Every performer wants to involve the audience. This is particularly true for those of us who use direct participation in our shows. And yet, as we all know, sometimes spectators are horrified at the prospect of assisting the magician! How can we change that? Of course, that’s not the only challenge we face when spectators get involved. Sometimes — through no fault of our own — we get stuck with bad participants, who are difficult or drunk or dull (or all three!). How do we manage their behavior for the benefit of everyone else? “Handling Humans” is your chance to spend three days discussing these issues, and much more, with two of the most experienced interactive performers in the business. Eugene Burger and Max Maven are specialists in audience participation. In fact, that’s the primary definition of their shows. Over the years they have “handled” tens of thousands of people, in virtually every performance situation imaginable. In the process, each has made a number of fascinating discoveries. Now Eugene and Max will provide an in-depth workshop on these important topics. They’ll share insights, “war stories” and practical techniques that come from their experiences in the real world of entertainment. Unlike most art forms, magic requires the audience to become engaged. You can paint by yourself, you can sing in the shower, or dance in front of the mirror. But with magic the audience must join in. By understanding Spectator Management, you can turn this fact into an opportunity to enhance your own performances. And, in the company of two of magic’s most intriguing personalities, you know it’s going to be fun!
Jeff and Abbi are on their way out of the country again for their 2003 World Tour. They’re headed to Holland, Belgium and France then through Asia and finally back to NYC in April. I was on the phone with Jeff the other day and I couldn’t help but ask, “Jeff, do you ever stop?” Here’s his answer: “Well, yes and no. Do I ever stop traveling? Yes, when I can. Do I ever stop creating? No. That’s the reason I created the Magic School. I wanted a place where we can get together a few days during the month with some friends [who just happen to be the greatest creators and performers in the world – BK]. That’s why I’m so excited about our return home in April. I get to spend three days teaching with Jamy Ian Swiss and a day with Paul Daniels. Then Maestro Jon Pendragon is coming in May to help teach this class on illusions.” “Traveling as much as I do, sometimes I need to come home and just fill up again, to be re-inspired, and to re-kindle my passion in magic. Jamy, Paul and Jonathan will be in Las Vegas helping me sharpen my creative edge.” They are also here to help you. These are rare and precious opportunities for us to spend time in the company of masters.
Make your table idiot-proof. In my early days, I had my table knocked over by the Master of Ceremonies and the stagehands as they walked to the stage. That is an awful feeling, just before you go on, to see your table hit the floor and have your props scatter across the stage! Make sure your table can withstand a severe hit from all sides and still remain upright with all the loads and glasses of liquid in place. Your table can get knocked backstage in a blackout, when the act before you exits the stage, or when the emcee dashes into the wings to pick up the spare mic or a prop he forgot. In short, if you make your table heavy at the bottom, it won’t tip over. (Excerpted from Pack Small, Play Big)
We’d like to publicly congratulate Danny Hill and Michael Barron for their First Place awards at the recent IBM International Convention (Danny in close-up and Michael in stage). You make your teachers very proud!