Hi everyone,
I'm Justin
I'm not sure I can call myself a magician or anything. I've enjoyed magic since I was a kid and presently have a successful job as a software developer. But I do love magic and spend far more than I probably should buying tricks and gimmicks since I don't perform. I would like to perform but I'm just not sure how to get there. I'm also interested in designing tricks and routines, not that I have anything worth showing as of yet.

Welcome, Justin.

Avoid the gimmicks, buy the books/Ebooks of magicians you like. Ask yourself "what areas of magic do I enjoy most," and focus on that.

I'm just a humble hobbyist, but card magic is what I like to watch, so that's what I like to learn.


There's some awesome pros on here, who've forgotten more than I could ever know. So, take what I say with a grain of salt.


Brian

JustinF

Welcome to the magic Café forum. I imagine we all spend too much on magic. You are in good company
.

Welcome JustinF,

Not everyone here performs.

That said, there is nothing quite like performing a trick to really understand a trick. A lot of being a good Magician is using the Magic to connect with people. Imagine a friendly audience as you practice. Also imagine being more concerned about how your Magic elevates their day rather than how to impress them.

Lots of skilled technicians don't connect and don't entertain as they hope to.

Everyone has to jump in at some point. I've had my share of poor performances (one of them recently). I lived and the people watching were very kind. They really do want you to succeed.
Audiences aren't that scary.

Practice till you feel ready and run it by a couple of friends. How would you approach the subject for a larger group, jump in and offer? Ask a friend to ask you to do a trick they liked for a few more friends?
Where will you get the props from and how will you put it away. One trick is enough for your first foray.

Best of luck for starting your new year off right.

-Mary Mowder