Thank you for the kind words UFO. I really appreciate it. There is some really nice thoughts posted here and I think everyone for contributing. I just feel us magicians fall in love with ourselves. By this I mean we end up performing for ourselves and we often times forget the audience is there. We learn all these great moves so we feel we have to showcase everyone of them. Instead, we shopuld realize that the magic is ALWAYS about and for our audiences. We must realize that the magic and manipulative acts we create should use the moves as tools in which to create this entertainment value.

Kyle

Kyle hit it right on the nail - magicians tend to focus on techniques, props and gadgets rather than the magic effects, presentation and the magic moment for the audience.

Thanks Kyle

You are most welcome James. It is my goal to always get magicians to start thinking outwardly instead of always looking inwards at magic for ideas. I know that each and every magician reading this or that is out there, has the ability to be creative and different. We just need to learn who our audience really is and me reminded that we owe it to ourselves and to them to take the time to create entertaining magic.

Kyle

I think the best multiplying ball routine I have seen is from the french magician Norbert Ferre. I wouldn't spoil it for those of you who haven't seen his act. This guy has such a unique style and his hands are the same size as mine. I was making excuses to him that my hands weren't big enough for manipulation and ball work then I measured mine against his and was so suprised, with such small hands he can do wonderful stuff.
If you search you tube, he had downloaded some videos which contain part of his fism winning act.
I also have a great booklet about Ron McMillians routine, I can't remember the name so I'll try and get back to you on that one,


Diane

Yes, Norbert Ferre has a amazing routine....and I'm guessing that you met him, Dizzy?

Ron McMillians routine is pretty good, but he does use some unusual holders which makes it pretty inaccessible to the beginner. The booklet is called "Symphany of the Spheres".

Better is Geofrey Buckinghams book "It's Easier Than You Think" (legend!), and also the Buckley Book "Principles and Deceptions" which teaches all solid ball, up to 8 routine, and a whole load of moves, and a great theory section too.

Good luck,
Paul
(It seems we talk about which balls and material over and over......)

I've known Norbert for quite a few years now, we had lunch last Monday morning after the Bristol convention, he's a great guy. A few years ago at the magic circle celebrations, I managed to see some of Norbert's ball mulipulation close-up, it was amazing. We had been drinking all night and he still managed to come up with the goods. Florian Zimmer also has some ball manipulation in his act, it's a very hip up to date act, he should also be on youtube if you search.

I nearly forgot, don't know how but did anyone see the guy who performed a whole act on ball manipulation in his underwear at fism?
Diane