The Magic Event of a Lifetime!

The Magic Event of a Lifetime! One time only! Never to be repeated!

Greetings friends!

There are only two types of people in this world.

1. Those who will let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity slip through their fingers 🙁
2. The fortunate few who will seize the moment and join us for a memorable weekend filled with wonder, excitement, and amazing magic!

2024 Festival of Magic

The 2024 FESTIVAL OF MAGIC is a three-day extravaganza like no other, and it’s happening in Chicago! This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the astonishing world of magic, surrounded by some of the most talented performers and respected teachers from around the world.

A weekend full of action packed magic and two unique full evening performances:

• David Williamson in “RIDICULOUS!”
• Jeff McBride’s MYSTERY SCHOOL ALL STAR EXTRAVAGANZA

All-new shows and lectures!
Quality time in small groups with magic’s greatest teachers!
Magic jams and special surprises around every corner!
A special Eugene Burger birthday celebration exclusively for registrants!

But That’s Not All! 

MY HOUDINI SEANCE EXPOSED
Jeff McBride’s exclusive lecture. Learn the forbidden secrets of spirit mediums and unlock the mysteries of the supernatural with Jeff ’s captivating lecture. You will learn how to perform your very own seance in your own home!

CHAOS AND CONJURING
David Williamson  takes the stage and shares his techniques and stories of his legendary comedy magic!

EMPOWERING YOUR MAGICAL VISION
Larry Hass will draw upon the work of Eugene Burger to share important insights to inspire your personal path in magic.

THE MYSTERY OF THE ORANGE TREE – REVEALED AND DECODED!
Discover the secrets behind one of magic’s most iconic illusions with Ricardo Rosenkranz in an eye-opening presentation.

THE MIND-MELTING MENTALISM LECTURE
Ross Johnson delves into the depths of mentalism, offering a sneak peek into his upcoming book. NOTE: This is THE ONLY time Ross Johnson is lecturing on his mentalism east of the Mississippi. One time only!

SURPRISE MYSTERY  GUEST APPEARANCE
A magical surprise from a living legend of comedy magic!  We can’t tell you now (it’s a mystery,) but you won’t want to miss this unforgettable performance.

THE SECRET SEANCE
For the select few who dare to journey deeper into the mysteries of magic, an exclusive Secret Seance awaits, reserved only for those attending both the Solo Show Boot Camp and the Festival of Magic!

This is your chance to be part of a magical experience that will leave you breathless and longing for more. But remember, this opportunity will come and go in the blink of an eye – once in a lifetime, never to be repeated. Join us, and let the magic begin!

The 2024 FESTIVAL OF MAGIC full-ride pass includes:

• TWO PREMIUM show tickets
• ALL POST-SHOW special events
• FOUR FULL magic lectures
• SMALL GROUP trick teaching sessions with the Faculty
• And the EXCLUSIVE VIP EUGENE BURGER BIRTHDAY PARTY & MAGIC JAM

Can’t make the whole weekend? No problem! Saturday-only and Sunday-only passes are also available. Information and registration here: https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/events

The Chicago Doubleheader! 

What could be more exciting than enjoying a doubleheader on a beautiful day in May in the Windy City? How about enjoying a five-day doubleheader?!

Five Days of Magic!!!

That is just what McBride’s Magic & Mystery School has in store for you! There are two great learning opportunities for you at the beautiful Rhapsody Theater in Chicago beginning on May 29. You are invited to join us for the first ever SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP and the second annual FESTIVAL OF MAGIC.

Solo Show Boot Camp

During the three-day intensive SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP class, you will learn how to make a powerful solo show from three maestros of the stage: Jeff McBride, Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz, and Dr. Larry Hass. During this first-time ever offering, you will learn how to fuse artistry and showmanship into an unforgettable full-evening show. 

The trio of experts, Jeff, Ricardo, and Larry, will guide you through every step of the journey for creating a solo show that stands out, captivates, and takes your audience on a ride they will always remember. This is your invitation to train with the top magic teachers and directors in the world.

Who is the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP for?

• Anyone who loves magic and wants to learn the secrets of success.
• Anyone who is working on a solo show, parlor show, or theater show.
• Magicians who want to pack small and play big.
• Magicians who want to play Performing Arts Centers and Theaters, or who want to create their own personal performance venue. 

Find more information about the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP go to the following link:
https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/event/solo-show-boot-camp

The Chicago Doubleheader

The Chicago Doubleheader!
 
What could be more exciting than enjoying a doubleheader on a beautiful day in May in the Windy City? How about enjoying a five-day doubleheader?!
 
Five Days of Magic
 
That is just what McBride’s Magic & Mystery School has in store for you! There are two great learning opportunities for you at the beautiful Rhapsody Theater in Chicago beginning on May 29. You are invited to join us for the first ever SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP and the second annual FESTIVAL OF MAGIC.

Solo Show Boot Camp

During the three-day intensive SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP class, you will learn how to make a powerful solo show from three maestros of the stage: Jeff McBride, Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz, and Dr. Larry Hass. During this first-time ever offering, you will learn how to fuse artistry and showmanship into an unforgettable full-evening show. 

The trio of experts, Jeff, Ricardo, and Larry, will guide you through every step of the journey for creating a solo show that stands out, captivates, and takes your audience on a ride they will always remember. This is your invitation to train with the top magic teachers and directors in the world.

Who is the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP for?

• Anyone who loves magic and wants to learn the secrets of success.
• Anyone who is working on a solo show, parlor show, or theater show.
• Magicians who want to pack small and play big.
• Magicians who want to play Performing Arts Centers and Theaters, or who want to create their own personal performance venue. 

Find more information about the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP go to the following link:  https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/event/solo-show-boot-camp

All New for 2024

During Jeff McBride’s FESTIVAL OF MAGIC you will experience – close-up and personal – magic performances, lectures, workshops and teaching sessions, along with parties and magic jams with the Senior Faculty of the School. During three immersive sessions, Friday night through Sunday afternoon, you will experience two major shows, and participate in workshops, lectures, and private parties at the magnificent Rhapsody Theater in Chicago. Above all, you will spend quality time in small groups learning from the world’s finest magic teachers.

The 2024 FESTIVAL OF MAGIC full-ride pass includes:

**TWO PREMIUM show tickets
**ALL POST-SHOW special events
**FOUR FULL magic lectures
**SMALL GROUP trick teaching sessions with the Faculty
**AND THE EXCLUSIVE VIP EUGENE BURGER BIRTHDAY PARTY & MAGIC JAM

Can’t make the whole weekend? No problem! Saturday-only and Sunday-only passes are also available.

Double the Magic

Double the magic and mystery! Register for both the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP and the 2024 FESTIVAL OF MAGIC and you will be treated to an exclusive private performance of the Rhapsody Theater’s SECRET SEANCE on Thursday night, May 30. Seating is limited, so register now for a full weekend of illusion, mind reading, and fun! https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/event/festival-of-magic-full-ride

And this is only a portion of the magical education classes awaiting you at McBride’s Magic & Mystery School, which the BBC calls “the most prestigious magic school in the world!” See what’s available for you in the list below and check out all our offerings here – https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/events.

Until next time, keep the magic alive!

Sincerely,

Daryl Rogers
daryl@mcbridemagic.com

It’s Alive! WONDERGROUND – Rising Like the Phoenix!

Greetings friends,

Fifteen years ago, I had a vision of a community-driven Las Vegas magic and variety show. It is an enduring vision that has taken on a new life of its own – it is a vision that will not die. Long live WONDERGROUND!

Did you hear the news? WONDERGROUND is coming back!
“What is WONDERGROUND?”
It’s like The Magic Castle meets Burning Man in Las Vegas!

To purchase tickets, CLICK HERE, or click the image below.

Yes, the news is out, and WONDERGROUND will be hosted at Area 15 at a venue called “The Wall.” Area 15 is the coolest venue in Vegas! Only 80 seats will be listed, so get tickets now.

Appreciation and Gratitude
 
Hundreds of performers have helped our success with WONDERGROUND over the years – too many to name. However, a special shout out goes to friends Tim Wise, Scott Steelfyre, Leo Diaz, Will Bradshaw, The NWR Dancers, The Olive crew, Reem, Jay and Cory Rubino.

Passing the Torch
 
Last September, after a great fifteen year run, it was time for me to step down as organizer of this amazing event. Will and his Area 15 team are producing the experience in Vegas. Tim is talking about the possibility of creating a similar venue in California, and who knows where the future will lead. It is an exciting journey filled with limitless possibilities, but for now there is one more WONDERGROUND, so see you April 9th!

Join Us in Chicago for Two Great Events

In the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP, you will learn how to fuse artistry and showmanship into a powerful full-evening show. This is your invitation to train with the top magic teachers and directors in the world.

Who is the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP for?

• Anyone who loves magic and wants to learn the secrets of success.
• Anyone who is working on a solo show, parlor show, or theater show.
• Magicians who want to pack small and play big.
• Magicians who want to play Performing Arts Centers and Theaters or who want to create their own personal performance venue.

Find more information about the SOLO SHOW BOOT CAMP here –  https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/event/solo-show-boot-camp

 All New for 2024

Jeff McBride’s FESTIVAL OF MAGIC takes place in Chicago at The Rhapsody Theater, May 31 through June 2. During three immersive sessions, Friday night through Sunday afternoon, you will experience two major shows, and participate in workshops, lectures, and private parties at the magnificent Rhapsody Theater in Chicago. Above all, you will spend quality time in small groups learning from the world’s finest magic teachers.

During Jeff McBride’s FESTIVAL OF MAGIC you will experience – close-up and personal – magic performances, lectures, workshops and teaching sessions, along with parties and magic jams with the Senior Faculty of the School.

Along the way, you will see these two full-evening shows:

• David Williamson starring in RIDICULOUS – superstar comic sleight-of-hand performer, and recipient of a Performing Fellowship from the Academy of Magical Arts.
• Jeff McBride and the Mystery School All-Stars Show – Guinness World Record holder and the man who fooled Penn & Teller, in an all new Gala Show Spectacular! 

Seating is limited, so register now for a full weekend of illusion, mind reading and fun! https://shop.magicalwisdom.com/event/festival-of-magic-full-ride

Vegas – It’s a Trip!
 
If you plan a trip to Vegas, please contact us to set up your own private class. Call Abigail at 702-450-0031 or send her an email at abbimcb@gmail.com.
 
We so enjoy passing on the torch of magic to light the way for the magicians of the future!
 
Jeff & Abigail 

Insure Against “Loss of Mystery”

Our Museletter contributor this month is long-time Magic & Mystery School member Byron Gray. Byron addresses a subject at the very heart of magical performances – mystery – and shares how we can reclaim this powerful concept and bring it into the lives of those we entertain.

For this month’s Museletter I’m going to tie some loose threads together from my previous Museletter entry, and my recent appearance on Mystery School Monday. And then, I have a question and an idea for you.
 
After appearing with Franklin Williams on episode 675 of Mystery School Monday, I received a question about my fictitious insurance company “Newling & Grey” that insures against “loss of mystery.” What’s that all about?
 
In 2006, U.K. artist John Newling created the “Preston Market Mystery Project.” Newling set up a stall in an outdoor market in Preston, Lancashire. In three days, he  collected 280 mysteries from curious market-goers. Their personal mysteries touched upon strange coincidences, paranormal encounters, lost items etc. In exchange for their mystery, they received a jar of coins, and a certificate insuring the recipient against  “loss of mystery.” 

This was only one phase of a three-phase project, and the details leading up to this project in itself would make for a great read and inspiration. But “why?” In the book The Preston Market Mystery Project, Newling states: 
 
“In each (mystery), the human instinct to give reasons and to try to rationalize the event is evident. It is a primary instance of survival to be able to detect causality…in a society that has profoundly moved towards the audit of our activities. The market place seems a fine context to sell insurance against loss of mystery.” (Newling)  
 
Please keep in mind that this was published in 2008 before the social media boom and “the big blue machine” that is Facebook and Meta! “The audit of our activities.” Eek! 
 
Fast forward almost a decade. I was practicing giving answers for a classic Q&A act, and I was just not happy with my feelings about it. (I’m also in Wyoming, and trying to sell this act to local markets was not panning out.) When I heard about this project, the idea of being a trustee of my audience’s mysteries appealed to me, and so I thought that revealing mysteries as a Q&A act would be a compromise.  
 
Being the ethical person I am, I felt I needed to get Mr. Newling’s blessing to elaborate on his initial premise. Much to my surprise, he gave me an emphatic “Yes” (and a few other arrangements to make sure he wasn’t forgotten.) And so, “Newling & Grey” was born! 
 
To date, a handful have “collected on their policies” in their time of need. Their personal mystery is a reminder that in the darkest of times, a light can be found in the form of something inexplicable that happened to them.

The Preston Market Mystery Project was one of the books mentioned in my previous Museletter entry regarding favorite books, albeit very vaguely, so now you have the  complete story! So, with all that preamble, I’d like to touch upon two ideas concerning “mystery.” 

1. Ask yourself “What does ‘mystery’ mean to me?”

Sometimes asking Google and ChatGPT this question might leave you cold. Great! When that happens, you must dare to look inwards and find the answer yourself. We’re all magicians and it should come as no surprise that we are in the “mystery  business.” We are the ambassadors of mystery. We’re supposed to be that most welcome wrench in the cogs of the mundane machine. Asking yourself this question can help inform your role and your approach to magic.

2. Become a Trustee of Mystery!

You certainly don’t need to go to the lengths that I have to be a “trustee of  mystery.” A fun exercise for creating new presentations (and in turn giving your viewer a slice of mystery) is writing down all the wonderful mysteries that have happened to  you. Now, ask yourself if you can replicate that mystery live through a similar magical effect.  

Three of these mysteries are in my show and I consider them to be “forever pieces.” It’s in these performances that I hope my audiences will be consciously aware of  wonder and mystery in their lives (instead of looking down at their phones all the time). As you can see, mystery means a LOT to me!  

Until next time, may your lives stay filled with mystery. 

– Byron Grey 

Reference: 
Newling, John. The Preston Market Mystery Project, Harris Museum & Art Gallery, 2008, p. 15.