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DWRackley Inner circle Chattanooga, TN 1909 Posts |
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On 2011-05-09 12:17, bevbevvybev wrote: Oh, My! I’m still laughing out loud from this one! My kids think I’ve lost the rest of my mind! Thank you for an outright belly-laugh! To the O.P. You will quickly notice that SOME posters here have “issues” that really don’t apply to anyone but themselves. They are generally given the respect they deserve (and often a bit more). Mentalism can be broken down into a few (not many) different schools of thought, and overall has the power to touch people in a far more intimate way than “performance magic” ever could, even though some of the same techniques may (or may not) be employed. There are the magicians, who simply want to add the display of mental prowess to an otherwise fantastic presentation. They have their place, and they are usually recognized as being entertainers. There are mentalists who might (again, or might not) use some of the tools of a magician to create the illusion of being able to read minds and predict the future. Most intelligent audiences also recognize this as performance, even though (because of the intimacy involved) they may entertain the possibility of it being “real” (whatever THAT means!) There are also the readers, who employ few or no tricks or gaffs beyond their own (hopefully) well studied knowledge of human nature to impress and assist others to find meaning in this often chaotic system which has become modern life. Many performers flow quite freely along a particular range of this spectrum, while others stay within a very narrow band. Still others simply sit on the sidelines and throw commentary (often derogatory) toward anyone who doesn’t follow their particular school of thought. You’ll recognize the professionals in this forum by their attitude of serving the audience first, as well as an acknowledgement that others have a right to exist, even if under a different label. The Skeptics (and I’ve never really figured out why they’re here) think that everything should be an obvious game. Their “concern” for the weak minded audience members is belied by the simple fact that practically no one on this board even KNOWS of anyone who “takes advantage” of the foolish; one is left to wonder about the eyes through which they see the world. I’m also quite impressed by the sheer arrogance of a belief that nothing can exist unless it is observable by the approved five senses. Within these admittedly subjective definitions, the scale of performances can be as varied as any other type of magic, from stage to parlour/living room to close-up. Many stage effects can be leveled down, and close-up can often be scaled up. The enjoyment of mentalism by the audience is largely a function of the simple fact that it is (or can be) quite personal. A truth of human nature is that we like to hear things about ourselves. Also, while magic is generally viewed as being blatantly implausible, mentalism leaves the spectators with some amount of uncertainty as to the possible reality of whatever they’ve just witnessed. The single biggest hurdle in transitioning from magician to mentalist seems to be in the dynamics of the performance. While mentalism does have its “TA DA” moments, there is considerably less “flash” and considerably more “epiphany”. Mentalism tends to be more subtle, and appeals (in general) to a more intellectually mature audience (although there are a few routines that will engage younger spectators as well.) Some magicians begin the journey toward mentalism and find that their place of comfort lies somewhere just prior to full commitment to the mentalist persona, and that’s ok, too. As long as the audience is entertained, and they understand and are satisfied with the nature of the performance, as I’ve heard it said, “It’s all good!” Welcome to the mine field! If you can survive more than a few weeks without offending or getting flamed, you must be a MIND READER! The above comments are the opinions of the poster. The Magic Café, Steve Brooks, or no one else is responsible for its contents. This product is meant for educational purposes only. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Use only as directed. Your results may vary. Void where prohibited. For recreational use only. No purchase necessary. Use only in well-ventilated area.
...what if I could read your mind?
Chattanooga's Premier Mentalist Donatelli and Company at ChattanoogaPerformers.com also on FaceBook |
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Pakar Ilusi Inner circle 5777 Posts |
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On 2011-05-09 02:10, Smoking Camel wrote: I've found this to be stronger... Magic - "How did you do that?" Mentalism - "How did I know that?"
"Dreams aren't a matter of Chance but a matter of Choice." -DC-
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bevbevvybev Inner circle UK 2672 Posts |
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On 2011-05-09 22:42, DWRackley wrote: My pleasure. Nice post by the way. Definitely not part of the festival. |
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IAIN Eternal Order england 18807 Posts |
Can I buy a ticket to the twatfest, or am I guest of honour again?
I've asked to be banned
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Anthony Jacquin Inner circle UK 2220 Posts |
There was a Nobfest in Derbyshire this weekend. You were sadly missed.
Anthony Jacquin
Reality is Plastic! The Art of Impromptu Hypnosis Updated for 2016 Now on Kindle and Audible! |
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Anthony Jacquin Inner circle UK 2220 Posts |
James Tripp got asked this exact question at last years change |phenomena Conference.
His answer got a good laugh. 'Mentalism - it's magic but the magician behaves like it is real'. Anthony
Anthony Jacquin
Reality is Plastic! The Art of Impromptu Hypnosis Updated for 2016 Now on Kindle and Audible! |
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bevbevvybev Inner circle UK 2672 Posts |
IAIN - If you'd be so kind to do it all over again this year I'm sure you'd be more than welcome
ANTHONY - hilariously I mis-read your post before and thought you'd written 'Mentalism - it's magic but the magician behaves like he's a ....' As a mentalist I can say that it's possible some of the time no doubt. |
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Shrubsole Inner circle Kent, England 2455 Posts |
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On 2011-05-10 11:24, Anthony Jacquin wrote: :lol: Nice one! Sometimes it's hard to tell who is deluding themselves more, the audience or the magician err umm I mean Psychic/mind reader.
Winner of the Dumbringer Award for total incompetence. (All years)
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Dick Christian Inner circle Northern Virginia (Metro DC) 2619 Posts |
A nod of the head, a gracious bow, a round of applause and a sincere "Thank you" to DWRackley for one of be most eloquent, cogent, and comprehensive dissertations on a multi-faceted and often arcane subject that I've seen on the Café. He's managed to cover just about all of the bases in a very understandable manner while showing due respect for those at all points on the spectrum.
I can't think of anything worth adding.
Dick Christian
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Shrubsole Inner circle Kent, England 2455 Posts |
Yes all whilst insulting people and looking down his nose to all who disagree with him!
Winner of the Dumbringer Award for total incompetence. (All years)
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David Thiel Inner circle Western Canada...where all that oil is 4005 Posts |
LOL...geez...you guys.
Magician: "You got paid HOW MUCH? And you don't even have any fricking props?" Mentalist: "I knew you were going to say that...." David
Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Except bears. Bears will kill you.
My books are here: www.magicpendulums.com www.MidnightMagicAndMentalism.com |
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Dick Christian Inner circle Northern Virginia (Metro DC) 2619 Posts |
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On 2011-05-10 15:11, Shrubsole wrote: Shrubsole, All I can say is that you and I must be reading different posts from Rackley. I've just read his commentary again and fail to find a single demeaning or derogatory sentiment expressed -- with the possible exception of the comment about those who prefer to stand on the sidelines and post snide/condescending slurs. As they say, "if the shoe fits . . ."
Dick Christian
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