In your opinion, when do you feel that one could call him or herself a magician and not just someone who knows a few tricks and sleight of hand moves? Does one have to be a paid performer to be a magician? Does he have to contribute great new things like Dai Vernon? Or does he qualify as someone who loves magic as an art form and enjoys learning the tricks and routines in an effort to amaze and entertain people?

I would suggest that your quest not be as a magician, heck anybody can call themselves that; but rather when can you call yourself an entertainer?

Anyone can do tricks, as the saying goes, "Tricks are best left to dogs and ladies of the evening!" An entertainer will create a mood/atmosphere that engulfs that which they are presenting. A trickster will only present a challenge to the audience.

Remember, if we could really do this "stuff" there would be no need for all the magic manufacturers out there!

You will know when you have arrived by the reaction that you get from your audiences. I have always felt that the open mouth, stunned expression was always a good register for feedback.

Make any sense? Break a leg!

Cheers!

Great post Stanyon.

The biggest mistake made by beginners is thinking magic is all about tricks. The true magic is entertaining.