOOK for MAGIC! should now be available for downloading. It is an older version, a bit out of date, but it should provide you with the basic information on how to use most of the features of the MAGIC! section. Additional help is available from any menu by typing H for Help and pressing the ENTER key. Msg #84 Dated 17:51:53 03-21-90 -> 87 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: MAGIC! Any responses to the Las Vegas brochure, David? And as soon as I gget organised organized, will try to load some material. Msg #87 Dated 22:34:36 03-21-90 84 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! So far, I think we've had one or two responses from the flyer at Desert Magic (which was terrific, by the way). Some info about MAGIC! has been sent to Bill Larsen and I discussed it briefly with him, so we should get some publicity in Genii and in the Regular Member's Newsletter. Information is also being sent to other publications around the world. As sysop, I sorta take the position that it is my job to keep the equipment running, to pay the phone bill, and to facilitate the operation; it is not my job to direct the conversation. I hope that you and the other section members will do that. Msg #89 Dated 13:29:26 03-22-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: REEL WORKS Welcome anybody that reads this. I am going to be moving my column The Reel Works--formerly in Genii magazine and various versions of Lloyd Jones' BAT, BAT Jr. and Son of BAT Jr...etc. to this Bulletin Board. Brief messages will be here and when there is something of note, and longer it will be loaded into as Forum. The file names will be 1_Reel.wks, 2_Reel.wks, etc. etc. so you will know which "edition" you have/have not read. The first one will probably be early next week and will give you an insight to ME, where I am coming from and followed shortly by one on the Inside of both the IBM AND DESERT SEMINAR conventions, Siegfried and Roy updates....etc. That's all for now, OH if you want to reply, be my guest we can get some good strings of arguments and discussions going. Thanks to the boss at ECNET for thinking of doing this...it is the communicating form of the 90's. Adios Msg #90 Dated 15:12:24 03-22-90 -> 131 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: REEL WORKS The Reel Works: Pete Biro This is a "Pre, Test, Column" not numbered in accordance with the system. Until full-blown columns start to come, I will use A, B, C, etc. to lead the file names. This is just to get things rolling. And to let you the Magi- Computer-Hacker know where I am coming from. I like to tell it like it is. My idols in writing are (were): Clarke The Senator Crandall, George Blake (Author of many books, the one most favorite: "Perverse Magic"), Lloyd Jones and Harry Leat. All pretty controversial guys. Here, with no advertising it is easier to say what you wish. In all the years, however, I must say that Bill Larsen Jr. ed of Genii only ONE TIME asked me to back off on one article. Pretty good record. And that was a blast at Tony Spina of Tannens for what damage he was doing to Ken Brooke. For the most part we were able to defend Ken and his philosophies. One defense that was fun was throwing Bob Little out of a lecture by one of Ken's pals, Terry Seabrooke! I have in no way really been as tough on people as the above mentioned writers. Maybe I can lean a little farther with this forum. However, unlike Genii, you can reply immediately on the Message Board and others can join in. With a monthly magazine by the time a letter got forwarded to me it was 4 months after the article was written--longer some times. One important thing. You cannot hurt my feelings. If you think I am wrong about something or you don't agree with my opinion, let me know. Let me have it! Another major philosophy of mine. You gotta take chances. I refuse to book one act after another that is the same. I try like crazy to never book what is known as a dove act. I wish I could hammer all the Zombie balls flat backstage! I and my associates producing the IBM national convention shows defend the right to be as wrong as we were with Dr. Magic, because without taking the chance you do not advance magic one iota. Those of you that put acts together with the same old crap need not apply. I am getting tired of looking at tapes from the Great Fred and Marge. Obviously a man and wife act and it looks it. Maybe 3-percent of these acts are NATIONAL CONVENTION QUALITY. Sure they're OK in your local town, but when you appear before 1400 magicians, you gotta be H-I-P and H-O-T. Next week will detail you on who will perform in St. Louis. Some real surprises in store! Adios. Msg #95 Dated 23:11:20 03-22-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: THE REEL WORKS We welcome Pete Biro's The Reel Works to its new home! And to a first, so far as we know, for any regular magic column anywhere: The Reel Works will be the first INTERACTIVE magic column. Most of Pete's column will be published as messages direct to MAGIC! You can reply directly to these messages, and, in turn, Pete can respond directly too. It should be interesting! As with any good column, the views expressed will be soley those of Pete Biro and the management and ECA Inc. accept no responsibility. Here's to The Reel Works and an exciting new form of interaction in the field of magic. Msg #102 Dated 19:04:18 03-25-90 -> 104 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: MEMBERS Just would like to hear from anyone on the forum. Your name and your interests in magic. Msg #104 Dated 22:04:28 03-25-90 102 <--> 112 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MEMBERS Well, Pete, you already know me from Desert Magic, but here goes. My name, other than Sysop, is David Lichtman. I'm a regular member of the Academy of Magical Arts (the Magic Castle) and the I.B.M. I'm also the operator of MAGIC!(tm), this electronic communications system. My primary interest is close-up, although I'm also interested in other things, including magic for children. I'm hoping that this system will become a convenient place for magicians to keep in touch, to exchange information and effects, and, in general, to enjoy themselves. Msg #112 Dated 20:06:33 03-27-90 104 <--> 114 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: MEMBERS Thanks David. Bill Wells in Wash. DC will soon be logging on, and a few others as soon as we get the word out. Plan to do "My Review" of Copperfield after his show tomorrow. Msg #114 Dated 21:30:13 03-27-90 112 <--> 115 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MEMBERS Great, Pete! The faster we get the word about MAGIC! out, the faster we will reach the "critical mass" that will trigger lots of good magical conversation here. Will look forward to your Copperfield review. Msg #115 Dated 21:10:28 03-28-90 114 <--> 132 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: MEMBERS David: Ech!!! I have just gotten the word I have to fly to Houston for a job Friday. I hope I can get to a tv set in time to see Copperfield. I will be arriving there at about 5:30 pm and am supposed to have a dinner meeting. If I play my cards right will be to the room by 8. AS a back up I have a friend videotaping same for me. Such is life. Got to make a living. Msg #119 Dated 23:08:32 03-30-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: MAGIC CLASSES Get your friends involved in magic! On May 3rd, Jim Kahlert will be offering his six session Basic Magic course. This course is ideal for spouses, friends and coworkers who would like to start learning magic or for anyone who would like to begin preparation for the Castle membership audition. For more information, contact Jim at (213) 472-3770 and tell him you heard about it here! (No, this isn't a paid commercial! I just know Jim and the quality of his work). Msg #120 Dated 20:11:10 04-01-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: COPPERFIELD XII REVIEW DAVID COPPERFIELD XII )) Harley Davidson look! Niagara Falls Finale. A review from the Reel Works/Pete Biro.I hated Copperfield...for not having my favorite, Webster, in this years' show. OK, he won me back with Penn & Teller cameo.Opening was great with the cycle riding Copperfield driving into the theater from the street. This version of the Vanishing Motorcycle featured a well)designed cargo net type vanish and a spectacular "re)appearance" way up in the audience. Lots of light, flash and razz)a)ma)tazz. Hey, first trick got a standing ovation.Actually I missed the broadcast, my flight to Houston was a couple of hours late...but dear friend "Zany Blaney" had taped the show and we poured over it at his home.Now I find my luggage is still somewhere else, along with my detailed notes. But since time is of the essence, I will continue from memory.Overall notes: Copperfield looks better than ever. More mature, filled out, confident. Work, work, work, does it and he is thriving on live shows. And it shows. His work with people is now in HIS OWN STYLE. Great. The sequence with the girl "dancing" cheek)to)cheek was top class. Good trick too, with the picture of the card actually rising and tearing off the pix to leave with the gal a nice touch. Where did this come from?Big Tricks: The "Camera Trick" was very impressive. I understand he does this in his live shows. Technically a masterpiece. The on stage big screen video is a real convincer. The "Jeans" Million Dollar Mystery Mirror Tunnel is put to great use here. It seems more than just IMPOSSIBLE. The execution here was faultless.Walking thru mirror. Clever, clever, and very convincing with the guy up there banging on the mirror. A sure fooler.David's Antiques in the Attic sequence (which he has done before) featuring a DeKolta Chair to vanish the girl, up on a table, was never better. Best camera work and lighting of the show.FRANZ HARARY SHREDDER. This trick is so effective, such a great stage presentation, I cannot understand why Harary has allowed this to be sold and how he allows anybody else to do it. If he (Harary) wants to work big time, and does his own trick now, the bookers will say, "Hey you are doing Copperfield's trick!"Small stuff. The true Illusionists of the "old days" that were masters of the little stuff "in one" while the stage was being set were few and far between. Blackstone (Sr.) and Dante were masters. Copperfield is there. The Pencil penetration of the spectator's $100 bill was great (the bits of business with the crowd the best part) as was the Paul Gaertner borrowed ring on the hourglass. This is a great version of the trick Fred Kaps used on British TV (which I created for Fred). This is a mechanical gem.David's choreography has really gained in the past few years. No more hopping about ala Doug H. He can dance.The Grand Finale: The Niagara Falls Escape. Big, big drama here. Excellently designed prop. Really looks like the kid is in there. Heh, heh. Only complaint I have with ALL fake leg tricks is that everybody moves 'em too much. Otherwise this was great. The stunt flying, camera work 1000% and with Copperfield hanging from line\j Superbowl. Boy, that was the most expensive ONE TIME USE of a prop I have ever seen. And I though using a new set of Torn Paper Hats every show was expensive! Msg #123 Dated 17:32:58 04-02-90 -> 258 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: COPPERFIELD Just wanted to check sources. Was it Selbit or Jeans that invented the "Mirror" tube, known as the Million Dollar Mystery? I found that the trick David used with a TV Camera, entitled "Camera Tricks" was from Paul Daniels. Anyone know source of the rising card effect and the Pencil Penetration through dollar bill? And, would like to hear comments from others on his latest special. And...how many know that the name David Kotkin, in the credits as Director is in fact Mr. Copperfield. And how many know about the letter from Geoffrey Hansen regarding Niagara Falls idea? Interested in the latter? Let's get some dialog going here. Adios. Msg #131 Dated 22:42:10 04-05-90 90 <- From: RON BIEBER To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: REEL WORKS I can't wait!!! Msg #132 Dated 22:44:49 04-05-90 102 <--> 133 From: RON BIEBER To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MEMBERS I would like to see various conferences on this BBS about specific subjects, i.e. "Your favorite card forces" and a recommended refrence source if possible. Msg #133 Dated 16:11:42 04-08-90 132 <--> 136 From: PETE BIRO To: RON BIEBER (X) Re: MEMBERS Ron, where are you from and what is your main interest? Ok, my favorite card force, believe it or not....is the simple 'cut' force, where you have spectator cut cards, crossing the cut, moving the bottom, force car to the bottom of the crossed cards. You then chatter (I hate the word Patter) about something to break concentration of the observer. Then you ask them to lift off the cards at the cut, look at the card they cut to. 2nd favorite is the Al Koran version of the classic force. I is in his lecture notes (which I wrote with him - that's how I learned it -- asnd sold by Magic Inc. 5082 N. Lincoln, Chicago, IL 60625). Basically it is done standing. You have the card near center of the deck, holding a good break. Start to spread cards from the top and when spectator reaches for a card, your right hand lifts all cards above the break up and to right. Left hand thumbs off and toward spectator, the force card. IMPORTANT -- you close eyes look away to the right and say: "Don't let me see it!" This is really bold. But in a large crowd situation IT REALLY WORKS. Msg #135 Dated 17:25:18 04-10-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: DESERT SEMINAR AS one of the Board of directors of the Las Vegas Desert Seminar, we are always trying to come up with new and exciting presentations. A new thought...FEEDBACK from you, attendees, magic nuts, computer guys. Any thoughts on What and/or Who you would like to see next year? And what kind of contest, if any would you like to see? Do you like the "social" aspect? Do you want more lectures? More shows? More or less close up? Give me some feedback and we'll see what happens. Another idea I have is to have a computer w/modem set up -- maybe at the IBM in St. Louis -- and log on and demonstrate to small group that is interested how easy this is to do. What do you think? Lemme know...Adios... Msg #136 Dated 22:25:14 04-10-90 133 <--> 710 From: RON BIEBER To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MEMBERS Thank you for responding to my message. I am a long time magic enthusiast who likes magic of almost all types. I am a regular member of the Magic Castle and a member of I.B.M.. I have also enjoyed some private instruction. I also like the "Right angle force", when done properly it can be most deceiving. The modified "classic force" that you describe takes guts. Have you yet tried it in a small close up situation. Most people that end up being my audience are trying to catch me. I need more work putting people at ease with my stuff and making them understand that it is for their entertainment. Oh yes, I am also a sort of collector, small props, coins to the chinese flame clock illusion, and most inbetween. I also like books, (specially refereed, or of specific interest). As I mentioned before, I look forward to reading the articles that you bestow on this BBS. I am sure that they will be a great asset. Thank You Msg #138 Dated 18:01:57 04-11-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: STUFF Thanks for the replies. Keep 'em coming. Lets get more members and more discussions going. OK? Adios. Msg #150 Dated 23:19:07 04-13-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: NEW ACT? Just curious if anyone on the BBS has ever seen Craig Dickens perform. I have just viewed a video tape of some of his material and I would say he is the most original performer I have seen in some time. I won't give away anything here, just wanted to know if anyone else has seen him and if they have an opinion. Gracias. We are also hoping to bring a few magicians in to the St. Louis convention (IBM) that have never performed in the US before. I think we will have some surprises. Adios. Msg #155 Dated 13:56:12 04-25-90 -> 161 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: COPPERFIELD & R. JAY While travelling I ran into a good friend that is not a magician, but he loves to watch magic. He jumped all over me to say "Boy was Copperfield MEAN to Doug Henning. His snide remark was certainly not necessary." I will have to go back and check it with my VCR, I do recall something said, and at the time felt it a Sour Grapes kind of thing. Any comments from others? Let me know what you think. I have not yet seen Ricky Jay's Learned PIGS and Fireproof Ladies, but Jim Nagel of the IBM Convention Committee was kind enough to tape it and send to me. I was in the Mexican desert working. Before I view it if anybody has any comments...let 'em fly! Also: The current Genii on the Pendragons has one of the best written pieces you could want, by Jonathan and Char themselves. Their philosophy, thinking -- the way they approach magic is priceless. In same issue is a VARIETY revue of Copperfield that was less than kind. Agian, lets get some comments going some back and forth dialog. AFter all, why sign on? Adios, p. biro Msg #156 Dated 19:28:33 04-26-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: LEARNED PIGS Anyone have any comments on Ricky Jay's special on CBS. Knowing Ricky the show was on a higher plane than say, Knotts Landing or An evening at the Improv. Ricky has dug out some of the most esoteric novelty talent there is. I understand the trades, Variety, etc. did not take too kindly, but the laymen newspaper reviewers liked it. I care a lot for the kinds of things Ricky brings forth. I only feel it was not as commercial as it could have been. I think the format would make a fantastic series on PBS, let's say every month. Ricky could scour the globe for unusual performers. Something like a modern day "You asked for it" -- only nobody but Ricky ASKS. I had never seen the McFly act that Ricky wrote for Steve Martin. Only someone as strong as Martin can pull that off (ooops bad pun). On another note: Did you see the Showtime comdey show with Penn and Teller as MC (I say MC as only onespoke). I missed the first part--did P&T do anything? I thought (and I am no prude) the material some of the comics used was cheap and dirty. Good talent (Leno is the perfect example) does not need dirty jokes. Did you know that comedian Jeff Altman is a magician. His dad is a top card man with several books published. Altman is hot right now...doing all the show...Tonight, Late Night, etc. He's also a really nice guy to boot. If you see him ask if he still handles the pasteboards. Last time I saw him conjure he was still terrific. OK, gang, lets hear from you! Msg #157 Dated 22:26:24 04-29-90 -> 164 From: RON BIEBER To: ALL Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASING As a service to all who search the halls of this BBS, I would like to inform you of the following: I represent a group of fellow magicians who, when combined represent a powerfull purchasing entity. We combine our needs into a large order of various supplies and equipment for the purpose of buying at wholesale prices. Our group has already purchased various cards and sponge balls at dealer cost, and now we are interested in ordering cam-corders in order to tape our acts for our own knowledge and for the possable sale of our own produced tapes. We have tenitivally narrowed down the choice to what we think is the latest state of the art cam-corder, the Canon A-1 Mark II. If you are interested in joining our group simply let me know if you are interested. If you want more info about the upcomming cam-corder purchase please let me know. We are always open to suggestion about future wholesale purchases. so if you have any ideas please let me know that also. Of course there is no cost or obligation to join! Interested? Send me a message. Thank You. Ron Bieber Msg #161 Dated 19:40:31 04-30-90 155 <--> 162 From: RON BIEBER To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD & R. JAY When will we have the pleasure of downloading the Reel Works part 2? Thank You Ron Bieber Msg #162 Dated 8:53:19 05-01-90 161 <--> 240 From: PETE BIRO To: RON BIEBER (X) Re: COPPERFIELD & R. JAY Ron Bieber - thanx for the query. Am awaiting some replies to my questions to get some dialog going. Otherwise will probably get something going in next week, as I go on the road May 9 for almost one month! Msg #164 Dated 18:52:35 05-02-90 157 <--> 171 From: MAC KING To: RON BIEBER (X) Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASING Ron my name is Mac King and I am interested in joining your group. Please reply to me here on this BBS. I am not interested in the cam-corder deal, but let me know about your future activities. Thanks. Msg #171 Dated 22:10:11 05-07-90 164 <- From: RON BIEBER To: MAC KING (X) Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASING Thank you for your interest in our Magic Co-op purchasing group! As new purchasing targets are decided upon they will be noted on this BBS system. Meanwhile, if there are any items related to the Magic domain that you think would have merit for group purchase please leave me a message here-in. Thanks Again. Ron Bieber P.S. I don't think the group would go for worms at wholesale even. Msg #182 Dated 14:16:15 05-09-90 -> 189 From: DARRELL MURPHY To: ALL Re: HELLO COMPUTER MAGICIANS Well I am glad to see that we computer hacker Magicians finally have a home and my hat is off to those responsible. My name is Darrell Murphy and I have been a member of the IBM for 12 years. I belong to the Caryl Fleming Ring 21 in Hollywood CA.., and I just became a regular member of the Academy of Magical Arts. In reading the Reel works columns I think having a computer and modem at the St. Louis IBM convention is a great idea and maybe it will spark some interest in this form of communication. After all I feel this form of magic communication is a true brotherhood. I only regret that we lost our Japnese magic friend from Compuserve. As far as David Copperfield is concerned, I loved his last show except for the "OVER-THE-FALLS" bit which I thought was below his usual performance. If he could have gotten out of the box over the fire, got to the jet-ski and rode upstream to safety, then I would have been impressed. Please don't get me wrong I think Copperfield is one of the best I just didn't care for that paticular effect. Well I think I have used up my nickel so bye for now. Msg #189 Dated 11:46:50 05-11-90 182 <- From: CHARLIE GLISSON To: DARRELL MURPHY (X) Re: HELLO COMPUTER MAGICIANS From: Charlie Glisson To: Darrell Murphy Re HELLO Couldn't agree with you more. Copperfield is great and we magi all owe him for his professionalism and how he has popularized contemp magic. However, the Niagara and Devil's Triangle shows were sub- Copperfield standard. Best of luck in your efforts! Charlie Msg #200 Dated 10:17:12 05-14-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: CHICAGO MAGICIAN I guess stranger things have been known to happen... but we just received a request for a combination magician/pianist to perform at a wedding reception in Chicago in June. If you, or anyone you know, would like to be contacted for this "gig" please leave name and phone number in a comment to the sysop. To leave a comment, select C from the Main Menu. We will pass the information directly on to the inquiring party. No, we aren't making a commission on this. Besides, they mumbled something about a "low budget." Msg #205 Dated 22:55:25 05-14-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: PUBLIC MESSAGES I've noticed that almost all of the recent messages have been private ones. As sysop I don't like to intrude too much, but might I suggest that a few public messages could lead to some interesting conversation? Msg #209 Dated 12:54:47 05-15-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: ILLUSIONS NITE CLUB Visited "Illusions" a restaurant and magical dining experience (according to their advertising). It is located at 969 Keystone Way, Carmel, Indiana. Easy to Find off Interstate 465 take the Keystone Exit north (club is located behind MacDonalds). Phone 317 575-8312. Club features several top close up workers doing tables. And a number of them doing stand up in the lounge. Great food and service. Lots of great magic. Mike Close is the "main" performer and worked some great new stuff at our table. Well worth coming by. Msg #212 Dated 14:46:08 05-15-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: CHICAGO MAGI Mike Close, of Illusions in Indianapolis, is a fine piano player and magician. He can be reached at 317-848-3503. Altho from Indy he may want to go to Chi town or may know someone. You cand also call Magic Inc.and ask, No. 312-EDI-BULL Msg #213 Dated 19:52:09 05-15-90 From: MAX MAVEN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: QUESTIONS Pete - you've probably received answers to your questions already, but if so they weren't within the public messages I've just read. As you'll have probably seen by now, the inventor of the Pencil Through Bill item on the last Copperfield special is Timothy Wenk, who is currently taking lots of ads to promote same. No doubt he'll sell plenty. The business with the drawing of the Rising Cards which animates began as a Martin Lewis idea. It was later greatly refined by Michael Weber, who was DC's source. Apparently, a dealer version is about to hit the market, with Martin's involvement (but not Michael's). As for Jeff Altman, although he's not very involved with magic these days he can still handle a pack of cards. I run into him only very occasionally; he's doing talkshows and TV commercials, of course, but the bulk of his schedule is working comedy clubs. Msg #216 Dated 23:19:08 05-15-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: PENN & TELLER The following was sent from the road by Pete Biro. There were some problems with the transmission and I've taken the liberty of "fixing" it. So anything that makes sense is Pete, what doesn't was "fixed." THE REEL WORKS! By Pete Biro. A column by me and for my friends. If you read it -- you're a friend. Watching Penn & Teller on "Late Night with David Letterman", may 6 was an education in what the "hip" audiences of today like. Magically it doesn't matter that the PROP wasn't a fooler. It was the premise, the ** REPUTATION OF THE PERFORMERS ** If you missed it, the Pennster (Penn) began without his diminutive partner ("he's not my friend, he's my partner") explaining that he had created a realistic DUMMY version of Teller, which, seemingly naked, was wheeled onto the set. Penn proceeded to demonstrate that it was a dummy, by slapping it "without a flinch" and general clowining about. He then took a scissors and cut the tongue out of the dummy. With a bit of blood. Letterman didn't want to hold the bloody tongue. < HEH HEH>. Then a bit with a Skil saw where a shallow cut thru the middle of the dummy(?) didn't do much for Dave... so...a full depth cut was made. It was a silly sight... Teller was now cut in two, with * LOTS OF BLOOD * and even an Animal Heart falling to the floor. The visual was a table in two pieces with a white (bloody now) sheet, cut in two with the top half showing a head ( Teller's) sticking out and at the other end a pair of flailing legs. No attempt to have a "deceptive" prop. It wouldn't have mattered. What was wrong was that they were plugging the fact that their movie, "Penn & Teller Get Killed," was now on video tape and in the stores. And not a success as a movie. Msg #220 Dated 22:06:09 05-20-90 -> 238 From: RON BIEBER To: ALL Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASE I would like to thank everyone who joined with us toward our combined purchase of Canon Mark II camcorders. I wish you all happy shooting! For any new interested parties, the Co-op purchasing club is a non-profit, (no dues), club in which members regularly choose a product related to magic, computers, audio/video, for the purpose of buying that product as a retailer at wholesale prices. If you are on this BBS system you are qualified as a member. If interested please leave me a message on this system. To all members, you may submit your product ideas for our next wholesale purchase now. How about that great new illusion that you saw ? Thanks to all. Ron Bieber Msg #227 Dated 1:01:50 05-21-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: BOOK The following was sent by Ron Bieber, but was accidentally sent to the wrong message area: From: RON BIEBER To: ALL Re: BOOK I would like to contribute this question to all who search the dusty corners of this BBS: Being involved in magic as much as we all are, we all hXWa great many books on the subject. My question; What one book stands out in your mind as exceptional in some way? And why? This book could be one you just finished or one you read when you first had a glimmer of interest in magic, or anything in between. Lets get some healthy arguments going! Thank You, Ron Bieber Msg #228 Dated 1:03:14 05-21-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: MAGIC! SECTION The MAGIC! Section is SECTION 13 - a useful magical number! (As in 13 cards in a suite). If you are sending a public message, or uploading a file, please be sure, if MAGIC! asks for a "Section #" to enter 13. Thanks! Msg #238 Dated 18:48:59 05-24-90 220 <--> 247 From: CHARLIE GLISSON To: RON BIEBER (X) Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASE Ron: That Co-op plan sounds great. Can you provide additional info to me? Magic is alive and well in Florida. The wife and I will be attending the Fla State Magicians Assoc. convention in Daytona Beach this weekend. I'll post a report when I return. How's tricks? Charlie Msg #240 Dated 23:21:20 05-24-90 162 <- From: RICK KITAMURA To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD & R. JAY Copperfield's rap song did take a swipe at Henning, but it was interesting to see Henning's name on the credits at the end of the show. Also, this is my first time here, so excuse me while I get used to the place. What I would really like to see is some working knowledge such as great new effects, reviews on stuff you guys are actually using, etc. Msg #243 Dated 21:34:42 05-28-90 From: KEN SOBEL To: ALL Re: BULLETIN BOARD FOR SAFETY As with most magicians, I have a regular job which pays the bills. As Safety Administrator for the City of Los Angeles, I have put together a bulletin board containing all types of safety and health information. If you have any need for this information, the "EPIC" system is available free of charge. Just call (213) 237-0974 to log on. The City of Los Angeles runs the board and I am responsible for its contents. Use it to obtain safety information for your own business or organization. Please upload your in-house bulletins, manuals, or other information that may aid others. I am available at (213) 485-4691 if you require any further information. - KEN Msg #244 Dated 22:05:35 05-28-90 -> 260 From: RICK KITAMURA To: ALL Re: EFFECTS So where are all of the magicians? Anybody want to contribute what effects they are using? I'm using all of the standard: card warp, sponge balls, scotch & soda, ambitious card, card in wallet, watch steal, invisible deck, color changing knives, ring on string, ultimate ESP, coin in bottle, silk from bill, bill switch, etc. Anybody using anything new and great? Msg #247 Dated 22:56:12 05-28-90 238 <--> 443 From: RON BIEBER To: CHARLIE GLISSON (X) Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASE Hi Charlie, Thank you for your interest in the Magic Co-op purchasing club. Here is how it works: By way of this BBS system please leave me a message telling me and all members information about a new latest and greatest trick or some other even remotely related to magic, item that you think will have more appeal than simply to yourself. Describe it in as much detail as you can. If enough people are interested I take it from there. I get wholesale prices based on if enough people in our group are interested. If you leave me a message to this effect, please leave your voice number as well so I can pick your brain on the item to try to establish early on as to how much interest I think it will generate. Of course there is no charge to anyone in our nocost membership club. Thank You, Ron Bieber Msg #258 Dated 5:59:59 05-30-90 123 <- From: PETE BIRO To: RICK KITAMURA (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Check Max Maven comments in msg 213 regarding the Pencil and the Rising Card effect. Why not pose some questions about various effects or principals, now that Max Maven is on board we can get some really solid answers! I have just returned from 3 weeks in the midwest shooting pictures at the Indy 500, it is about 6 am, Calif time (my brain is still at Indy!). I hope to get more into this soon. What we need is more people on line then we can get some good stuff going. A photo forum I am on posted nearly 1000 messages last week! Adios Msg #260 Dated 6:07:06 05-30-90 244 <--> 267 From: PETE BIRO To: RICK KITAMURA (X) Re: EFFECTS Rick: Sound good to me. But "MY" questions is: Do you have your own personal touches and/or original presentations? If not, take one of your effects (that you can do without thinking about it) and completely revise what you say and or how you present it and work it, work it, until it has YOIUR OWN TRADEMARK. I seem to have made a mistake on line 5 It should read "until it has your own trademark. Your own look. Something that makes it you and yours. My example was the card in balloon. The 3 balloon version. It came about because I was doing (swith permission from Terry) the Seabrooke Burned Note in Wallet. I did this for several years--before Seabrooke ever came to the USA. Then when Terry started to come over here I took it out of my act. I was then without a "feature" effect and I had to build my own. The card in balloon started out as about a 3 minute i:em and after a year or two of development was about 8 SOLID MINUTES OF LAUGHS. It takes time and thought. Another thing. Start to TAKE OUT all the stock lines and re-write them. Example: everybody says, "hold out your hand. No the clean one. That was the clean one." (side note. I just found the originator of that line. It is Zaney Blaney. He told me he had come up with it one night AD LIB doing a show when someone actually had a dirty hand. And the other hand was even dirtier. HE AD LIBBED IT AND KEJPT KEPT IT IN. SUDDENLY EVERYONE ELSE 'KEPT IT IN'.) So. I re-wrote that line/concept for myself saying. Hold out your hand. (look at hand and say) Did you have a flat tire on the way here tonight? Gets just as good a laugh and is not a stock line. In comedy clubs the real comics have NO RESPECT AT ALL FOR 99% OF THE MAGIC ACTS. WHY? The guys tell me they don't udnerstand why they all use the SAME LINES. Runnin' out of time and space. Thanks for joining. Adios. Msg #267 Dated 21:28:06 05-31-90 260 <- From: RICK KITAMURA To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: EFFECTS Pete: I think you're right. One needs to make an effect one's own. As for myself, presentation is constantly evolving. You become comfortable doing an effect only when it becomes your own. I do use stock lines because the good ones get a laugh. I'm pretty good at improvising, and so I'll try different approaches according to the situation. However, some of my confidence comes from the fact that there are "emergency" lines I can always fall back on. Remember when everyone was asking, "May I call you Mary? Good, how about next Saturday at seven?" Suddenly, no one is using the line anymore. This incestuous use of cliche lines will never end. As you know, magicians are notorious for stealing (as much, or even more so, than comedians). Since I am not a full time performer, I am interested in the types of effects my fellow magicians are having success with. Also, I'd like to see some suggestions for good magic shops, both locally and around the country (world?). I've been going to Hollywood Magic since I was a kid. I've lately been going to Magic Emporium and Magic World in the Valley, since they're close to my workplace. I'm glad to hear Max Maven is on this board. Anybody compile a list of magicians here? It would be interesting to see who is. Msg #277 Dated 14:15:40 06-01-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: CASTLE SCHEDULE Here is the Castle schedule for June 4 - 11 as furnished by the Castle: Close-up Early - Norman Gilbreath Close-up Late - Joycee Beck Parlour Early - Ted Compton Parlour Late - Jonathan Neal Brown Palace - Becky Blaney Tyler Linkin Tony Clark Msg #279 Dated 14:36:04 06-01-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: ERDNASE IDENTITY REVEALED The June/July issue of Thaumaturgist from Jeff Busby is incredible. He is publishing a major book on the real story behind the man that was "ERDNASE" )) following research that goes back 18 years, when Busby began studying the mysterious gambler that was found dead in a San Francisco hotel room.Busby uncovered new, never)before published, information he dug out of newspapers of the day. He spent literally months, possibly years, going through microfilm starting with papers printed in 1902 (the date Expert at the Card Table was published) and following the reading of FOUR YEARS WORTH of daily papers, to quote Busby, "I struck Gold!" Finding information heretofore unknown, beginning with a HEADLINE story and continuing for four weeks.When he informed Martin Gardner, who was amazed. Gardner had been digging for Erdnase clues since the end of WWII in the 1940s, and had not discovered this. Gardner wrote Busby about one particular revealing item (that backs up Busby's Assassination theory) in the paper (the Oakland Tribune) with an article about the gambler's death ** BEFORE HE DIED !! **There is another even more bizarre aspect. Following his voluminous research Busby was revealing things to Gardner for the first time, in correspondence, and at the same time his wife (at the time) Lynn Healy, was opening mail, filing material, etc. making copies for Gardner, etc. They were subsequently divorced. And at this writing Busby reveals that John Booth is including a major chapter on Erdnase "with previously unpublished photos" in his new book "The Creative World of Conjuring". When Busby heard of this and mentioned it to Gardner, Gardner immediately called Booth as he was upset over the "leak". Booth said he got the material from Lynn Healy (Busby's ex wife!). Busby had been approached by Booth for the material, but was turned down as Busby informed him that he was doing his own book. Needless to say Busby is more than slightly upset. It is a very complex story and one that takes several pages of small type (I needed strong glasses to read it). The student of magic history need get a copy of the Thaumaturgist from Busby. Write him at 10329 MacArthur Blvd., Suites 5 & 6, Oakland, CA 94605)5147 )) (415) 562)6340.Cost is usually $2, but Busby will send if free if you mention reading it here on the MAGIC! BBS and include a self)addressed, stamped business sized envelope. Busby's book "The Man Who Was Erdnase" by Bart Whaley, Martin Gardner and Jeff Busby, is due out any day. Booth's book is also near its publication date. Busby had offered to pay for any advertising and additional costs to Booth for either deleting the chapter or delaying printing or inserting a credit for the research, etc., as he knows that Lynn gave away his material without permission and without his knowledge. It is a very interesting story and one you should check out to study how some things happen in magic. Stan Allen is set do a "revealing story about Erdnase's death" in Inside Magic, with as Busby states, "what they are publishing is wrong, because Lynn only had what we doped out to 1983." No matter what, if you are interested in Erdnase, his life, his death and his material, the Martin Gardner/Bart Whaley/Jeff Busby book is a must. Gardner and Busby are well known to most of us, Whaley is best known\jo an expert on military deception and consults the CIA. Have fun! Msg #282 Dated 11:19:52 06-02-90 -> 284 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: LOOKBACK! LOOKBACK! A small series of items out of my "old worn out notebook" )) by Pete Biro )) Some original, some just being included to perpetuate their memory and to keep you thinking. Take what you find here in the way of thoughts and turn them into your own.April, 1947 )) SPHINX magazine...Joe Berg did an act where he entered the stage wearing a top coat and a hat. He explained, "I just barely made it. The train was late and my baggage is lost, including all my props!" Joe then suggested to the audience that he would pass his hat and if anyone would drop some ordinary objects into the hat he would try to do some magic with what they offer!Needless to say, a "stooge" in the audience dropped several items, gaffed, (that Joe worked out) including a set of False Teeth!This is a marvelous concept and one that could be brought right up to date.In my notes I have listed two very strong effects that I wanted to study and to learn. One is the Clark Crandall version of the Six Card Repeat. It is in the Tarbell Course. In his version you don't throw cards away, you accidentally drop cards, while chatting with the audience.The other effect, in Routined Manipulation, by Ganson, is by Pat Page. Fred Kaps used this method and I have seen him (and Pat) perform this for Laymen )) it is the BEST OF ITS GENRE! It is the Pat Page Cards to Pocket. Speaking of Kaps, his notes list a very, very good thread for things like the floating cork stripped from a ladies stocking. The brand: Schiaperelli, long wearing day)sheer panty hose, shade #612 (Witchcraft). Msg #284 Dated 22:09:22 06-03-90 282 <- From: RICK KITAMURA To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LOOKBACK! I remember seeing Crandall do his six card repeat at an It's Magic show several years back. It really fit in with his character. Msg #292 Dated 11:35:13 06-05-90 -> 293 From: JEFF BUSBY To: DAVID LICHTMAN Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN Dear David, In a past message you mentioned that you missed "our Japanese friend on CompuServe." I correspond via E-Mail regularly with Mitsunobu Matsuyama -- our friend "Matt". Because of the expense, he can't communicate directly with your BBS. However, today he has indicated a willingness to still exchange information. Perhaps the way to do this is for him to download bits of info to me and I can transfer it onto your system -- sort of like the UNet or FidoNet. I'm willing to act as the newsfeed station, if you want to do this -- and as my time permits. But you might also want to get in touch with Matt directly on CIS. Let me know what you think and drop him a line. I'll respond to him this afternoon as I have other correspondence with him. Best to all, Jeff Busby Msg #293 Dated 0:01:45 06-06-90 292 <--> 309 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN I think it is an excellent idea to tie Mitsunobu Matsuyama in to MAGIC! via E-Mail. If possible, since you are in contact with him, you might serve as his "link." I'm hoping that eventually we may work out a better way to connect him and the rest of the Japan magic community in, but, so far, I haven't come up with a good plan. There are a couple of possibilities, one is Tymenet to PC-Pursuit, and the other might be thru Minitel in France. For now it looks like your idea is the best one. Msg #294 Dated 0:08:37 06-06-90 -> 310 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: THAUMATURGIST Jeff, I've read Pete Biro's message (279) and can certainly commiserate with the situation! I'd like to follow up on the offer to receive the issue with the full story. You can send it to me at MAGIC!'s address: David Lichtman, P. O. Box 900, Arleta, Ca. 91334. Thanks. Msg #295 Dated 0:24:52 06-06-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: IBM RING 21 ACTIVITIES Darrell Murphy has sent the following message, but had problems uploading it: I just thought that I would let you all know about our STAGE COMPETITION NIGHT at the IBM Caryl Fleming Ring No 21. Our next meeting will be held on Thursday June 7, 1990 at the FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES. The church takes up an entire city block and is located 4 blocks East of Vermont Ave. and 1 block North of Wilshire Blvd. (between Hoover & Commonwealth and 5th & 6th). For those of you with Thomas Guides it is located on PAGE 44 at coordinates A1. Please park in the large parking lot located on the corner of 5th and Commonwealth. The performance will be held in STUART HALL. The entrance to Stuart Hall is located at 535 Hoover St. on the corner of 6th and Hoover. There will be signs in the parking lot to direct you to Stuart Hall. The doors will open at 7:30pm with the performance beginning at 8:00pm. Members of the First Congregational Church have been invited to attend as well, so plan on arriving early to guarantee a good seat in the theater. There is NO CHARGE for this show but we will be "passing the hat" on behalf of the church as a "Thank You" to them for allowing us to use their facilities for our show! (NOTE: There will be no Ring 21 business meeting in June.) We hope to see you there for a night of magic. Msg #296 Dated 0:26:40 06-06-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: IBM RING 21 ACTIVITIES Another message from Darrell Murphy: NEW MEETING LOCATION We have finally located a new meeting location for the IBM Caryl Fleming Ring 21. Beginning with our July meeting, we will meet at the historic WATTLES MANSION located at 1824 N. Curson Ave. in Hollywood (For those of you with Thomas Guides it is located on Page 34 coordinates A3). This is just down the street from the Magic Castle and is very easy to get to. Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Caryl Fleming Ring 21 are encouraged to submit your applications by the July meeting. At that time we can conduct you first reading. Your second reading will be at the August meeting, which is new member Initiation night. After your second reading is held, we will vote on your membership. If confirmed, you may participate in our Initiation Ceremonies that evening! Dues for the Ring are $20.00 per year (October thru September) and you must be a member in good standing of the International Brotherhood of Magicians (I.B.M.) International first. Come join us!!! Don't miss out on all of the exciting benefits of belonging to one of the most imaginative magic clubs on the West Coast. If you need more information or have questions on becoming a member of Ring 21 or the I.B.M. come to one of our meetings or call our club president Joe Selph at (213) 660-2998. P.S. Posting Ring 21 Club activities on this BBS is a test, so if you attend one of our meetings, please mention that you read about it here!!! Darrell Murphy Msg #297 Dated 0:29:02 06-06-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: UPLOADING MESSAGES A few people have had problems uploading messages that they prepared "off-line" using a word processor. Here are some hints that may help. 1) If your word processor does not store text as an ASCII file, see if it can be converted to ASCII. The documentation that came with your word processor should help you do this. 2) Each line of your message should end with a carriage return and a line feed. Even if you don't know much about these terms, if you are using an IBM or IBM compatible computer and any version of DOS, you can check this by using a DOS TYPE command to look at the file. Simply exit your word processor (AFTER saving your work!) and, at the DOS prompt: Type TYPE xxxx.yyy where xxxx.yyy is the name of your file. If you need to include the name of a sub-directory, your command could look like this: TYPE C:\WS\FILES\xxxx.yyy Then press the ENTER key. If the file appears on your screen the way you wanted it to, with no odd characters and all the lines of text, then it is probably OK to upload. 3) Start your communications program and access MAGIC! Use the E)nter message command on the Main Menu to begin to enter a message. Manually fill in the blanks for To:, Subject: and Section #:. For MAGIC!, the Section # IS ALWAYS 13. Indicate if the message is private or not. When you have completed these, you will see the form which MAGIC! uses for text entry. It will include 1: on the left of your screen. At this point instruct your communications program to begin the upload, using ASCII. A well-behaved program will ask you if it will be "prompted" (or something like that, depending on your program). Tell it that it will be, and that the prompt will be a colon (:). Your message should transfer. 4) At the end of the message you should see the A)bort, C)ontinue, D)elete, E)dit, I)nsert, L)ist, M)argin, S)ave command line. If you do not, then manually press the ENTER key once or twice until the command line appears. Then type S to select S)ave and press the ENTER key. If you have problems, you can call me at (818) 899-8812 during normal Pacific time business hours and I will try to help. Msg #299 Dated 9:03:18 06-06-90 -> 311 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: A CARD TRICK HANDLING Here's a handling of one of the Late Charlie Miller's favorite tricks. The Dunberry Delusion. Charlie said he named this after the Dunbarton Bridge across San Francisco Bay ) but the dissimilar spelling makes one wonder.While handling the deck note and crimp the bottom card.Have a card chosen and replaced (with the crimped card above the selection). Use your 2nd favorite method (you use your favorite method too often)!Dribble or spring cards from hand to hand as you explain, "I will use a number of cards in the deck to determine the one you freely chose and I have lost somewhere here in the pack."You now OPENLY look into the rear of the deck. The way you do this is to hold the deck, parallel to the floor up to your eyes, the right hand thumb opens the cards, like a book from rear, AT THE CRIMP (you could use any kind of key card, this just works quickly) and pretend to be taking and/or rejecting various cards, mumbling about it. What you do is let two cards (including the key card) fall onto the selected card, then you grip all cards above, straddle)like, thumb at rear, fingers at front edge of deck, and get a break between the bottom card of the upper half and the remaining cards in right hand.When ready bring cards to normal position and say, "I will use different cards, like this, to find yours..." Left hands packet pushes over the top card to right about 1)inch, right hand cards are used as a lever to flip the card face up on the deck. As card is revealed, deal it onto the table, naming it, saying something like, "The four of diamonds tells me your card is NOT red!" Just say anything that fits your style and makes little or no sense.Flip the next card over the same way, comment, deal alongside first card. Push over and flip the next card (THIS "IS" THE CHOSEN CARD) and rush through this phase, naming card, comment and then the KEY MOVE ) you flip the card back, face down with the cards in right hand ) AND YOU ADD THE BOTTOM CARD (remember you have been holding the break) AND DEAL THE "SUPPOSED" SELECTED CARD to the table )) ONLY THIS TIME IT IS FACE DOWN.And say, "It is a nine (or whatever value) that tells me your card is the ninth card in the deck!" Move right onto the next phase quickly. They think you have screwed up! Deal nine cards to table (counting out loud). (In Miller's version you dealt seconds(!)here). Set deck aside and pick up the nine cards, holding in left hand, hand flat, not mechanics grip. Right hand lifts up the top card from rear (same position and style you used earlier in effect), saying, "Yep, here's your card." Actually it is the bottom card of this packet. Let top card drop onto rest and since they figure you have erred and the card is really on the table, they will pay little attention here. Merely slide all the cards to the right, except for the bottom card which you keep in left hand by using finger pressure from below. Toss the other cards onto the tabled deck.Ask for the name of the selected card. They will most often point to the tabled card saying, "Its there!" with a smug expression.You say, "What, no, its here!" When you reveal card they will )) like lightning )) go for the tabled card. Adios. Go for it. Have fun. Msg #300 Dated 9:04:42 06-06-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: UPLOADING FILES I use PROCOMM and all you do (with my Wordperfect files) is hit "Page Up" a menu appears asking you what format to upload, Procomm No. 7 automatically converts file to ASCII and loads it automatically. You don't have to do anything. Msg #309 Dated 15:04:02 06-07-90 293 <--> 315 From: JEFF BUSBY To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN I'm discussing it with Matt. It's much too expensive for the Japanese to phone and connect over here. But every once in a while I sent matt a disk of material for the Nifty-Serve BBS on Magic in Japan. He does send files to our CIS E-Mail box so whatever pops up of interest to all, I'll load onto your system. Msg #310 Dated 15:06:20 06-07-90 294 <- From: JEFF BUSBY To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: THAUMATURGIST Sure, David, I'll send it to you when it's in print again. The issue is out of print, sold out, but the demand has been strong and we're printing another 5000 copies. But, other readers of this board, please note, SEND A BUSINESS SIZE STAMPED SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE and mention David's board. Otherwise the issue is $2.00, as usual. Msg #311 Dated 15:09:03 06-07-90 299 <- From: JEFF BUSBY To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: A CARD TRICK HANDLING Hi Pete. Just a few notes on "Dunbury Delusion" -- which is the correct spelling. A few letters I have from Charlie to Faucett Ross shed some light on the origin of the trick. I think we all know that it's based on the "Partagas Sell" from FARELLI'S CARD MAGIC and is the origination of Senor Partagas, a magic shop owner in Barcelona, Spain. In a letter to Faucett ca. 1936, Charlie says that "I got this from a young soldier in New York City." He then proceeds to describe what became the standard second deal version in EXPERT CARD TECHNIQUE. In a later letter to Faucett he does say it is named after the Dunbarton Bridge. So the story is not apocryphal. You might want to compare the version you described to Charlie's final version which appeared in "Genii" in late 1964 in, I think, the first issue of "Magicana". No second deal and the switch is the same, if I understand you correctly. Check it out. It is excellent. Msg #315 Dated 16:14:33 06-07-90 309 <--> 349 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN One thing I am planning for the future, when there are more messages in the message base, it to archive the early ones into a sort of "volume" file. This could then be downloaded. If we do that, you could put the older message base on the diskette you send to Matt and he could place it as a file on Nifty-Serve. Replies could be sent back on diskette and we could either place it on MAGIC! as a file or put individual replies into the message base. It is primitive, and not very quick, but it could work. One question you might check with him. Here we use ZIP to compress files for transfer. Are Japanese magicians accustomed to that? Thanks for your continued work on this International project. Msg #328 Dated 21:31:10 06-11-90 From: PETE BIRO To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: DELUSIONS Jeff: Thanks for background on Dunbury Delusion. It is one of the great "simple" plot tricks around. I do recall the Genii version now that you mention it. Charlie had in fact showed me a couple of handlings and I really liked the ability to do the effect without the 2nd. Will you be at the IBM in St. Louis? Msg #329 Dated 21:48:54 06-11-90 -> 332 From: DANTE LARSEN To: ALL Re: D Some people have been interested in mention of a magic theme park in Florida. Adjacent to the new Universal property and abou 450 acres I heard will be a magic "Themed" park. not necessarily magic itself but a magic "Theme" the money is all from India with Doug Henning the man behind it. Official releases following. sounds interesting, no ........................................................................ Msg #332 Dated 23:51:39 06-11-90 329 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: DANTE LARSEN (X) Re: D Thanks for your message! I hadn't realized that the "magic theme park" Henning was connected with was being planned for Florida -- I thought it was going to be in India! Could be interesting! Msg #347 Dated 16:31:04 06-16-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: A PREDICTION Here's a little prediction -- Max Maven will be seen tonite at the Magic Castle. He will attend the 10 p.m. Palace show, will sit in either the fifth seat in the third row on the right, or the third seat in the fifth row on the left. He may wear a brown tie. Falkenstein and Willard will be seated almost directly behind him, but at the back of the room. Anyone care to place bets? Msg #349 Dated 9:53:33 06-17-90 315 <--> 352 From: JEFF BUSBY To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN Dear David: I've passed on a letter from Matt (Mitsunobu Matsuyama) that I received yesterday via CIS E-Plex to you on CIS. I think this will serve to explain in his own words what he wants to do. Hope that this will help get something going for your board, internationally. Best, Jeff. Msg #350 Dated 10:31:37 06-17-90 -> 353 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: MAGIC, WHAT ELSE? Here's a crazy Idea that I devised just this morning. With a deck of cards in normal dealing position ) hands about six inches apart ) the right hand approaches left hand as if to "just" deal off one card. As the right hand (and this is a split)second thing) mostly covers the cards, the left thumb pushes off the top card and stright into a Tenkai Palmj (in the right hand). Without any hesitation the right hand ) ignoring the card now palmed ) deals the "new" top card off the deck.You have palmed a card WITHIN the action of dealing a card. No bad moment, no get ready... I think it has possibilities. Anyone that tries this and finds success (or hates it) let me know.Another (to use a Marlo phrase) ACTION type palm I have devised (which Johnny Thompson really likes) is a way to palm a card from a deck that is already been put back in the box!Without drawings this isn't easy, but bare with me.To palm top card off deck after cards are in case. The secret it to close the flap of the deck with the card you want outside of the flap ) so you can see the card via the little half)circle cutout on all card boxes.Deck in left hand, dealing posistion. Left thumb rests on selected card through the little cutout. You should be standing for this. Forearms are horizontal to floor, elbows close to body.The main thing here is body language and expression, timing... Control of situation. Now... Right hand grips case from rear, thumb at top, fingers under (loosely). You now look at someone to your right, and say something like, "You! Right there... (at this moment your left hand moves out and away from deck (hold deck dead still)it is like a top change type action) POINTING at person ) and at same time the left thumb pulls the card out of the box taking the card into a sort)of Gambler's Palm. Card is horizontal, left index finger pointing, 2nd, 3rd and 4th fingers curled under card.You don't hold this position long. A fraction of a second. Immediately bring left hand back and down, near your hip. And at the same time the right hand flings the cards (in the box) to that person "for safe keeping".The rest is up to you. Let me know what some of you do from there!Adios. Msg #352 Dated 12:03:13 06-17-90 349 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: NEWS FEED FROM JAPAN Jeff, thanks. I'll check in with CIS and take a look at Matt's letter. I don't check CIS except every few days, so I'm glad you told me about it. Msg #353 Dated 12:05:36 06-17-90 350 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC, WHAT ELSE? Thanks, Pete! Those are a couple of nice moves! Will have work on 'em a bit and incorporate them into something. Msg #361 Dated 16:11:10 06-18-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: CARD MOVE Regarding the push-off action palm I described the other day. I find it is best done standing. And relates somewhat, but you have to be careful to not over do it -- to the Necktie Second Deal. The best handling so far, done standing, is to do the move - getting the top card into the Tenkai Palm and in the same movement take (in a 2nd deal type move) the second card and immediately turn it face outwards, by a slight anti clockwise rotation of the right hand. Keep the Tenkai palmed card parallel to the floor. Msg #363 Dated 22:28:51 06-18-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: MARK KALIN Anyone on board have a phone nr for Mark Kalin? Appreciate a reply if you know where he can be reached. Adios Msg #375 Dated 23:38:15 06-19-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM TALENT LIST Here's the list of acts set for the 1990 IBM Convention, set for St. Louis, MO, July 4)5)6)7.First Night Show ) Michael Finney, MC, Chris Broughton)last year's first prize winning act, Yogano Jr.)Gold Medal winner at Monte Carlo, Mike Michaels)great Robotic act, Jay Scott Berry)New Age performer, Edernac)from Crazy Horse in Paris, Norm Nielsen)a classic of magic acts.Second Night Show ) Gold Medal contest finals with Karrell Fox and Jay Marshall as MCs, Milt Larsen)with one of his crazy comical acts, David Charvet)recreating Jack Gwynn's famed act.Third Night Show ) Mike Caveney MC, Craig Dickens)the sleeper act of the convention, The Gustafson's)Magic by Candlelight, Joel & Jill)France's funniest duo, Nicholas Night)exciting young illusionist)Additional act TBA.Final Night Show ) VAUDEVILLE 2000 ) conceived and produced by Rudy Coby and Kevin James. Features Avner the Eccentric)is this his first convention appearance? Vito Lupo)America's first FISM winning act, Les Bub)comedy from England you will not believe, the Juggling of Air Jazz, Rudy Coby)newest of the new wave and Kevin James and Co.)with new ideas every moment.COMEDY CLUB ) Gene Anderson, MC, Bob Bloenk)musical magicomedy, Nahman Nissen)another sleeper making his national convention debut, Hobson)if you've seen him you know he will steal the show!MAGICIAN'S ONLY SPECIAL SHOW ) Abb Dickson)in charge, Al Cohen's COD act, Hiawatha)always the innovator, Jim Hyams)hit of the Florida Convention with the most original new concept in years.CLOSE UP ) DARYL, The Good Gypsy, Bro. John Hamman, Mike Gancia, Tom Noddy and Dave Williamson (& Rocky). Daryl, Hamman and Williamson will lecture late at night.Roger Crabtree will present a Tribute to Peter Warlock with several of his close friends performing their "signature" effects. Chris Carey will perform a special show for the Kids attending ) and he will lecture.Lecturers: Jay Scott Berry, Karrell Fox, Milt Larsen, David Charvet, Dick Gustafson, Gene Anderson, Hiawatha. Msg #378 Dated 19:04:30 06-20-90 -> 379 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM ACTS Well, we have (I hope) finalized the talent line up for St. Louis. Add the following to the night of the 6th: Richard Diamond-(Illusions), Mike Caveney, MC and we are hoping to reach agreement based on cost and schedule with Chris Hart. I'm off on the road for 5 days, hope my laptop works on this BBS. Adios. Keep smiling. Msg #379 Dated 23:09:51 06-20-90 378 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: IBM ACTS Sounds like the St. Louis IBM will really be something! We will be looking forward to your "live" reports from there! Msg #380 Dated 20:34:29 06-21-90 -> 383 From: PATRICE MOORE To: ALL Re: COPPERFIELD'S RISING CARD Pete and all, just read the BBS for the first time today - would imagine your questions have been answered, but in case not... The Rising Card that Copperfield used was from an idea in Eric Lewis' book "Martin's Miracles" published by Magical Publications (commercial). The idea was then developed into the trick we saw by Michael Weber, with Lewis' permission. I'm sure that must be common knowledge by now. Pete, also you probably have Mark Kalin's number by now. If not, give me a call at Inside Magic office - not sure if we have it, but could check for you. Dante - we have heard SO many rumors on Florida's magic park. Is this for real? Do you have the official release?? Would LOVE to know!! David, this is really great. Thoroughly enjoyed reading it all! Don't know if I'm addressing this correctly. Should I be using private messages?? I dunno... Anybody want to subscribe to Inside Magic?? Does that take care of the phone charges now??? Well, THANKS! I'll be anxious to check this out again soon. Oh, I wanted to say I really am enjoying Pete's writings!!! THANX! or is it 10Q? Msg #383 Dated 22:49:16 06-21-90 380 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PATRICE MOORE (X) Re: COPPERFIELD'S RISING CARD Thanks for your message. I guess that you will be our contact at Inside Magic. As to private vs. public messages -- as a general rule we suggest that messages be public ones unless there is something about the content that requires them to be "private." Public messages can be read and responded to by all members of MAGIC!, while private messages can only be seen and responded to by the person to whom they were addressed and the sysops. Msg #389 Dated 22:58:09 06-24-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: PROMISING NEW MAGICIAN? Today my son took a "Magic Box" (a cube, with a window on one side, permitting spectators to see inside), picked it up and showed it to the audience. Keeping the window revealed to the audience, he picked up a penny, showed it and said, "Money." He dropped the coin into a slot on top of the box and said, "All gone!" The audience, a young girl, went wild - she clapped and hugged him! Now I need the cumulative expertise of the MAGIC! community - at 21-months and five days old, has he set a new record? (The girl he showed it to is about 9-months old). P.S. A copy of the video of his performance, along with a "Magic Box" identical to his is available for only $19.95. . . Nah, forget that last part. Msg #391 Dated 7:00:19 06-26-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM TALENT LIST - FINAL ? Owing to last minute changes in air fares, Richard Diamond has had to bow out of working at this year's IBM Convention in St. Louis. In his place on the Wednesday night show will be an act little seen in the U.S., from Switzerland, Marco Tempest. We are all looking forward to seeing this talented performer. His approach to magic is very theatrical and he has appeared on major television shows and won awards throughout Europe. He has been on the Paul Daniels Specials and he has performed his own TV specials in England and Europe. Msg #392 Dated 7:03:41 06-26-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM SHOWS FLASH!!!! NEW ACTS TO WORK AT IBM. Roger Crabtree will present a "Tribute to Peter Warlock" at the St. Louis convention. For many years Warlock has hosted a show at the IBM's British Ring Convention presenting classic effects in the repertoire of famous British magicians. With the arrival expected of nearly 100 members of the British Ring to St. Louis, Crabtree has assembled an incredible line up of performers to each present their one "signature" effect. The list is: Harry Blackstone Jr., J.B. Bobo, Walter Zaney Blaney, Mike Gancia, David Hira, Howard Hale, Rick Walker, Ed Morris, Bev Bergeron, Tony Shelley (IBM Int'l President), Earle Christenberry, Jr. and the President Elect of the IBM, Mike Ellis. Msg #396 Dated 15:07:08 06-27-90 -> 410 From: CHARLIE RANDALL To: ALL Re: ERDNASE I've read Jeff Busby's latest sheet (regarding Erdnase) with a lot of interest. I thought I remembered something about it from a recent Genii magazine, so I went back and found the article in question. Check the November 1989 issue, Jim Patton's Magicana column. Jim mentions that Bill Bowers had shown him a file of newspaper clippings regarding the Erdnase/Andrews case. Are these the same articles that Jeff is refering to. For that matter are they copies that orginally came from Jeff? Sounds like a pretty interesting story, both the Erdnase killings and the latest bit regarding the research and publication. Anyone else have any opinion about the matter? Charlie Msg #400 Dated 23:55:13 06-28-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: NEW GENII! There's a new Genii in town and it certainly doesn't look like the old one! Check out the cover of Volume 53, Number 8, "February, 1990" and you will see the start of a whole new look. Dante Larsen, a MAGIC! member, is the new editor and is making changes. He's working hard at catching up the issues and at giving Genii a new look and feel. If you've drifted away, or if you've just never subscribed, Dante will send you a free issue if you tell him that you saw this announcement on MAGIC!. Drop him a note at Genii, P. O. Box 36068, Los Angeles, Ca 90036. Dante is also looking for comments and suggestions, so you might want to drop him a note. Msg #404 Dated 11:48:09 06-29-90 From: DANTE LARSEN To: ALL Re: I.B.M. Would someone leave a "bit" about Marco Tempest, now that he has been booked at I.B.M. Thanks Pete! Am curious to hear another description besides one brought back from the family. Heard some real good things. Especially that he's working on a show with H.R. GIGER! "Bio-Mechanical Magic" sounds most interesting. David, thanks for the plug, disks will be sent when it cools down. Looking forward to the video of the little one. Finally, an affordable magic video. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Msg #406 Dated 18:53:16 06-29-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: GEEEE-NII Geee... what a great issue of Genii. The Vaudeville 2000 cover is more than outstanding and the stuff the New Guys put together is great. I nearly fell over when I looked at the photo of Les Bubb. I gotta thank Coby for all the recognition... but it is the performers, especially the new wave, new thinking guys, that should get the credit. I have not read the issue yet. Will do so later tonight. Only two more days and I fly to St. Louis for the IBM. Remember, nightly reviews will be filed here on MAGIC! Dante: If you want to download the stories and use them in Genii go ahead. My guess is that I will see you there anyway and we can talk about it. Adios for now. Msg #410 Dated 18:55:21 06-30-90 396 <- From: JEFF BUSBY To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X) Re: ERDNASE Might be, Charlie, since Bill Bowers has been a constant companion of my ex-wife. There's much more to the story. Msg #415 Dated 21:29:04 07-01-90 -> 417 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: COMEDY CLUBS VS. MAGIC CA David, I can't agree with you more. Not only do magicians that work comedy clubs start to get vulgar, but the comics get worse. The really talented people, that are funny, don't do dirty material. Look at Jay Leno. He has gone to the top and he has always been a "clean" worker. At the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach the owner Mike Lacey hates dirty material. He won't re-book guys that use the words for the shock value. AFter all if a guy is FUNNY he is funny, not using the shock words shows he understands humor. I don't think there is anything to be afraid of in criticizing anything you see or hear in shows at the Castle. If there are acts working there that have also worked the clubs and are using clubby language they should knock it off. Again, no prude here, but when performers working a "class joint" like the Castle, they should leave the STREET LANGUAGE on the street. Msg #417 Dated 22:53:00 07-01-90 415 <--> 419 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COMEDY CLUBS VS. MAGIC CA Well, if you can't take the heat. . . In a previous message (#415) Pete Biro was replying to a comment I had made to him regarding the "crossover" between comedy club performers and magic performers. In making the discussion public, he has done the right thing. For the sake of your complete understanding of the discussion, here is what I said to Pete: "I did find Rudy Coby's article interesting. I typically don't go to comedy clubs, but there have been some occassions of late when I though that the Castle was one! I've been thinking of starting a thread about that, but I'd like to approach it with some tact - a quality I am not always known for. I think that what is happening is that the "comedy clubs" are the main financial support for a good many "magicians" these days and that they get confused between the two. Eventually, they aren't sure if they are doing "comedy magic" or "magical comedy." And you are certainly right -- eventually they are really only doing "fads," and the latest one seems to be to see how vulgar and insulting you can be. I would have thought that would have gotten tired by now, but it hasn't. So, eventually, they are hired to do a week at the Castle and they do comedy club material -- often coarse, vulgar, and downright rude. There have been a few occassions lately when I have brought guests, either business associates or friends, to the Castle and have been embarrassed. I don't think I'm a prude, but I think that if you've heard one 'fart joke' you've heard them all." Msg #419 Dated 15:35:49 07-02-90 417 <- From: MAX MAVEN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: COMEDY CLUBS VS. MAGIC CA On the subject of vulgarity, clearly there exists a wide range of definitions as to what constitutes acceptable language and material. It seems to me that it is the responsibility of the performer who works "rough" to determine the standards of a given venue, and adjust his/her material accordingly. Suggesting that every performer _ought_ to work "clean" is pointless, as there's always going to be someone whose definition of acceptability is narrower than yours. While it is very true that most performers who work rough do so purely for shock value (and frequently have little else to offer), it is also true that there are performers who have opted for such a style and use it well. Would anyone seriously question the brilliance of, say, Richard Pryor -- not _despite_ his vocabulary, but in conjunction with it? On the one hand, the Magic Castle does tend to hold to a "clean" policy, and I know of performers who have been asked to tone down their material for that venue. On the other hand, it is a nightclub with entrance limited to those over 21. There are times when vulgarity is in the ear of the beholder. Personally, I'm far more often offended by performers who present their material badly than I am by one who may go over my own boundaries of taste. A lapse in judgement is easier to bypass than a lack of talent. If anyone is interested, I wrote a somewhat lengthy essay on this subject, "Beyond the Blue Horizon," for the British magazine "Opus" a year or so back. Msg #420 Dated 12:43:22 07-03-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM ST. LOUIS We have arrived at the Hyatt in St. Louis. It is an impressive place located within the "Old Rail Station" - and somewhat attached to a very interesting and well-layed-out mall. Lots of good places to hang out, perform impromptu magic and EAT/DRINK. One of the facilities in the Mall is a Comedy Club. And the IBM's innovative "Comedy Club" show will be in this venue daily from 2:30 to 4:00 pm. "This gives comedy magic acts an opportunity to work under real world conditions, and to allow attendees at the convention, many of whom have probably never been to a comedy club, to witness these acts working in ther regular environment," said Jim Nagel, Chairman of the convention. First official convention activities start July 4. We'll take a look at the dealers and see what's new and try to get a "first hand" review of the tricks and books making their initial appearance here. Lots of people are starting to arrive early and the flavor of magic has hit St. Louis. The Public Television Network from Japan, NHK, has been here all week filming sites and activities of the region. And have been location scouting the theaters and hotel sites. It is another sell out and the registration will open tonight for early arrivals. And would you believe we have already sold 200 registrations for 1991 when the IBM goes to Baltimore. Rumor has it -- you read it here first, the 92 convention will be in Salt Lake City. And the FISM in 91 will be in Lausanne Switzerland (we knew that) and the 1994 looks like JAPAN. End of report No. 1. Msg #427 Dated 3:08:28 07-04-90 -> 444 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: I.B.M. ST. LOUIS *==============================================================* | | | LIVE CONVENTION COVERAGE! | | | | A FIRST IN MAGIC HISTORY! MAGIC!(tm) will be covering the | | I.B.M. Convention in St. Louis with daily reports! Our | | on-the-scene correspondent, Pete Biro, will be filing his | | column as the news unfolds. Pete, a Convention insider, | | knows the behind the scenes secrets as well as what is | | happening in public view. His reports are guaranteed to be | | unique as well as immediate. | | | | And Pete's reports are INTERACTIVE -- talking back to him is | | as easy as selecting R for Reply at the end of each column. | | Become a part of magic history by joining our extended | | convention network! | *==============================================================* Msg #429 Dated 20:38:34 07-04-90 -> 430 From: STAN LAKE To: FELLOW MAGICIANS Re: Hello to all fellow magicians who were not lucky enough to attend the convention! My name is Stan Lake and I am a new member of the Academy of Magical Arts and I.B.M. I am an amateur magician and my main interests are in close up magic. I enjoy mostly impromptu effects with cards and coins. I am pretty much self taught from books such as Henry Hay's "The amateur magicians handbook", and of course I am interested in learning much, much more. I am a member of the library committee at the Magic Castle and I am absolutely overwhelmed by the sheer volume of books available to learn from. Do any of you have any suggestions as to which would be good books for me to study to have a good basic knowledge of card and coin fundamental sleights? Leafing through some of the books they say to perform such and such a move while holding the deck in a straddle position. Or the ever-famo bring the selected card to the top of the deck using your favorite method. You know what I mean? Is there anyone out there that would let me buy them a lunch or a few drinks at the Magic Castle in return for a short lesson? I go every Saturday evening to see the performances and I work in the library nearly every Sunday morning and afternoon. I am free most evenings after around 6:30. I hope to hear from someone! THANKS! Msg #430 Dated 23:27:56 07-04-90 429 <--> 474 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: Good luck with your search! I'm sure that others on here will have advice for you, etc. There is a very good magic teacher in town, Jim Kahlert. He has a series of organized courses with a particular emphasis on card slights. You might give him a call at (213) 472-3770 and chat with him. And, just for friendship's sake, you might tell him you found him through MAGIC! Msg #432 Dated 23:38:01 07-04-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: HOTEL NEAR THE CASTLE If you are looking for a place to stay when visiting Los Angeles and the Magic Castle, you should consider the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd. Opened in 1927, the hotel, located directly across from Mann's (formerly Grauman's) Chinese Theater and just a couple of blocks south of the Castle, has played a prominent role in Hollywood history. In 1929, its Blossom Room was the site of the second anniversary of the founding of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. That night's "merit awards" were the first publicly presented Academy Awards. And, if you remember Ralph Edwards and "This is Your Life," it was broadcast live from the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel. Over the years, however, the hotel began to deteriorate. And in the 60's and 70's, when the announcer said, "and during your visit, you will stay at the famed Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel," well, you were in for a pretty sleazy trip. But, starting in 1984 the hotel was completely remodeled and much of its former decor was carefully restored. Today, the hotel is a gem in a somewhat seedy, but historic, neighborhood. It still caters to organized tours (what downtown hotel doesn't?) but it gets a lot of foreign groups that add to its charm. And it is still the sight of some pretty good entertainment, too. For example, Eartha Kitt was performing this week in the Cinegrill, a lounge restored with full art deco treatment. There is a beautiful pool and garden, with cabana rooms surrounding it, that is quite literally an oasis in the middle of Hollywood. There are two restaurants - a coffee shop/cafeteria that we didn't visit, and Theodore's. Theodore's is very good. Members of my party had Salmon in Sorrel Sauce, Chicken California, and Filet of Beef in Stilton Sauce. All were pleased with their meals, which were accompanied be sauteed potatoes, and very well prepared vegetables. The filet, ordered medium, was a bit overcooked and dry, but both the Sorrel Sauce and the Stilton Sauce were magnificent. The coffee and desserts that we selected, chocolate cheesecake and kiwi-papaya torte, were very good. The maitre d', Raimund, is a gem and the service was excellent. Entrees were in the $15 to $20 range. The room rate, quoted to me by the front desk, was $110 for a single and $130 for a double. The telephone number is 213-466-7000. (Note: This review was performed by David Lichtman as an individual and the views expressed herein are entirely his own and do not reflect views of MAGIC! or ECANET. No consideration was provided in exchange for this review, the hotel was not aware that we were performing it, and we paid for our own meals.) 07/04/90. Msg #433 Dated 12:02:05 07-05-90 -> 678 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM DAY ONE First official day of the IBM 90 got underway at 9 am with nearly 40 entrants in the stage competition going for the top six positions to be on the big stage at the kiel Opera House and compete for the Gold Medal. Only twice in the 10 years of it's history has the medal been awarded. First to receive it was Lance Burton, 2nd Howard Hale. At the same time the dealers began selling their wares. There are 70 dealers on hand! A sad note: Shah Moni, from Bangladesh, collapsed and died during his trip to the U.S. Our condolences tohis family and friends. He was a performer at last year's conventon in San Diego. Rest in piece. While the contestants were going through their paces (word is a Lady performer may top the scoring -- more later) David Charvet was presenting his lecture on the life and magic of Jack Gwynn. He has received rave reviews for this lecture and will also perform the historic Jack Gwynn act on one of the shows. THE BIG 4: To accomodate the 1500-plus attendees, the audiences are broken down into four groups to see, 1: CLOSE UP, 2: COMEDY CLUB, 3: CHRIS CAREY LECTURE, 4: THE MAGICIAN'S ONLY SHOW. MC on the comedy club (in an actual comedy club next to the hotel) is Gene Anderson with off-beat visual magic and his now classic Newspaper Tear. Nahman Nissen from a farm somewhere out west provides fun in a style remeniscent of Herb Shriner. Bob Bloenk's musical magic brings them to the man who "Takes No Prisoners" -- Hobson. His material leaves them in stiches. (will review a different Big 4 each day). Opening Gala Show: Michsel Finney MC. A master at his delivery Finney scored big -- even with the audience comprised of an International Mix - magicians from dozens of nations in attendance. No one could ever immaging gettaing so much out of the 6 Card Repeat! Before the show "officially" opened we added an act we saw earlier on the stage contest (that did not make the final 6 -- they did not manipulation, etc. but were a very promising, commercial act) that featured off-beat comedy and an illlusion called "The Tanning Table of Death" - Great Stuff, as Johnyy Carson always says about good new comics, The lad that put it together was Nathan Burton from Ft. Smith, Ark. Yogano Jr. was next with wonderful magic from France. Continental, style, and above all ORIGINAL! A floaating Saxaphone led into a levitation of his assistant (his Sister) off the top of a clear plastic platform that has all the magicians at at the convention BAFFLED. Yogano won the Grand Prix at Monte Carlo with this act earlier this year. Chris Broughton scored well with his Homeboy Act, despite a foul up by the stage crew on his opening light and sound cues. Unfortunately magic convention shows don't have the time or money for full dress rehearsals. This will be covered in another column soon. Mike Michaels "Mechanical Magician" did his beautiful mime/magic/robot act to a strong audience applause. The second half opened with the pro act of Jay Scott Berry (It was the 4th of July) his originality was great, but again off -stage glitches were noted, but not bad enough to harm the overall effect. Edernac, from the Crazy Horse in Paris charmed the audience to a tremendnous ovation with just a piece of rope. Perfectly choreographed, continental charm--the combination so many American performers don't know how to accomplish. Finney followed with his 15 minutes of solid laughs then brought Norm Nielsen out to close the show with his classic act netting the convention's first standing Ovation! Needless to say the close up insiders (including John Kennedy, John Cornielus and DARYL) workd miracles to at least 2 am (when I left) at the bar. Biased opinion: The opening night show would have been strong as a final night show on past conventions. Adios for now Msg #438 Dated 19:21:00 07-05-90 -> 447 From: STAN LAKE To: ALL Re: SCOTCH AND SODA I would like to share with you my favorite and most successful version of Scotch and Soda. When I perform this for non-magician friends I do this in two parts. I start by having the real centavo placed on my knee while seated at a table. I then bring out the shell and insert and place them side by side in a cloth napkin or silk. While folding the napkin I allow the insert to fall in my lap. Placing the bundled up "coins" on the table and by using the magicians choice I have the centavo penetrate through the napkin and the table and into my previously shown empty hand under the table. Please don't rush through the first part lightly. The more buildup and showmanship you can put into the first part, the more miraculous the second part becomes. Next I say "Did you want to see what really happens when I cover up these coins with the napkin? I mean, if I were a REAL magician I wouldn need tcover up the coins with a napkin, would I?" I then place the shell overlapping the insert on the table. I cover it with a glass so they can see "What really happens". I then grab another empty glass in my empty hand and as I place it under the table I pick up the real centavo on my knee with my first and second fingers and hold it ABOVE the glass which is held by my third and fourth fingers and thumb. Then while everyone is watching intently, I rotate the glass around the shell and the insert thereby nesting the two. Just at the right moment when the centavo seems to have visibly penetrated through the table I drop the real centavo into the glass held below the table where it lands with a loud CLINK. The visual and audio illusion is perfect. While I bring out the centavo from under the table letting it slide out from inside the glass, I lock and remove the half from the table top. I should warn you that if you are showing this to people who are not familiar with Scotch and Soda and if you do not skimp on the first part of this effect, you had better know some CPR in case someone has a heart attack! If anyone went to the lecture at the Magic Castle last July 1 given my --- given BY Hiruhito Hirata, I have an improvement on his card prediction that does away with that awkward switch. If anyone is interested I will post it in detail on this BBS. Take care, Stan Lake Msg #439 Dated 23:24:59 07-05-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM GOLD MEDAL WINNER FLASH: the Gold Medal was awarded at the IBM Convention. It was won by a complete unknown. It was a unanimous choice... the judges and the audince. the Performer got a standing ovation during the finals performance. The winner was a young lady from San Francisco of Chinese descent. Her name was Fanny Chin -- stage name "JADE". more of the contest reports to faoolow it is after 1:00 am and I am about to hit the bed. Will get full report out tomorrow with all winners. It was a top show all the way, no losers! Msg #443 Dated 9:47:00 07-06-90 220 <- From: BOBB COOPER To: RON BIEBER (X) Re: MAGIC CO-OP PURCHASE Ron, My name is Bobb Cooper and I am interested in your wholesale club!! Please give me a call and let me know more information.....(818) 501-7331.....Hope to hear from you soon!! Bobb Msg #444 Dated 10:09:06 07-06-90 427 <- From: BOBB COOPER To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: I.B.M. ST. LOUIS hello , how is everything there today Msg #445 Dated 12:52:12 07-06-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM DAY 2 The second day started with a fun tour for spouses to Grant's Farm while the close up preliminary contests began. Hiawatha Johnson Jr. presented his lecture on a variety of subjects, in- cluding "how to adjust your performance on a given show based on how the material is going" -- he cited the example of his first day on the magician's only show needing to be changed, based on conditions being not what was expected. In the afternoon, Roger Crabtree presented the IBM's tribute to England's Peter Warlock, wherein various "Classic" magic effects are presented along with explanation of the origin and history of each effect. Included were: Rick Walker, Levitation; Howard Bamman, Silk to Egg (his baffling finish turning the Yolk back into an egg with silk within. Ed Morris on the Prof's Nightmare, Mike Ellis, 4 Ace trick; Howard Hale, Billiard Balls; Bev Bergeron, Gypsy Thread; J.B. Bobo, Stoppard Block trick; Mike Gancia, Victor's 11 Card Trick; Zaney Blaney, Suspension; David Hira (as Alexander Hermann) Rice, Orange & Checkers; Tony Shelley, Nap Hand; Earle Christenberry, Linking Rings. And a special appearance by Harry Blackstone Jr., with the Floating Light Bulb. An excellent, educational and entertaining afternoon. The Gold Medal show included MC work by Karrell Fox, who was in top form, with help (?) from Abb Dickson and Bev Bergeron. David Charvet presented the act of Jack Gwynn and Milt Larsen, as the Great Larseny presented his crazy carpenter act. 16 year old Brad Sheppard (& Co.) presented a special perform- ance of their illlusion show as an added act on the show. They, accoring to some of the committee felt that even though they didn't win, they were an act that the full 1500 attendees should get to see.The Six finalists in the stage competition, in my opinion, were the best we have had in several years of IBM Conventions. Word was the Gold will be presented! (Well if you read last night's bulleten you know that it was. I must apologise for not spelling the name correctly, I was going by the phonetic pronunciation. Her name is FANNY TJIN (not Chin). Her stage name is: JADE. The perform ers in the finals were: James Brandon, Wooside, N.Y., Kenneth Domash, St. Louis, MO., Farquhar & Felicity, Vancouver, B.C. Canada, Yasukai Naito, Nagoya, Japan, and Fanny Tjin. Brandon gave the performance of his life. He was the best I have ever seen him. His energy was there and I felt he had a lock on the Gold Medal. Domash did his Break Dancing, money, waiter manipulation act. It is strong, but for me, JUST MISSES on feelings. It is a TAD mechanical. He is getting CLOSE, just needs to "lighten up". Farquhar and Felicity - to ME a stock act, well done, well dressed, but not out of the ordinary. Carl Huggins & Co. Someone described their fantasy act as "a GOOD school assembly show". OK, but IT WAS VERY GOOD, VERY ORIGINAL AND I LIKED IT A LOT! Theme was the Queen, guards, etc. guarding the crown jewels, lose them, and all is good at the end when the magi finds all. Naito presented a solid - but tupical - clever Japanese type manipulative act. Much of what he uses is his own and he is a dealer as well. Good, but not great. Fanny Tjin presented all very standard Chinese tricks, Rice Bowls, Butterflies with the Fan, Snowstorm in China, etc., but once again proved, IT IS NOT WHAT YOU DO BUT HOW YOU DO IT. She captivated the audience with here appearance, her acting ability and her charm. She won the audience a garnered a STANDING OVATION. The Judges had no other choice. OR DID THEY? NOW I GIVE YOU SOME OPINIONS. In the years that there is "NO ONE WORTHY" OF THE GOLD MEDAL IT IS NOT PRESENTED...SO, WHY NOT WHEN THERE ARE TWO PERSONS WORTHY, (AND I BELIEVE THERE WERE) GIVE BOTH THE GOLD MEDAL. IT WOULD NOT BE A PRECEDENT. AT THE FISM IN BELGIUM THERE WAS A SPLIT PRESENTATION. Both, the acts of Ger Copper and Sultangali Shukorov were presented the Grand Prix. I really think Brandon should have shared in the win. He was far more original, not doing any "standards", he was faultless (after having trouble two years ago at Boston) and he had improved his content and style tremen- dously. And to quote Jay Marshall and Karrell Fox (veterans of thousands of conventions) Brandon was never better. I believe Brandon's magic would help to IMPROVE the direction of magic and deserved the recognition. Next message will contain a full list of all the winners. Msg #447 Dated 15:35:01 07-06-90 438 <--> 471 From: DARRELL MURPHY To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: SCOTCH AND SODA Which card prediction are you talking about "ANGEL KISS"? Either way I am a great follower of Hiruhito Hirata and would love to hear about your ideas or improvements on his illusions. For those of you who don't know Hiruhito Hirata you are missing some killer close-up effects. He is a Japanese Magician who can completly baffle magicians and lay people alike. Msg #448 Dated 22:57:28 07-06-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM CONTEST RESULTS Close Up: Junior: Jeffrey Booker, Orlando, FL; Adult: 1st: Mark Sicher, New york, N.Y. Award of Merit: Shawn McCree Clithroe, England. NO GOLD CUP AWARD THIS YEAR. STAGE: Junior: Nathan Burton, Ft. Smith, Ark. Adult: 1st: Fanny tjin, "Jade" San Francisco, CA. Award of Merit (2nd) James Brandon, Woodside, N.Y. Gold Medal: Fanny Tjin. Will file review of 3rd Gala Show in the morning. Adios. Msg #450 Dated 14:08:24 07-07-90 -> 452 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM DAY 3 Just wanted to celebrate my 100th log on!!! Yeah!!! Here is a brief review of last night's gala show at the fabulous Fox Theater in St. Louis. As a fill in for Paul Daniels, who's father took ill last week, Mike Caveney worked as MC. He did a great job. Best I have seen him work!!!k Those that know his act will delight in knowing when the spectator threw the roll of TP back to him onstage... it hit him right between the eyes. big big laff!!! Opening the show was Chris Hart (From Hollywood) with his "known" material "Am I Blue" paper tear, etc. BUT WAS THE HIT OF THE SHOW WITH HIS NEW FLOATING ARM ROUTINE. THE ARM GRABS HIS COAT AND DRAGS HIM OFF STAGE. GREAT, GREAT, GREAT! Next up was Long Beach's Nicholas Night with his Spray Can illusion. A hit with the big audience that had never seen him. Dick and Joanne Gustafson, from Philadelphia, presented their classic Magic by Candlelight. A solid hit as always. Joel et Jill a duo from France with knockabout comedy scored very well. Harry blackstone Jr. made an un-announced guest appearance presenting a baffling presentation of Peter Warlock's glass penetration. Typically, Harry held the audience in eh palm of his hand with his work. We thank Harry for his contribution to the IBM show. From Switzerland, Marco Tempest presented a very strong, effective act of Japanese type work you cannot adequetly describe. Lots of movement, origami, juggling, boomerang throwing, dance, and real magical aura. A strong plus to the show. Closing the evening was Craig Dickens, little known or ver seen by Magicians, Dickens sings Pop tunes while working, jproducing a stage full of dancers from his electronic Keyboard. More illusions with a musical theme, and an act that is very, very commercial. It was a delight to have him here and he showed magicians a completely different approach to presentation. The show was very solid all the way and gives Rudy Coby and Kevin James, a hight target to shooot at with their presentation of Vaudeville 2000 set for tonight. If I can make it will write up tonight, but more likely tomorrow. Any comments or questions let me know. Oh, almost forgot the 4th event of the big 4. The Magicians Only show. Ab Dickson MC'd with his familiar and funny snake basket routine, Hiawatha Johnson Jr. presented his acting skills with a vignette leading into an audience participation effect that scored well. Pernell Zilch (Al Cohen from Washington) did a very funny "it all goes wrong" act with bits I had never seen before. and Jim Hyams showed us what his act looks like (his stuff was stolen(?) from his room...) with a slide presentation. Very funny concept. One that when I saw made me say, "Boy do I wish I had thought of that!" Got to go now to check on rehearsals at the theater. Msg #452 Dated 18:38:13 07-07-90 450 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: IBM DAY 3 Thank you for the Day 3 review. The convention sounds fantastic. I'm a little confused about what Jim Hyams did though. His act was the slide presentation? Can you tell us more about how that worked? Msg #460 Dated 11:28:07 07-08-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: FINAL LIVE ST. LOUIS REPO Pete Biro experienced a technical problem in sending the following, the final article in his "live from St. Louis" series. The complete article will appear when he returns from St. Louis. Meanwhile, we all owe Pete a round of applause (can you see the standing ovation, Pete?) for his incredible reports. Vaudeville 2000 !!! WOW !!! The final Gala Show of the IBM at St. Louis left the audience of over 1500 abuz!!! A few impressjions from others is in order. Milt Larsen: "This is the show that could have saved the Variety Arts Center." A group of teen agers in the lobby: "This was the best SHOW (note they didn't say Magic--the BEST SHOW) they had ever seen." The fabulous Fox theater was filled with a Fireworks Display (the new non-flammable type -made of paper streamers) never seen before. More on this in the future. Prior to the show, Tony Shelley passed the gavel of the International Presidency to Mike Ellis. Ellis, a now -retired successful Broadway Show Producer has great plans for the IBM and hopes to increase the membership base. Shelly brought the newest ring charter with him, entering the first group of magicians from the Soviet Union. Many countries from the Eastern Bloc have requested the formation of IBM Rings. Msg #461 Dated 17:06:33 07-08-90 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: INTERVIEW WITH JADE EXCLUSIVE! The first published interview with Jade (Fanny Tjin) following her winning the Gold Medal at IBM. Jade was interviewed by telephone on Sunday morning (07/08/90) at 6:30 A.M. Los Angeles time. MAGIC!: "How does it feel to win a Gold Medal at IBM? JADE: "I don't know! Either I'm stunned or it hasn't really sunk in. It will take me a while. I think when I get back to San Francisco I'll yell and scream!" MAGIC!: "Were you surprised?" JADE: "That I would get the GOLD??? Yes. There was always a moment of hesitation in my mind. Because after the preliminary contest, when they had called out the names of the finalists they went past Jade and I thought 'Oh, no, I guess I didn't make it.' But they used my real name (Tjin) instead and I was the last one named. Then, during the final competition, they said, 'First Prize to Magic of Jade' and I thought 'Well, I guess I didn't make it, somebody else got the Gold.' Then they said, 'The winner (of the Gold) is Jade.' So it was all very nice, it wasn't like I knew it was mine at all. I thought it might have been close with James Brandon." MAGIC!: "It was very close. It has been suggested that there should have been two Gold Medals this year." JADE: "That would have been nice. From the audience reac- tion, I feel that they loved him too. It would have been nice. He worked hard." MAGIC!: "It sounds like you worked very hard too." JADE: "I'd say that the practice I got in the Palace room at the Castle gave me a lot of opportunity to fine tune a lot of things. And everybody helped. It was incredible. I have to thank them for pushing me along, for giving me suggestions. Everyone was very helpful." MAGIC!: "How did you get started in magic?" JADE: "I started because one summer during high school I got a job working in a magic shop. I remember that the woman who hired me was hesitant because I was very shy and quiet and she didn't think I could sell anything. I got hooked because even from simple demonstrations I could see people's eyes light up. It was incredible. There was magic there, and I thought, 'If I can make someone happy doing what I'm doing, I'd like to do more of it.' I understand that most people start at about age 8. I got started about 10 years ago. So I've always felt that I got a late start and have a lot of catching up to do." MAGIC!: "You do a very traditional kind of magic." JADE: "I do Chinese magic. My character is very shy and very traditionally Chinese. Submissive, very modest. Peter Pit asked me, 'Who is Jade? How is she differ- ent from you?' I had to think about that. My con- clusion was that Jade is a part of me. It is a part of me that maybe doesn't otherwise get seen. Nobody told me how Jade should walk or act on stage, it was a feeling I had." MAGIC!: "Where do you go from here?" JADE: "In August I'll be performing at Ton Onosaka's Magic Convention in Japan. I'm excited. Also, I've wanted to go to Europe. Now I've been invited." FLASH!!! A digitized PHOTO of Jade is available for downloading for those with IBM/Clone systems and EGA or VGA monitors! It is in the Files section as JADE.PCX. If you need the software to view it, a downloadable program, VPIC25.EXE, will provide you with a viewer and documentation. VPIC25.EXE will automatically generate the necessary programs onto your hard disk. To use VPIC25, download it and place it into a sub-directory of its own. Then type VPIC25 and press the ENTER key. VPIC25 will create the programs and documentation for you. You can then read or print the file, VPIC.DOC, for instructions on how to use the viewer. Msg #464 Dated 23:12:00 07-08-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: VAUDEVILLE 2000 IBM SHOW It seems like the report I had written early this morning from St. Louis disappeared into thin air. Some of it arrived at MAGIC! but the part about the acts themselves seems to have gone bye bye. So. Here we go again. Following an overture by the Phantom on the Fox's Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, Avner the Eccentric began the show with his incredible mime skills. He is a cross between the classic Emmett Kelly clown, with his pulse on the needs of today's audiences. Did you see him in "Jewel of the Nile"? Air Jazz provided some of the most unique and artistic juggling ever seen on this -- or any -- planet. They appeared several times in the production of Vaudeville 2000 as acts were brought in with varied tie-ins and prop overlaps. It was a unique concept throughout. A new routine (actually the word "routine" does not fit... it was an artistic, poetic-like presentation) about LIFE on the road, with suitcase, umbrella and large (5x8 feet?) framed paintings was incredible. Ballet like yet juggling. Avner also returned to do his tight-rope walking act, Popcorn, and swallowing of napkins. None can be adequately described. Maybe we can get him to do a full evening some time. Kevin James and his great assistant Antonio Hoyas brought NEW versions of their familiar Chaplinesque plots. New, new look for the IBM. Jay Marshall with his good friend LEFTY appeared as Vaudeville 2000 "BC"!!! One will never tire of seeing Jay's presentation, of one of vaudeville's true classic acts. Vito Lupo returned to the convention scene with his familiar award-winning presentation as the Perriott mime/clown and drew a great ovation. BUT, BUT....HE RETURNED WITH AN INCREDIBLE NEW ACT... ONE NEVER SEEN ON THE CONVENTION STAGE. Just when you think you have seen just about every approach to a manipulative act, VITO breaks new ground. He has pushed to the (current) limit of the envelope. His wardrobe was super stylish, yet still in the classic genre. His material the same, but oh, SO DIFFERENT. Card manipulations (one sequence) with face and backless cards. Pure white, both sides. And a large Dagger.... combined moves, but what's that... he cut himself. He wipes his finger across his black costume and a long bright blood red line appears (it later is a strip of silk used in another effect) BUT then his fingertip stains a card, suddenly the cards appear with a blood red line--fans with the color red as a pattern. Much too much to describe. How do you describe art? Incredible aside... when you have a two hour show of varied acts there is almost always a duplication of effect. But this time the same performer did the same effect twice!!! Snowstorm in China. But it was done in a different mood, a different way...it was good this way to see it two times. To see two different approaches. Rudy Coby (co-producer of show with Kevin James) presented an all-new segment. A costume change unlike any we have seen. Usually it is a woman's dress that changes color (because it is easier!!!) But Coby's coat and trousers change color!! And in a blinding micro-moment. He has a packet of dynamite sticks when they explode (and how long does an explosion last?) his clothes seem to explode away... and when he steps out of the smoke he is in new clothes. In addition to his cutting off of two of his four legs (if you didn't know the act and read this you would say, "WHAT???" (See Genii). He has a sequence where his right arm grows several yards long. Enough. Go see him. I think he might be doing the Castle this or next week. As is LES BUBB. I am going on record right now. Les is the one of the funniest visual comedic performer I have ever seen. He is right there with George Carl. The things he does in Mime (he also talks) are frightening. His knockabout physical material is mind- blowing. I laughed so hard during the show I was afraid the ushers were going to take me out! He holds a suitcase and starts to run around it in a circle and it appears to be floating and stuck in a single place and the faster Msg #466 Dated 23:21:50 07-08-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: IBM FINAL SHOW PART 2 Once agian MY COMPUTER IS GLITCHING. I AM RE-SENDING THE FOLLOWING, WHICH I THINK IS THE REST OF THE MESSAGE. I AM SORRY IF YOU HAVE TO PIECE THESE REPORTS TOGETHER, BUT UNTIL I FIX WHAT "I AM DOING WRONG" YOU GOT TO HELP. OK? I am going on record right now. Les Bubb is the one of the funniest visual comedic performer I have ever seen. He is right there with George Carl. The things he does in Mime (he also talks) are frightening. His knockabout physical material is mind- blowing. I laughed so hard during the show I was afraid the ushers were going to take me out! He holds a suitcase and starts to run around it in a circle and it appears to be floating and stuck in a single place and the faster he goes the more incredible it seems. He is coming to L.A. area in a day or two and they have the Carson talent scouts coming to see him. I would relate him to a 300 mile an hour Buster Keaton for his comedy and acrobatic ability. But then you add on the mime and facial expressions and you have maybe the wildest act I have ever seen. I better stop. You had better figure out some way to see him. If you read the earlier message you heard some comment from others. I hope you will see reviews by others. Vaudeville 2000 DEFINITELY has changed the course of magic shows. No doves, no Zombies, now stock items. I don't think there was ONE item from a magic catalog or a dealer's stock in the entire show. There are a few, and thank God there were ONLY a VERY FEW, that complained about not seeing some of the good old standard magic stuff. I'm sorry folks, but you have seen that before. We intended to show you things this year you had not seen before. ANYWHERE. I think we really succeeded. It is late, I have been travelling all day (lost my ticket, had to buy a replacement-- they say 99% of the time they are found and you get the refund) and had a minor mechanical hold a flight up for a short while and I is a bit more than just tired (stayed up till past 4 am with Coby and the cast and got up about 3 hours later to spend the whole day travelling back. After getting of the last plane I had a 2 1/2 hour drive up Hiway One in the FOG! Yet, dummy that I am, I sit here and write this. Why? Because I want to spread the word. Magic is DEAD. Now (moments later) IT LIVES. IT LIVES IN VAUDEVILLE 2000. WE believe in what we did. We believe what we did will help. We believe what we did will prove to be a great moment. I threw a challenge out. I spoke with several of the teen aged magicians there and said, "AFTER SEEING THIS SHOW, YOU NOW KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO. YOU WILL DO BETTER. THIS WAS ONLY A BEGINNING. GO FOR IT. BE GOOD. BE GREAT. BE SO GREAT YOU WILL SOON BE THE STARS. DON'T LISTEN TO ANYONE ELSE, BUT LET YOUR OWN FEELINGS, YOUR VERY OWN LIFE-STYLE DIRECT THE MAGIC". And, those of you here online that read this stuff. Let's get out fingers working. Ask questions. Tell me I am wrong if you think so. Tell me anything. Lets talk! Msg #470 Dated 9:31:14 07-09-90 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: ST. LOUIS IBM Anyone in St. Louis (Rick Nieswonger in particular--I know you signed on a few days ago): Marco Tempest had his "fake" dove fly into the audince and someone kept it. He really needs this back. Somebody told me one of the local magicians has it, but we do not know who. If anybody can help get this back would appreciate it. Let me know if it is found. The guy it goes to is Marco's Manager, Tobias Beckwith in New York. Phone/FAX number: 212-541-4410. Appreciate any help. Also to all the guys in Ring 1. Many, Many thanks for all the help. Especially to the guy that got the ladder for Avner. Without the support of your ring it would have been impossible to get everything done. It was one of the smoothest IBM conventions we have had in YEARS! Adios. Msg #471 Dated 17:36:06 07-09-90 447 <- From: STAN LAKE To: DARRELL MURPHY (X) Re: SCOTCH AND SODA Hi Darrell, it sounds like you enjoyed Hiruhito Hirata's lecture as much as I did. I do not remember the name of the particular effect that I had an improvement on but the way it went was like this: He let a spectator have a free choice between two decks of cards. The spectator was then instructed to freely choose any card out of the pack and return it to the deck reversed and place the cards back in their card case. The performer did the same thing with the second deck of cards. The performer then placed his deck into his left outside jacket pocket. He then took the spectators deck and opened his jacket up to place it in the inside left jacket pocket. He then changed his mind and thought it would be better to place it in his left shirt pocket. What really happened at this point was he dropped the spectators deck into the inside jacket pocket which is really a compartment leading to his outside left jacket pocket. I believe this was called "Toppit"(?). He then showed the deck in his left shirt pocket and said it would be better to keep it there. The deck actually in his shirt pocket was an "Invisible Deck" and this was going to be used to show that the performers card and the spectators card were the same reversed cards. The point at which he starts to place the spectators deck in his jacket pocket is where I think it could be improved. Anyone watching a performance knows every move has been practiced many, many times and a performer does not change his mind in mid-act as to which pocket he will put the deck of cards. Instead of opening his jacket up as widely as he did and remarking where he was putting the deck, he can just slide his hand behind his jacket dropping it into his special pocket in the usual manner and at the appropriate time, reaching back inside his jacket to retrieve the "Invisible Deck" with which he shows the matched reversed card. You can try it both ways and see which gets the better response for you. Good Luck! Msg #473 Dated 22:34:58 07-09-90 -> 480 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: SPONGE BALLS As some of you know, Albert Goshman has been ill (he seems to be recovering) and is apparently eager to sell his business. Which brings up a question -- has anyone got suggestions on storage, maintenance, and rejuvination of sponge balls? Particularly the large, "super soft" ones? Msg #474 Dated 23:30:13 07-09-90 429 <- From: MAX MAVEN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: "Royal Road to Card Magic" by Hugard & Braue is still probably the best starting text on card magic. Msg #480 Dated 22:29:30 07-10-90 473 <--> 482 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: SPONGE BALLS I don't know about sponge storage. I know they can die and stiffen and fall apart. Seems to me Oxygen kills them. Also I understand from word at St. Louis Goshman is doing very, very poorly. Possibly "C". Msg #482 Dated 0:27:28 07-11-90 480 <--> 490 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: SPONGE BALLS Thanks for the sponge ball comments. If you are right, and oxygen spoils them, then I guess I'll have to store them on the Moon. Alas, at the moment getting them there seems to be a problem. I too have heard that Al Goshman isn't doing too well. Although he has been seen at the Castle a few times. There is evidence to support your conclusion. He would like to hear from well-wishers and friends and can be reached at home at (818) 896-9571. Msg #486 Dated 8:25:31 07-11-90 -> 488 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: VAUDEVILLE 2000 "Excerpts from Vaudeville 2000," with Kevin James, Les Bubb, and Rudy Colby is this week's Palace show at the Magic Castle (through July 15, 1990). A slice of the show that closed the St. Louis IBM Convention, it is exciting, up-tempo - in a word, it has pizazz. It weaves together the acts that each plays solo and does it with style and flair. Les Bubb is a comedy sensation! An incredible mime, he takes that art to new heights. While downstairs in the Castle the piano is played by an invisible Irma, Les reverses this, playing an invisible piano which he first laboriously pushes onto the stage. His bit with a suitcase containing balloons has got to be seen. And his handling of a floating Perrier bottle that attempts to escape his grip is absolutely incredible. This man makes moves in ways you would think impossible for a human. Kevin James, assisted by Antonio Hoyas, is terrific. But, then again, he always was. Antonio plays a Chaplin doll that comes to life in a unique trunk switch that never fails to elicit gasps from the audience. The show I saw (8:30, Tuesday) did seem to have a couple of technical bugs that suddenly made Kevin slower than usual, but, if there were problems, Kevin overcame them. Rudy Colby does some strange and wonderful stuff. Like a Zombie Chain Saw. His sunglass wearing character is magnificent, definitely what gives Vaudeville 2000 its "attitude." Frankly, I find the extended arms and legs portions, in one of which he wraps himself around the stage, running off stage right and coming back on from stage left, a bit silly, but the rest of the audience seemed to like it. His clothing switch, however, is fantastic. It is easy, from this slice, to see why Vaudeville 2000 drove the IBM audience wild. It is definitely the herald of a new phase of performing art. The Castle was PACKED for this show -- on a Tuesday! So, if you are in L.A., and want to see it, you'd better go tonite or Thursday. Something tells me that by Friday you won't get in! Oh, one more thing. Pete Biro, in his IBM review, wrote that "Magic is DEAD, but it lives in Vaudeville 2000." Is that true? I DON'T THINK SO. Vaudeville 2000 is a new bud on the tree of magic, a tree that has been around, growing through every human culture, since the dawn of mankind. Would "New Wave" cause us to say "Music is dead?" Msg #488 Dated 9:31:10 07-11-90 486 <--> 494 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) Re: VAUDEVILLE 2000 You mis-understood my "Magic is Dead" -- what I meant was "Lousy, un-original, trite, magic" is no longer acceptable. OK? I am glad you got to see Les Bubb - I couldn't describe what he does. He is as strong a funny person as I have ever seen. Included on my great list is George Carl. Bubb is breathing down his neck. Msg #490 Dated 10:17:15 07-11-90 480 <- From: JEFF BUSBY To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: SPONGE BALLS Hi Pete -- I think you've done us all a great service with the reporting on the IBM Convention. I wish truly that I could have made it -- it sounds like the best convention ever. Onward with the efforts to change the face of magic. I don't think it is news any longer that Albert is doing very poorly. Doc Albo had him in for a different treatment last month and it was thought that Al might respond. But unfortunately, you are right about the "C" and it has spread. But Al will be with us -- thankfully -- for a while longer. There's very little news being reported out of Europe, isn't there? New Wave magic is in full swing. Do you know Dominique Webb? He is probably the biggest name in magic in France -- the name most recognized by the laymen there. Webb has just opened a new and luxurious night club in Costa BravaSpain called "Castell del Misteri" and it's apparently very popular. Received a couple of multi-page faxes from Gaetan Bloom yesterday between his shows there. Gaetan says he is doing a "new type of magic" -- floating a piano in the act! Incidentally, for the East Coast readers of this BBS, I can report that Gaetan will be coming over for the NYCAN convention in Toronto in october.October. He'll be the "star" of the convention, working close-up, stage, and lecturing. He has dozens of radically new ideas and the stuff he's doing since the last time he was over is out of this world. Catch this convention if you can. Msg #492 Dated 12:41:50 07-11-90 -> 506 From: PETE BIRO To: JEFF BUSBY (X) Re: GAETON, ETC. I know how creative Gaeton is. I wish I could make the NYCAN, but will tell some of my friends. DOMINIQUE WEBB -- A Killer. I saw him at the Olympia Theater in Paris. One of teh great performers anywhere. If I go to the FISM maybe can see his place. Will be in touch. I am praying for Albert! He is a national treasure! Adios. Oh, yes, St. Louis had MORE acts, etc. that no one in USA had ever seen before. And they were good to great! Yogano Jr. Levitation was the best thing I have seen in that genre. It is like the Fechner off the stool, only upside down, and the girl comes up off the floor. If you know what I mean about Fechner upside down? IE the motor, gears, etc. are in HIS pantsleg. She is in practically a Bikini. Done on clear plastic raised platform. Can do off the floor, but the platform makes it more visible as it is off the floor and out of line with any footlites, etc. Les Bubb is being scouted by the Carson people. He is a STAR among acrobatic mimes. Msg #494 Dated 15:31:25 07-11-90 488 <--> 500 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: VAUDEVILLE 2000 It is possible that we are in agreement! I think that "Lousy, un-original, trite magic" was probably always dead. As a matter of fact, I'd bet that even in the caveman days a frequent comment was "Big deal. The shaman in the next cave can . . ." I certainly agree that magic needs to be current and to reflect the interests and tastes of its culture. Dante Larsen commented to me recently, "How can you expect kids to be impressed with color changing silks when the fax machine in the corner is receiving pictures from Australia?" Msg #498 Dated 21:30:34 07-11-90 -> 502 From: STAN LAKE To: ALL Re: VAUDEVILLE 2000 Does anyone know if the Vaudeville 2000 was videotaped? For those of us who could not attend it sure sounds like it would be nice to see.
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