It was evident that John van der Put didn't promote much his lecture and his attitute was not very
enthusiastic - but his tricks, expecially e.t.e. and VDP are v e r y impressive and his insights
thoughtful.
However: John's attitude does not give an excuse for the behaviour of many of
the spectators: Hardly applause not even at the beginning. John had given the right comment for this
not only at the very beginning of his lecture. And also little respect for the performer was seen.
By the way: this behaviour was also found in the lecture of Shawn Farquhar.
It's a great pity
and gives the impression of a crowd of trick junkies waiting just for the trick's explanation but
unable to appreciate the finer points not just in the magic but also in the attitude.
Sorry for my harsh words. But I find that Penguin Lectures should not be something to be
trivialized. Honor, etiquette, style... These are fundamentals for celebrating something special.