Ask Jeff McBride

[Jeff McBride]

Hi Jeff, Brendon from last year's July Masterclass here!

I took your advice, and I've started working on a stage show, but I'm having difficulty in taking the next step.

How can I go about approaching a producer/director/someone who has a clue what the heck they're talking about, and is there anyone you could think of?

Thanks once again for an awesome experience at Masterclass, hope you and all are well

Brendon.

Greetings Brendon,

Good to hear that you are taking the next step. As for producers. It is bestt o have them see you live... that means setting up a showcase as having them watch your work. For many years I was the opening act for rock show headlines. Id did this by gettingto know the groups or the producers by hanging out where they went affter hours. It took many years of networking. My friend and sage Just Alan said," If you get to go to luch with them...then they will invite you to dinner, and that is where the deals are made".

Get out into the marketplace, theatres, nightclubs, casinos. Meet the people who are the movers and shakers in the industry. Meet them as people. Do not "sell" them. They will get to know you and after you have a relationship with them. Perform some close-up magic for them. Invite them to see a showcase of your live show.... showcasing takes a personal investment. Criss Angel was over at our Master Class last Saturday night. He shared his success story with our students. Criss invested all the money he made from his shows in a NYC showcase of his dream show MINDFREAK. He socialized in the evenings, met with the NYC movers and shakers and celebrities. They liked him and came to his showcase.
Then, his " soon to be manager", came to see the show and they created a successful relationship.

I tell many of my students that are looking for management that a good manager will find YOU if you are talented. Just go out in the world and make friends. Read books on networking, do favors for people, be proactive..the old saying goes "schmooze or lose'': ( schmooze is a 'Yiddish word for networking...For more info on this technique read Aye Jaye's book ,"The Golden Rule of Schmoozing." It has an intro by Penn from P&T)

Also,Jeffery Gittomer has many good motivational books on marketing, networking and sales.I redccomend them to you Brendon.

You also mentioned meeting a director. I have worked with Bob Fitch over the years and he is one of the very few tht understand theater, illusion and the demeands of a magic show. He has a camp and teaches workshops as well. Bob was one of our special guests at the original Mystery School. I have heard from some of my students that it is possible to create a relationship with local theaters by offering your services as a special effects consultant and magic director to theater groups is exchange for thier services giving you theatrical feedback on your show. But again you have to get out there and meet folks...and with your style Brendon, that will be no problem at all!

Pateince is power...it takes many years of investing time and money to create a successfull career in magic. You are in this art for many reasons...it is only one aspect of the art to build lasting relationships with friends, and allies in the business.

As for the question about a career and "building a show".

We asked Lance Burton this question last week when we took our Master Class on a backstage visit to Lance's dressing room after his show. Lance said that he built his show "one routine at a time". He started like just about any other kid magician. He had a birthday party/ family show. He worked on his classic dove , candle, card and floating cage act,... all the time that he was doing birthday parties. He did the same 12 min act for years at fairs, strip clubs, and magic conventions. Then he won a convention, the IBM Gold Medal. Important people saw him at theis awards show and he was on his way ( still only having 12 mins..but that was enough!)
*Lance works on his "core-act"
*Lance works parties and fairs..he keeps working on a competition act.
* Lance wins an IBM contest, and other magic shows wanted a winner
*Lance got booked on a magic show...Milt Larsen's "IT'S MAGIC" In Los
Angeles
* At the "IT'S MAGIC", Lance was seen by the producers of
"THE TONIGHT SHOW" with Johhny Carson ( a big talk show)
*Lance sent his tape of that TV show to a Casino,and gets a job doing 12
mins.
After the award he got a job in a casino. "The did the same"core-act"
act for YEARS. ... then he started working on ONE illusion...

"The Swordfight."

He worked on the swordfight for YEARS. Yes, just ONE illusion. He put that in his show and now had 12 mins plus one illusion. It was then he worked on ONE more illusion. He worked in this way for many more years until he built a one hour show.

Lance said that he sees many magicians that try to break in a full evening show, without having a strong "core act". He siad that he thought that trying to write and produce an entire evenings show is not the way he would do it.

Eugene Burger puts it this way..he says "Great magicians are created one routine at a time". Work on the core act..then add effects to your show. If you want to showcase and you don't have a full eveing, then split the showcase with other talented friends...perhaps a comedian, juggler, guitarist, or other unusal act. You do not have to do it alone!
Remeber ther is strength in numbers and to distribute the workload is a good thing in the beginning of building a full eveing show.

I hope to see you at another Master Class Brendon. Eugene and I might be doing one for Kenny at Kernow Magic in Cornwall next year. You can always reach me at my email for more details on how I can assist you in your magic.

I wish you the very best my friend!

Yours in mystery,

Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

Bonjour Jeff,

Here's Lawrens from France.
I studied some of your work through manipulation dvds, but I never be able to see you live...hope I will someday.

Your magic has always been inspirational for me, as your stagging and characters.

I'm in magic since a long time, but found my real prop just a year and a half ago: the cristal balls and the art of palmspining.

Being magical by themselves, I also apply to them magical treatments and ideas.

I will be really interested by your thoughts about those beautiful spheres, and the way you would treat them on stage if you had to.

Thank you very much,

Greetings/Bonjour Lawrens,

Thank you for your queston into the art of the crystal ball and it's manipulation in a magic act.

I believe "palmspinning" is another name for what we here in the USA now call "contact juggling".

Michael Moschen is the creator and master of this art. If I used any crystal ballmanipulation on stage. I would study his work and avoid duplicating or copying any of his material.

The great magician and inventor. Losander from Germany, now lives in Las Vegas. He has dvd's on floating bubble magic that I would reccomend to you. He has a website. Losander offers his material to the magic public...I do not think Michael Moschen offers his original manipulations to other artisits, and I respect him for it. Other performers have published Michael's techniques in books and dvd's and I feel sad for him. Iwill however tell you a true story.

In America there is a very fine close up magician ( his name will not appear here) He masterd the Michael Moshen moves and created his own routine with it. He got much notice in the magic community for his skill in this area of"contact juggling". After years of being torn about doing this act...(you see he felt a bit of guilt, for being "inspired" do do Mr Moschen's act) this man went to Michael Moshen to ask him permission and to get his blessings from him. When Michael Moschen said he did not feel good about this other man doing his act....the man did an amazing thing. He respected Mr Moschen's wishes and DROPPED DOING THE ACT! After all the years and many many hours it takes to perform these difficult and artistic manipulations, he felt that his artisitc integrity was worth more that the years he invested...Bravo!

Now, many 'contact jugglers" will jump up and down and say that Mr Moschen did not invent the form. I did however have the pleasure to travel and perform with Michael for many weeks a few years back, when we toured Germany with the legendary Francis Brunn. He shared his feelings with me about the explosion of imitators he has...many doing his act move for move. It is a shame to see an a true artist torured by his own creation of beauty.


*Yes, Micheal Moschen invented "contact juggling", and brought it to the genral public.
*others have created books and dvd'd, but this does not make it right to copy his act.


Be inspired, but do not copy!

In other areas of Crystal magic many props and sources ARE avaialable: to the aspiring crystal ball manipulator.

Losander has created many bubble effects. Vernet has new multiplying soap bubbles.

Martin Lewis has a new product on the magic market that will work with your act. He has a crysta ball that lets an audience participant reveal a chosen card by gazing into the ball.

I do use crystal balls on stage and in my shows. My passion these days is an old art called "crystal reading". I have been researching Burling Hull and other "gazers". Now this is not phyisical ball manip., but a form of "question and answer" act. Over the years I have develped a passion for the "oracle", that is hiding deep inside me!

Other thiings to remember:

In large halls the balls are often difficult to see and are better suted to smaller venues rather than arenas, unless you use image magnification technology,i.e. big screens and camers.

So Lawrens, I hope my answers where crystal clear, and I wish you the very best in your quest and encourage you to seek new directions in this area of creative effort!

I hope to be back in Paris one day soon to lecture and perform or to tape another episode of Le Plus Grand Cabaret du Monde!

Yours in mystery,

Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

hi jeff.. andrew here.. came down to see you in falmouth when you were doing the masterclass, although I didnt attend (if you remember my girlfriend ordered the tickets as she knew I'd always wanted to see you live, but not the masterclass - we're getting married now btw )

I have two questions really... firstly practice , I'm playing with some mentalism type stuff currently and I'm struggling to understand how to practice, especially with this area.. whats your advice on that ?

secondly.. have you got any plans to come back to the UK for another masterclass at any point in the future ??

Greetings Andrew,

Eugene and I plan to tour the UK next year if possible. I hope to see you then.

as for 'Playing" with new material. If you use this word "playing" with material, you are not taking your practice or rehearsal sessions seriously. this term is one that slips into our vocabulary when we are afraid to commit to WORK!

If you want to play..no good!

If you want to work...here is how I work on new pieces.

I set time aside each morning for mirror practice. Yes I know some things can't be rehearsed, but billet switches, nail writer technique, and double writing can. for other tech, you need to video. Peeks, glimpses, pocket writing, and other occult activates must often happen with eye contact with the viewer and are not suited for mirror practice.

the camera does not blink. It can see you peek, and is a harsh but loyal helper in refining secret techniques.

Here is what I do to WORK on new pieces.

When I break in mentalism pieces, it is usually for small groups here at my home. I have a camera set up at all times with a fresh tape, ready to go. If I have the pleasure of having guests drop over. .. I will ask them if they worked like to see something new that I am working on.( most often they suffer through the work session with a smile) I sit them down with a cup of tea, and get the camera rolling.

During performance, I can watch their eyes. Over the years I can tell when they are looking where they are directed of NOT!

After I watch the tape back I can script the words spoken, quips from the audience, and add any of my ad-libs or improvisations that may have occurred during the session. Often time the best material comes from the audience during these sessions. I can then start to work on memorizing the script and get ready to refine the piece on the next rehearsal.

Yes, it is a challenge to rehearse some mental effects with no one to help; impossible in some situations. I am presently working on a crystal gazing act and have to continually invite friends over to my home theater to watch my performances. It will take many years of this work to get this piece polished, because it require so much" on the fly" feedback with the answering of the questions. I perform it at every social function and charity event I can do! I have been working 2 years on this act. Only a few weeks ago I placed a small portion of this "loose material ."( the hammock) between two of my strong pieces in my show. This technique is called "hammocking". You put a new piece of "loose" material between two pillars of strong , solid material.

This "hammocking" process has worked well for me. I suggest you try it!

Video all of your shows!

Last week Eugene and the faculty of THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SCHOOL
where invited by David Copperfield, to visit his museum here in Las Vegas. David showed us his video archive. David has video taped EVERY show he has ever done. Not only that, but he has reviewed EVERY tape and marked it for spontaneous remarks and adlibs that HE made. AND he marks down adlibs that the audience makes during the show. The good stuff he adds to the show. the mistakes he revise so he will know how to handle the situation better the next show.

David shared a real inside secret with us... VIDEO EVERY SHOW! ...now we pass this example of his commitment to excellence on to you! Hey, he does over 500 shows a year and videos and reviews all of them, and sells more tickets than any solo performer, including Madonna and Michael Jackson!

My camera is loaded and ready to go!

All the best to you Andrew and see you in Cornwall next year! Kenny form Kernow will have the info in a few months about the timing of the classes.

Your friend in the mystery,

Jeff McBRide

[Jeff McBride]

Hey Jeff, Welcome to the Woods. Thank you very much for coming here. Could you tell me some information about your master class. Like what sort of things will be learned by going there. Hopefully I can go to the one in august, but if not I will definitely be seeing your show at the trump.

Greetings from Las Vegas,

Our new show, MCBRIDE: MAGIC AT THE EDGE, opens in two days and here I am online writing you from my Vegas home.

I Hope to see you in August the Trump...Just mention "Magic Woods" and I will know it's you! did you know we have a MCBRIDE MASTER CLASS at the TRUMP MARINA august 8- 14th? You can get more info at the site.

As for your questions about the MCBRIDE MASTER CLASS. You can get info on the http://www.magicalwisdom.com website. Below is what we do and a few video clip URLS, so you can get an idea of what goes on and what we have to offer you. i am also offering private session when I am in Vegas, contact me the nexst time you are here.

I love sharing and teaching the art of magic. It is my passion. Eugene Burger and I have been teaching magic together for almost 15 years. As our teaching developed over the years, our primary aims are two-fold. First, we want to create a safe space for you, the student, to experiment and grow through positive feedback on how to make your performance better...or if you do not desire to perform, a fun place to experience great magic and stimulating ideas! Second, we want to help you define and fulfill your own magical goals - and, in the process, help you actualize your magical dreams. With these aims in mind, not surprisingly, Eugene and I love teaching together! We love seeing our students grow and develop as magicians. Part of our success is clearly due to our small classes and our commitment to personal attention.

Recently, I was asked why do I teach. The answer is partially because I want to make a lasting impression on the world of magic by improving the quality of the art.  I realized the best way to do that is by improving the quality of the magical artists. I have a passion for magic, and desire to learn and spend my time in the creative process with dedicated students and the very best teachers in the world of magic. Fifteen years ago, I met Eugene Burger, which changed the direction of my work. I wanted to spend more time in Eugene's company and to do so required that we create a new context in which to explore magic. We have been teaching magic for over 20 years, and have experimented with many different educational methods and formats. Out of this exploration first grew The Magic and Mystery School, and now, McBride's Master Class.

After brainstorming with Eugene, we designed a unique teaching format that would allow all students of magic, regardless of age or skill level, to get an inside look at the real life of professional magicians, and their training techniques. We also have a very practical reason for many magicians to travel to our school. Las Vegas is the magic capital of the world, and air-fare, meals and hotels are inexpensive, which is very practical for our students and their friends and family indeed!

Our intention at McBride’s Magic and Mystery School is to provide our students with the highest quality magic training in the world.
And to realize this purpose we offer practical lessons and hands on training in all areas of art of magic.

Close-up, Parlor, Stage Magic, Mentalism and Grand Illusion
Technique : slight of hand magic, stage manipulation
Scripting and creating original presentations
Character development, and costuming
Music and lighting techinques
Movement and choreography
Creating new routines and effective show flow
Stage craft and theater arts
Business and marketing skills and systems
Show production and touring tech
History, Philosophy and psychology of magic
We will also offer insights and real world knowledge of the training methods and techniques utilized by world class magicians to perfect their art. All levels and ages are welcome at our school.

Each session, students come to McBride's Magic and Mystery School, with a single common vision; to take their magic to the next level of excellence.
Our intention is to create a safe space for serious play and discovery , and a learning experience like nothing else in the world.  We know that each student's friends and family play an important part in the educational and creative process.  At the end of this letter, we have a special page of information called "the friends and family letter," which has many of our thoughts and ideas on how to include your support team, friends and family into your McBride Magic and Mystery School experience.

Here a few cool videos to ttake a look at:

Take a look inside the Magic and Mystery School:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTjUzEO09hQ

Testimonials from students:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdXq_Qtc4rg

The McBride Magic and Mystery School video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zvlLPTdFDg

If you want to know more about the deatils of what goes on...read on Magic Woods!



The following is a sample of our 7 day McBride’s Master Class event in Las Vegas


THE SPECIAL EXTENDED 7 DAY MCBRIDE MASTER CLASS SCHEDULE

MONDAY
7:30 - 10pm THE MCBRIDE HOUSE OF MYSTERY
Invites you to the Night-Before Gathering
You are welcome to bring your spouse or friend!*

TUESDAY
1:00 ARRIVAL, REGISTRATION AND CHECK-IN
Jeff, Eugene, Abbi and Tobias meet and greet our students and their friends and families. McBride's Master Class school materials are handed out to the students, and we gather for an impromptu close-up magic session with Eugene Burger.
1:30 - 2:00 OPENING CIRCLE & VISION COUNCIL
This is where we get to know what each student wants to focus on during the week. Some are close-up performers, other stage, and a few are working on their competition acts. During the next few days we will learn many of the hidden aspects of professional life. We open each day with a special talk by Eugene Burger: "The Dean's Report." Each day Eugene offers a keynote speech to set the tone of the day. Eugene provides us with his deep insights into art of Magic and its effect on our lives. There is a short break before we begin our feature of the day.

2:00 - 3:15 WORKS IN PROGRESS
The Works in Progress sessions are the heart and soul of McBride's Master Class. These sessions provide the one on one, hands-on teaching experience that is so rare in today's world. Each student gets the opportunity, if they feel ready, to get in front of the class and run through one of their performance pieces. With video and live feedback, Eugene and Jeff go over each point of the performance and give constructive notes on costume, music, scripting, prop management, and practical advice from their professional experience.

3:15 -3:30 THE AFTERNOON SNACK BREAK
Tasty, nourishing and healthy snacks are provided to re-energize and recharge for the next part of the day.

3:30 - 5:30
WORKS IN PROGRESS AND SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. These are often some of the most rewarding moments of the entire event. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

5:30 - 7:00 DINNER BREAK
... for Magicians only... at the Golden Flower Restaurant 3315 Russell Road 702-434-1177
There are many great local restaurants, in all price ranges. On the first night, dinner is on us!Many of the students carpool to dinner. These dinners are fun and informal. Our class dines together in the spirit of sharing magic, food and conversation. Often, these "dinner sessions" turn into impromptu magic shows that are delightful and informative.

7:00 - 7:30 CLOSE-UP MAGIC GALA SHOW
Eugene and Jeff host a close-up and stand-up magic show with student and guest performers.

7:30 - 9:00 WORKS IN PROGRESS CONTINUES
Jeff and Eugene give each student personal attention, focusing on the material and skills each student needs to advance in their art.

9:00 - 10:00 SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. These are often some of the most rewarding moments of the entire event. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

10:30 WRAP-UP AND GOOD NIGHT!

WEDNESDAY

1:00 - 1:30 VISION COUNCIL
Students check in and set goals for the day. Eugene Burger offers the "Deans Report". During his talk, Eugene teaches the inside work of restaurant magic and the details of his current stage show.

1:30 - 3:15 WORKS IN PROGRESS CONTINUES
Jeff and Eugene give each student personal attention, focusing on the material and skills each student needs to advance in their art.

3:15 - 3:30 THE AFTERNOON SNACK BREAK
Tasty, nourishing and healthy snacks are provided to re-energize and recharge for the next part of the day.

3:30 - 5:00 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. These are often some of the most rewarding moments of the entire event. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

6:00 - 6:30 DINNER BREAK
We suggest that students and friends meet at the Monte Carlo and have dinner at the casino.
There are many options in the food court or other restaurants in the Monte Carlo Hotel.

6:30 (sharp) Meeting for Lance Burton Magic Show, in front of the
Lance Burton Magic Shop in the Monte Carlo casino.

7:30 - 9:00 Backstage with Lance Burton
A very special opportunity for a Question and Answer session with Las Vegas legend Lance Burton
(magicians only)

9:30 Friends and family meet their magicians at the Lance Burton Magic Shop near the box office

After show: Experience the late night magic of Las Vegas.
Impromptu magic session, see a late show,
Or visit the Gary Darwin Magic Club – Must be 21+ to attend

THURSDAY
12:30 Meet at Harrah’s in front of Mac King showroom*
After the show... "Backstage with The King of Comedy Magic," A very special Question and Answer session with Mac King. Friends and spouses can attend this unique event... don't forget your camera!

3:30 – 4:30 BUILDING YOUR SHOW with Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger
Jeff and Eugene share their insights on how to construct an effective show order. The students will have a chance to offer their questions and get real answers in the area of show-flow, character development and audience interaction.

4:30-5:30 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

5:30 - 7:30 DINNER BREAK
Check out one of the great restaurants in the area. Enjoy social time with the students in your class and impromptu magic over dinner!

7:30 - 9:00 THEATER ARTS with Tobias Beckwith.
Tobias has been my manager for over 20 years. His extensive knowledge of the theatrical arts is incorporated into a unique workshop to help magicians explore the many aspects of theatrical magic.

Trained as performer, director and designer in the theater, Tobias Beckwith served for a year and a half as instructor at the University of Pittsburgh before moving to New York to work in commercial theater over 20 years ago. He has been on the management and production teams for such long running shows as The Fantastiks, Sweeney Todd and Oh! Calcutta! Beckwith has produced magical spectaculars for Jeff McBride, Marco Tempest and other magicians at casinos, cabarets, arts festivals and business theater venues for the past 20 years.

9:00 - 10:00 SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

10:30 WRAP-UP AND GOOD NIGHT!

FRIDAY
1:00 - 1:30 VISION COUNCIL
Check in and setting goals for the day.

1:30 - 3:15 WORKS IN PROGRESS CONTINUES
Jeff and Eugene give each student personal attention, focusing on the material and skills each student needs to advance in their art.

3:15 - 3:30 THE AFTERNOON SNACK BREAK
Tasty, nourishing and healthy snacks are provided to re-energize and recharge for the next part of the day.

3:30 - 5:30 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. These are often some of the most rewarding moments of the entire event.
Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

5:30 – 7:00 DINNER BREAK
Check out one of the great restaurants in the area. Maps to all nearby restaurants are in the class book. Enjoy social time with the students in your class and impromptu magic over dinner!

7:00 - 9:30 THE BUSINESS OF MAGIC with Tobias Beckwith
Tobias offers his extensive knowledge on the marketing of magic. Tobias shares his 20 years of business experience with you. During this presentation, Tobias reviews the fine points of what makes a magic show a marketable product. He shares his insider experience of the real business of show business.
* Business plans and creating effective systems
* The power of intention: creating your purpose
* Networking materials
* Website and internet media tools
* Direct mailing techniques
* Press materials, press releases
* Creating an effective support team

10:00 - 10:30 SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

10:30 WRAP-UP AND GOOD NIGHT!

SATURDAY
1:00 - 1:30 VISION COUNCIL
Check in and setting goals for the day.

1:30 - 3:15 WORKS IN PROGRESS CONTINUES
Jeff and Eugene give each student personal attention, focusing on the material and skills each student needs to advance in their art.

3:15 - 3:30 THE AFTERNOON SNACK BREAK
Tasty, nourishing and healthy snacks are provided to re-energize and recharge for the next part of the day.

3:30 - 5:30 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND SMALL GROUP BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
Hands-on learning for close-up and stage magic. We work on skill building, technique, and presentation. These are often some of the most rewarding moments of the entire event. Jeff and Eugene give in-depth attention to each student's needs.

5:30 – 7:00 DINNER BREAK
Check out one of the great restaurants in the area. Enjoy social time with the students in your class and impromptu magic over dinner!

7:30 - 10:30 THE LAS VEGAS MAGIC PARTY!*
A special evening at Jeff McBride’s House of Mystery; spouse or guest invited!
There will be informal close-up magic and a Parlor magic show tonight with Jeff, Eugene and surprise guests!


SUNDAY
1:00 - 1:30 VISION COUNCIL
Students review networking materials, contact lists, and information for prop designers, costumers, special effect companies, and other theatrical production companies for follow-up. Jeff and Eugene also talk about the importance of press releases and promotional materials.

1:00 - 3:00 WORKS IN PROGRESS WRAP UP VIDEO SESSION

3:00 - 3:15 THE AFTERNOON SNACK BREAK
Tasty, nourishing and healthy snacks are provided to re-energize and recharge for the next part of the day.

3:15 - 3:45 McBRIDE & BURGER MAGIC SHOP IS OPEN!
This is the place to acquire props, books and supplies that you might need for your continued study.

4:00 - 5:00 CLOSING CIRCLE & PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Final wrap-up, certificates of participation are given to all who attend. Final photo opportunity for all class members.
*Special note, we ask that all friends and family members do not arrive at the McBride House of Mystery until 5:00 sharp.

5:30 Safe travels to all, and see you next time! Now, go enjoy Las Vegas!


. We have worked to make our program more inclusive for friends and spouses of attending students, and are pleased to welcome them to our Opening night gathering at Jeff McBride’s House of Mystery.


We would like to express my deep gratitude to my magical friends for their continued support and interest in the Master Class.

Lance Burton, Siegfried, Max Maven, The Pendragons, Teller, Mac King, Tom Mullica, Johnny Thompson, Darren Romeo, Allan Ackermann, Dirk Losander, Luna Shemada, Robert E. Neale, Jamy Ian Swiss, Dan Harlan, Hans Klok , Alain Nu, Ross Johnson, Stan Alan, Fielding West, Brad Henderson, Scott Hitchcock Gary Darwin, Scott Alexander, Joan DuKore and Earl Chaney, .. just to name a few!!

We would also like to thank our friends Channing Pollock, Billy McCombe and Peter Pit. Although you are no longer with us in person....you all gave much of your time to our students and we will remember you always.

All of these magic-mentors took time from their busy schedules to speak to our classes and offer insights on the "way of the magician,"  not just about life on stage, but off the stage and in the real world.  We thank you for the all of your loving advice. Your words of wisdom to our students are a priceless gift, and will live in our hearts and minds forever!

Well I hope the above was detailed enough for all of my friends in the magic Woods, andEugene and I are here in VEgas and will see you upon your next visit!

Yours the the art of magic,

JEff

[Jeff McBride]

If you werent performing magic for a living, what would you see your self doing?

Does magic need logic?

Greetings Kozmage,

If I did not have magic in my life, I would travel the world with my wife Abbi and our drums and make music at the bonfire at night with all of our friends.
hint: see http://www.vegasvortex.com

You ask:
Q:Does magic need logic?

A:Yes and no!

One one hand, some magic, by it’s very nature, makes a mockery of logic. Speaking of mockery...I am a huge fan of the writing or Robert E. Neale. Bob has much to say in his fine books about this. I consider him a master of illogical- mackery! I hope you enjoy his books as much as I do.

On the second hand. If you want to create magic in a theatrical setting, then you must consider to play by the rules of the *theater.

Finally,on the third hand ( secret séance hand):
Max Maven reminds our students here at the magic school...
” The only rule of theater is that there is no rule of theater that cannot be broken.”

Max is very, very smart and he is most often correct. I will play it safe and side with Max on this occasion.

So his advice sounds logical to me!

Thank you for your post,

Jeff

* "Theater " is the American way we mispell the very fine English word
" theatre."

[Michael Kras]

Hello Mr. McBride,

You have a very original act, and from what I have seen of you on YouTube, you combine magic, dance, mime, and intriguing stories... your FISM mask act is among my favourite stage acts.

What music do you typically use in your stage acts?

What are your opinions on Criss Angel?

What did your famous mask act evolve from?

Thank you, Mr. McBride!

Michael Kras

[carlos the shadow]

If I did not have magic in my life, I would travel the world with my wife Abbi and our drums and make music at the bonfire at night with all of our friends.

Cool. You would have a great time at a Bealtaine festival in Ireland and with a name like McBride you may as well be one of the locals.

Welcome to the Woods ! I'm a great admirer of your work.

[Jeff McBride]

Jeff,

I'm going to be making some broad statements leading up to my question... if I happen to be making a mistake on any of them, please correct me and understand I don't mean to misrepresent or cause offence. I've not seen all of your magic but what little I have has left a profound effect in one particular way, which I want to ask about.

Most of the magic that I've seen you do has had traditional aspects of art injected into it -- either the purely aesthetic that goes into your manipulative routines (reminiscent of dance), or the highly metaphorical patterlines that go into at least one close-up routine I've seen you do (reminiscent of literature). Is this a conscious choice on your part? Are these necessary approaches in order to make magic artistic and lift it out of the realm of puzzlework?

Hello Erlandish, and all…

Your question is very interesting. I have yet to retrospectively digest my performance material in the way that your observations point towards. My quest has always been one of fusing my many esoteric passions, philosophic, literary or esoteric, with my love for magic and its presentation.

Along the way I’ve had many good teachers, foremost of whom is Eugene Burger. Through Eugene’s guidance, I have created many diverse moods and mindscapes for my magical offerings. Under Eugene’s tutelage, I’ve explored the philosophical, comedic, ironic, existential, magico-religious, and the just plain trivial. A well rounded evening of magic theater is a textured journey, over many diverse terrains. I have had many experienced travel guides to point me in the right direction.

Over the years, I have been charged with passing on what I know to the future generations of magic. It is an honor and a privilege to explore the multi-dimensional possibilities of this performance art that we love with you and the other readers and writers in the Magic Woods.

Yours in the quest,
Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

Hello Mr. McBride,

You have a very original act, and from what I have seen of you on YouTube, you combine magic, dance, mime, and intriguing stories... your FISM mask act is among my favourite stage acts.

What music do you typically use in your stage acts?

What are your opinions on Criss Angel?

What did your famous mask act evolve from?

Thank you, Mr. McBride!

Michael Kras

Greetings Michael,

Thank you for the kind words about my performance. You asked me about my music selection… My taste in music ranges from techno to tribal, ambient to classical. Over the years (pre-computer age), I spent countless hours listening to diverse radio stations, especially college radio stations and obscure playlists. When I lived in New York City, I had many friends in the performance art scene that had access to an extraordinary range of magical modalities and expression… not all of them very “commercial.”

By expanding my range of musical possibilities, I was able to add a wide range of texture to my performances. I tend to stay away from pop music, and music with lyrics. When possible, I use original music composed by my friends.

*Jordan Rudess, the keyboard player from the rock group DREAM THEATER
*Zingaia, my wife Abbi’s techno-tribal ambient group (go to http://www.heartmagic.com)
I listen to a genre called “downtempo-techno-ambient-chill”
For a supreme example of this type of music, tune in your itunes to groove salad/SOMAFM….. You’ll be glad you did.

I think Criss is capturing the attention of an entirely new market. Love him or hate him, you gotta give him props for being the hardest working magician in the industry these days. To be very frank ad honest, I’ve had my issues with Criss in the past, many years ago. He has proven to many of us in the industry that he has matured into a visionary artist that not only commands but demands the attention of the show business world. In the past few years, Criss and I have made amends, mostly due to his gracious gestures and I have to honor him for that. Many magicians do not agree with his television tactics, but at the end of the day, it’s about creating illusion, isn’t it?

Masks- since I was a child of seven years old, I’ve been fascinated with monster movies, especially movie actor legend Lon Chaney, the man of a thousand faces. Since my teens, I’ve experimented with and incorporated masks into my stage performances as not only a way to create a mystical magical mood, but also to alter my state of consciousness as a performer. Masks reveal more than they conceal, and they have helped me to explore the many hidden characters that live inside of me.

Thank you for your interesting post, and I look forward to meeting you after one of my live shows or here at our school in Las Vegas.

Unmasking the mysteries,
Jeff McBride

[Jeff McBride]

If I did not have magic in my life, I would travel the world with my wife Abbi and our drums and make music at the bonfire at night with all of our friends.

Cool. You would have a great time at a Bealtaine festival in Ireland and with a name like McBride you may as well be one of the locals.

Welcome to the Woods ! I'm a great admirer of your work.

Thank you Carlos the Shadow...

The mask in your profile photo would look most magical in the firelight....
I hope to make it to Ireland one day soon!

Yours in McMystery,
Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

Hi there Jeff, fantastic to have you here.

Do you have any personal heroes in magic?

-Matt

Greetings Matt,

My heroes in order of their appearance in my life:
Charles Reynolds- the first magician I ever met
Hal Fields- a friend of Cardini and my first magic teacher
Frank Garcia- my NYC magic mentor
Bobby Baxter- the best thimble manipulator I ever met
Lou Lancaster- the man who taught me cards
Jeff Sheridan- the man who taught me that magic was an art
Eugene Burger- the man who taught me magic was more than art...
it is a way of life!
There are so many more, but time and space force limititations. I hope that I can pass on the wisdom of these great teachers to my many friends and students around the world and my new friends here in the magic woods....

Your friend on the road to success...

Jeff McBride

[Jeff McBride]

Greetings Jeff, thanks for a great learning time in Melbourne. I hope you two weren't too badly jet lagged by the time you got home!

I think the highlight was watching you and Eugene finding tricks for each other and then watching how the other reacted. The deep respect you two have for each other was indeed a sight to behold.

You brought the 'Vampire Blocks' from my partner and Harry, who makes them, was delighted to hear that you picked one up. We all hope you have fun playing with it.

My question, while short in the asking, will hopefully draw out an interesting answer.

How do you approach the issue of themeing and routining a Show, especially a 'Close Up' performance. Apart from Eugenes works and "Strong Magic", are there any books you would recommend? (I am less interested in the 'Commando belt' and more focused on the planning and 'thinking' phases)
Thank you for your willingness to share and teach. jason

Greetings Jason,

It was my pleasure to journey to your country and share my magic with all of you. Truth be told, I picked up a nasty cold that I’ve had for three weeks. I am, however, doing the best convalescing and take joy in answering your query concerning theming and routining.

First off, it is interesting that routinining isn’t even a word in the English language. So, I will use a term I often share wit our students here at our magic school; show flow. One of the best essays ever written on show flow is in Eugene Burger’s small yet powerful booklet, “GROWING IN THE ART OF MAGIC.” This is a must read, as well as an essay by Henning Nelmes, in his MAGIC & SHOWMANSHIP. Mr. Nelmes’ book was the very first offering in this area that I encountered in my early studies on creating theatrical magic.

At our classes here at THE MCBRIDE MAGIC & MYSTERY SCHOOL, we offer a series of workshops that include THE SEVEN STAGES OF SHOW FLOW. The next time you have the opportunity to take one of our classes, we can spend the week exploring these seven important stages for creating an effective magical experience for your audience.

I look forward to that time.

Yours in the quest for the best,
Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

Hi Jeff,

Some people believe, ie: myself, that card manipulation that you do is gonna be the next big trend in magic, like street magic has been since Blaine. Do you think this idea is true?

Have you seen any new manipulation stars rising up soon?( My personal fav. is Nestor Hato)

Do you still perform in Vegas in a show regularly?

Thanks for coming here, and doing this,

Nass

Greetings Nass,

Yes, cards are big and they’re here to stay. Yesterday’s flourishes are today’s XCM.…. Yes, street magic is a trend, and also the new hip word for “walk around magic.”

The words change, yet the passion and the drive of the young and hungry artists remains the same. Simplicity rules the days… just a pack of cards. Complexity rules the art, what can you do with your raw passion and talent?

I am amazed by the students that show up at our classes. Often, these self-proclaimed “card punks” can entertain more with a pack of cards than many glitzy illusionists can do with a truckload of props.

I’ve not yet met Nestor, but look forward to the time. Here in Las Vegas, Dan & Dave rule the school. Joey Burton rocks the Strip with his hardcore chops. One of my students that you’ll be hearing lots about in the near future is Sterling Dietz. He’s got a rare combination of chops, charisma and humility.

I’ve been gigging in Las Vegas for over twenty years. I’ve made my debut at Caesars Palace, headlined at the Hilton, and the Golden Nugget, and today I often work at THE WORLD’S GREATEST MAGIC SHOW. You can always check out my world tour schedule at http://www.mcbridemagic.com to see where I am.

These days, I am focusing on my full evening theater show, and our MAGIC & MYSTERY SCHOOL. This keeps things fresh for me and my artistic drive. So, the next time you’re in Las Vegas, look me up!

Yours in the search for excellence,

Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

Mr. McBride,
I just want to tell you that I have a great deal of respect for you. You are on my list of favorite magicians of all time. I am also active in the Pagan community here in the States and have been for about eleven years now. What are your thoughts on using the teachings of Ceremonial Magick as an underlying theme in a routine for the public? I've given this considerable thought lately and I would value your response. To clarify, I would not approach it as a way to change anyone's belief system because I am 100% against it. Do you have any suggestions for an approach to this? Thank you.

Greetings Scott,

Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful post. Theater is a very complex art form. It can be used for diversion, light entertainment, education, or deep philosophical explorations of the human condition. Theater can move people towards peace or drive them towards war. The wand, wielded by the magician, or the pen, by the playwright, can have a lasting impact on modern culture.

One of the primary teachings of Ceremonial Magic is Will. In many traditions, will is equated with intent. To explore this subject in a heartfelt manner, one would do well to read the works of Aliester Crowley, as well as pop culture philosopher Wayne Dyer. My Dyer’s book on Intention is a good balance for the more occult views in Crowley’s Magic in Theory and Practice.

Having experimented with creating ritual theater experience for modern audiences, I have come to the conclusion that an audience kills ritual. Over the years, in my explorations, I am convinced that only participants who have a subjective connection to the magickal working will enjoy the experience. Often, in my ritual theater performances, though the magic has dazzled, the message has confused the audience. Either they felt that they were forced to expand their consciousness beyond their comfort zone, or the content, practice and execution of the ritual by its esoteric nature, was beyond their comprehension. I know this may sound a bit dense, so I’ll put it this way and hope you’ll understand my feelings….

I used to “put it all out in front,” and now I hermetically encrypt any signs, symbols, metaphors or meanings within the context of my script and visual support systems. What was once overt is now covert. I trust that the alchemically refined words and images that I utilize in my performance art will work their subtle magic in the time tested manner and teachings of the thrice great. To know. To will. To dare. To be silent….

Yours in the silence…
Jeff

[Jeff McBride]

I first read an article about you in MAGIC magazine way back in the early 80's when I Frequented Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brook's THE MAGIC TOWNE HOUSE in NYC. This was back when you started out specializing in card magic... I remember the transformation in to the asian theme as you started stage magic... which I might add was a brilliant stroke. I recently saw you perform at the MAGIC IN THE ROCKIES show for the convention here in Fort Collins... Just wanted to say thanks for all the contributions you have made over the years to the magic fraternity. You have been power of example to many of us and once again I thank you.
SIncerely,
Thomas Emerson Jones
Mentalist

Thank you Thomas for your kind words!

I will see you this fall at the Rockies event. Lat year I attended this event and was amazed at the community spirit of those who attend. It is my pleasurre to eturn this year with a new lecture and show!

Our hosts Lew abd Ed asked me to teach a one day MASTER CLASS at the event on Sunday and I hope to see you there!

Yours in friendship,

Jeff