Magic Tricks

A tremendous value. Make haste if it comes your way. Inspiration, entertainment and camaraderie abound. You’ll leave inspired, enthused, perhaps with a few new friends, certainly with some new tricks.
Friday night's Gala Show had some tender moments:
One act’s fire-eating intro made for great theater, then POOF! he vanished into darkness. Bouncing along the stage before a salt routine, a well-known gimmick made a surprise debut with another act (we all knew how that trick worked anyway). Later, a wallet prediction fell flat when an uncooperative deck proved to be missing some cards (most magicians are a few cards short). If you wanted to see a close-up, you had to wait ten seconds, because the cameras went on strike. Yes, it was evening of live magic, performed by actual human beings!
Yet miracles abounded. Dan Harlan, the perfect MC, kept the ship afloat with panache, aplomb and a wicked Coke Transposition. Losander’s effects were bigger than life, he received a near standing O after his set. Favs were his Ashrah Floating Table and Thumb Tie routine.
Just who is Michael Weber? Clearly, someone who thinks critically about the presentation of his mentalism effects. One utilized all the cards included in the Penguin marked deck, another discerned a “thought of” card from random piles only the spectator touched. Thought provoking.
“Say hello to your wife for me,” Gazzo told a few guys, as he served fresh candy with tongs to the crowd. How kind! He had warm sentiments for everyone, and many were laughing, riotously so. His egg bag routine fried those in the know and when he did his cups, he had balls. Some are great, but Gazzo? Just a little grater. Gazzo killed it, and his showcase was a definite highlight.
Sat. morn, 10 am: dealer room packed, 'cause everyone loves to see trick demos and buy way past their budget. The mini-lectures were in another room, a smart move. All were entertaining. Losander's floating bubbles particularly memorable. Diamond Jim Taylor fired off rapid one-liners with his flashy tricks. Dan Kaminski: a walking Cups and Balls encyclopedia. The lectures were best when they didn’t seem like extended dealer demos trying to push products.
Dan Harlan’s lecture hit a nice balance of theory, ideas and effects. Personally, this lecture felt most like a “lecture,” in that he went in depth about routines, presentation, and what constitutes a good effect. His infamous “Sandwich” routine was a highlight. Interestingly, he wasn't trying to sell anything.
I missed the Q & A panel, but did talk to Danny Garcia, who’s always a super nice guy willing to show and explain a trick. Nicholas Lawrence: very cool as well and I think In The Clear and Hoover Card were big sellers at the con.
All and all, a fun con worth your time and I hope it continues.