Zoom Class Details:
Class Dates: 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 12p (PCT) / 3p (EST)

Believable mind reading - An advanced introduction to beginning mentalism

In this course we take an entirely new approach to the learning of mentalism , beginning not with techniques or even effects, but with a focus on methods which will allow you to create an authentic illusion of real mind reading. 

Simple effects will be taught but as a means to the end of building an understanding of the importance of consistency of claims in regard to method and congruence with one’s chosen character. This approach will allow anyone - students, business people, and performers - to present their mind reading in a believable manner thereby increasing the impact of their demonstrations, regardless of the context in which they are given. 

An understanding of the key concepts required for the presentation of believable mind reading will allow anyone to present their magic more effectively. 

Lessons will include ‘how to practice becoming believable’, ‘the importance of understanding the dramatic method,’ ‘what the audience wants,’ ‘consistency and congruence’, and ‘mentalism’s greatest strength (and weakness). 

Along the way classic mentalism principles and effects will be explored including psychological forces, mental choice, mental epic, card revelations, cold reading and others. 

While the ‘tricks’ will be solid, workable, and amazing they are just the means to the end - the first steps on becoming a powerful, believable mind reader. 

(NOTE: while this class is ideal for the serious beginner, experienced mentalists will learn several new ways of thinking about mentalism which can greatly expand and improve their approach in performance. )

Bio:

"One of the deepest thinkers in magic today." - Jeff Mcbride

Brad Henderson has been studying magic and it’s related arts for over 45 years. He makes his living as a performer and is known throughout the magic community for his strongly held opinions and thoughtful approach to the presentation of the mystery arts. His Penguin ‘The Act’ performance was considered one of the most entertaining and engaging presented on its stage and his book on cold reading has sold out several editions. He has been teaching magic to people at all levels for over 30 years and looks forward to helping you make your performances more impactful. 

"If you’ve ever encountered Brad Henderson in an on-line discussion, you’ll know that he has very strong opinions, and is not afraid to express them emphatically. If you see him perform, you’ll realize that he backs up everything he says: Brad walks the walk, to the benefit of his audiences." - Max Maven

Supplies needed for class:

- deck of cards
- pens
- index cards
- coins
- envelopes

Class Policies

It is mandatory that all students have a working video camera and leave it on for the duration of each class.

These sessions are not to be recorded. Please do not use Zoom’s recording feature, or third-party recording software to store these classes for later viewing.

Registration can be cancelled or changed until 5 days prior to the class start date. If you are purchasing classes as a gift, it is your responsibility to inform us of the recipient’s name during checkout or by emailing support@penguinmagic.com. Late cancellations, transfers, name changes cannot be accommodated after the cancellation/change cutoff date.