On 2011-08-13 23:04, steven-gibson wrote:
Congratulations Thomas! I posted the following in Spooky, maybe it will be of some benefit here as well :

I believe I have something to offer here. Jon asked how do you get prepared for that first show, and that is an excellent question. After all, a seance, bizarre presentation is not just a parade of tricks presented one after another. At least a good one is not. So practicing effects is necessary, not really enough. As many have mentioned, it is a good idea to COMPLETELY script your show. I couldn't agree more. Here is what I do:
1) Write an introduction and an outline of effects that will be used.
2} Flesh that out to include every word you plan on saying in your presentation. As a point of reference, every typed page should take about 2 minutes to perform (That works for me as a rule of thumb). IE, for a 1 hour show, my script is usually 30 pages (well spaced). Do this on the computer, so you can make changes without starting over.
3) Next, record yourself performing. I have a great mic hooked to my computer. I use a Blue Yeti ($100ish) and the program is Audacity (free download). Play your background music and have all your props handy. Read the entire performance and concentrate on your vocal performance.
4) Burn to CD and play it in your car as you drive around. Also keep a small digital voice recorder in your car. You will hear things that you don't like in your performance. Make a quick note on the recorder.
5) Take you recorded notes and make changes to your script to improve all the weak spots.
6) Do the recording again and make a new CD. I will do this up to 10 times before I get a perfect script. And guess what, by the time you have done all this, you have that script down COLD!
7) Assuming you can perform all your effects, it is time to move on to video. Record yourself on video with full costume, lighting, effects, etc. Have a friend be your spec for every routine.
8) Watch the video and see what is weak and fix it.
9) You are ready to invite a group of friend for a free show. If the response is strong, you have a show! If not, work on it and keep trying! This is a good deal of work, but if you really care about your art, the rewards are far greater than just money!

On 2011-08-14 01:09, Decomposed wrote:
Good one Eric, hey Thomas. Did you really hypnotize the girl or was a psuedo stunt? Just curious.

Decomposing after Midnight