I'm a fairly experienced magician, but I'm just starting to delve into the area of large stage illusions. As such, I have a few novice-type questions for everyone. Are certain builders better than others? Are certain illusions best bought from certain builders? What's the best way to "investigate" an illusion before making a buying decision (above and beyond posting a question on the Café, although this is extremely helpful)? Are there any showrooms where customers can examine the quality and make of an illusion? Thanks for any tips or suggestions you may have.

Kent

I don't know where you're located, but many here on the Café' have come to my shop to see my work. I'm in Indpls In, and you are welcomed any time, or call me to discuss your needs.

Jack
317-508-7355

I want to add to that question is there any builders directory out there and there locations?

Go to: magicauction.com....."known builder" and click on "Illusion hotline".
There you will see a list of known builders.

Jack

http://magicauction.com/IllusionHotline/IllusionHotline.html

here is the link Jack is talking about. Great place to start your research.

http://www.zigmont.com/indexold.html

Go down to the bottom link and click on resource for magicians. Steve did a amazing job on this page.

Michael

Hi Jack,

Thanks for the response. I'm way up here in Western Canada and so, I may not be able to drop in as often as I would like to. I will, however, likely take you up on your offer to give you a call from time to time.

Kent

P.S.
Another question that just came to mind: Does anyone know of any builders or dealers of large scale illusions that I should avoid? I know that's a loaded question and I don't want to offend anybody or cause a controversy. A private message may be the most appropriate response. Thanks.

I would look up the magic dealers association. Also reference some of the magic magazines out there. there is always a lot of things for sale.

Yeah...if you hear the name Billy Diamond run as far away as possible.

Well I think he is plenty far away from him.

Great people to work with that are part of this Café that ARE great builders:

Jack Murry - Dream Illusions http://dream-illusions.com/
Michelangelo - Magic Works http://illusionist.net/

For the Designers:
Mark Parker - 4 Effects http://www.4-effect.com/
Michelangelo - Magic Works http://illusionist.net/
JC Sum - http://www.illusionbooks.com

And there are several others. But these are the ones that everyone goes to

Michael

Hi Kent,

An excellent builder is right here in Canada ( Toronto area )

http://www.magicmakersillusions.com

You can order a video of his creations being performed. This guy builds pro stuff. I have seen his work first hand.

Best,

Tim

Ryan Reed is one of my favourite thinkers in the field of Illusion Design and Concept Creation. Adamant Design

Another great choice.

Here are two more that are part of the Café:

Peter Loughran from Master of Illusions http://masterofillusions.ca/

Chance Wolf of Wolf Magic http://www.wolfsmagic.com/

Michael

Wow!! Thanks for all the leads, but if you don't mind me asking, what is the difference between a builder and a designer? Does a designer build as well or are the two fields mutually exclusive?

Kent

Many builders design effects as well, but concentrate on the building aspect. Most designers don't build, however some do. Both are very demanding in time and labor, so many times it takes both to bring an idea to life.

Jack