Welcome back, dear readers!
I'm currently on the road, as School Season has 'kicked in,' so this week's blog will be a little brief. This week's review is one that I'm very excited to start using...
It's the Tricky Trashcan by Wack-O Magic. It retails for $229.00 from Hocus Pocus.
AD COPY: It's another Hocus Pocus exclusive.
Environmentally friendly magic!
This new concept and routine are about recycling or magic transportation!One for the older kids, one for the younger ones.
It comes with all the major props for TWO great routines!
It looks like a trashcan, but it's not just a trashcan! It's also the perfect utility prop!
The size isn't too big, (and it's not really TINY, that's just it's name,) it's JUST RIGHT at 10" x 10" x 14" high.
It's the ultimate family show Utility Device! It's not JUST a Duck Bucket...it's something that EVERYONE has seen before!!
It comes with TWO routines by Storyteller/Consultant Walt Anthony.
WHAT YOU GET: You receive detailed written instructions outlining two different routines - one for younger kids and one for recycling shows, preferably for older kids. You also receive two props - one for each routine. I'll kind of tip-toe around what each prop is, but suffice to say these props are NOT usual magic fare. You also receive the Tricky Trashcan itself, housed in a sturdy orange bucket to transport the prop. This is a nice feature, as it keeps the prop safe and protected!
ANGLES: As this prop is based on the same methodology as the Duck Bucket, you can rest assured that this prop can be used surrounded.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: I'm often cautious about using the written instructions that come with a kid's prop in that they are often childish and include horribly outdated jokes and bits of business.
However, the two routines included in this prop are quite good. The younger audience routine is cute and charming and while the routine does NOT include any messages of recycling, the fact that the prop is a trashcan fits into the routine itself. The routine is charming and cute.
The second routine is strictly a recycling/conservation routine that gives a lot of good food for thought for grade school children. There isn't much humor in this routine, but that doesn't mean it's a bad routine...rather, it's thought-provoking. The routine may just be a bit on the advanced side for younger kids and my opinion is that this routine would best play, as written, for grades 3 and up.
However, a bit of adjustment can easily be made to use the routine for younger kids.
Interestingly, despite the fact that this prop is based on the classic Duck Bucket, neither routine talks about using live animals, so you'll have even more performance options.
QUALITY OF PROPS: The two props for the routine are good quality routines. The Tricky Trashcan itself is very nicely built and a good value for the investment. That being said, my prop did have a problem...one of the pop rivets on the hinges came out. It's going to be a quick enough fix, but it did irritate me a tad.
The trashcan itself is good solid and extremely well built otherwise.
OVERALL SCORE: I'll give this a rock-solid 9 out of 10. The prop and included routines are of high quality. I only take a point off because of the damaged pop rivet. Highly recommended!
Monday, September 10, 2012
Friday, August 31, 2012
REVIEW: Imperial Botania
Hi everyone,
It's back-to-school time!! I'm gearing up to get my school shows back on the road. With that in mind, this week's blog is going to be a quick one...
This week's review is the Imperial Botania. It retails for $649.95 from Hocus Pocus.
EFFECT:
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: The Imperial Botania comes in two parts - the inner tube and outer tube. It also comes with a spare blossom to create the idea that a single blossom is transformed into this beautiful bouquet of flowers. A single sheet on 'care and feeding' is also included.
EASE OF EFFECT: The technical demands of the effect don't get much easier than this. Just one quick motion and voila! Instant bouquet of flowers. A 1 out of 10 on the 'difficulty scale' to be sure.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: The single sheet is very sparse and does not even cover the actual performance of the trick. That being said, it does cover some techniques for keeping the blossoms looking their best and lasting longer. As far as actually performing it, you're on your own...but a simple pull of the outer tube, and you're in business.
QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: This is where this release really shines and justifies the high cost. First, the blossoms and flowers have absolutely gorgeous coloring and really 'pop' from the stage. The blossoms are also well made, too, ensuring longer life. Finally, the colors selected really make this piece look nice because every color in the spectrum is NOT included. There was restraint in the amount of colors selected.
This is something that I wish other 'flower magic' providers thought about. When I was a kid first getting into magic, I always immediately rejected any form of 'spring flower' magic because, as Jeff McBride once said, "it looked like a clown exploded," in that there were just too many colors.
Additionally, as mentioned in the ad copy, the metal tube has a textured covering, which prevents fingerprints and scratches and also looks great from stage - the textured surface really is enhanced from stage - since it will not gleam brightly, the tube will not 'upstage' the flowers themselves.
WHY I BOUGHT IT: While most of my stage shows are set, I picked this up as a replacement for a change bag routine I had been doing...it was a white silk with a black outline of a tree on it and after the trip through the change bag, the tree silk was suddenly full of color.
For the right age group, it always plays extremely well. I'm assuming that a more 3-dimensional routine where one tiny blossom changes into a brilliant bouquet will play...well, brilliantly.
RATING: This gets a solid 9 out of 10 from me. It's getting harder to find spring flower-type magic of this high quality. I love mine and if you're into this kind of effect, I recommend getting it as the quality is outstanding.
It's back-to-school time!! I'm gearing up to get my school shows back on the road. With that in mind, this week's blog is going to be a quick one...
This week's review is the Imperial Botania. It retails for $649.95 from Hocus Pocus.
EFFECT:
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: The Imperial Botania comes in two parts - the inner tube and outer tube. It also comes with a spare blossom to create the idea that a single blossom is transformed into this beautiful bouquet of flowers. A single sheet on 'care and feeding' is also included.
EASE OF EFFECT: The technical demands of the effect don't get much easier than this. Just one quick motion and voila! Instant bouquet of flowers. A 1 out of 10 on the 'difficulty scale' to be sure.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: The single sheet is very sparse and does not even cover the actual performance of the trick. That being said, it does cover some techniques for keeping the blossoms looking their best and lasting longer. As far as actually performing it, you're on your own...but a simple pull of the outer tube, and you're in business.
QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: This is where this release really shines and justifies the high cost. First, the blossoms and flowers have absolutely gorgeous coloring and really 'pop' from the stage. The blossoms are also well made, too, ensuring longer life. Finally, the colors selected really make this piece look nice because every color in the spectrum is NOT included. There was restraint in the amount of colors selected.
This is something that I wish other 'flower magic' providers thought about. When I was a kid first getting into magic, I always immediately rejected any form of 'spring flower' magic because, as Jeff McBride once said, "it looked like a clown exploded," in that there were just too many colors.
Additionally, as mentioned in the ad copy, the metal tube has a textured covering, which prevents fingerprints and scratches and also looks great from stage - the textured surface really is enhanced from stage - since it will not gleam brightly, the tube will not 'upstage' the flowers themselves.
WHY I BOUGHT IT: While most of my stage shows are set, I picked this up as a replacement for a change bag routine I had been doing...it was a white silk with a black outline of a tree on it and after the trip through the change bag, the tree silk was suddenly full of color.
For the right age group, it always plays extremely well. I'm assuming that a more 3-dimensional routine where one tiny blossom changes into a brilliant bouquet will play...well, brilliantly.
RATING: This gets a solid 9 out of 10 from me. It's getting harder to find spring flower-type magic of this high quality. I love mine and if you're into this kind of effect, I recommend getting it as the quality is outstanding.
Friday, August 17, 2012
REVIEW: Vanishing Bandanna Plus
Hi loyal readers!
First of all, I apologize for not posting anything last week. I was first on vacation and then I attended the annual NGH convention - National Guild of Hypnotists - where hypnotists from around the world gather to learn techniques, business strategies and more. I attended last year and felt I got MORE value this year. It was great fun and I look forward to atending next year.
On to this week's review: Vanishing Bandanna Plus. It's available for $44.95 from Hocus Pocus.
Here's the routine description:
Finally a CLIMAX to an already hilarious classic magic trick! Now you can reproduce the banana with this specially constructed box for a new climax!
Explain part-time magicians receive magic lessons by mail on a CD, and you happen to have the just released trick.
You don't really know this trick, but they sent you all you need for the trick packed in the shipping box. You will have to include the audience in on the secret as it is scheduled to be performed in your show and the trick arrived later than normal this month.
Inside the shipping box is all the props needed for the effect. As you start the effect you notice that they packed the box incorrectly, they shipped a banana in place of the bandanna.
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive a gimmicked cardboard box, an audio CD, written instructions, the devil's hank and a couple of stickers.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: The written instructions walk you through the entire script (as played by the CD) along with some suggested scripting for how you would verbally interact with the CD. Personally, I always like to play my reactions both silently and underplayed, whereas this script would have you constantly making retorts throughout. It's a little much. None the less, having the written script in front of you can aid learning along with instructions for the actions you must perform during the routine.
QUALITY OF MATERIALS: The audio quality of the CD is good as the woman performing the routine has more personality than some of the dry, monotone versions of the effect I've heard. That being said, I feel that some of the gags used overplay the entire point of the routine. The best versions of this classic routine play it straight, as though the poor directions are the most natural thing in the world. This version has some gags in it that seem to reveal that the voice on the CD is in on the gag - which kills much of the subtext.
Then there's the "plus" part of the routine, in which the banana magically appears in the previously empty box at the conclusion of the routine. The idea is based on an old U.F. Grant idea (my first ever trick was this old idea, straight out of the Victory Carton Illusions booklet!) and it's interesting in that this gives us a solution to a problem that doesn't exist in that I feel the 'magic' in the routine isn't very strong but that the routine's power is in the humor.
After testing the routine out at a birthday party, I felt the ending fell flat. That being said, one show is not enough to judge a routine, but I feel that this ending will probably be dropped.
MY THOUGHTS: This routine is a classic and probably wayyyy overused. That being said, I bought it because it was the only trick that would satisfy a specific need in one of my educational school assembly shows. This version was the only one I could find - I would have preferred the original.
RATING: Between the CD voice's occasional over-the-top gag that kills the subtext of the routine, along with the over-acting and finally the unneeded climax, I have to give this a low rating of 5 out of 10. It ain't bad, and the CD and other materials are well produced from a quality standpoint, but I really can't recommend it.
COMING SOON: I've recently purchased John Kennedy's Black Box, two Wack-O-Magic tricks, and Peter Loughran's Electronic Flash Box. Stay tuned!
First of all, I apologize for not posting anything last week. I was first on vacation and then I attended the annual NGH convention - National Guild of Hypnotists - where hypnotists from around the world gather to learn techniques, business strategies and more. I attended last year and felt I got MORE value this year. It was great fun and I look forward to atending next year.
On to this week's review: Vanishing Bandanna Plus. It's available for $44.95 from Hocus Pocus.
Here's the routine description:
Finally a CLIMAX to an already hilarious classic magic trick! Now you can reproduce the banana with this specially constructed box for a new climax!
Explain part-time magicians receive magic lessons by mail on a CD, and you happen to have the just released trick.
You don't really know this trick, but they sent you all you need for the trick packed in the shipping box. You will have to include the audience in on the secret as it is scheduled to be performed in your show and the trick arrived later than normal this month.
Inside the shipping box is all the props needed for the effect. As you start the effect you notice that they packed the box incorrectly, they shipped a banana in place of the bandanna.
- The routine is very easy to perform!
- The professionally produced CD guides you through the entire trick!
- Complete with a special gimmicked "Shipping Box" for reproducing the bandanna!
- Professionally produced three minute CD
- Devil's napkin and written instructions with all the "Bits" of business included in the instructions!
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive a gimmicked cardboard box, an audio CD, written instructions, the devil's hank and a couple of stickers.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTIONS: The written instructions walk you through the entire script (as played by the CD) along with some suggested scripting for how you would verbally interact with the CD. Personally, I always like to play my reactions both silently and underplayed, whereas this script would have you constantly making retorts throughout. It's a little much. None the less, having the written script in front of you can aid learning along with instructions for the actions you must perform during the routine.
QUALITY OF MATERIALS: The audio quality of the CD is good as the woman performing the routine has more personality than some of the dry, monotone versions of the effect I've heard. That being said, I feel that some of the gags used overplay the entire point of the routine. The best versions of this classic routine play it straight, as though the poor directions are the most natural thing in the world. This version has some gags in it that seem to reveal that the voice on the CD is in on the gag - which kills much of the subtext.
Then there's the "plus" part of the routine, in which the banana magically appears in the previously empty box at the conclusion of the routine. The idea is based on an old U.F. Grant idea (my first ever trick was this old idea, straight out of the Victory Carton Illusions booklet!) and it's interesting in that this gives us a solution to a problem that doesn't exist in that I feel the 'magic' in the routine isn't very strong but that the routine's power is in the humor.
After testing the routine out at a birthday party, I felt the ending fell flat. That being said, one show is not enough to judge a routine, but I feel that this ending will probably be dropped.
MY THOUGHTS: This routine is a classic and probably wayyyy overused. That being said, I bought it because it was the only trick that would satisfy a specific need in one of my educational school assembly shows. This version was the only one I could find - I would have preferred the original.
RATING: Between the CD voice's occasional over-the-top gag that kills the subtext of the routine, along with the over-acting and finally the unneeded climax, I have to give this a low rating of 5 out of 10. It ain't bad, and the CD and other materials are well produced from a quality standpoint, but I really can't recommend it.
COMING SOON: I've recently purchased John Kennedy's Black Box, two Wack-O-Magic tricks, and Peter Loughran's Electronic Flash Box. Stay tuned!
Friday, August 3, 2012
SALE!!!! and REVIEW: Splattered by Peter Loughran
Hi All,
Before I start this week's review, I want to take those of you who continue to make my three volumes of "Cause & Effects" books such great sellers. I never claim to be the most original guy in the world in terms of methodology but the fact that the books continue to sell like hotcakes tells me that folks like you appreciate well-tested real-world routines. Thank you!!
Also, I'm clearing out a few things. Good stuff, just stuff I'm not using. All items are in mint, unused condition and I'm selling them for 50% off the retail price plus shipping. Shoot an email to me if you're interested in any of these items:
The Moment by Christopher Taylor
Get Nyman set of mentalism DVDs by Andy Nyman
Slo-Motion by Joe Litvinchuk
Redonkulous by Anthony Lindan
On to this week's review: Splattered by Peter Loughran
EFFECT:
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive written instructions, the raised base, the exterior square to the apparatus, the inner decorative tube and of course the secret gimmick that makes it all work.
QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: This is just about the BEST squared circle I've ever seen! Besides the uber-cool modernistic design Peter has given, I really love how he's added corner protection metal to the corners. This means that not only will the unit hold up well in day-to-day use, but it looks sleek and modern.
The raised platform, for me, really makes this an incredible value for two reasons: One, as noted in the ad copy, having the unit raised allows the audience to easily see underneath it, meaning spectators know instantly that the stuff produced out of the unit is not coming from a hole in the table. While I plan on using my unit on a thin table top, it's nice to know I can just set the piece on top of my regular working table and it will still mystify an audience.
The other reason I love the base is real-world practicality: when I am done performing the piece, I can easily get the whole thing out of the way without fumbling with the various pieces (both visual and hidden!). So, for real-world performers, huge thumbs up.
MY THOUGHTS: Honestly, I think some magicians are so jaded when it comes to the classics. So many of us - and I've been guilty of it many times! - are always looking for the next 'new thing,' but there's a reason why classics are CLASSICS.
The principle behind the Squared Circle is solid and can be done surrounded, meaning there are zero angle problems.
With that being said, I've never bothered to buy a squared circle because I never liked the cheesy designs on most, but I always liked the principle and when I saw Peter's design, just jumped on it.
MY RATING: Peter does it again! This gets a perfect 10 out of 10 from me. If you're familiar with the principle behind the effect, you know exactly what you're getting but it's so much more modern in terms of design and (this is big for me) durability. You won't be disappointed!
Before I start this week's review, I want to take those of you who continue to make my three volumes of "Cause & Effects" books such great sellers. I never claim to be the most original guy in the world in terms of methodology but the fact that the books continue to sell like hotcakes tells me that folks like you appreciate well-tested real-world routines. Thank you!!
Also, I'm clearing out a few things. Good stuff, just stuff I'm not using. All items are in mint, unused condition and I'm selling them for 50% off the retail price plus shipping. Shoot an email to me if you're interested in any of these items:
The Moment by Christopher Taylor
Get Nyman set of mentalism DVDs by Andy Nyman
Slo-Motion by Joe Litvinchuk
Redonkulous by Anthony Lindan
On to this week's review: Splattered by Peter Loughran
EFFECT:
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You receive written instructions, the raised base, the exterior square to the apparatus, the inner decorative tube and of course the secret gimmick that makes it all work.
QUALITY OF EQUIPMENT: This is just about the BEST squared circle I've ever seen! Besides the uber-cool modernistic design Peter has given, I really love how he's added corner protection metal to the corners. This means that not only will the unit hold up well in day-to-day use, but it looks sleek and modern.
The raised platform, for me, really makes this an incredible value for two reasons: One, as noted in the ad copy, having the unit raised allows the audience to easily see underneath it, meaning spectators know instantly that the stuff produced out of the unit is not coming from a hole in the table. While I plan on using my unit on a thin table top, it's nice to know I can just set the piece on top of my regular working table and it will still mystify an audience.
The other reason I love the base is real-world practicality: when I am done performing the piece, I can easily get the whole thing out of the way without fumbling with the various pieces (both visual and hidden!). So, for real-world performers, huge thumbs up.
MY THOUGHTS: Honestly, I think some magicians are so jaded when it comes to the classics. So many of us - and I've been guilty of it many times! - are always looking for the next 'new thing,' but there's a reason why classics are CLASSICS.
The principle behind the Squared Circle is solid and can be done surrounded, meaning there are zero angle problems.
With that being said, I've never bothered to buy a squared circle because I never liked the cheesy designs on most, but I always liked the principle and when I saw Peter's design, just jumped on it.
MY RATING: Peter does it again! This gets a perfect 10 out of 10 from me. If you're familiar with the principle behind the effect, you know exactly what you're getting but it's so much more modern in terms of design and (this is big for me) durability. You won't be disappointed!
Friday, July 27, 2012
High School Course Ending Soon and TWO REVIEWS: The Real Deal & Professional Backdrop System
Howdy All!
I'm excited to say that once again, I have BEATEN my pre-release deadline for my latest product, "How To Make A Ton Of Money Performing In High Schools!" I have shipped all pre-orders to Hocus Pocus via Priority Mail, so I expect Hocus Pocus to receive them tomorrow or Monday and then they'll get shipped out to the pre-order customers. THANK YOU for ordering! I know in this day & age, pre-ordering sometimes gets a bad rap due to certain bumps in the road, so I always try to beat my own deadlines.
With that being said, even though the product is available NOW, I am going to extend the $50 savings deadline til NEXT FRIDAY, one week from today's (July 27, 2012) post, so if you want to save $50, place your order ASAP. High schools are a REALLY rewarding market from an artistic and financial standpoint IF you have the right programs, and I give you two COMPLETE programs with the course covering two red hot topics high school clients need and want for their events.
On to this week's reviews. I'm doing two reviews this week because both are going to be short as there are no magic secrets or techniques to dance around, so I can be pretty open & honest with both.
The first is..THE REAL DEAL by Paul Romhany. It retails for $49.95 (but you can save if you are an online member!)
MY THOUGHTS: I'm going to right to it because there are no angles, no physical techniques, etc to go over. In short, this book gives you a ton of practical, real-world advice for becoming and remaining a working pro.
Here's just some of what is covered in this massive book:
- passports and visas
- contact lenses
- microphones
- sound systems
- packing for the cruise gig
- Apps you must have (and I agree!!)
- using mobile devices overseas
- general performing tips for beginners
- avoiding jet lag
- seat assignments
- air sickness
- air points
- avoiding air headaches
- fear of flying
- carry-on essentials
- how to become a better performer
- making more money from magic
- good posture
- travel mistakes to avoid
- voice tips for performing
- health on the road
- tips for touring your own show
- better business cards
- self-promotion
- using your website to get work
- social media tips for performers
- tips for radio interviews
And that's just a small section out of the table of contents...and that's just a speck of what Paul writes about...and there's a loooooong list of contributers who have all contributed their own road stories, pro tips, performing tips, money tips, marketing / advertising tips, and oh-so-much-more.
To read the ad copy suggests the book will include a bunch of amusing road stories and while there are really cool pro working stories, the fact is this book is so much more.
This book belongs in any working pro's library. It's what I consider to be foundational - if you aspire to be a pro, you NEED this book. I've been a full time pro for 9 years and I was horrified at all of the things I discovered I WASN'T doing after reading this book!
It's going to be real tough to top this book as far as "best releases of 2012" goes. I may have to create a new list, "best trick or prop or routine" list as this book is unreal.
10 out of 10. Buy this book!!
On to the second review - it's the Professional Backdrop System available from Hocus Pocus for $899 (unless you're an online member in which case you can save a ton!!) Three colors are available - red, blue and black. I chose the blue.
I've used backdrops in the past - usually a photographer's frame with the backdrop cloth threaded on it. It always looks good, but takes time to set up - often 5-10 minutes. That doesn't sound like a lot but on those stressful multi-school days, time is important! So, I bought this with time-saving in mind.
QUALITY: The quality of the cloth material is out of this world - nice, neat stitching, good quality material, and the metal expanding frame is built very well, too. The engineering is very impressive. The provided carrying bag is nicely built too and - this is big - the bag is big enough that you can easily get the cloth and expanding frame back into the bag without a specific, hard-to-remember folding pattern for the cloth - just stuff in to the bag. This is good as with a camping tent, for example, the damn bag is so small you must fold the tent JUST SO to get it back into the bag. It's REALLY annoying! So, the builders of the backdrop really got that right.
SET-UP TIME: After some struggling (which I'll detail in a later paragraph) I can say that after some rehearsal, I can get the backdrop up in about 3-4 minutes and broken down and packed into the provided bag (also great quality) in about one minute. I expect my time getting the thing up & ready will go down, too, as I become more familiar with it.
INSTRUCTIONS: I'm glad this was a backdrop and not a trick, as the directions are horrendous. Check out Step 9's instructions:
"CAUTION" When does not fold or spread: Don't fold or spread. Stop folding or spread. PLEASE UNFOLD. And spread again or fold again, please."
And I thought Step 7 was pretty out there, too:
"FOLD: Hold the frame evenly with both hands. And down slant by same power."
Are you freakin' kidding me?? I read that to my wife and she said, "Hey, it's like that Star Trek episode where those aliens spoke in stories!"
It did take me a bit to figure out how to secure the cloth to the frame so it stays in place during the expansion of the frame (mind you, the sucker gets tall REALLY quick and I don't plan on carrying a ladder with me to gigs).
All in all, a really nice, professional addition to the visual appeal of your act...just don't expect a lot from the directions!
I'll give this a 9 out of 10 - REALLY high quality product but I am taking away a point for the horrendous instructions!
I'm excited to say that once again, I have BEATEN my pre-release deadline for my latest product, "How To Make A Ton Of Money Performing In High Schools!" I have shipped all pre-orders to Hocus Pocus via Priority Mail, so I expect Hocus Pocus to receive them tomorrow or Monday and then they'll get shipped out to the pre-order customers. THANK YOU for ordering! I know in this day & age, pre-ordering sometimes gets a bad rap due to certain bumps in the road, so I always try to beat my own deadlines.
With that being said, even though the product is available NOW, I am going to extend the $50 savings deadline til NEXT FRIDAY, one week from today's (July 27, 2012) post, so if you want to save $50, place your order ASAP. High schools are a REALLY rewarding market from an artistic and financial standpoint IF you have the right programs, and I give you two COMPLETE programs with the course covering two red hot topics high school clients need and want for their events.
On to this week's reviews. I'm doing two reviews this week because both are going to be short as there are no magic secrets or techniques to dance around, so I can be pretty open & honest with both.
The first is..THE REAL DEAL by Paul Romhany. It retails for $49.95 (but you can save if you are an online member!)
MY THOUGHTS: I'm going to right to it because there are no angles, no physical techniques, etc to go over. In short, this book gives you a ton of practical, real-world advice for becoming and remaining a working pro.
Here's just some of what is covered in this massive book:
- passports and visas
- contact lenses
- microphones
- sound systems
- packing for the cruise gig
- Apps you must have (and I agree!!)
- using mobile devices overseas
- general performing tips for beginners
- avoiding jet lag
- seat assignments
- air sickness
- air points
- avoiding air headaches
- fear of flying
- carry-on essentials
- how to become a better performer
- making more money from magic
- good posture
- travel mistakes to avoid
- voice tips for performing
- health on the road
- tips for touring your own show
- better business cards
- self-promotion
- using your website to get work
- social media tips for performers
- tips for radio interviews
And that's just a small section out of the table of contents...and that's just a speck of what Paul writes about...and there's a loooooong list of contributers who have all contributed their own road stories, pro tips, performing tips, money tips, marketing / advertising tips, and oh-so-much-more.
To read the ad copy suggests the book will include a bunch of amusing road stories and while there are really cool pro working stories, the fact is this book is so much more.
This book belongs in any working pro's library. It's what I consider to be foundational - if you aspire to be a pro, you NEED this book. I've been a full time pro for 9 years and I was horrified at all of the things I discovered I WASN'T doing after reading this book!
It's going to be real tough to top this book as far as "best releases of 2012" goes. I may have to create a new list, "best trick or prop or routine" list as this book is unreal.
10 out of 10. Buy this book!!
On to the second review - it's the Professional Backdrop System available from Hocus Pocus for $899 (unless you're an online member in which case you can save a ton!!) Three colors are available - red, blue and black. I chose the blue.
I've used backdrops in the past - usually a photographer's frame with the backdrop cloth threaded on it. It always looks good, but takes time to set up - often 5-10 minutes. That doesn't sound like a lot but on those stressful multi-school days, time is important! So, I bought this with time-saving in mind.
QUALITY: The quality of the cloth material is out of this world - nice, neat stitching, good quality material, and the metal expanding frame is built very well, too. The engineering is very impressive. The provided carrying bag is nicely built too and - this is big - the bag is big enough that you can easily get the cloth and expanding frame back into the bag without a specific, hard-to-remember folding pattern for the cloth - just stuff in to the bag. This is good as with a camping tent, for example, the damn bag is so small you must fold the tent JUST SO to get it back into the bag. It's REALLY annoying! So, the builders of the backdrop really got that right.
SET-UP TIME: After some struggling (which I'll detail in a later paragraph) I can say that after some rehearsal, I can get the backdrop up in about 3-4 minutes and broken down and packed into the provided bag (also great quality) in about one minute. I expect my time getting the thing up & ready will go down, too, as I become more familiar with it.
INSTRUCTIONS: I'm glad this was a backdrop and not a trick, as the directions are horrendous. Check out Step 9's instructions:
"CAUTION" When does not fold or spread: Don't fold or spread. Stop folding or spread. PLEASE UNFOLD. And spread again or fold again, please."
And I thought Step 7 was pretty out there, too:
"FOLD: Hold the frame evenly with both hands. And down slant by same power."
Are you freakin' kidding me?? I read that to my wife and she said, "Hey, it's like that Star Trek episode where those aliens spoke in stories!"
It did take me a bit to figure out how to secure the cloth to the frame so it stays in place during the expansion of the frame (mind you, the sucker gets tall REALLY quick and I don't plan on carrying a ladder with me to gigs).
All in all, a really nice, professional addition to the visual appeal of your act...just don't expect a lot from the directions!
I'll give this a 9 out of 10 - REALLY high quality product but I am taking away a point for the horrendous instructions!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
High School Course, Murder By Magic and REVIEW: Read-A-Libre By Lay Leslie
Hi all,
This week's blog will be a little rushed as I'm heading out the door to perform and have been swamped all week with hypnotherapy clients and putting the finishing touches on "How to Make a Ton of Money Performing in High Schools!"
I'm REALLY happy with how this is turning out, although it's a little frustrating as I'll be writing along and think, "Oh, I never to cover topic X, Y and Z, " so it keeps getting longer and longer! I sat down when I started working on the project with a long list of toics I wanted to cover, and the darn list keeps getting longer!
The good news is I should be finished with the course by the end of the weekend or sometime next week at the very latest. Those of you who have placed pre-release orders, THANK YOU!! I'm sure you'll LOVE the course and getting two completely scripted programs ain't bad either!
I also want to thank my friend Paul Romhany for his kind words about the new high school course. He's seen big chunks of the as-yet-not-quite finished project and his support is so appreciated.
Paul also mentioned in his blog last week my Murder By Magic. Right now, it's not available on the Hocus Pocus website, but if the interest is still there (and apparently it is because people are asking Paul his opinion), I may re-release it. If you're interested, email me at crisjohnsoninfo@verizon.net. If interest is high enough, I may allow Hocus Pocus to put it back up.
On to this week's review: it's Read-A-Libre by Jay Leslie. It's available from Hocus Pocus for $375.
WHAT YOU RECEIVE: You get the two stacks of READ letter blocks, gimmicks, the tube, a DVD of the performance script and written instructions.
QUALITY OF PROPS: I own Jay's standard version of Cube-A-Libre with numbers 1-6. This version is exactly the same in terms of quality. The props look great and the matte yellow against black background color scheme is great for big audiences.
However, Jay himself readily admits that the material he uses to make the props is susceptible to scratches so he recommends caution.
With my original version of Cube-A-Libre, Jay provided a cardboard box to carry the prop. I eventually bought a custom, lined wooden box from Jay for the prop and as a result, years later, my Cube-A_libre still looks great.
No box is provided with Read-A-Libre, not even a cardboard box. I found this to be quite irritating. I would have GLADLY paid the extra money to have a custom carrying case included with the prop rather than have to place a separate order. Again, it's not the money but the irritation.
Props like this need to be looked at as an investment and I know most prop builders do not provide cases in order to keep costs down, but I really feel an option should have been made for working guys like me who already know the prop's going to travel.
HANDLING: The props handling is smooth and reliable just like the numbered 1-6 version.
ROUTINE: Here's where things get...interesting. One of my pet peeves of the 'classic' way of performing Cube-A-Libre has been the fact that many performers have wayyyy too many phases so the impact is lessoned. In my classic numbered Cube-A-Libre handling, I have 4 changes, which is just about right for a tight 5 minute routine.
In other handlings, I've seen 7 or 8 changes and it just gets old. I saw a DVD performance of such a presentation and the first few changes blew everyone away but by the end, you couldn't hear a peep.
Jay's routine for Read-A-Libre is like that. Parts of the the routine are very good, but other parts are just too esoteric, in the effort of trying to connect an educational lesson to the prop. I've performed in thousands of schools and I've used Cube-A-Libre hundreds and hundreds of times so I can say without a shadow of doubt that a routine of 7 or 8 changes is too much for most school or library audiences.
That said, I learned the routine, promptly cut it half, took the parts I liked and at the first performance, got a very strong reaction.
MY RATING: I like half of Jay's routine and I LOVE a customed Read-A-Libre for reading theme shows, but I gotta take a couple points off for the 'no box' thing and the fact that half of the routine just meanders in a way that will confuse kids and bore them. Half the routine is very good and the props look and work great. 8 out of 10.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
It's HERE! A Virtually ignored market in magic!
Hello loyal reader!
It's been a CRAZY couple of weeks as I'm racing to the finish putting the final touches on my latest release, "How to Make a Ton of Money Performing in High Schools!" This baby is something I'm really proud of and comes on the heels of my best-selling Elementary School course. Take advantage of my pre-release offer and save $50 on a market most magicians are not even interested in getting into! I make between $800 and $2000 for a 45-60 minute gig and I know guys making a LOT more than me! Check out the details...
What if I
told you about a magic market that would enable you to perform some of your
favorite ‘street style’ effects but for BIG audiences?
What if I
told you this market paid REALLY well?
What if I
told you this market, compared to others, was virtually untapped, with less
competition from other magicians than virtually any other market?
That market
is…HIGH SCHOOLS!
That’s right,
high schools are a wonderful source of income for magicians…IF you go into them
with the right kind of programs.
I’m Cris
Johnson, writer of the Hocus Pocus review blog and full time performer. I’ve
been performing in high schools for nearly 15 years all across North America and
I can tell you it’s one of the most rewarding markets in terms of both pay
scale and personal performing satisfaction that I’ve ever gone into.
First, the
pay: performing in high schools can be very, very profitable. I myself
typically get between $800 and $2000 per gig, depending on many factors. I
don’t know about you, but performing in a local high school for one show is a
lot easier than busting my butt performing for 4 or 5 birthday shows to make
the same money! Add to this that the market is not as competitive as other
markets (I’ll cover that in a moment) and you have almost unlimited earning
potential…IF you have the right kind of show.
Second, the
personal performing satisfaction. For years and years, magicians have been told
that corporate gigs are where it’s at in terms of pay scale with trade shows (a
sub-set of the corporate world) being perhaps the most profitable. I’ve
performed at a few trade shows (Four, I think) and while the pay IS good, I
personally do not enjoy performing for people who have no desire to watch me.
In schools, your audience is thankful to be out of classes so they’re in the
right mindset to watch a great show!
As far as the
reason why this market is less competitive as compared to other markets, it’s
because teenagers can sometimes be a challenging audience. They want to be
treated as adults, NOT kids and performing a show with magic based on the
“magician doesn’t see it” principle will get you DOA fast! Most pros recognize
this – in fact, one producer of extremely popular effects once told me on the
phone that he wanted no part of teen shows…and this guy was a superstar in the
corporate world and now sells magic to many of the world’s top working pros!
So, because
of the challenging nature of some teens, we have several magic tricks we can’t
even consider using in most cases.
Obviously
this means no ‘blooming flowers,’ no 21st Century Silks and so on.
But since teenagers’ cognitive abilities are not fully formed yet (most
people’s cognitive abilities are not full formed til their mid-20’s) this means
many classic mentalism routines don’t appeal to teens, either. What we have is
an uncomfortable middle ground of material to choose from: the teens want their
magic to be edgy but we can’t go TOO edgy because of the adults – this means no
‘needle thru the arm,’ among others!
Adding to our
potential difficulty in performing in high schools is the fact that in most
cases throughout much of the school year, schools do not have the time to bring
in a performer for a ‘fun show.’ There are exceptions of course, but the vast
majority of the time, to be considered for a high school gig, a performer must
have some kind of educational message with their show.
The good news
is this: I’ve taken my 15 years of experience and packed it all into a
comprehensive course called “How to Make A Ton Of Money Performing in High
Schools!”
Like my
previous best-selling course on elementary schools (which continues to sell to
magicians all over the world to this very day), I have left no stone unturned.
Here’s a sample of what you’ll learn when you crack open the main manual:
·
Mistakes
I made and how to avoid them!
·
What
school officials want from a performer
·
What
to expect at the gig
·
What
kind of audiences you can expect
·
The
mindset of your audiences (this differs depending on the situation)
·
Sound
system tips (both using the school’s or your own)
·
Booking
tips
·
Sales
letters to make the phone ring
·
Phone
scripts to captivate prospects
·
Length
of shows
·
Multiple
show options for more earning potential
·
Keynotes,
breakout sessions and workshops and the differences for each
·
What
kind of tricks to use
·
What
to avoid
·
How
to put your program into a structured format and just plug certain effects into
that format
·
Humor:
avoiding the potholes and landmines!
·
Email
responses made E-Z
·
Dress
for success: options
·
What
kind of messages schools want for a presentation
·
“Hot
topics” schools want addressed NOW
·
How
& why to make it personal
·
Trouble-shooting
at the gig
·
And
MUCH more!
The second
main element of this course is the fact that I hand to you on a silver platter
(made of paper, of course) TWO complete scripts for high school shows with
educational/motivational content!
Both of these
programs are considered ‘hot topics’ in the high school market and will
continue to be red-hot for years and years to come.
You’ll
receive the word-for-word scripts, details on the tricks that I use and why,
and most importantly, once you understand the structure of my show and why I
chose certain effects over others, you’ll be able to ‘plug in’ tricks you may
already have. I readily admit some of the effects I use are a bit on the
‘pricey’ side, but that’s due to my personal taste. Once you understand my
structure, you can readily substitute other stuff in quite easily. (The really
cool thing is the BEST tricks are CHEAP!)
The fact that
I’m handing you TWO complete scripts for the high school market for one fee in
this course must mean I’ve lost my mind because it’s taken me YEARS to fine
tune these suckers. In addition to the word-for-word scripts, here’s what I
include with the scripts in the ‘post show analysis’ of each:
·
WHY
these particular topics are so relevant to high schools
·
The
different situations and booking scenarios you may encounter for each
·
How
the mindset of the teen audience drastically changes for each
·
How
to integrate some of your own personal history into the scripts…and why this is
so critical to your success!
·
Metaphor:
the why’s and how’s
·
Effects
you can substitute (yeah, I know I said this already!)
·
And
MUCH more!
In addition
to all of this, I also provide any purchaser of this program with unlimited
email support. You can send me questions til the end of time and I’ll always be
there for you.
Before I
close, I have to chime in with a really cool feature of being a magician and
performing in teen markets. A few years ago when the economy tanked, a fellow
performer friend of mine, who has strong ties in the corporate speaking world,
confided in me that the world of corporate speaking largely took a nose dive –
not for everyone of course, but for many. As a result, many of these people
began looking for other sources of income and began peddling their services to
high schools.
What happened
was interesting. When I was booked for many of my high school gigs after the
corporate guys came into the market, I heard several interesting experiences
from my clients. Many of these presenters were:
·
Very
demanding of their clients
·
Baffled
in terms of connecting to teen audiences
·
Stunned
to discover that the messages they delivered to great effect in the corporate
market bombed in the teen market
This means
the potential is there for performers like YOU to seize the opportunity that
high school performing brings! As a magician and/or mentalist, YOU have a ton
to offer to schools! Right away, YOUR services have the potential to be:
·
Visual
and FUN
·
Interactive
·
Amazing
·
Personal
·
Captivating
In short, you
already have many of the skills necessary to rock in the high school market and
shoot your earnings through the roof…all is possible with the right kind of
program. I’ve done all the work for you with my 15 years of trial-and-error.
You can take my experience and shave years and YEARS off of your learning
curve!
In
conclusion, my new “How to Make a Ton of Money Performing in High Schools”
course includes:
·
The
massive Main Manual with performance, booking and show structure advice
·
TWO
red-hot motivational/educational word-for-word scripts that you can use
·
Unlimited
email support from me
·
15
years of experience that can and will take years off of your learning curve!
Regular retail price is $299.95, but take advantage of my pre-release special and save $50, making your investment just $249.99.
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