I'm a lifelong magic enthusiast who, just this year, has finally taken the leap and decided to stop being a spectator and started learning to perform. This year, for my birthday, my incredibly supportive girlfriend went above and beyond the call of duty and bought me a series of classes at The Magic Castle. I'd appreciate it if anyone would be willing to share their experiences taking these classes. What's covered in the classes? How many students typically attend? I'm sure I'll enjoy them, no matter what, but I'm looking forward to hearing more about them.

Cheers!

-Chris

Chris:

You are in for a real treat. David Thorsen, who teaches the classes is an old and dear friend and a terrific teacher. Personally, I wouldn't try to find out too much of what is going to happen. Just take it as it comes.

Have fun and say hi to Dave for me.

Brad:

Excellent advice.

September (when classes begin) can't come soon enough.

-Chris

Wow, that's some Birthday Present!!!

Fantastic Birthday present. I have been a member of the Magic Castle for many years. I can guarantee that any training you receive from this Mecca for magicians will be worth every penny your girlfriend invested. Yes! INVESTED. This is not an expenditure.

Ray

Even as a member of the Magic Castle, I'm extremely jealous. They just didn't have these kinds of opportunity when I was getting into magic. And you can't ask for a more inspiring environment in which to learn.

Kent

I'm incredibly excited! Does anyone know if the Castle offers continuing classes or even a mentorship program after I've taken entry-level ones? At 37 I'm a latecomer to magic, but this is absolutely something that I'm dedicated to becoming a lifelong learner of. Any advice on how / who / and where I can get additional assistance? My library is already overflowing with magic books, but I find that I tend to learn best by working with others.

Local magic clubs are a good place to start. You'll meet other magicians and should be able to start a network. Something I should be doing more of Here's a link to the IBM website
http://www.magician.org/portal/ibm_localrings/California