Discourse in Magic

Jonah Babins and Tyler Williams

Jonah Babins and Tyler Williams discuss magic, mentalism, theory, philosophy, tips and resources for magicians to help make your performance amazing!

  • 1 hour 7 minutes
    The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza Borchardt

    Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, Reza Borchardt, as we explore his magical journey from a passionate young enthusiast to a leading illusionist in Branson, Missouri. Reza takes us behind the curtain, sharing how his early exposure to magic through TV shows and the generous mentorship of magicians like Dave Hamner and Kirby Van Birch fueled his love for the craft. Discover the secrets behind his mind-blowing performances, where large illusions transform into spellbinding stories that captivate audiences, each show bringing something new and exciting through the power of storytelling and audience interaction.

    Embark on a fascinating journey through Reza’s rise to success, revealing the innovative ways he turned his dream into a thriving career. From transforming old buses into tour vehicles to navigating the vibrant entertainment scene of Branson, Reza opens up about the challenges and triumphs of establishing a dedicated theater and performing hundreds of shows a year. Learn how the blend of music and magic, inspired by live concerts and collaborations with bands like Switchfoot, enhances his performances, creating a unique and exhilarating experience that continues to draw audiences in.

    In the age of technology, Reza offers insights into the evolving landscape of magic, sharing how the digital era poses both challenges and opportunities for magicians. As he reflects on the intricate process of crafting new illusions and managing a talented team, Reza emphasizes the importance of innovation and feedback in keeping his shows fresh and engaging. Whether you’re a budding magician or a seasoned fan, this episode provides a captivating look at the synergy between tradition and modernity in magic, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those daring enough to explore them.

     Growing Success in Magic Show Tours

    This chapter takes us through the fascinating journey of a magician who turned his passion into a professional career, highlighting the pivotal moments and strategies that paved his way to success. Starting with a personal story about learning tricks from a master illusionist in a parking lot, we explore the initial struggles and innovative methods employed to fund his dream of touring with a magic show. From transforming an old school bus into a tour vehicle to engaging in unique side hustles like selling candles door-to-door, the determination to achieve his vision is palpable. We also examine the challenges of marketing shows without established notoriety and the gradual growth in audience numbers through word-of-mouth. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the financial and logistical hurdles of running a grand illusion show, revealing the complexities of managing a crew and renting theaters while navigating the risks of potential financial losses.

    How to Conquer Branson

    This chapter takes us to the heart of Branson, Missouri, where the unique dynamics of establishing a theater are explored. Known for its diverse entertainment offerings, Branson attracts millions of visitors annually, providing a stage for both rising stars and top-tier performers. We uncover the challenges of setting up a successful show in this bustling yet intimate city, highlighting the importance of patience and perseverance. The journey from leasing theater spaces to owning a dedicated 1,000-seat venue is shared, alongside insights into the seasonal ebb and flow of show schedules. The balance between performing hundreds of shows a year and maintaining passion for the craft is examined, with strategies like audience participation playing a key role in keeping performances fresh. We also get a glimpse into the lifestyle of living near the theater, offering a blend of high-paced work with tranquil home life by the lake.

    Continuous Improvement in Magic Performance 

    This chapter explores the collaborative and creative process behind crafting a successful magic show. We discuss how a blend of personal innovation, industry collaboration, and feedback from laypeople contributes to the development of compelling magic tricks. I highlight the importance of external perspectives, explaining how industry friends and regular audience members provide invaluable insights that help shape the performance to better connect with viewers. I share anecdotes about specific tricks, like the Oreo and card tricks, emphasizing how initial concepts are transformed into original pieces through experimentation and refinement. By testing these tricks on fellow magicians and gauging their reactions, I gauge the effectiveness and potential of new ideas. This chapter underscores the dynamic and iterative nature of creating magic that captivates and entertains audiences.

    Endless Chain

    Dustin Tavella

     

    Mentions


    https://www.instagram.com/rezaillusionist/
    https://www.facebook.com/people/Reza-Borchardt/

    The post The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza Borchardt appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    24 October 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 6 minutes 53 seconds
    Marketing vs. Sales

    Transform your magic career by distinguishing between the flashy allure of marketing and the powerhouse of sales. Join me as I unravel the myth that appearing on big shows like Fool Us or America’s Got Talent is the golden ticket to success. Instead, discover how the real breakthroughs lie in mastering sales tactics such as SEO, ads, and strategic cold emailing. This episode promises to equip you with actionable insights to effectively convert interest into bookings and sustain a thriving magic business in the digital age.

    Through engaging stories and real-world examples, I share how even magicians with impressive media exposure rely on fundamental sales strategies to keep their calendars full. Reflecting on the evolution of media influence, from the heyday of late-night TV to today’s digital platforms, the discussion reveals why honing your sales skills is crucial for long-term success. Whether you’re an up-and-coming magician or a seasoned performer, this episode offers a fresh perspective on prioritizing the right strategies to ensure consistent growth and recognition in the magic industry.

    Mentions

    https://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent
    https://www.cwtv.com/shows/penn-teller-fool-us/

    The post Marketing vs. Sales appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    14 October 2024, 3:50 pm
  • 1 hour 5 minutes
    Mike Hammer’s Vegas Adventure

    Magician and comedian Mike Hammer takes center stage, unveiling the secrets behind his 13-year run on the Las Vegas strip. From his humble beginnings with a simple magic kit in Chicago to captivating audiences in the entertainment capital of the world, Mike’s story is as magical as his performances. With humor and heart, he opens up about the challenges of transitioning from small gigs in restaurants and strip clubs to the bright lights of Vegas, revealing the persistence, networking, and a sprinkle of serendipity that got him there.

    Mike’s candid reflections on the art of blending comedy with magic can’t be missed! Crafting a standout act in Vegas requires more than just tricks; it demands a deep understanding of humor, audience engagement, and a strong stage persona. Mike shares his evolution from collaborating with a partner to performing solo, emphasizing the importance of scripting and developing material that resonates with diverse audiences. His advice for aspiring magicians is as enlightening as his performances: stay true to your style, but never stop refining your craft.

    Mike provides insights into the unique life of a Vegas performer. He contrasts the stability of a residency with the excitement of touring, highlighting the creative freedoms and logistical headaches that come with each. He offers a glimpse into the magic of performing in one location, where night after night, the show becomes a familiar yet ever-evolving spectacle. Whether you’re an aspiring magician, a fan of comedy, or simply curious about the life of a Las Vegas entertainer, Mike Hammer’s journey is sure to captivate and inspire!

    Building a Comedy Show in Vegas

    We discuss Mike’s early career challenges and successes of a magician breaking into the Las Vegas entertainment sceneMike landed a gig at the Four Queens Hotel and Casino, performing at an unusual time of 3 PM. The challenge of attracting audiences at this time led me to try street magic, a tough endeavor that demanded engaging the public one-on-one. Despite a slow start with small audiences, Mike sustained myself through corporate work and gradually built a larger audience over two years.

    Crafting Stand-Up Comedy Material 

    We explore Mike’s unique approach to blending comedy and magic by focusing on writing humor that stands independently of the tricks themselves. Mike shares his journey from relying on the humor inherent in magic tricks to crafting jokes that enhance the magic without depending on it. We discuss the importance of writing and how it transforms a performance, moving away from stock jokes to personalized material that aligns with my comedic character. Mike emphasizes the value of recording live shows to capture spontaneous humor, allowing me to refine and build upon these moments. Through anecdotes, I highlight the necessity of balancing improvisation with prepared material to ensure consistent audience engagement, regardless of their reactions.

    The Realities of Performing in Vegas

    This chapter explores the contrasting experiences of performing in a fixed location versus touring as a magician. I share my reflections on the idea of owning a magic lounge in Toronto and the allure of corporate gigs that offer a good balance between enjoyment and financial reward. The conversation shifts to the joys and challenges of having a residency in Las Vegas, including the benefits of stability and the opportunity to continually refine material. However, it also touches on the logistical headaches like technical issues, ticketing problems, and traffic delays affecting show timings. Despite these challenges, performing in one place allows for creative improvisation and a stable life. There’s also a nostalgic appreciation for touring, where audiences in different cities often provide unique, memorable experiences, highlighting the contrasting excitement of being a special event in a town compared to being one of many entertainment options in Vegas.

    Endless Chain

    Bernardo Sedlacek

    Mentions

    Instagram :officialhammer

    TikTok: @officialmikehammer

    Facebook: mikehammershow

    X:  officialhammer

    Website: https://mikehammershow.com/

    The post Mike Hammer’s Vegas Adventure appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    3 October 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 10 minutes 30 seconds
    How to Prepare for December

    Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your holiday bookings this year! Prepare to transform your magic business with our latest episode of Discourse in Magic, where Jonah Babins, guides you through the essential tactics to capitalize on the peak holiday season. Discover why October and early November are the golden months for gig inquiries, and learn how doubling your marketing efforts can yield incredible results. This isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter to ensure a phenomenal end to 2024.

    In this episode, we break down actionable strategies to boost your visibility and secure more gigs during the holiday rush. From ramping up your ad spend to proactive client outreach, you’ll gain insights into maximizing your opportunities when demand is at its highest. Don’t miss out on this crucial window—prepare now and let’s crush those business goals together. For personalized tips, feel free to reach out to me directly through email or social media. Tune in and make the most of this lucrative season!

    Maximize your client contacts

    1. Double your ad spend: Whatever it is that you were spending on ads, double it throughout September, October and November. 
    2. Contact all of your past clients: Everybody who has ever booked you in the past, send them a message! 
    3. Double your marketing efforts: If you’re running some sort of ads, double it. If you’re doing some sort of cold email, double it. If you’re DMing people on Instagram, double it. If you’re posting on LinkedIn, double it. 

    The post How to Prepare for December appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    19 September 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 32 minutes 37 seconds
    The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards

    Join us for an exciting episode of Discourse in Magic as we welcome back Ben Train to discuss the launch of our latest project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our motivations behind creating this unique deck, our shared love for playing cards, and our desire to contribute something special to the magic community. We also touch on the practical enhancements designed to make these cards versatile for magicians, and the joy of seeing others use and appreciate our creations.

     In this episode, we take you through the creative journey behind the card deck’s design. From initial brainstorming sessions to the final camping-themed concept, we share the inspiration and artistic evolution that led to the deck’s unique aesthetic. Listen in as we recount personal stories and inspirations, and walk you through the practical steps of bringing our ideas to life with the help of industry giants like Bicycle.

    Finally, we discuss the innovative marking system we’ve developed for these cards, designed to enhance magic performances. We also introduce our free PDF guide and an interactive Zoom session, tailored for both beginners and seasoned magicians. With our Kickstarter campaign well underway, we emphasize the importance of community support to make this project a reality and share our excitement for the upcoming launch. Don’t miss out on this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Campers Playing Cards!

    Card Deck Launch Behind the Scenes 

    We welcome back Ben Train to Discourse in Magic, where we shift our focus from magic performances to the exciting launch of our new project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our personal motivations behind creating a deck of cards, touching on our shared love for playing cards and our desire to contribute something tangible to the magic community. We discuss the functional enhancements we’ve included to make these cards more versatile for magicians, as well as the benefits of having custom decks for events, gifts, and personal use. Additionally, we reflect on the joy of seeing others use our creations and the practical aspects of distributing something that truly represents our brand.

    Design Inspiration for Card Deck 

    We take us on a journey through the creative process behind designing a unique deck of playing cards. We explore the initial motivation for creating the cards, emphasizing the importance of having a clear purpose and concept. The discussion reveals the inspiration and brainstorming sessions that led to the final camping-themed design. Along the way, we recount how initial ideas, such as using a spray paint can or a dog shaking off water, evolved into the concept of using reflections in water for a naturally symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing back design. The narrative also touches on personal inspirations, like a commissioned artwork of a woman blowing dandelions, before settling on the final concept. Finally, we highlight the practical steps involved in bringing these ideas to life with the help of companies like Bicycle.

    Deck of Cards Aesthetic Design Discussion 

    We explore the essential qualities of a perfect deck of cards for magic and cardistry. We discuss the importance of reflective back designs that maintain consistency across the deck, while avoiding symmetrical patterns that reveal reversed cards. Borders, particularly white ones, are a dealbreaker due to their potential to reveal card orientation and fraying issues. The color scheme for card faces should stick closely to traditional black and red for clarity, avoiding confusing variations. We emphasize the need for recognizable and distinguishable royal cards to facilitate easy performance and gameplay. Additionally, the aesthetics of a deck play a crucial role, as the design should resonate personally and fit various contexts, whether matching an outfit or evoking nostalgia. Lastly, we touch on our own approach to creating a deck that meets these criteria, encouraging listeners to check out our Kickstarter for visual details.

    Magician’s Guide and Camping Tricks 

    We reveal our offer for a free PDF, “The Magician’s Guide to Camping and Card Tricks,” which is tailored for beginners and laypeople, providing instructions on card tricks, marking systems, and camping games. We discuss the interactive Zoom video session where we will perform, teach, and engage in a Q&A, ensuring a tailored experience based on the attendees. Additionally, we introduce our premium $1,000 package, which includes two bricks of cards, the PDF, Zoom call, uncut sheet, recording of the session, and an exclusive all-expenses-covered cottage trip (excluding flight) with us and special guests, designed for an immersive magic experience with great amenities and magic jams.

    Mentions

    https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/torontomagiccompany/campers-playing-cards
    https://www.instagram.com/train.ben/

     

    The post The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    12 September 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 1 hour 8 minutes
    The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold

    Magician, comedian, and consultant Bruce Gold joins us for an enthralling chat about his dynamic journey from a childhood fascination with magic to an influential career in Hollywood. Starting with a magic set he received as a kid, Bruce shares his path through the comedy club scene, where he learned invaluable lessons by observing both triumphs and failures. He talks about the gritty reality of being overworked and underpaid in the early stages of a performer’s career, emphasizing how these experiences helped shape his unique style that blends magic and comedy.

    Transitioning from the comedy club circuit to the Hollywood entertainment industry posed numerous challenges for Bruce, which he navigated through relentless networking and adaptability. He shares personal anecdotes about the balancing act of performing magic and stand-up, finding an agent, and eventually carving out a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This part of the conversation sheds light on the perseverance required to make a sustainable living as a performer, and the strategic choices necessary to avoid being typecast in an industry that often discourages showcasing a diverse skill set.

    As the discussion progresses, Bruce delves into the evolution of magic performance, the significance of originality, and the art of developing a compelling stage persona. From the choreographed elegance of Doug Henning to the gritty street magic of David Blaine, Bruce offers a fascinating perspective on how magic has transformed over the years. He shares insights from his role as a talent booker for Franz Harary‘s House of Magic in Macau and provides practical advice on maintaining audience engagement and refining acts. Wrapping up, Bruce highlights the success of his coaching clients and encourages aspiring magicians and comedians to reach out for consulting sessions, underscoring the value of continuous improvement and mentorship in the entertainment world.

    Transitioning From Comedy Clubs to Hollywood 

    Explore the intricate journey of transitioning from being seen as a magician to establishing a financially sustainable career as an actor and comedian. We discuss the challenges faced when first moving to California, where advice often discourages showcasing magic skills to avoid being typecast. By sharing personal experiences, including keeping magic on the down low, performing at comedy clubs, and gradually securing gigs through diligent networking, we uncover the hurdles and strategies for making a living in the entertainment industry. The narrative covers the balance of performing both magic and standup, landing an agent, hosting pilots and game shows, and ultimately finding a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This chapter provides insights into the perseverance and adaptability required to thrive as a performer in Hollywood.

     

    Developing Originality and Persona in Magic 

    We discuss the evolution of magic performance, highlighting the shift from the clean, choreographed styles of Doug Henning and David Copperfield to David Blaine’s gritty, urban street magic. We examine the importance of originality in magic, emphasizing how a unique persona like Lucy Darling‘s can make familiar tricks feel fresh. The discussion underscores the role of character in both magic and acting, noting that developing a stage persona is a journey of self-discovery influenced by admired figures. Additionally, I share insights on coaching magicians, identifying common gaps such as reliance on rote performance and encouraging choices that maximize engagement and entertainment. We also touch on exercises to help magicians find their unique style by comparing themselves to other performers.

     

    Maximizing Audience Engagement Through Performance 

    This chapter focuses on the unique perspective of a performance coach, highlighting the crucial role of external observation in enhancing a performer’s act. We explore how creators, deeply immersed in their work, often miss elements visible to an audience, and how having a trusted outsider can reveal these hidden aspects. Techniques for maintaining audience engagement are discussed, including the “IU” storytelling method, which encourages audience participation and connection. Additionally, we address the importance of viewing the audience as individuals rather than a collective group, and the significance of direct eye contact in fostering a stronger connection. Practical advice for performers, especially those transitioning from close-up magic to stage performance, is also provided to help them understand and master stagecraft.

     

    Endless Chain

    Christopher Hart 

    Jonathan Levit

     

    Mentions

    https://www.facebook.com/BGoldTV/

    https://www.instagram.com/brucegold/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-gold-92653a59/

    The post The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    5 September 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 13 minutes 16 seconds
    Why Not Corporate?

    Learn how to diversify your magic career and discover why corporate gigs might not be the golden ticket they’re often made out to be. Join host Jonah Babins as he guides you through the captivating world of alternative markets for magicians in this episode of Discourse in Magic. We’ll dissect the allure of corporate events and uncover the real challenges that come with them, from their seasonal nature to the complexities of rebooking. This is an eye-opener for anyone who believes that corporate shows are the pinnacle of a magician’s career.

    But that’s not all—we’ll broaden your horizons by exploring other lucrative avenues. Imagine securing a restaurant residency with nightly performances, or entertaining at weddings where magic makes the evening unforgettable. Theaters offer the chance to perform for large audiences, often with impressive earnings, while colleges provide vibrant and enthusiastic crowds. House parties can lead to multiple bookings, and performing at religious establishments like churches and synagogues opens up yet another realm of possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to think outside the corporate box and find success in diverse markets.

    Reasons for Performing at Corporate Events

    1. Bigger dollars for corporate events

    2. They are classy and awesome looking events

    3. They feel great

    Reasons for Not Performing at Corporate Events

    1. The gigs are inconsistent

    2. They want a new show every time

    3. Endless logistics to manage

    The post Why Not Corporate? appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    29 August 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 1 hour 4 minutes
    Trade Show Magic with Danny Orleans

    Unlock the secrets of trade show magic with Danny Orleans, a master magician whose career spans from children’s theater to corporate stages. You’ll gain actionable insights into how Danny transitioned from performing at kids’ birthday parties to captivating professional audiences at trade shows. Listen as he shares his journey, highlighting key strategies and influential mentors like Eugene Berger and Paul Gertner who helped shape his career.

    Discover the often-overlooked opportunities in trade show magic, and learn how Danny navigated this niche market to secure and maintain high-profile bookings. From his initial break with a Canadian printer company to his successful techniques for integrating marketing messages with magic routines, Danny offers invaluable advice for magicians aspiring to thrive in the trade show arena. This episode is packed with tips on using technology for lead capture and the importance of blending seamlessly into the business environment.

    Finally, we discuss the evolving landscape of modern magic, including the impact of social media and televised magic shows on the industry. Danny shares his thoughts on the challenges of performing in high-stakes environments like trade shows, where rejection is common and resilience is key. Additionally, you’ll hear about quality resources and communities, like a dedicated Facebook group, that can support your growth in trade show magic. Whether you’re a budding magician or a seasoned performer, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice.

    Trade Show Magic

    Danny Orleans is  a versatile magician renowned for his expertise in trade show magic.. Danny discusses the challenges and strategies for making a career in magic, highlighting his early successes and the affordability of education and living costs in the past. We explore his journey from birthday parties to becoming a professional magician, emphasizing the opportunities in trade show magic and providing insights into marketing and pricing for aspiring magicians.

    Successful Trade Show Magic Strategies 

    We focus on the unique attributes and strategies of successful trade show magicians. We discuss how integrating seamlessly into the business environment, both in appearance and demeanor, is crucial for attracting corporate clients. The conversation highlights the importance of blending a marketing message with magic routines to captivate and qualify leads without overwhelming the audience. 

    Secrets of Trade Show Magic

    We examine the evolution of magic tricks and the practicality of incorporating them into a magician’s repertoire. We explore the criteria for evaluating a magic trick’s effectiveness, such as its ease of use, portability, and suitability for various performance settings like Instagram or live gigs. Additionally, we discuss the importance of understanding the intended audience and context when purchasing magic tricks. 

    Endless Chain

    Jan Rose
    Leah Orleans

    Mentions

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/tradeshowperformers
    http://dannyorleansmagic.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/dannyorleans/

    The post Trade Show Magic with Danny Orleans appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    22 August 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 8 minutes 32 seconds
    How to Start Getting Gigs
    1. What if you could transform your passion for magic into a steady stream of gigs without quitting your day job? On this episode of Discourse in Magic, join me, Jonah Babins, as I reveal the secrets to getting your first paid magic performances. We’ll dissect the three pillars of a successful magician’s business: establishing authority, mastering basic sales techniques, and generating leads. Learn how to create proof of your magical prowess with just a simple webpage or PDF, and understand the critical role of photos, testimonials, and logos in building your credibility.

    Tune in to discover creative, actionable strategies to gather the all-important proof of your skills, even if you’ve never performed professionally before. From calling in favors to performing free shows, I’ll guide you through leveraging your network effectively. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to book their first gigs and lay down the foundation for a successful career in magic. Whether you’re an aspiring magician or looking to refine your booking approach, this episode offers invaluable tips and confidence to help you shine.

    Three critical components:

    1. Authority: Establish credibility with photos, testimonials, and logos from past performances.
    2. Sales: Convert inquiries into bookings with basic sales techniques and reasonable pricing to build momentum.
    3. Leads: Generate opportunities through cold emailing potential venues and using gig sites.

    Jonah encourages new magicians to take proactive steps, build a portfolio, and reach out for help if needed, aiming to inspire and assist them in launching their magic careers.

    The post How to Start Getting Gigs appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    15 August 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 1 hour 21 minutes
    Captivating Audiences with Chris Michael

    Prepare to be amazed as we sit down with the extraordinary magician, Chris Michael! From his early days inspired by a local librarian magician to captivating audiences at high-profile corporate events, Chris’s journey is nothing short of magical. He shares heartfelt stories about the emotional bonds formed through magic, particularly with his mother, and offers aspiring magicians invaluable advice on securing gigs and captivating audiences with charisma and close-up magic.

    Chris reveals the power of storytelling in his craft, emphasizing how compelling, truthful narratives from one’s life can create memorable connections with the audience. By sharing vivid childhood memories and encounters with famous magicians, Chris illustrates how these stories enhance a magician’s persona and engagement. The episode also dives into the business side of magic, exploring strategies for recognizing and capitalizing on the true value of a magician’s craft, building genuine relationships, and growing a strong support team.

    Magician’s Journey and Impact on Audience 

    Exploree the journey of Chris Michael, an extraordinary magician whose career has skyrocketed over the past decade. We discuss his humble beginnings, from being inspired by a local librarian magician named Jester Jim to learning tricks from his grandfather and uncle. Chris shares a touching story about how magic helped him bond with his mother, revealing the deeper emotional connections that magic can foster. Additionally, we cover the evolution of his career from local and library shows to high-profile corporate events, offering invaluable insights for aspiring magicians on how to secure gigs and captivate audiences with charisma and close-up magic.

    Enhancing Stage Presence and Connection 

    Chris offers practical advice for magicians looking to enhance their stage presence and charisma. We explore the importance of delivery in magic performances, emphasizing the need for clarity and self-awareness. Drawing from personal experience and insights from working with directors like Scott Neary, we highlight the significance of appearing seasoned and composed on stage. Through relatable anecdotes, such as an unexpected Carly Rae Jepsen performance and a challenging live auction at the Embassy of Argentina, we illustrate the value of addressing audience concerns directly and maintaining honesty during unexpected situations. By setting clear expectations and acknowledging any mishaps, magicians can create a more engaging and authentic experience for their audience.

    Building Relationships and Growing Teams 

    The importance of building genuine relationships in business, particularly through casual, friendly interactions rather than immediately focusing on transactions. Chris share strategies on how to remember personal details about people, maintain connections, and make others feel valued. We discuss the role of teamwork, emphasizing the need to hire help, even when it seems financially challenging, to grow the business. By creating a seamless blend between professional and personal interactions, I highlight how clients can become friends and how this approach fosters long-term success. Additionally, we touch on the logistical aspects of managing contacts and leveraging a CRM system, facilitated by gis team to ensure efficient follow-up and relationship management.

    Creative Fulfillment in Modern Magic 

    Chris’s creative journey as a magician who transitions from feeling cathartic fulfillment in performing a repeated story to seeking new projects. We discuss the distinct experiences between theater and corporate shows and the evolving role of technology in modern magic. There’s a love-hate relationship with technology’s impact on magic tricks, particularly with updates from companies like Apple.

    Endless Chain

    Eric Jones

    Mentions

    https://chrismikemagic.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/chrismikemagic/

     

    The post Captivating Audiences with Chris Michael appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    8 August 2024, 9:00 pm
  • 9 minutes 11 seconds
    Touring and Cold Emails

    Unlock the secrets to booking your own magic shows and lectures as you follow my whirlwind journey through August! In this episode of Discourse in Magic I’ll take you on a thrilling tour that begins at the Magic Live convention in Las Vegas, sweeps through a performance in LA, includes a business convention in Fiji, and features lectures in both Sydney and Melbourne. Whether you’re just curious about life on the road as a magician or looking to share tricks and drinks with me along the way, there’s something magical here for everyone.

    But that’s not all! I’ll also reveal my tried-and-true strategies for booking gigs through the power of cold emails. Learn step-by-step how to connect with lecture clubs and venue owners, showcasing your past experiences and marketing materials to secure successful bookings. If you’re an aspiring magician eager to expand your reach or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a magic tour, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider tips that are sure to enchant.

    Come Hang Out With Me!

    • I am going to be at the Magic Live convention in Las Vegas In LA, August 4-7, 2024.
    • Then I’m headed to LA to meet with a mastermind client and to do a show together August 9-11, 2024
    • Then I’m going to Fiji for a business conenvention.  If you’re Fijian we should hang out!
    • After Fiji I will be in Hawwaii for a business convention
    • FInally I will by in Sydney and Melbourne for a lecture in each of those cities.

    3 Things to Start Sending Cold Emails

    • You need proof, something to actually send them.
    • Send is context of other examples that you’ve done that.
    • You need who to send the stuff to.

    Links

    Email me at Magic(at)TorontoMagicCompany(dot)com if you want to connect!

    The post Touring and Cold Emails appeared first on Discourse in Magic.

    1 August 2024, 9:00 pm
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