Eugene Burger’s Secret Project
By Larry Hass, Ph.D. the Dean of McBride’s Magic & Mystery School
This November is a truly special time for our Magic & Mystery School community.
That’s because November 10th is the release date for Eugene Burger: From Beyond—the first of two books that Eugene planned in order to share his most carefully guarded and previously unpublished material.
How this book came to be is a remarkable story, and I am delighted to share a brief version of it with you here.
In February 2010, Eugene called to ask if I would be willing to write and publish a book (it was only one book at that time) that would share and teach all of his unpublished routines. Without pausing for even a breath, I said “Absolutely!â€
Eugene did, however, have two firm conditions. The first one was that the book would not appear until after he had passed away, because, “Larry, people are still paying me to perform this material!†(insert his booming laugh). I certainly agreed to that, believing and hoping it would be many years away.
Eugene’s second condition was that I couldn’t tell anyone about it, I mean no one—except for my wife Marjorie, who was also a dear friend of Eugene’s. Eugene said this strict silence around the project was so that he didn’t have to keep answering questions about it for the rest of his life, which I understood completely and also agreed to.
And so Eugene’s top-secret project was off and running. During that call, I told him I would go through all my notes and get back to him with a list of his unpublished materials. Indeed, as a scholar I had been keeping careful records of everything related to Eugene’s work from the beginning of our friendship in 1994. Eugene not only knew I was doing so, he actively encouraged it. As he said, that way he didn’t have to keep track of everything!
When I got back to Eugene a few weeks later, he was astonished to learn that he had over fifty unpublished items—routines, essays, interviews, scripts, public presentations, items that had not appeared before in one of his books or on one of his videos. Instantly Eugene knew there needed to be two books, and he gave me their exact titles: Eugene Burger: From Beyond and Eugene Burger: Final Secrets. Eugene named a price, we drew up a detailed agreement, I wrote the check, and now the work would begin!
In July of 2010, I flew to Chicago for three full days of learning and videoing all of Eugene’s unpublished secrets. I understood what I was being entrusted with, so I arrived ready to go: with lots of questions, plenty of notepaper, and multiple back-ups for all the video. During those unforgettable days, Eugene was wonderful. He was completely unambivalent about explaining these routines – a number of which were his most favorite pieces that he had guarded carefully from the beginning of his career. He expressed many times how important it was to him that there would be a complete record of all his magical creations.
Between then and his death in August of 2017, Eugene and I worked regularly on the books. We frequently discussed the organization and contents of the books, and he approved every chapter I sent to him for review. We had several additional video sessions as he created new routines. And, every month or so I would receive a package in the mail from him with artifacts or memorabilia from his career that he thought I might want for my files.
Indeed, Eugene was actively involved in this work of protecting his legacy, and he took great pleasure in the thought that magicians everywhere would learn his deepest secrets after he was gone—that these materials would arrive from beyond.
And so, after ten years of secret labor, Book One, Eugene Burger: From Beyond, will be released on November 10. (Book Two will be released in July of 2021.) It shares sixteen of Eugene’s unpublished parlor, stand-up, and spirit theater routines, including his legendary spirit slates. It also contains a long chapter that finally, for the first time, shares all of Eugene’s work, scripts, handling, and secrets for his signature effect, “Gypsy Thread.†In addition, Eugene Burger: From Beyond provides access to thirteen video performances of this material by Eugene and two audio performances. The book also includes rare photos, essays, scripts, interviews, and public presentations. It is a treasure trove of Eugene!
Although we don’t typically stress sales in our Museletters, Eugene was such an important person to our community that we don’t want anyone to miss out. You can purchase your copy of the book by going to www.TheoryandArtofMagic.com. It will be mailed to arrive in your hands on or around November 10th—its official release date.
By way of closing, let me say how honored I am to have been asked by Eugene to shepherd these materials into your hands. Eugene really wanted us to have these secrets - to know how he did it. A big part of it was Eugene’s deepest sensibilities as a teacher. But, it was also because in so many ways the world-wide community of magicians was Eugene’s family.
The book is here; the time has arrived. I am so excited for you to hold this book in your hands: Eugene Burger: From Beyond!
THE KEY THAT OPENS ANY LOCK
HOPE AND FREEDOM!
One of the greatest magicians of the 20th century was Harry Houdini. His escapes were symbols of hope and freedom — a reminder to us all that the human spirit cannot be chained. I remember Houdini’s quote above whenever I feel trapped or at a dead end.
“My mind is the key that sets me free!â€
We all have the keys within us.
Spooky Facts:
Harry Houdini died on Halloween, 1926. Every year, even to this day, seances are held around the world to contact his spirit. Seances are a unique form of theater.
Our beloved Eugene Burger was a master of this rare form of spirit theater magic.
Now Eugene is on “the other side of the veil,” and perhaps seance mediums will invoke his spirit at the seance table… I’m sure Eugene would amuse, startle and delight the sitters in the darkened parlor room… I can hear his wonderful heartwarming laughter right now. Can you?
Keeping the Tradition of Spirit Theater Alive…
We just finished a mysterious weekend workshop of Seance & Sprit Theater here at Mystery School. Seance Master John Ferrentino held us spellbound as he manifested sprits from beyond the grave.
Our mission at Mystery School is to explore all branches of the magical arts and help turn our students into great performers! Perhaps one of our new students – maybe you – will become the next Houdini!
How Do Magical People Celebrate Halloween?
FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS, Abigail and I have met up with 300 new and old friends and gone out to the middle of the desert for an all-night drum and dance ceremony called BONEDANCE! This is a Samhain/Halloween celebration – an alchemical fire circle ritual of drumming, dance, voice and sound. We honor the ancestors, the turning of the wheel, the balance of shadow and light, and journeying through the darkness into the beauty of the morning. Fueled by magic and led by mystery, Desert Moon Circle will present the opening for our Circle, and this magic is not to be missed!
We love to drum and dance and make magic around the bonfire. Every year we host BONEDANCE, an all-night dance in the Nevada desert.Â
How Do Witches and Wizards Celebrate Halloween?
The WITCH’S & WIZARD’S BALL
Thursday October 31st, 2019
8:00 PM – 11 PM @ The Olive, 3850 E Sunset, Las Vegas, NV 89120 * Phone: (702) 451-8805
Don your masks and finery as we ride the sonic waves. Shake out the cobwebs, and see who takes the prize at the costume contest! This is a special community co-creative art installation.
With DJ Mystery, the New World Rhythmatism Featured Dancers, Spiral Dance and Community Ritual, Interactive art, Costume Contest for awesome prizes, the Mystery School Magicians, The Psychic Sideshow, big surprises and much more! Creative and festive costumes and masks are wholeheartedly encouraged but not required.
Go here to learn more:
“Never before has so much magic content been available in one place for people to learn and enjoy magic for such a low price.â€
– Jeff McBride
MY NEW PROJECT… is really happening!
And I want you to help me test this new platform:
It is AMAZING! Over 600 videos and growing!
Take a look at this astonishing video!
MAGICFLIX is collecting the proven masters, and at the same time, we are cultivating the up-and-coming young magicians that are innovators, and are creating new magic for new generations.
A Special Gift for You!
The team gave me a private promo code for my friends. You get 1 month free of charge!
Go to MAGICFLIX.COM, register, and put in the code   MCBRIDE
Las Vegas Magic News
The Las Vegas Magic Stars will be touring in 2020. Shows in the USA, as well as a China tour are in the planning stages.
Mat Franco’s show continues to sell out at THE LINQ. Mat mentioned to me that he has many new items in his notebooks just waiting for the green light to get to the stage!
Kevin Lepine opens his new show called “Seance†at Binion’s Casino: https://vegasseance.com/
Tommy Wind will open his new show at the OYO hotel and Casino. We wish Tommy the best of luck!
Penn & Teller’s FOOL US is renewed for another season. This show is a “career maker†for many magicians willing and able to take a shot at mystifying the masters…. good luck guys!
Congratulations are in order for one of the world’s top magical entertainers, Gazzo! Gazzo has a new residency in Las Vegas. He will tell us all about it at WONDERGROUND!
Wonderground News
The BIGGEST MAGIC PARTY in Las Vegas just got better– 3 great shows – never to be repeated!
More info at: www.vegaswonderground.com
October 2019
8pm — Tim Wise is your Host
Iam Creed – Lights up the night!
Eric Stevens – Curator of Unusual Moments
Jay Jay – He Can Steal your heart!
David Frost – Tech-No-Magic!
Luna Shimada – Feminine Mystique
9pm – Close-up Theater
Will Bradshaw- is your host
Eric Stevens Close Up Curator of Unusual Moments at The WonderBar
Special One-Man Show!
GAZZO- Living Legend of magic!
10pm — Jeff McBride is your Master of Ceremonies
Luna Shimada – Dynamic Dynasty
Bizzaro – Direct from Spain!
Jay Jay – You’ve not seen him yet!
David Frost – Grand Illusions
All the above plus:
Photography by Sheryl Garrett. Bar Magic-Brian Apollo, Scott Steelfyre & Maggie, Corey Rubino, New World Rhythmatism Belly Dancers, Psychic Sideshow – and many more surprises and special celebrity guests
I hope to see you over at the MAGICFLIX.com site, at one of my shows in Vegas, or on the road!
Be inspired,
Jeff
Dear Friends:
Tobias here – my turn to write to you all. As I write this, I’ve just returned from Pennsylvania, where I was blessed to help my mother celebrate her 90th Birthday. Amazing!
Something happened while I was there, that I think is just as amazing. I got to meet with some of the local magicians, who, when they found out I would be in town, invited me for coffee at their local meeting place. This is something that happens over and over again, and one of the ways I’ve made many, many friends over the years. Magicians reach out to others in our magical community, even when we don’t know one another.
I’ll never forget going to Hong Kong for the first time, and communicating with Albert Tam, who had a magic shop (or two) there at that time. He wanted to know all the details of our schedule – and I had no idea why. Until we disembarked from our plane, at the end of over 20 hours of travel, and were greeted by a group of about 30 magicians right there at the foot of the steps leading down from the airplane. The magicians showered us with flowers and streamers, followed us to our hotel, and then took us out to their favorite restaurant. We’re still friends with Albert and several others from that group some 25 years later!
It happened again when I first moved to the Bay Area – actually a little town called Boulder Creek, which is up in the redwoods between Santa Cruz and Cupertino. I was feeling very isolated, when two magicians from Silicon Valley got in touch by e-mail, saying “I hear you’ve moved to the Bay Area…let’s have lunch!†I was quickly welcomed into the Silicon Valley S.A.M., The Magic Garage, and other Bay Area magical communities. I no longer felt “all alone.â€
This next paragraph may seem like a tangent, but bear with me.
When I started working with Jeff McBride, Jeff had just returned from his first time headlining a show in Las Vegas. He had more success before he turned 25 than most magicians ever do…and yet he couldn’t find real happiness. Why? Because he had a thirst for “real magic,†and felt like a fake every time he “pretended†to be one…even though audiences loved him and he was at the top of his game as a performer.
As Jeff likes to say, “you can’t give a gift you don’t have yourself,†and the magician’s job is to give the gift of a magical experience. But what does that really mean? Probably something a little different to each of us…but something important, nevertheless.
Jeff went on a quest to discover “real magic.†He visited occult stores, native American sweat lodges, ashrams, fire circles…anywhere he thought he might find someone who could clue him in to the secrets of real magic. He went anywhere he might experience magic outside of tricks and illusions, and he found several varieties. Probably the largest and most consistent form of real magic he found – and later introduced me to – was the community that formed around fire and drum circles. This was a community of individuals who were conscious about creating conscious community and community-centered events.
It was Jeff’s experience with these groups which lead to the creation of our very first “Mystery School†retreats back in the 1990’s. If magicians needed to have a magical experience that felt real to them before they could give that experience to others…well, we were going to provide them with the basis for that.
The first Mystery School retreat was made up of an invited group, asked to pay only the bare minimum to cover the cost of food and lodging. It was made of magicians who Jeff felt might be “ready†for the experience…and the group proved to be more than ready. Most were thirsty for something that felt authentic. They were open to experience something new and different…and they plunged into our drum, dance, ritual theater, discussions, and other elements (many still a secret, if you weren’t there). Together, this group of amazing individuals created something that I think is probably unique in the history of performing magicians, and something I still feel lucky to have taken part in.
Here’s one of the first groups to attend Mystery School. It’s not the very first one, as I can’t find that just now…but see how many people you recognize here:
Well…the Mystery School has evolved. Many aspects of that first set of retreats, (which we did for 10 years!) have either fallen away or moved to other kinds of events in which we sponsor or participate. One of the things that has survived, though, is the part I think of as the most powerful, and most magical – and that is the wonderful community that assembles and re-assembles, year after year, at our Magic & Meaning Conference to share company, wisdom and knowledge of our unique art. A community who recognizes magic as something more than just “light entertainment.†A community of truly caring, deep-thinking and feeling individuals who love magic as much as we do.
It has taken me a long time to fully appreciate the “real magic†that comes from this magic of community. It’s not big or flashy magic, but it IS a magic that can transform lives, and add richness and value for many, many individuals. All magic is about transformation, and I know this community has transformed my life in many wonderful ways, and I’ve seen it change others as well.
You might be thinking this sounds all well and good, but that you haven’t attended one of our events, and so aren’t a part of the community. Not true. If you’re reading this, you’re connected. The group is one of the most welcoming, warm groups it’s been my good fortune to encounter, and if you love magic, you’re already “one of us.†We have performers, philosophers, fans, and teachers. As Eugene Burger used to tell us, “The house of magic has many rooms,†and all are welcome. I know of nowhere that is truer than at Magic & Meaning.
But time is running out for attending this year’s gathering. Our cut-off date for hotel reservations at our discounted rate is Oct. 8. We have only a  half dozen or so spots left (72 is our maximum number). We already have talks booked from many of our favorite participants…and we’re all looking forward to spending time with our special guest, Mac King.
So…if you’re teetering there on the fence, trying to decide whether this is your year to attend, then now is the time to act. Go to http://www.magicalwisdom.com/events#602, grab one of those spots, then reserve your room at the hotel (instructions are available when you register), and plan to be with us for another magic experience!
+ + +
I know conferences aren’t for everyone. However, if you’re reading this and thinking you would really just like to learn some magic, there’s another event just before Magic & Meaning that may be of interest. That’s Jeff’s Fall Training class, coming up this next week. You can register for just one day, or all four (with a hefty discount)…or anything in between. Each day is devoted to a single kind of magic: Mentalism and mental magic, Storytelling Magic, Séance and Bizarre Magic, and Stage Illusions. If you attend, you’re going to be amazed at how much you can learn in a single day!
+ + +
Finally, I want to let you all know I’m going to be offering my online workshop on marketing & management for magicians, based on my latest book, Beyond Applause. The class is very much like a college seminar: 12 sessions over 6 weeks, with homework in the form of worksheets to be done between each session. Before we’re finished, you’ll have actually done and received feedback on most of the things you need to do in order to run your own business as a performer.
I’ve booked and managed about $15 million in engagements for Jeff and Marco Tempest in all different kinds of venues over the years—if you want to find out how, this class will let you in on my secrets!
Dates aren’t set yet, but if you’re interested, please send me an e-mail, and I’ll let you know when the next set of sessions will begin.
That’s all for now…we’ll be back here in a couple of weeks…and hope to see you in the Monday Night classroom, at Magic & Meaning, or at one of our other events soon!
Sincerely,
Tobias Beckwith
tobias@yourmagic.com
“No great artist, dancer or opera singer has ever learned their craft from YouTube! The great masters of magic are certainly not teaching there.
MagicFlix is collecting material from people who have been in the business for years, and are not just those seeking hits and clicks on their YouTube sites. MagicFlix is not going to be the indiscriminate hatcheting of people’s material that is thrown up on YouTube.
I think that is over…. MAGICFLIX is the antidote to YouTube.â€
                                       -Jeff McBride in VANISH MAGAZINE
Greetings my friends,
Like many of you, I often feel like I’m drowning in information. Today, more than ever, we need experienced guides and mentors to help us navigate the overwhelming inflow of information. I am so blessed to have some of the most inspirational friends and teachers!
I stay away from negative people and many of them seem to be on YouTube. I find watching magic on YouTube soul crushing. I want a quiet place to learn and study great magic, old and new. We have created that place now. It is real. It is MagicFlix.
NOW you can get an idea of the scope of this project… it is amazing!
New School Magic Meets The Old School Masters!
Our teachers already include Eugene Burger, John Carney, Rich Ferguson, Franz Harary, Kenton Knepper, Amazing Johnathan, Justin Miller, Jeff McBride, Rocco, Dan Sperry, Michael Trixx, Stephane Vanel, Jason Ladayne, Fielding West, Larry Becker, and Paul Gordon…. We have over 500 videos online now, and the numbers are growing every day!
MAGICFLIX also features THE GREATER MAGIC LIBRARY in its entirety!
It’s all included with your subscription to MAGICFLIX, and features such masters as Karrell Fox, Shimada, Michael Ammar, John Carney, Sylvan, Johnny Paul, Larry Becker, Charlie Miller, Tom Mullica, Johnny Thompson, J.B. Bobo, Billy McComb, Mr. Electric and Daryl. This collection is already an impressive one, and it is getting bigger and better every day.
YES to having all your favorite magic videos in one place, accessible from any device, anywhere in the world!
Content on MagicFlix is presented in carefully structured levels, including “Beginner’s Magic,†“Favorites,†“Most Popular,†“New Releases,†“Coin Magic,†“Grand Illusion,†“Impromptu Magic,†“History,†“Gambling Magic,†“Ice Breakers,†“Performance,†“Philosophy,†“Interviews With The Stars,†“Street Magic,†“Manipulation,†“Lectures†etc. In other words, if you browse the “Card Magic†category, you can learn everything from how to do a pinkie count to how to back palm cards.
There is a great deal of magic on the Internet, but few safe and sane places to learn magic from the great masters of our art. That’s why MagicFlix was created.
HERE IS THE SECRET CODE FOR MY FRIENDS
Go to MAGICFLIX.COM, register, and put in the code “MCBRIDE†to get a free month on me!
Go take a look and tell me what you think! I would appreciate your feedback.
Abigail McBride On NBC TV!
WOMEN IN MAGIC- “THE SISTERS OF MYSTERYâ€
For many years men have dominated the art of magic. Now, that is changing! I am so proud of my wife Abigail for being featured in the recent TV story covering “Women In Magic.â€Â We are all impressed with this feature segment. It seems the world is opening to the idea of women in magic…about time!
Do You Need Some Help?
When I’m not touring, I am offering SKYPE sessions, so if you need some help with your act or career, just drop us an email, and we’ll be happy to help you get started.
Abigail@mcbridemagic.com or
Jeff@McBridemagic.com
Vegas Buzz
Tim Wise is happy to announce that his Hollywood Stars of Magic has a new home at The Las Vegas Magic Theater.
The show runs at 2 and 4 pm every Saturday. Recent headliners included, Paul Vigil, Allan Ackerman, Joan DuKore and FISM winner Johnny Ace Palmer. https://www.facebook.com/starsofmagic/
Rocco, Hans Klok and Criss Angel were recently seen sharing magic ideas and talking about Shin Lim’s new show, at the recent WONDERGROUND. Hans has a new show at the EXCALIBUR hotel. Shin Lim has a new show with Colin Cloud at the MIRAGE.
We all wish Hans and Shin Lim the best of luck with their new shows! Vegas continues to rock as the Magic Capital of the World!
Masters of Illusion star Tommy Wind has just signed a one-year contract at the OYO Hotel and Casino (formerly Hooters).Tommy is creating a new show to fit the showroom that will feature many of his best-loved pieces, as well as new creations.
WONDERGROUND News
Join Jeff McBride for his birthday party at WONDERGROUND!
The Biggest Magic Party In Las Vegas–And You Are Invited!
September 2019
8pm – Comedy and Variety show: Tim Wise is your Host
David Frost – High Tech Deceptions And Multimedia Magic!
ET Molgen – Feats Of Delight! (You can’t even imagine!)
Jeff McBride – “The Art Of Imagination†(1st time on stage!)
Boob-Zilla – This Might Be “Sword-A-Hard To Swallow!â€
9pm – Will Bradshaw is your Host
Jimmy Ichihana – From Penn & Teller FOOL US!
(Jimmy appeared on 2 episodes of FOOL US and he will
present his full close up show.)
Jeff McBride – From Alter Boy to Altered Boy!
Always something new!
9pm – At the WONDERBAR
Brian Apollo
Kent Axell
Tim Wise
10pm – Stage Extravaganza! Jeff McBride is your Master of Ceremonies
ET Molgen – Leg-Erdamain! Outstanding Juggling With A
Twist!
David Frost – Multimedia-Mage, Beyond Imagination!
SPECIAL MYSTERY GUEST!
Boob-Zilla – She’s A Killa & A Thrilla!
Xavier Mortimer – The #1 Magician In France Comes To
Vegas!
All the Above Plus:
Photography by Sheryl Garrett. Bar Magic–Brian Apollo, Scott Steelfyre & Maggie, Corey Rubino, Belly Dancers, Psychic Sideshow with Eliza and Morganne–and many more surprises and special celebrity guests.
See you at my birthday bash at WONDERGROUND!
http://www.vegaswonderground.com for directions and info. OR…
Come visit every Monday night in the Mystery School Monday classroom!
Be inspired,
Jeff
