One age-old question has eluded many magicians, including myself. It is a contemplation most usually addressed when a magician finds himself at a “crossroads”, such as whether to continue in beloved hobby or try to take magic to the next level.
“How does one present the “MAGIC” that should be happening within a magic performance?”
Master magicians seem to define magic with every movement they make; seemingly exuding magic from every pore. Each performance is enchanting, and for a few moments, even fellow magicians forget to think about methodology and, instead, become captivated by the magic.
Certainly there are many famous magicians who leap to mind, each of whom have had that exact effect on you. What do they have that could be adopted and used to create a similar impression on your audiences?
It’s not the tricks magicians choose to perform…. It’s not the props magicians use…. It’s the way magicians present the magic!
I strongly believe that magicians can learn a great deal about magical performance simply by observing and studying the performances of famous magicians. Through simple observation, a vast amount of education can happen.
Obviously, the secrets to the tricks will not be revealed, but the goal isn’t to learn that. One need only relax and watch the expert craftsmanship on display.
Many magicians perform tricks …..
….. a few perform MAGIC !!
No need to worry about searching for the ‘method’ because the tricks themselves are not relevant to this particular discussion. Nor is the genre being performed (close up, mentalism, street busking, stage magic, etc.). The fact is that there is a mountain of benefits that can be gleaned from simply watching a master performer at work. Take time to soak it all in!
Observe the way these magicians conduct themselves: their postures, their pacing and timings, the words they chose and their expressiveness. See how each is able to channel and control each spectators’ attention and focus it at will when needed. Forget the props that magicians use; instead notice how they PRESENT the magic and give it meaning.
Look at their SHOWMANSHIP!!
Studying showmanship is vital to your magical studies because it allows you to create the magic in a spectator’s mind, not within the method of the trick.
The presentation is far, far more powerful than is the method. Self-working card tricks can be just as powerful as any complex sleight of hand if the right presentation is applied.
DO THIS: Next time you are packing your pockets full of magic tricks, take a moment to think about HOW you will perform them so as to maximize their potential. Try not to rush through your tricks if you don’t happen to immediately get that amazing “OOO - AAH” reaction. Just let the atmosphere build. Act as if you expected no reaction and move on.
By mentally reliving each magical moment, spectators can find themselves being continually blown away, regardless of their external expressiveness. It is tough to remain silent or bring the focus back to yourself during periods of silence, but it is worth it! Just keep swimming!!
Always make great plans for your routines, make the most out of each performance, be confident and believe in your skills! That’s how showmanship is grown, pruned and harvested. Never give up!!!
….. and pretty soon magicians will be spending time watching and soaking in YOUR feats of magic!!
Cheers !!
Bulls-eye! 🎯 It’s all about the performer!
The fuel of showmanship is a desire to delight your audience. Tell them a story. Surprise them. Draw from your personality or that of the character you portray. Have fun!