Clothes make the....

I was on the phone earlier this evening with Brett Loudermilk (yes that is his real name) and we briefly came upon the discussion of clothing... mainly brought upon by his suit...

It was given to him by Todd Robbins. (To which I jokingly said, "And I thought he LIKED you.")

Regardless, I have touched on the idea of costuming on here before. (And if you remember that far back, yer a better person than I) We discussed how Robert Houdin decided to go against the norm of dressing like chinese guys and wizards and wear the typical fare of the times... which was formal wear. Tails, coat, dickie, etc. He went against the grain to stand out. Here it is, who knows how many years later, and magicians are STILL dressing like that.

Then came The Asshat who realized that most magic was populated by so many fashion victims and decided to stand out (Or maybe he just LIKES to shop at good will. Whatever.) In magic, the phrase - "Imitation is the sincerest form of yada yada" has a firm stranglehold in the minds and hearts of so many. It works for them and they appear to be cool cuz' they are on TV. If I dress like them, maybe I can get lucky. (Of course by lucky, they mean not beat up in school. Getting girls for a magician goes beyond luck and right into the realm of MIRACLES.)

Remember, we are performers. We are given the public leeway to be eccentric. That means the way we act AND dress. So feel free to stand out a bit and wear something that gets you noticed. It's part of our jobs to be a bit different.Just stay away from clown costumes.

They have a bad enuff rap as it is.

Bizzaro.

PENETRATE!!

This weekend was the sideshow gathering. A GREAT time had by all. While I was there a performer by the name of Dr. Wilson performed the cups and balls. Now I am not a huge fan of this effect. Seen it done one too many times the same way. I personally cannot STAND to see the version where someone puts the ball in their "pocket" and then it "jumps back". No one EVER shows their pockets empty afterwards.

For one, Dr. Wilson did not do this. Score one point. Secondly he did something that makes PERFECT sense as a performer. He commanded the balls to perform. When causing the ball to go from the middle of the stack to the bottom, he would point his wand (Magic kind. Get yer mind out of the gutter.. it's in my way) at the cups and exclaim, "Penetrate!" To collect them under one cup he uttered the command, "Assemble!". The balls followed suit.

This idea brings the image of a powerful sorcerer to the forefront of his character. He commands magic, and thy will is done. This approach won't work for everybody.. or more likely anyone but him, but the idea behind it can.

Too many times I have seen performers get eaten alive by a crowd because they did not take charge or have proper audience management. They have to know YOU are the one THEY listen to and if they get out of line, it could be curtains for them.. and not the nice kind either. I'm talking about some gaudy 60's print. You must be in command and that only comes from confidence in yourself and your material. Believe in yourself and others will follow. It's all about conviction...

Just ask anyone in prison.

Bizzaro.

Do they know who you are?

For that fact do YOU know who you are?

I have stated before that some of the most popular people can be recognized by their silhouette. However, what makes them famous? There's a thread at Theory 11 about "reputation" right now and I felt compelled to chime in with this:

"My "street cred" tends to be known more for my personality and style of magic which I personally feel is better than being "that guy with the cards"

Name recognition. That's where it's at."

I stand by that whole-heartedly too. Anybody can do magic (almost), but not everyone can stand out. Instead of working on the next big thing with a plastic bag, why not focus on your own ideas... or personality.

To quote Rudy Coby, "They can't steal your personality. They will look like fools for trying." (Paraphrased as I dun have his notes in front of me) Besides, why use someone ELSE'S magic to make YOUR reputation. That's like a band doing other people's songs to get famous. (Sorry Me First and the Gimmie-Gimmies)

Don't get me wrong, there are classics and plots that you can make your own very easily in the eyes of normal people. Magicians judge too harshly, but if you want to have a reputation, it's best they recognize YOU, not your Guardians Deck. Anyone can buy a prop....

Only an artist can bring it to life.

Bizzaro.

Yer on candid camera...

This weekend we did a show in Austin at the Maker Faire. Imagine a craft faire with flame-throwers, trebuchets, and robots and you'll have a very vague idea of what it was about. Recorded a few of the shows just to see how they were going. One of them was rough to say the least. This brings up the point in my brain on the importance of research.

I have no qualms about asking someone after a show what they liked or didn't like, or if they saw something they shouldn't have or that might have seemed off. I also have roadies and friends who know the show and can tell me what was bad that I might have missed. Flashing something I might not have caught. A fake hand falling off a prop.. yah I got that one thanx.

Regardless, a lot of magicians wax poetical about the use of video cameras to practice. While I agree on that to a degree I HIGHLY recommend the use of them for reviewing your shows. To see what doesn't look as good as you thought or perhaps check some angles. It's an eye opening experience to watch yourself on video. You suddenly become the worst critic you will ever have. A lot of people fear video reviews because they tell you the truth. A lot of people can't handle the truth. Just look at Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise.

You have to be un-biased when you watch yourself. If you are not you will not want to FIX what is wrong to make it WORK. You might just scrap an idea altogether... which is NEVER a step forward. More like 12 steps back. Sometimes it is easier to just turn off the volume and watch. It actually helps you ignore the patter and music and focus on your movement and blocking and body language.

So in closing I want to say, don't be too harsh on yourself when you see what you do. Look on the bright side...

at least yer not being investigated by the FBI.

Bizzaro.

PS: For the next two weeks I will be on the road doing a small sideshow tour with the Crispy Family Sideshow. My sideshow blog will see some updates because of it. Stay tuned.

I should be in bed...

Tho' I dunno why. I don't have to get up early for school or a job. Man I love this business. Speaking of which, go check out my schedule. I might be doing a show in yer town very very soon. That's not why I am here tho'. What with it being October and all I suppose I should take some time from my busy schedule to regale you with some witty musings and advice. So take off that mask and let me fill yer head with razor filled confections.

There is a Lot of psychology in magic. Really. There is a why it works that goes hand in hand with the how it works. Magic can prey upon many different psychological feelings as well. Happiness, excitement, confusion, and even fear. It's only thru constant study and paying the hell attention can you begin to understand.. but you also have to WANT to. My advice.. start in October.

Go to work at a haunted house. Really. Especially you youngsters out there. Hiding in a deep dark corner or behind a fake wall can you give a DEEP insight into the psyche of the human condition and how to manipulate it. It lets you peer inside that part of people that makes them WANT to be fooled and scared. In a haunted house there is a dynamic happening. There are the people who KNOW they are going to be scared and WANT to be scared... and the people who WANT to scare them. It's all about giving them what they want.. but on your terms.

The thought of putting on a sweaty mask someone else might have worn before you like crappy bowling shoes might not appeal to your finer senses... but the act of making someone so scared they lose all control of their faculties might. As magicians we prey upon what people don't know is lurking. True we are going for a different reaction, but that reaction is TRUE and REAL... as is fear. You want a glimpse into it, you go where the money is... and where there are willing participants.

It's all about setting the right mood. Not only with what's around.. but with costumes and make-up and story. People like what they know... and they know they can... and WILL be scared. Everyone is different. Some jump at loud noises. Some only freak out when a person bleeding from the eyes is in front of them. Sometimes it's a combination and sometimes, it's none of these. It's our jobs as performers to bring out the best reaction we can. No matter what the situation.

A haunt is good hunting grounds.

Bizzaro.

So I have been having a minor discussion with one of the folks at Theory 11 about Ambitious Card ideas. As stated in the thread there, I have recently been toying with the idea of doing a three to four phase ACR (Ambitous Card Routine... or American College of Radiology.. or RCA if yer dyslexic) without the use of a multiple lift. (Mind you this kind of kills using tilt.. but I don't use it anyway. It's un-natural as hell. It gives me the opportunity to test out new moves or new ideas to see if they will work. So far they have. It's all about conviction... and I've only been acquitted.

Moving on, someone on the forum misunderstood what I was going for and thought I was making DL's (Double Lifts... do I really have to spell this crap out for you?) out to be wrong to use for an ACR. I was merely making the suggestion to challenge themselves a bit by experimenting and seeing what they could come up with sans Multiple Lifts. Only by stepping out of your comfort zone can you grow as a performer and person. It was here that it struck me as to why we take the easy way out... cuz' it's.. um.. the easy way... of you get the idea.

Why do something that takes more work when you can do it easy and quickly? Well that depends on your level of devotion to your art I think. As magicians we tend to create moves to fool other magicians but also stuff to keep us amused and that might make more sense to us. You can go thru life doing totally gaffed magic that requires nothing more than a good presentation because it's easy... or you can delve into the more advanced stuff. There is no right or wrong answer to this quandary. It merely depends on your devotion and conviction.

If life was easy, would it take so long?

Bizzaro.

It's aboot exposure...

So expose yourself as much as possible. No.. wait.

With the internet explosion of mediums such as Myspace and Youtube, magic has seen a weird flux in exposure. (Some good, some bad) Never has it been so easy to see, and possibly figure out, some of your fave magic tricks.

Mind you with technology in the palm of your hand, it was only a matter of time that you can download your magic almost INSTANTLY!! It makes it easier to get quantity (And on the rare occasion, quality) at the touch of a button or three. Magicians, who some people may have never heard of because they are not on the hip new sites or putting out video after video, are getting a new breath of life... even the dead ones.

So with that in mind, we here at Fire Cat Studios offer to you, our adoring masses, a free gift!! For those who purchased Helter Shelter: The Movie (And even for those who didn't) We are offering a tutorial of the Sliced and Restored Newspaper (as seen in this video) for your unyielding support in our products. You can view all the juicy details Here.

It's all about the Pentiums baby.

Bizzaro.

Are you being chaste?

It's 6pm, do you know where your thumbs are? This Guy sure does. Which bring sup an amusing thought.... who really needs love like that?

Don't get me wrong, I salute the effort. I remember when Hottrix did the same thing. Hell I'd like to have one just because it would look amusing sitting in my silverware drawer. However, for magic, it's not necessary. Much like Cosmo preys upon the inadequacies of young females, products like this hunt the young and uninitiated.

Anyone who has ever handled a TT for the first time knows the feeling. Might as well have the thing painted bright green fluorescent right? Everyone can see it and you know it. ERN!!! WRONG! Try this in the mirror. Make a fist and cover the opening with a silk. Shove in the tip and then push the silk bits into the opening. (Effectively creating a big colored thumb) Now try to hide it. See how easy it is to do so. Then fool someone with it. You too will become a TRUE believer.

Ok, so I got a bit off track here. My point is "realistic" thumbtips are not necessary except for the novelty of it all. So if you are considering buying this, do so only if you plan to do a joke about lepers.

Save your money and buy a clue instead.

Bizzaro.

Oh man that's 144!!

Explain to me how it is that a unit of measurement became a description of how icky something is?

Regardless, we're back once more to give the guys on itricks something to talk about. There is a saying in magic, "If you find something that works for you, buy a fuckton of it.". Ok I am paraphrasing there a bit, but it's true. In magic, you will find some bit or bauble that works for your show or performing style and then it will break and they won't make them anymore.

It happens to all of us. Some great effects have faded into obscurity because of it. You find something that fits your show or personality. The it falls out of your bag somewhere after a show and BAM!! You're screwed...

And not in that nice, "leave the money on the dresser and get out" kinda way.

Bizzaro.

I am all for performing and the use of sharpie markers. However, when all you do is attach something to a pull and then say you "created" it, that kinda irks me. Attaching a reel, rubber band, or elastic to a common everyday object does not make it a creation nor a new idea. Now attach it to a hamster and have it turn to butterflies.. THAT'S an original sin.

This is, again, the problem wit the new generation of magic. They don't need books anymore cuz' of the internet, which tends to omit details such as history and ethics.

I think I am going to start the "Headless Magician" series. That's what magic seems to have become. Guys with no head.. which is no big deal as most have interchangeable noggins anyway. With the lack of personality and unique presentation, you merely become that "person what does stuff with cards."

Just like every one else.

Bizzaro.

We are truly living in a renaissance. As much as a bitch about the saturation of street magic and the loss of our beloved stage craft, I will admit that the lean towards the odd and illusions on the cheap make October a more worthwhile time for us all. Magic has seen a great influx of spooky creepy craziness in the last few years. Let's take a little look shall we?

In the stage category we have pretty much ALL of Andrew Mayne's stuff. Gut Buster, Bisection, Pocket sawing in half, and a handful of many others. Of course there is always the old standbys like needle thru arm, arm choppers, and the ever versatile Razor blade illusion.

Close-up wise we have some lovely little things to consider. Flesh wound (You carve a little piece of yourself up and heal it), SAW (Embedding a string thru yer neck. Great for those of us who don't have enuff skin to do needle thru arm), and even the over-priced one where you cut off yer fingertip with a knife. (Can't recall the name) One such tis the season kinda item of note is the new Go Eat Worms by Dan Sperry. A transformation of gummy worms to real worms in your spectator's hands. Great for those annoying kids in the power rangers costumes.

So you have no excuse to get out there this season and make some magic happen. You could have your very won show for a very low price if you act now!!

Or you could just sit at home and hand out candy to kids who could care less for your double lift. Yer call.

It's the great pumpkin Charlie Brown.

Bizzaro.

The smell of De-feet

Ah the sweet stench of success. In This Case, it's a magic demo video. First off, I don't get the products name in relation to the effect. Must be a limey thing. Secondly, the video edits out VERY important details. At least Richard Sanders had the Canadian bacon bits to do a full take of his Interlace effect.

So, being the magical demo video watchdog I am, I say for shame. I also say for shame as I have been doing this same effect for years and don't have to go to my pockets to make the trick work.

Carl Cloutier is rolling over in his grave... even tho' he's not dead.

He's prolly just rolling over in his bed.

Bizzaro.

Influenza...

Over on the Theory 11 boards, (where I do tend to lurk, offering up my own twisted nuggets of wisdom to the youngins'), someone asked who people's influences were.

Now no offense to some of the names that popped up, but to the kids who list their influences as Daniel Garcia and The Asshat.. they need to severely look into their history.

Their site does an interesting thing right now. Every Sunday, they open up the floor for debate with a subject they have let you think about for the week previous. I am ALL for philosophical musings and heated debate in magic. The worts part about it? I couldn't get there in time to add my thoughts before it got locked up. I guess it's a good thing I have this journal here now isn't it?

Their first post was, "What is wrong with magic today?" (I refuse to comment on the irony of this topic on a website like Theory 11) Now I didn't sift thru all of the ramblings of the learned magis, some of whom are in the age range of some of my t-shirts, but as far as I got, I never saw anyone mention one of my gripes.

I feel one of magic's greatest succubi is the... wait is succubi even a word? Screw it. It is now... anyway... it's that magic, along with much of the rest of the world we live in, has become terribly jaded by capitalism. Now don't get me wrong, commerce has to exist in some form or another in this world for it to function. Problem is we live in an instant gratification society (As I have mentioned nth times on here) and we can get what we want when we want it.. for a price usually. Magic is no different my friends.

Books, videos, and effects previously created a week and a half ago on a webcam... all for one low price.. of your integrity and resolve.

Going back to the previous topic of influences. My list is fairly short and some might say unconventional (But not surprising if you have seen my show). The likes of Penn and Teller, Rudy Coby, Amazing Johnathan, and Sylvester the Jester have made my ideas of magic distort and twist over the years. They use magic as a tool to create art. Much like a painter uses a brush or a dancer uses their body, magicians have a choice to let their skills create an interesting, thought provoking, or challenging scenario... but they usually don't. They are content to buy the latest greatest shiny bauble and perform it like everyone else. Hell it's easy to get and requires no real original thought of your own. Why not take the easy path?

After doing some dabbling in the magical merchandise world, I can say that I do see how easy it could be to set aside your scruples and sell your mediocre magic wares and make a quick buck off the uninformed and naive. I also hate to say this, but that could very well be you.

And it probably is.

Bizzaro.

Silence is deafening...

As magicians we STRIVE for applause and recognition. What happens when we DON'T get a reaction? We question the material, the presentation, and ourselves.

If you KNOW for a FACT that it's not any of those there is only one other option: The effect is so strong, they don't know how to react. Gregory Wilson strives for this effect. He says it is better for them to be silent than applaud.

I thought about that for a while and realized he is right. The problem is we have a switch in our heads that flops from analytical to not-so analytical. If we are thinking we are not reacting. If we are reacting we are not thinking. This is why many magicians do moves on an off beat of a joke or a question. Multi-tasking in the mind is a skill unto itself.

So if you KNOW the material is strong enough to stand on it's own and they don't give you a standing O, don't fret. Just eat it up. Stand there and soak it up until the right moment. When that happens is up to you. Let's face it. If you just faded away in the middle of the street and appeared behind them... I don't think they would be laughing and screaming and chanting your name. They would have to stop... think.. and then think some more.

Silence is golden my children. Love it, learn it, make it your own.

Bizzaro.

What's in store?

Well it looks like the most talked about thing in magic in a very long time turned out to be an online magic venue for people who most likely DON'T need the money. If you don't know who magicians are, then you need to get out more. (or research your art better)

This comes around to something I have been saying for a bit now. We all knew street magic would eventually be on the decline in some way or another. Stores like Ellusionist and Penguin are no longer pumping out products left and right. Hell Ellusionist is pretty much a DVD/specialty cards shop at this point. The Asshat has faded into the background. Oh sure he does stuff still, but he does not hold sway like he used to. Want to blame that on Criss Fishing Rod? Go ahead. Let's face it tho', at this point they could get ANYONE to stand in his place as almost all of his effects are staged and fake as hell.

I digress. So the street magic is kind of lulling itself to sleep and now Theory 11 comes along with a bizarre mix of old skool close-up guys and new street magic kids. (I will save judgment on their new effects until a later date. I need a few more details first) I dunno if this is gonna be a good thing or a bad thing? Only time will tell.

Until Theory 12 come out that is.

Bizzaro.

This magic moment...

Wow two posts in less than 24 hours! What is this 2003 all over again?

Regardless, this is something I have wanted to touch on for a bit (Kind of like a catholic priest) and I was talking about it last night with a friend so..

There is a theory in magic that talks about prolonging the "Moment of Magic"TM. That moment is different for the magician as opposed to the person you are inflicting your art onto. Lemme splain'.

Let's say you are doing a simple coin vanish. The moment you perform your fake take, le tourniquet vanish, classic palm, etc... the moment of magic is over. For you the trick is done. For them it has JUST begun. At this point you can wave your hand over the coin (providing time misdirection so they can't backtrack as easily) and then open your hand. The magical "gesture" is their moment of magic. You can even go so far as to ditch the coin somewhere and pass the "coin" from hand to hand thus further prolonging the moment of befuddlement.

It's an easy concept but a harder practice. For us we just wanna get the damn thing over with after we pass that point for ourselves. Some people however go a bit TOO far and try to prolong it to cure for insomnia type proportions. There is a fine line and YOU have to find it for yourself AND your audience. The one thing you don't want to do is hurry it along.. Let them get into it, observe your conviction, and be led TOTALLY down the path. No point in jumping the gun...

And any woman will tell you that is paramount.

Bizzaro.

A new trick started popping up on the magical boards. (How vague is that?) It's a way to make a signature move from one card to another.. more or less. Looks good.. however...

This is a good example of a few of the dangers to buying magic. First, is it easily resettable and repeatable if you are gonna be doing it ALL night? Is it a one trick pony that won't fit in with the rest of your repertoire? Are you gonna use it once and then have it end up in your drawer? (likely scenario)

Don't get me wrong, it's a great idea, but you should ALWAYS look at the limitations of a trick, not just what it does. Weigh the pros and cons of the trick itself. Do you need to have multiple gimmicks pre-set ahead of time? Does it require a gimmick? Can it be done for the same person and the outcome be different? All of these are valid questions along with many other personal choices that only YOU can make.

There is a lot of magic out there. Some good.. much CRAP. Don't believe everything you see. Buying new magic is like getting a tattoo. Make sure you REALLY want it and wait a bit for the dust to settle. Don't get caught up in that shiny new magic smell

Also, don't believe the hype.

Bizzaro.

Never met the man meself...

However, Jerry Andrus has passed away. He is most well known for his creation Zone Zero. (As well as the linking pins and MANY others)

The man had hands the size of Buicks and an odd sense of humor. Don't believe me? Check out this video.



This stuff comes in threes. I wonder whose next. Maybe it's you.

Bizzaro.

Making a point...

Magicians of old


Magicians of yesterday


Magicians of today


WTF happened!? When did we lose the ability to dress like show people? (mind you I am NOT a fan of the tuxedo look, but for this I was trying to make a point... and those photos were all I could find tee hee) Sure you could say "Well that's just a casual shot and they are not performing", but we all know better. That IS their performance outfits. (Lots of black and it looks like they are ready for.. tech theater?) What gives? Magicians are dressing like the homeless urchins people have always THOUGHT we were.

Good going guys. Magicians-1 Fashion-0

Bizzaro.

Hey Mikey, they liked it...

First review of my DVD I have seen. Go, be amazed.

Bizzaro

[/shameless self-promotion]

I'm with the banned...

Hey guess who joins the ranks of the no longer loved from the magic cafe? Thaz right our good pal, Steve Fearson!!

Let's find out why shall we? He has released a new effect called the Psi-Device. It enables you to make a small piece of foil or paper move. Not around the room, not jump like a frickin' grasshopper, but move a bit. As if you had mild telekinetic powers. Here is the kick. It can be totally covered over the top with a glass and on a spectators hand. No magnets, thread, blowing, etc. Sound impossible? It's not.

So over at the our favorite overblown magic board, the "pros" were speculating what it could be. Problem with this is they might be guessing at a method but putting ANY idea into someones head as to what it might be is almost exposure. They might get it right and then what? Well after a few harsh words about the expediate way the thread was moderated (apparently CRAP is a cuss word now) he was escorted out. The thread is deleted by the way, which is good.

Mind you with exquisite promo photos like this
I can see why the moderator took offense. He has probably heard the term crap regarding himself one too many times. Mind you with that kind of stuff not being caught and taken care of or moderated properly, you can hurt someones business. It's not just in magic, but everywhere. We are just going in circles around the edge of the bowl now folks. One day we are all just gonna get banned from everything and someone is gonna push the Game Over button and then what will we do? It's human nature to complain and see the negative in all good things. Look at the concept of Hell and Heaven. Gawd forbid we ALL get to go to a nice place. Nope, we gotta send the undesirables to a hellish unsanitary place.. like New Jersey. Well Steve, welcome to TMC purgatory. Here is a glass of lemonade and a nudie magazine.

We welcome you with open arms.

Bizzaro.

A great new magical product!!

Ok so let's assume you have a girlfriend. (If yer a magician you might have to go inflate her right quick. I'll wait.)

(Intermission music from Monty Python and the Holy Grail Plays)

Ok so yer girlfriend or wife or mail order bride wants to get into a bit of magic so she knows what the hell yer talking about when you say "Elmsley Count". What do you teach her to do? A double lift? Three flight? Hell no!! You buy her a trick off the intarwebz.

The best part? This card box can be used to amuse herself late at night when she realizes how truly useless you are. All you will have to buy her... are batteries!

A marital aid and a magic trick all in ONE HANDY SPOT!!

Bizzaro.

Get yer head outta yer ass and into the clouds!!

If that had been the title of this new book I would totally buy it! However, this seems extremely dodgy if you ask me. "In the right place, at the right time.." Well yes but I could say that for any magic really.

Update: After reading the description again I decided to add my own comments as follows. (In bold)

"In this book the authors strip away the veil of secrecy, revealing cloud secrets only known to a select few. Learn to make clouds vanish and appear. Sculpture them into images of selected playing cards, thought of numbers, ESP symbols, faces, and even animals. Yes you too can play GOD!!

Nothing is held back! Apparently change the weather by delaying rain or snow or even by making it warmer. Believe it or not you can do a lot of this long distance by using a cell phone! With the material in this book you will be more than just a magician or mentalist. (You'll be a wanker) You will be a real miracle worker, who apparently has complete control over the elements! (No a real miracle worker would heal the sick and make the blind see. This is gonna be WAY sillier than that.)

The book will teach you how to:

* CAUSE A CLOUD TO VANISH FROM THE SKY. (it will only take 3-6 hours to accomplish)It will also show you methods where that cloud and ONLY that cloud vanishes. The others remain intact.
* CLOUD MATERIALIZATION --magician points to an empty space in the sky and causes a cloud to suddenly form. (By blowing smoke up your ass)
* BLUE SKY--magician causes ALL the clouds to vanish leaving a blue sky (Psychotropic drugs not included)
* Cloud Moving--How to make clouds Move (Also learn how to make birds FLY!!)
* Cloud Sculpture--change the shape of clouds into objects (Such as blobs and chunks and a bunny!)
* How Fake Psychics Stop & Start Rain (See Fig. 1)
* Secrets Behind Making Rainbows Appear (And how to channel Doug Henning. It's maaaaagic!)
* How to Reveal Selected Cards with Clouds (Cuz' nothing says I am a real wizard by whipping out a deck of cards right?)
* Make Thought of Numbers Appear in the Sky (Sky Writing Plane not included)
* All THIS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!!! (Ok well maybe like one more thing.) "

Is it just me or are we starting to reach a bit for crap to sell to our magical brethren?

Bizzaro.

PS: If anyone has purchased Helter Shelter: The Movie lemme know what you think about it. I'd like to hear some feedback on it. Thanx.

Dirty deeds...

DONE WITH SHEEP!!!!

Ahem - Helter Shelter: The Movie has been released.

Crawling forth from the twisted mind of Bizzaro, the Optical Illusionist, comes Helter Shelter: The Movie.

A visual guide to the book of the same name, Helter Shelter will take you on a journey through the gruesome details of the Razor Blade Illusion Mystery as well as the haunted 13th Street Morgue.

The first video of its kind to explain the intricate workings of the razor blade illusion as well as tips, tricks, advice, and even a few unique effects exclusive to this video including the never before seen Bizzaro Fan Stand.

With a special appearance by Randi Rain and music by Alex Can't Sleep, Helter Shelter: The Movie is a rare treat for those souls willing to take a brave look inside. MUHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Availible at fine magic dealers all over the damn place or check out the official HS:TM page.

I hate to be a shameless self-promoter... but I am.

For those of you who didna like the book, you probably won't like the video...

but buy it anyway!

Bizzaro.

I have noticed a VERY weird tend in magic as of late. Overly complicated methods and very particular handling to make a minor miracle happen. Problem is there are TONS of magic effects that freak people out on a daily basis. How do you compare one to another?

Does a coin appearing in an ice cube have a stronger effect than say something that takes less set up and props than the Pothole Trick? Both are equally strong but totally different and impossible.

Healed and Sealed is a great effect. However look at Coin in Can (Sinful). Same prop, but no set-up on one of them. Both are STRONG magic. The reason I think about this is because of the effect Frozen I saw recently. It had a GREAT idea for how to produce "Icy breath" but the things you had to do to get a coin in an ice cube is a bit much and fairly impractical for the working professional. (Really good for the casual "Street thug" magician. Don't get me started on that tho')

All I can say is I don't want to plan my day so carefully that I have to know how many ice cubes to make the day before and how far I can go before I lose all my props and get a soggy pocket. It so damn odd.

These kids today have no idea what it is like to be a working pro. They think harassing a person on the street with some ladybug in a pocketknife is magic. (To this day I have no idea how Goldenhersch keeps track of them damn butterflies he uses so well)

On another note that is very similar in song and dance, one of my magical fiends and I were discussing how there are a lot of card tricks out there but not very many GOOD ones. I agree and would like to add UNIQUE good ones. How many collectors or ace assembly tricks are there? K-RIST!! Too many to count. KISS baby..

The shortest way to a good time is a straight line.

Just ask my ex-girlfriend.

Bizzaro.

Free tricks for all!!

I'll make a real post soon, but here is a little something I devised recently and now you too can confuse people with modern technology!!

Bizzaro.

Nothing's ever easy...

It's hard work to make something easy look good. As magicians we do seem to forget that the simplest tricks are sometimes the most effective. Human beings are inherently notorious for making things more difficult on ourselves than need be. In reality, the simplest solution is the best or most effective.

It's almost... too easy.

Sponge balls are a good example. The solution to how it's done is so BLOODY obvious, but it's so easy that no one notices. (And those that do, well can't fool everyone aye?) Even something as easy as double lift showing the wrong card, then putting it in THEIR hand, and showing it change is more effective than ANY sleight of hand you can pull off.

The quickest path between two points is a straight line.

It's true. No reason to convolute something that doesn't need it. No reason to dress it up like a weasel for it to be clever. As magicians we forget the effectiveness of a simple trick. Possibly because there is no challenge in it for us AT ALL. Whatever the cause' the solution is to merely remember thus:

Work Smarter, Not Harder.

Bizzaro.

Repetition, part deux...

Before I talked about how doing the same thing over and over again makes you good at it. Now let's talk about choosing the stuff to DO over and over again. There is a lot of CRAP that comes out everyday in magic. Lots of it is a one trick baloney pony while others take way too long to reset or might be a tad cumbersome. (I'm looking at you ladybug from a drop of blood trick.)

Any pro table hopper will tell you re-setting is a blessing in your guise. Not only in effect but also pocket management. When it goes back in the way it came out is a wonderful thing. (That sounded kinda dirty) The reason I even bring up a lot of this stuff is recently I have been hired to perform daily at a local theme park and tend to do the same 10 minute set over and over again. (Gathering a crowd isn't the problem, it's getting them to go away.) If I had to walk over behind a wall or some such and reset some prop, it would A: Reflect bad on me and 2. Prolly piss off the people who hired me.

There is an old effect I used to do when I was much younger, but have had no reason to perform it anymore. I wanted to bring it back because it fits the character I portray. Problem is it required a rather annoying set up that wasn't always reliable. I put my strange melon to work and came up with a way to not only make it INSTANTLY repeatable, but also make it more believable and easier to perform as I can handle the props freely and without guile.

The reason I tell you this is that some effects, while NOT easy to reset or repeat, can be made to be so. You just have to teach and train yer brain to think a problem thru at every angle. If you want to do something, but can't find a way, don't give up. There is always a way. Nothing is impossible.. except for the things that are.

So when looking for your next effect or purchase in magic, think about where and when you are going to need it. How to bring it in and out of play and if it fits your character and flow of the show. When you can perform an effect relentlessly, day after day, with no futzing with a lengthy reset... that my children is when you are on your way on the path of enlightenment.

Reach Nirvana without that pesky shotgun.

Bizzaro.

Andrew Mayne has lost his damn mind...

150$... for THIS?

And some of you are going to buy it aren't you? You people make me sick.

I hope a midget saws your legs off.

Bizzaro.

Way of the future, way of the future, way of the future....

Repetition is part of our job as magicians. When you do a show on the street, in a restaurant, in a trade show, or in a setting such as a theme park or similar venue, you will be doing the same thing (With a few variations here and there) over... and over.. and over again.

It comes with the territory. The best thing about this is it will make you better, strong, faster than before. Of course you have to pay attention and enjoy what you're doing. This is where the art of improv and audience management comes into play. If you are one of the kind who gets ruffled easily if the crowd is messing with you, then you need more work and flight time. The best of the best of anything can filter out distractions or use them to their advantage.

This over and over again performance lets you find the best possible way to perform an effect and how to handle the crowd. What lines that do or do not work, the timing that gets the best reaction, and in some cases, when NOT to speak.

If you can secure a job where they pay you and you are not having to busk for tips then even better. The pressure is off of you and you can focus on the task at hand. Mind you performing in any of the aforementioned venues is working the trenches. It tests your resolve, skill, and definitely your patience.

The problem with most of the magi "Street" youth today is they are looking for the next big thing to make them an Asshat. A good bit of advice from any old worker is It is better to do four things well, than do 100 things badly". In this type of situation it is favorable to make an act that will be the best it can be that you can slip new stuff into and out of at will to keep it from getting stale as well. Having a few stock lines and using the crowd as your main source of lines and jokes is also a good idea.

By doing repetitions like this you will gather a rolodex of lines, moves, and tricks you can use at your disposal and make them seem like they are fresh and new, but in reality, you can cull them forth from your brain when they are needed.

Why do I feel I am repeating myself?

Bizzaro.

Gone Fishin'...

I was having a conversation with a friend of mine earlier tonight about your favorite rocker/goth/emo/poser, Criss Fishing Rod. About his performance style and exposure hurts sideshow and magic. I said I disagree and here is why...

First off: He is enabling weirdos to be more tolerated due to exposure thru the sheep machine that is the media. People will call up agencies wanting someone like Criss, but they can't afford him. They will be directed to the nearest sideshow performer or demented magician.

Secondly: No matter how much you see stuff on TV there is NOTHING like seeing it live. Glass walking, fire eating, putting needles in your flesh? Seeing that in the comfort of your own home is one thing. Seeing it live, raw, and uncensored is a totally different animal. You can see, touch, hear, and even smell it. This is why sideshows and magic have survived for years and will continue to for years to come. People have a desire to feed their freek and they are lucky enuff to have folks like us to help them live vicariously thru others.

So despite how I feel about emo boy selling his artistic integrity for a buttload of cash, every negative space has a positive inside of it.

The lure has been set. Let's see who bites.

Bizzaro.

I had a fan of this blog (Who knew) clamor for something new. For those who feel the same way, sorry for the delay. We have actually been fairly busy believe it or don't. Blame Misty Lee for some of that.. and congratulate her. She has big things ahead of her but I will not spill it myself. Go join her message board and get the info from her directly.

Regardless, I do have a little thing I have wanted to post about so while I await a phone call, I shall share with you thusly.

I was in a local nightclub I frequent (And test out new material) and someone I am acquainted with... a non-magi mind you, exclaimed this, and I quote - "Magicians aren't overrated, just their Persona." With no provocation or anything. He just blurted it out. (After watching some magic mind you but still..)

What does this say to the rest of you? Think about it. A free thinking non-magician believes most of us have a personality that we deem higher than we maybe should... sound familiar? Are you one of.. THEM!?

It is true. We put a lot of self-importance on what we do. Sure magicians bring happiness to kids, and the sick, and the inebriated... but in the grand scheme of things do we cure disease or find a way to end hunger? Let's face it, these new clothes we have on don't really exist and I for one am not afraid to stand up and say that we're all just naked and lettin' it all hang out.

Sure magic has changed people's lives and blah blah blah. There are no absolutes in this world and exceptions wait around every corner to bludgeon the rules and steal it's wallet. That, however, is not my point.

Don't be so self important. Seriously. Accept your role as a cog in the great machine. We choose this life to entertain others and ourselves. Maybe make a little scratch in the process. If you can make one person a day smile then you're doing a good work. Even if you don't do magic to make it happen. This world is full of enough turmoil and asshats already. Plastic people, false faces, and fake body parts. Let's stand up and be real for a little while hunh? It's your call.

Stand and fight.. Hoora!

Bizzaro.

Obviously nobody else is going to step up here and tell you the emporor is naked so I will be your vindictive force in this crazy magical world. Be warned all of you unscrupulous hack bastards... Bizzaro is watching you. (like Santa Claus but without the gifts.. or the coal.. or any reason to look forward to me watching you while you sleep.)

Video editing tools are available to every jackenape with a torrent program or even a copy of Windows XP. What does that mean for you the consumer? Easy. Doctored footage and tricky E-llusionist editing. All in the name to get you to buy a crappy lacluster demo video. Can't see it live? We'll cornhole you with flashy lights and annoying music. Why Here's One Now!! First off, if watching this you can't figure it out, get out of magic. Seriously. Second, whoever made this SERIOUSLY needs to learn how to do a crossfade.

So hear me now color changing rose guy... YOU HAVE MADE THE LIST!! You are an asshat and will be called forth on it here along with ever plastic bag, green bottle, rose spinning kokbite that follows you. Fear the list. Also let that be a warning to anyone else who decides to make mis-leading demos online. I'll find yer ass and tell the whole world about your deceptions...

Or at least the 5 people who still read this anyway.

Bizzaro.

Magic has lost something special this week... a man willing to still wear an ascot in public.



We have lost the biggest fashion statement in magic...

and he was not a bad sleight o' hand guy either I hear.

Bizzaro.

"I love noise and this life that it makes..."

So I was at the bus stop after picking up some of our Helter Shelter books to send out. (So if you're waiting you won't have to wait much longer.) Ran into a friend of mine and a friend of hers. I started doing magic for an innocent by-stander. The person who I had just met decided it was fun to explain how I was doing some coin manipulation.

I merely laughed and said "Don't lie to them like that." They were of course convinced that I was holding the coin behind my fingers or some such.. which is totally wrong. It was a Ramsey Subtlety. They also cited my sleeves at some point. So I decided to screw with em'.

I wear a trenchcoat... mostly all of the time. I'm a dork. Anyway, I can sleeve buicks and the pockets are great for ditching things into. SO I rolled up my sleeves, did a crappy sleight to throw them off, then in the moment or relaxation, I ditched the coin in my pocket but kept going like I was holding. I pretended to pass it from hand to hand a few times and then opened both hands slowly. The look on the skeptics face was, as always, priceless.

I told this story because I wanted to make a point. Don't let them win. If they think they know what's going on, throw them a curve ball. Some people can follow sleight of hand. They just can. It's a thing. However, if you sneak in a ringer,a gaff, or something else, they will have to stop and think. At that point, STOP! Be happy with your accomplishment.

I could have just as easily used a thumb tip or whatnot, but if your conviction is strong enuff, people will believe anything you tell them. What saves me in situations like that is knowing my wardrobe. Your costume/ outfit/ way you dress should always be taken into account. A true ninja is a master of himself and his environment.

Magic magic ninja's whut?

Bizzaro.

Magicians are sly.. really. I mean who else would have YOU pay to be a product tester? Oh the huge manatee. I think these guys don't know hos this works. You either hand out free products or PAY people to test your stuff.

By thinking you are involved in some big deal, you too will feel vindicated to spend your hard earned money, better spent on a book or video, to buy a shirt you could make yourself that works on basic mathematics. Do I sound a bit jaded? Maybe I am. Who knows.

Regardless, in other news: Helter Shelter: The Movie, despite small set backs, is moving right along. The movie itself is done and some of the special features are being tweaked/finished right now. It should be out, with luck, late June. If you wanna see some screen shots and get better updates on the DVD release go Here.

Nothing else to talk about today. Jog off.

Bizzaro.

So I decided to hop by ellusionist's website to see if anything amusing was going on there. Seems they have been reduced to novelty playing card peddlers as of late. The only thing they are pushing really on their main page, aside from those aforementioned decks, are Dan Harlan's Hover Card.

I actually liked this trick... especially when it came out A LONG FREEKING TIME AGO!! I never understood ellusionists deal with repackaging effects from so long ago like it was a big deal. Mind you, that happens in magic a alot... but not usually with a full page ad in a magic magazine. I digress.

Hover card is indeed what they say. Very impactful. Downside? he handling. (Unless they hand changed it a bit since it first came out.) I had to find an alternate that made me feel better about doing it.. and I did. I even showed it to Harlan back in Austin at a TAOM. This was back when he resembled Joey Lawrence (WHOA!) The only drawback initially (Unless they fixed this too) was the gimmick was brittle and once it broke, there was no real repairing it.

So my suggestion to you is to buy the gimmick, sans instructions and stuff, and just play with it. Most magic doesn't grow or evolve without play. (Neither do most relationships for that matter) Do yourself a favor and jump in feet first.

I promise you, it's deep enuff.

Bizzaro.

So in the first Street Magic Magazine article, there was a big deal made about how magicians should NEVER wear leather ever. Now while I believe there should be a weight limit posted on a lot of clothing made of leather, vinyl, and latex that is neither here nor there.

How magicians dress has become a sorry state of affairs in the past many years. Take for example these guys. If you took away the text, would you know what they were selling or even what they do for a living? Hell no it would look like an ad for some target clothing.

In some vain attempt to make magic look normal and mundane on the street, we have lost something all gay men and metrosexuals already know.. DRESS TO IMPRESS!! Either be the best dressed or most noticeably dressed in the room. You go to a fancy party to do magic or a corporate function and show up in a T-shirt and pants your ass will NEVER be hired again.

Magicians have always been the ones who stand out. Back when all magicians were wearing robes and chinese garb, Houdin put on the evening wear of the time.. a tuxedo. (Which, much to my disdain, seems to have stuck.) Penn and Teller wear matching grey suits. It's not flashy or gaudy but it fits perfectly into what they want to accomplish. By wearing something that subdued, what they do creates more of an impact and does not give anything away. If they came out dressed like freaky sideshow carnies, the impact of their magic would be lessened.

Stage manipulators and dove workers have great attire (Some of them) and it makes them recognizable and usually fits into their theme somehow.

So next time you decide to dress like a homeless man, remember you are an entertainer and should stand out as such. Blending in to the crowd hurts you and your magic. Just say NO to Wal-mart clothes!

Besides, you don't want to look like an Asshat do you?

Bizzaro.

This one goes out to Nena...

Alain Nu found out I am one of those filthy online "magic bloggers" (Mainly cuz' I told him) He replied, "Write something nice about me." Now I know he was mostly kidding. Lucky for him I have nothing bad to say. Lemme weave you a story.

Many many ago back in Austin, TX, TAOM was going on. They had brought in some heavy hitters. One of the nights of shows was Mystery School guys. (Of McBride Fame) Now Alain Nu is known for his mental feats and mindboggling metal bending and flatware mutilation. VEry few have probably ever seen his stage act. An almost surrealist piece that involves mime and a red balloon. Defintely worth seeing.

He has a brilliant effect with a post it note that appeared in the February 2004 issue of MAGIC (Go here and scroll down to Josh Jay performing the effect.) Also if you happen to have seen On the Road with Asher and Wilson you probably saw him do his mock Thumb Tip Routine which is also quite brilliant.

He has been all over TV and media and whatnot... and yet he still is gracious enuff to return my Myspace messages when he can. Nice guy and one day I'll treat him to some ice cream.

I wonder what he'd do for a Klondike Bar?

Bizzaro.

Watch this...



I present to you Exhibit A in my essay on "Shit That Magicians Do That Make Me Wanna Kill".

Ok so first off, some magicians should stick to what they are good at. In Steinmeyer's case, inventing and writing. Much like John Kennedy, he is a good creator of magical stuff... not so much demonstrating it. That aside, lemme point something out - That damn bag.

It has weight to it. If you have ever handled a lunch sack in school or made lunches for yer kids you can tell the difference between empty and not so empty sacks. So my questions is, Why not find someway to make the bag look very lightweight? Sure it's not a glaring obviousness, but it's a subconscious thing that sets off people WTF Meter. (Patent Pending)

This is not the only instance this kinda thing annoys me. Have you EVER seen a version of the Vanishing Bandanna where the Devil's Hank at the end looks empty? Looks more like a large squished banana inside a square of badly stitched fabric. Magic is full of little things like this. I am a big believer in the little details. IF they're there you don't notice, but if they weren't there you would.

So yah, a lightbulb jumps around. Big whoop. The bag changing places with the lightulb.. cool. Bag in lightbulb.. not too bad. Reason for doing it? No fackin' clue. Hey it's the Magic Hostel. The people who go there are usually so inebriated they'll clap for anything. (and I'm not just saying that cuz' they won't hire me. I've been there and seen it with my third eye. Eee Ee Eee Ee)

I like all magic... but I will find flaws in most of it. Even my own.

Especially my own.

Bizzaro.

Watched the Art of Astonishment: Vol 1 DVD earlier. I want to say the teo coolest things I got from that was the Un-shuffling Rebecca routine and the foil/coin trick. (Sneeeeky) Paul Harris' stuff can be very hit or miss and sifting thru his books can be a VERY mind numbing task. I liked the DVD cuz' it grabbed a lot of the weird/visual/magical effects he has had without going overboard. (Tho' the staged people recounting the tricks to themselves thing I thought was time that would have been better spent putting in one or two more effects.. but whatever. Not my DVD. That's over here.)

Now many people know Paul Harris' as the roving, barefoot, hippy, kung-fu the legend continues kinda magician. However, from things I have heard he is making BANK designing theme park stuff. Who knows. I DO know he has made a habit of slapping his name on other people's stuff to help them get their effects out there. I like that idea and don't at the same time.

Ok so quiz time: What phrase do Kevin Parker, Daniel Garcia, Wayne Houchin, and Greg Rostami all have in common? Click Here to find out.

Tell me I'm lying?

Bizzaro.

Let's do a DVD review!!

Andrew Mayne has found himself a nice little niche in the magic world by offering up inexpensive (And sometimes under-developed) magical ideas. His latest bit of merchandise, entitled Maynia, has 5 effects on it. I recently got the chance to see it, so here are my thoughts.

Popfist - First off, do yourself a favor and don't Google that phrase. You WON'T magic. My only problem with this effect is that anyone who isn't a Jehovah's witness will know exactly what you used to make little crappy paper streamers come from your fist. Essentially, he is playing up the point that the loud noise created will get people's attention. Mind you, doing that in a family restaurant might cause trouble... or some old person's ticker to stop. Be careful with this one.

Death Finger - Card stab with your finger. If you can't figure out your own method for this, then study magic a bit more. Not a new idea, but they needed filler I guess.

Finger Saw - This effect is an extension of a trick Lee Asher has on his site (or did have, it's been a while and I am too lazy to go look). So, as usual stepping on the shoulders of giants. IT happens.

Stab'd - With the ridiculous trend of the, "Look at me no stab myself with a pointy thing" effect in magic, this offering is one on the cheap. A bit hokey but can almost be done impromptu. (Which is the one strong point of the effects on this DVD) I can't say too much bad about this... but also not much good about it. It's just what it is.. and looks like.

Drawn From the Light - This is my fave and really the only reason I watched this video in the first place. I like the idea of making a drawing of a light bulb light up on a pad of paper. The way to accomplish it is not bad either. Personally I would get a light that matches the yellow glow of the magic light bulb he uses, but whatever.

So as the saying goes, If you can get one good, usable effect from a (Insert form of media here), then it was worth the money. (A good phrase to remember when you realized how much you paid for some items.) My only problem is, for someone who is supposed to be a film guy, he can't seem to make his video's look very professionally done. Sure, there are some shiny graffics and whatnot, but.. the backgrounds could be a little less... jiggered.

Whatever that means...

Bizzaro.

NO one is safe!!!

Bizzaro.

The way this website lists This DVD's title sounds like something Bob Markwood got arrested for back in the 90's.

That's all.

No wait, that's not all!! So I suppose a few of you know by now, but I was gonna wait till' someone said something... but no one has. (Figures) Ignore the weirdo, maybe he'll go away... naaaaaah. I have been writing a rant column in the new Street Magic Mag that came out last month. Has anyone seen it? I can't find one in TX! It's a lot like this journal without the advice. I dislike most magicians and I'm not afraid to tell the world. Just remember - When you try to live in a higher strata you eventually piss on someone in the lower strata.

We're still here you fuckers.

Watch yer ass.

Bizzaro.

(Been reading too much Transmetropolitan lately I think.)

It's coming...

can you feel it?

Something round and shiny... and dangerous. That's right Helter Shelter: The Movie is in the post production stages and we hope to have it out soon. How soon? No idea honestly. When doing an indie project, you generally do it alone and work on it when you have time and aren't doing shows or making giant evil rabbit costumes.

Anyway, to keep you abreast (heh heh breasts) of what's going down we have a Site to get info from for all you curious types. Go by and see the teaser and stay tuned for more info.

Until next time...

Bizzaro.

Magic Shop Blues

So I'm out in Hollywood, CA right now. Within walking distance of Hollywood magic. Now I am not gonna say people in CA are superficial or stuck up.. but there are the odd fucknut here and there. Case in point....

Hollywood magic. I decided to go in and look around. I asked the first guy I saw what was new and amusing. Looking up from his book he said something to the effect of, "Yah sure over there". He nodded and then went back to his magic tome. So this older gentleman came out from the back and showed me some of the stuff I already knew was out but I like to make magic shops workers jump through hoops.

Before I get to the amusing part of the story I want to say this: I have been to many magic stores in my life and most of them are full of bitter guys who don't wanna show you stuff because yer not well known, their friend, or up to it. This is why the internet is kicking the brick and mortar shops ASS. No one to with a bad attitude to deal with behind the counter. Just point, click, and the only people who bother you are the credit card companies.

So anyway, back to my magical trip.... I decided to be coy and ask the older gentleman, who had the complexion of Bill Murray, if they happened to carry the book that came out on the razor blade trick called Helter Shelter. His reply? "it's out of print." I said "Really? It's fairly new" His response was golden. "Yah it's already out of print."

Being the author I realised A: He's full of shit. B: He didn't want to chance I was going to ask him to special order it. So long story short, Don't go to Hollywood Magic. Instead hit up the shop in Annaheim. There is a much friendlier shop there.

Tomorrow I go to the magic castle and make even less friends in magic. Wheeeeeeee...

Bizzaro.

Am I mad? I'm a bit mad. I really am. It's not the 80's anymore. Any imagination or creativeness established then has flourished and anything from the mid-90's and beyond has been made to SUCK the life out of us. We are not a thinking people anymore and it seems we're happy that way. I'm mad as hell and I'm not gonna take it anymore. What the hell is WRONG with the entertainment business!? We're stuck in a damn time warp I swear.

The only ting that seems to thrive is Rip offs of European Circus (Another thing we have Canada to thank for.) what the hell happened to objective entertainment. Letting something be just because it looked cool. Now we want non-thinking, non-feeling, unoriginal tripe. If I hear one more time that an act can't be booked because it is too unique. It makes me sick to my stomach to think what the future holds. Do we really hold ourselves in such a high regard that reality TV is all we are interested in. Where are the Neverending Stories, the Labyrinths, the seeds of childhood. Oh wait I forgot.. they all got RAPED IN THE ASS BY THE MEDIA AND GOVERNMENT!!

There is a small cadre of people trying to break free the underground and bring crazyness into the light. Criss Fishing Rod is a damn poser... with crappy hair. How can YOU help? By joining in the fight and supporting the alternative arts. Remind yourself there is more to life than LOST and Survivor and crappy talent shows like America's got what we want you to believe is talent. Who won that show? A damn SINGER!! Oh there is a shock! Don't we already have a show for those fuckers!? I'm sick of it. If you're not gonna help us fight this war, be prepared to become a damn casualty because I personally will gut you with a playing card... the five of spades to be exact.

I say to thee... fight the power. We're on the outside looking in and I will not stand by and see the mundane take control.

Not by a long sot.

Bizzaro.

Hey there. Took a bit of a break for a while to do other stuff.. like work. This last weekend the principle footage for Helter Shelter: The Movie was filmed. Now editing a kimbo is to be had.. but that's not why I am here. Nay!

WMS (World Magic Seminar) happened last month (Yes I am a bit behind) and I finally looked up the winners of the contests. I took a gander at http://petebiro.blogspot.com/ and saw in the photos that three girls won the teen cometitions. Way to go chicas!!

Wait.. you mean that one chick is a dood? Musta been the hair. "Weren't you that girl in Hanson?"

Anywho, glad to see more femmes are getting intrested in magic and STAYING in it well into their teens. There may be hope yet. Speaking of magical girlies here is your link for the day http://www.joandukore.com

It's a mind boggling thang.

Bizzaro.

Magic quote of the day.. transleated from German.

"At what are you surprised really still?
As easy it is to lead the human understanding mad."

I'll explain later.

Bizzaro.

Welcome to another "we don't know why it's a holiday" day. Today's post is not about love or anything like that. Just a mere musing as to who the HELL carries around insects to do magic with on a daily basis (Andrew Goldenhersh aside of course)

So yer paying almost 100$ for... a packet of ladybug seeds? I dunno. It seems like a neet idea but fairly impractical. Not one of those "Hey do that blood bug trick for my friend" and you're always ready to go. Impromptu? Hardly. Amusing? Probably.

Tho' the alternate blood to heart thing strikes me as amusing...

and is as close to Valentines day this post is gonna get.

Bizzaro.

PS: It seems my paradeI submitted to the Linking Ring got published. Read it. It contains magical yummyness.

Maaaaaaaamrieeees.....

The pinnacle of comedy club magic in the 80's was The Amazing Johnathan and THIS guy. Paul Kozak. I'm fairly sure I was at this show but regardless, Kozak was one of the only magicians who made a salt pour, THIS, and manipulation kool in a comedy club. (That I ever saw at least). All that and he's one of the only peoeple I have ever seen who uses multiplying pipes and does them well. So aside from his bulk of flash string and use of swing music, he was a funny guy. (Who also did a kid's show in the daytime.. I dunno.)

So today in Magician Hell we salute Kozak. May he forever continue to kick ass. (Even if his salt pour was a bit pricey.)

Bizzaro.

I love you all like you were my own kin...

Well not really, but regardless, as one of the few remaining magic journals left from the big boom back in 03' . It has been over 4 years since I started this little project. I have NO idea who reads it and I don't want to know. However, I am not an un-appreciative A-hole. So for my glorious readers I have a gift for you. We recently found a box in storage of shirts we did not sell back lo' those many years ago. No point in keeping them laying around (Except to use as crappy X-mas gifts) thus I am offering you a Special Limited Edition Bizzaro show shirt for damn near nothing. A 20$ value!!


That's the back design right there. How can you resist!? That's right YOU CAN'T!! How can you aquire one of these finely crafted pieces of Bizzaro history? Simple. Donate $3.00 for S&H and it's yours!! You can't beat that! Pee Wee Herman couldn't beat that!! (And that's saying something.)

So click that button now and we'll even throw in a free signed color 8x10!!

All of this for reading the ramblings of a madman. Good for you.

Give em' an inch...

I have said many times that if you feed someone a little truth they will accept a LOT of BS. If you tell them something they can hold on to or put in their pocket to believe, you can sell them damn near anything.

Example: On occasion I will tell people that we cannot make things vanish as matter cannot be created nor destroyed. Thusly we make it teleport from our hand to another location they cannot see... like our pockets. Perhaps from one hand to the other. (Demonstrating thusly)

That is something they can believe in cuz' it sounds technical enough and it uses concepts they have seen on TV and read about in fantasy and sci-fi mediums.

Give anyone enough rope and they will hang themselves or their ideals with it.

Bizzaro.

You tell me why....

Never give up, never surrender...

One of THE hardest things to do in life is fail.. or do what we perceieve as failure. As children we are educated that you MUST succeed and not reaching a certain goal is bad. Games, homework, sports, video games. Everything is against us to constantly attack our sefl esteem. Along with commercials and ads preying upon our in-bred insecurities. Face it, we're screwed from the get go. (I won't even go into the deep seated issues our parental units inflict upon us from THEIR failed lives)

In magic tho' we are in the job to make the impossible a reachable goal. In that pursuit, we often do not succeed right off. Some people are SO afraid of failure that they will not try or try to fix what is the start of a good idea. Failure is just a word and it only has the power in which you put into it. Let's say that instead, that failure does not mean "Lack of succeeding" but rather "The wrong way to achieve what you want". Still sounds bad sure, but it does not mean you did not accomplish your goal, but rather found a way NOT to do it.

If you find yourself wanting to do a trick a certain way and it will not work, do NOT give up. There is ALWAYS another way. Nothing is impossible. (Except for the things that are.) As I have said before, the only people who do not succeed are the ones who give up. It's hard to be determined, but it's harder to regret something you never did. No matter how hard it gets, no matter how bleak it seems, if you're going thru hell, keep going.

Anything is possible.

Hey kids. Welcome to the first post of 2007!!

We here at Fire Cat Studios have been busy with shows all of Dec. and now many projects will be finished up this month. (Including the long awaited Helter Shelter: The Movie, filmed at the 13th Street Morgue.)

So aside from some website updates and a little writing project that I am going to leave a surprise for you later on in the month, I have been thinking about magic. (Shocker I know.) Now despite being a stage magician at heart, I do like to devise clever stuff for ALL magical situations. Sometimes it's just a handling that fits me better. Allow me to elaborate...

Someone once told me that linking rings should be thus.. "Two rings.. they link.. they unlink.. next!" To some degree that is true. After the first time, it's just the same base thing over.. and over.. and over.. and .. well you get the idea. Same with ambitious card. We don't need 10 phase routines. Three times with a REALLY strong fourth is best. Otherwise it's flogging a dead horse. This all goes back to a post I made a long while ago that just because a prop can do a lot of things, doesn't mean you SHOULD perform them all.

I saw another three coins across trick on the market recently. Chris Kenner started Three Fly and it has been variation upon variation ever since. Jay Sankey and Greg Wilson have their un-gimmicked sleight of hand versions. Shoot Ogawa has his sneaky ass asian version using muscle passes. Everyone has their fave.. everyone except me.

In an experiment, I started doing a bit where I only make ONE coin jump from one hand to the other. I do it twice tho'. I don't make a big thing of showing my hands empty, it's very straight forward and quick. Coin in right hand, closed fists. Coin in left hand, right hand empty. I do it twice because it is actually more amazing the SECOND time. Magic is odd like that. Some are best once, others twice, and some adhere strictly to the rule of three.

It's true what they say... less is more.

Bizzaro.

Ok so.. let's talk about something I am PRETTY sure has been touch on here before... but hey beating dead things is a good way to spend a day right?

Levitation. In some magician's eyes, the ULTIMATE magic trick. Levitating things with wire and string and bits of metal and... and... gawd the list goes on. There have been many many, too many versions of the balducci since the Asshat made it uber-popular. The elevator, zero gravity boots, king rising, icarus effect (And it's various versions), and now the FLY lev. (I left out some I know.)

What is the obsession with the holy grail of Asshattery... the "Street levitation"? In my experience of dealing with drunks, kids, and the like if you levitate yourself, they assume you can levitate ANYTHING. "Wow that was cool, here make my car float" "Hey that was neet what else can you do that to.. here try my cell phone".

If they don't do that, it comes down to "Do it again, do it again!" so they can look under your feet. Personally I don't think it is worth it. I say float a small object and if they ask if you can float yourself like on TV say.. "yes". No need to prove it.

Chances are they aren't gonna give you any money anyway.

Bizzaro.

"Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic"

So a fairly new effect on the market has gotten people all a-buzz. It's called WOW. (Which when spelled backwards is also wow but upside down it's mom.) Now I dunno about you guys, but when I first saw it I immediately thought of an old trick called "The Hidden Sun" (Bottom Right). For those who remember it, you know what I am talking about.

What amazes me is that I saw that effect and IMMEDIATELY went, "Well duh". As usual with magic, just cuz' you can figure it out doesn't make it any less cool. It looks good and that's all that matters right?

This alllll goes back to usual rant about how today's magicians should study the world around them and be knowledgeable of their magical past to a degree. This is not the first time this technology has been used for a trick (or even a science experiment.)

Ah but the Japanese exploit technology and make it their bitch so in turn they can make US their bitch as well. Same old song and dance aye?

Personally I thought Contra Vision had something to do with a video game.

Bizzaro.

All right let's talk about the shiny new distraction in magic right now. It's called Stuck!. Now at 10$ for a fairly visual coin vanish, that's not too bad in this day and age. (Yay instant gratification society)

I actually ponied up the cash for this... which is rare for me. When I decide to spend my pay pal funds I better not be disappointed. I wasn't really. The hype is true tho' it is impromptu (By that I mean nothing added or taken away.) There is something the demo doesn't show you, BUT it's not THAT big a deal. (As opposed to OTHER demo's) Don't let me scare you off with that statement. There is something you have to do to make the trick work, and as much as I wanna make a joke at it's expense I can't without tipping the method... and if I had to pay for it by gawd so do YOU.

I do think the handling and presentation is a bit "Magicky" (Is that a word?) but the best thing about coin magic, (And most difficult to convey to people), is that it is very personality based... so sez Jay Sankey. He's right tho'. The moves, patter, body language, and everything else that goes into a GOOD coin vanish SHOULD vary from performer to performer. The guy who sells Stuck!, his handling and presentation won't work for me anymore than it should work for you.

So be a good consumer, support the arts, get a new trick, fit it to yer style, love it, learn it, use it as yer own.

You'll be glad you did.

Bizzaro.

The 5 stages of a bad show...

Anger
Dispair
Depression
Acceptance
Determination

At least it is for me.

Bizzaro.

Is it live?

Or is it Memorex? Is it magic? Is it art? Is it both? Ask a magician he might say it's a zombie ball routine. Ask someone else it might be a dance. It's an act like this that can be a blessing in disguise because you can be booked as many different things. The best part is it doesn't take much to perform... except the years and YEARS of practice and study of movement, magic, and make-up/costuming. (Among other things) Surpassing the norm and creating something that transcends the stigma of "magician" or "Juggler" is the goal of any performance artist.

My good friend Jeb Sherrill and his wife performed on a french TV show with this guy, (Doing their magic art act) and said it is incredible to see live.

Do you think he would do well over here? (Said with a pinch of Sarcasm)

Bizzaro.

Ok ok so contest time!! I know I know the other contests I have had were kinda lackluster.. but this one will be fun and easy (Like my ex).

At the beginning of 2007 we will be finishing filming of Helter Shelter: The Movie and if you, yes YOU, would like a free copy all you have to do is.... find me the worst magicians website EVAR!!!

I of course will be the judge. There is a LOT to sift thru and my criteria is fairly open. It could be a horrid layout, terrible media, lame concept, or all around fitting 10 pounds of suck in a 5 pound bag.

I will not however accept crappy text only websites as poor cuz' while they are bad, they are bad with no content. You have until X-mas.

------

With that in mind I wanna talk about magic wesbites for a second. Some might say that there are two types of websites. Ego pages and business pages. Ego pages are personal pages made to stroke one's ego and put up things. This also includes pages for your pets or friends, etc. Business pages.. well.. duh. I think magic websites are a bit of both. There is a point where the lines blur and then, sadly, cross. You want the page to be personally ego stroking without being too terribly ass kissing. You also have to appeal to the bidness side of things and look moderately professional... even if yer not. The biggest illusion in magic, is to make yourself look important, or even more decpetive, cool.

Magic websites will NOT generally get you booked. You have to work on agents and whatnot to do that. A magic website serves primarily as an online promo packet as well as another way to be seen by the populace at large. (My site is designed the way it is for mainly these reasons) I know MANY pros whose site is notthat great, but it gets the point across without looking amateur-ish. If you can't do it, learn. If you can't learn it, bribe someone who can do it.

So on with your misson. Find me a crappy site, and DON'T make one of your own!

Bizzaro.

Someone asked me about magic on TV back in the 90's. I decided to go a bit farther back with the history of magic on TV... more or less.

The 60's had Mark Wilson and Doug Henning... Stage magic.
The 70's Doug Henning and David Copperfield... Stage magic
80's? David Copperfield.... yup.. you guessed it.. stage magic.
Most of the 90's... World's Greatest Magic, Lance Burton, Rudy Coby, etc... Mostly stage magic.

1998 - The rise of the Asshat. Yup "Street" magic got it's firm nasty little grip on the world and the youth of magic was forever changed.
2000's: Criss Angel sez', "I want some of that Street Magic Money". Good stage performer from what I have heard and seen. Gets on Tv and gets all "Street cred" and goes right to hell.

Here is my pondering for tonight. When does the effect supersede your ethics? Copperfield was well known for using stooges to get the desired effect or joke to happen every time (Still is). Did effects you could ONLY do on TV really or involved clever camera angles. No real editing or special FX just creative use of the technology. He did ride a fine line but kept mostly on the side of ethics.

You'll notice no TV magic shows anymore say, "Everything you see here is live and is exactly what you would be seeing if you were here". If they did it would be a big fooking lie. The Asshat did stuff you could ONLY do with camera editing and specially built store fronts. Criss Angel did one better and got actors and jerky ass editing to do his bidding.

The worst part is with the loss of a major stage magic influence, today's kids are missing that flair for the dramatic and the rhythm that comes with being a stage performer. They only influence they see is the best thing magic can be is a close up guy in T-shirt and jeans saying "Waaaaatch".

Now I am being a bit pessimistic I know, but hey stick with what yer good at. Someone told me stuff goes in cycles. Well I say after almost 40 years of stage magic as an influence, this whole damn close up street harassment better not last that long. There will always BE stage performers, but with little mass influence on the public, it's subtle nuances may very well fall by the wayside and become merely pages in a book or pictures on a screen.

I'm just a tad worried thaz all.

Bizzaro.
(Who sez yah have to be cheery on a holiday?)

What exactly is magician hell you ask? Well today it's This Guy.

Bizzaro.

"For the summer that's once lost now is gone..."

So I'm here listening to this tune and there is a line that made me think about our activity in magic. It goes as thus...

"For your world won't change while you sleep" - Flogging Molly

It's true too. If you take a passive casual observer stance to not only magic but life as well nothing will change. Your magic, your achievements, anything really. You can sit at home and practice your faro or double lift. Watch video after video, read book after book on magic and technique.. but if you don't go out in the world and practice your art it's just gonna stagnate.

If you take an aggressive mindset to change your life, magic, or people's viewpoint no matter what it's for then you are at least changing something even if it's just ONE person's mind. I have encountered a few people who don't like magic for one reason or another. Sometimes cuz' they have seen a poor performer or.. ten. If you make an effort to get out there and show these people a better world then.. your their world.. and your might just change a bit.. and for the better.

Life... and magic... is not a spectator sport.

Bizzaro.

Ok so I was perusing my fiends list on LJ (Yes I am a dork) and someone actually made a somewhat poignant post (for magic anyway). Below is my response for your viewing pleasure.

"So yer asking if magic is there a way to make magic memorable and not just some cheap party trick? Indeed and it doesn't have to be emotional or even an in depth story. I've been doing magic for.. umm.. too long to count on all my extremities (You figure it out) and can tell you a few of the ways I know of to keep magic with someone forever.

1. Do something impossible. Truly impossible. Levitation is not actually in the category cuz' they can dismiss it with any number of answers.

2. Vanish something and never bring it back.. ever... but this only works if incorporated with the #1 or...

3. Use something that makes it personal for them... something that gives them an anchor if you will.

Now I shall explain. First I will address #2 and 3 together. Vanishing THEIR lit cigarette. Not yours.. but theirs. You take something they connect with personally but not enuff to be mad if it goes away. It's disposable attachment. Vanish it and NEVER bring it back.

An example of Number 1 is Michael Close's moving pothole effect. To move a hole around at will IS impossible. With the incorporation of their house and street in the mix they will never forget the trick and keep that card (And who you are) forever.

Let's see #1 and 2 together now. Swallowing a four foot balloon and never bringing it back out makes you unforgettable. Why? Allow me to explain. People need closure in their lives. If something goes away it MUST come back.. this is why we have a problem with death cuz' it won't be back but we try like mad to make the memory remain. Thus if you never bring something back that has an impact that gets stuck in their minds and they will never forget who you are.

Also the best way to make magic memorable is to be memorable yourself. Anyone can do cheap tricks... but it takes real skill to give them a reason to care and remember. Be a face and you will have a name."

I'm especially proud of that last line there.

Bizzaro.

It's not over till' the horizontally challenged woman croons... the sideshow tur might be fini, but the onslaught of photos is'nt. Keep checking back every so weeks for more photos and amusing tales. Texas always looks better everytime I go to the east coast. So here I am back near the internet and as usual the parade of magical craziness must swagger itself in front of me. Someone watch This video and tell me what he is selling. Seriosuly. It sez gimmicks but I am leery of a guy trying to use a demo reel as a selling point. At least he's happy.

"How can you be more than happy? To me, this sounds like a dangerous mental condition. We have to put Dave in mental home. He was -- more than happy." - George Carlin

Bizzaro.

Well it's been an odd couple of months here on tour. Thought I would take some time to regail you kids with some of my thoughts. Anyone seen the new Jet Li movie Fearless? Personally I have to be in the mood for Kung Fu movies. I wasn't the day we saw it. Twasn't bad tho'. There is a bit in the flick that I decided to equate to magic.. and thus it follows.

In the movie there is a fighting arena and Jet Li sez something to the effect of "When you are down there (On the ground) you are merely watching, but up here... it is life or death." That's very true of magic as well. When we watch it is no consequence, but when we are up on that stage we either live by the art or die by it. The term dying on stage holds water. If you stink on ice then you will kill your career, your audience, and your magic. You have to be the best you can be to live and flourish.

Hence another problem with street magic. You are on their level and therefore the threat level of failure is lessened. You want to impress me... try doing stage magic and becoming an engaging performer. Only then will I be impressed...

and want to kill you on the field of battle.

Bizzaro.

In other news: Can't Please Everybody.