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RisingManipulator New user California 1 Post |
My name is Josh and I have been doing magic for 10 years. I am currently 17 years of age.
About a week ago I went to Las Vegas and talked to a magician there. I told him how I was interested in building illusions and interested in stagework. (I normally work at children's parties or doing close-up at corporate events or restaurants.) He told me that the best way to get started in the business is to find a magician that would be willing to let me go with him/her on tour and learn the ropes of putting together and working a stage performance. He said that I could be the assistant who rolls the props on and off stage or works the backstage, something to get me understanding the basics. If anyone out there could please help me or point me in a direction I would greatly appreciate it. I don't want anyone to think that I am just trying to learn the secrets of their illusions, because that's not what I hope for. I hope to get the knowledge that I need in putting together a stage act and going on tour so that I can someday have my own show. I figure that if I start young, when I get older I will be able to make a career out of it. Please if there is anyone out there I would greatly appreciate your help. Sincerely, Josh CardManipul8er@aol.com |
knightmagic98 Regular user Frisco, TX 143 Posts |
Josh,
I agree that travelling with an illusionist can be a great way to learn about the trade and get real hands-on experience before venturing out on your own. However, I must make this statement, it takes a very special person to do this. It is a highly humbling experience, especially if you already are establishing yourself in the field. You will fight a constant battle of wanting to be in the spotlight and remembering what your purpose and reason is for being in your position. The illusionist always comes first. Your skills can be honed and refined through the process but that is always after you have completed your obligation. If you are truly willing to go through all of that, feel free to PM me and I will TRY to help you out. Also, if you have any specific/further questions, please drop me a note. |
Great Scot New user Bellows Falls, VT USA 58 Posts |
Quote:
On 2003-07-24 21:23, RisingManipulator wrote: Josh, I would be interested in talking to you, please PM me. How will going on tour affect your school work and other life? Are you willing to be on the road full time? I am looking for an assitant to go to shows with me since I am handicapped and need help, but there is a lot to being an assitant and it is a commitment. Think hard about it, there are places to learn and if I can help you out, I will be happy to do so.
The Great Scot, Bardic Magician
Bringing Magic To People's Lives http://www.greatscotmagic.com. Stuart Joseph, 802-463-1954 Bellows Falls VT |
King Of Pop Veteran user Estonia 392 Posts |
Seams to be nice offer, but aren't you like a cheap worker for the magician? Think about it. Ask what does he wants from you and after that you can give him your demands!
:goodluck:
God Bless You, I Love You From The Bottom Of My Heart
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Steve Pellegrino Loyal user 224 Posts |
I have come in very late in this thread, however, if anyone is reading, I'll give my advice. Anytime I hear that someone wants to go into illusions or thinks they have any aspirations of being an illusionist, my first piece of advice is to go work for another illusionist. Give up your own magic career for at least one year and find an illusionist to work for. That year will be the best education you will ever get.
When I was about 12, I saw Doug Henning live and wanted to do what he was doing—I wanted that big illusion show. I was very fortunate years later to work for David Copperfield for two years. After my first few months working with Copperfield, I knew I didn't want to do illusions! Because of my experience with Copperfield, I have worked for other illusionists such as Blackstone and Kirby VanBurch. Even though I was working with not only the best performers and the best props money could buy, I was more than happy to do a one man show. It's easier than you think to get a job with an illusionist and is well worth the investment in your time and effort to see if that is the right path for you. |
Murray Hatfield Regular user Canada 150 Posts |
Hi Steve,
Thanks for some wise words from someone who's been there. I too worked as an assistant in my early years (although not for such as Copperfield or Van Burch) and I chose to continue on the "illusion route". My only addition to your post is that it may seem to many young up and coming magicians that being an illusionist is the only way to go but in real truth it can be easier, faster and much less damaging to your body to make a living as a "briefcase act". What I mean is a guy doing great magic that fits in your pockets or a small valise as opposed to a semi-tractor. Some of the wealthiest and busiest magicians in the world are the guys you've never heard of. Just a thought... |
Dayanara New user Michigan 64 Posts |
I agree with all the guys, and I'm only the Dance Queen.
Seriously though, if you want to be a magician, learn from a magician. If you want to be an assistant, watch them rehearse (&/or dance). If a parent can teach a child to be a normal human, than certainly a magician can teach you what you need to know. That's how the old practice of apprenticing got started. Good luck! |
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