How to Begin Being a Magician

Over the last several years magic has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. Once again people are thoroughly enjoying watching the performance of magic tricks. And once again more people are beginning to take an interest in becoming magicians. While it certainly isn't easy to perform magic it isn't impossible either. Here is how to begin being a magician.

Obviously to be a magician you need to be able to perform magic tricks and the best way to do this is to start out with easy tricks. There are many easy tricks that you can learn. Many of these are also entertaining to audiences. These easier tricks will allow you to learn to use your hands for the slight of hand tricks. They will also help you learn the pacing that is so important to performing magic. Work on the basics and put together a few basic tricks that you perform more and more.

Once you get a few tricks down then you should practice as much as possible. Practice as much as you can and get as good as you can be. There is no substitute for practice and there is no way around it either. So practice, practice, and then practice some more. Once you get good at the basic tricks then you can continue to begin being a magician by practicing more complex tricks.

Once you get good enough to finally put a show together then you need to begin performing as much as possible. Just as there's no substitute for practice, there's also no substitute for performing. You have to get on the stage as much as possible and perform as often as possible. The more you perform the better you'll get at being a magician. And before you know it you'll go from being a beginning magician to being an experienced magician.

How to begin being a magician is easy to know but not so easy to do. It takes a lot of hard work and a lot of practice. You should begin learning to perform easy tricks and then you should practice these tricks as much as possible. Then you can perform more complex tricks until you're able to put together a show. From there you should log as much stage time as possible and become the best magician you can possibly be. With knowledge, practice, and repeated performances, you will be able to become a great magician.

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So You Want to Put on a Show - Getting the Staging Right

If you are a seasoned Director you might want to ignore this piece. Anyone new to the role will know some, but not all of what follows. Before you ever go the a rehearsal, or even introduce the show to the potential cast, you need to be very sure of what the final show will look and sound like. This involves reading it, making copious notes, re-reading it and practically learning it.

Sometimes a show or play comes with a very definite set of staging instructions. You may want to try to obey them, but most shows are written for the professional stage where there is an abundance of technical stuff available. If you are working in a community hall, or a school hall, the facilities will be very different. But you still need to know what you would like to have, so that when you meet the set, sound and light designers (who are sometimes one person) you know what you are going to ask of them. You need to provide them with a marked-up script which includes sound effects indications, what lighting you want where and when and what scenery is required. At the first meeting they will tell you what cannot be done and you will rethink. (This might not happen, but it often does).

Then they will go away and come back later with plans. If they are very, very good, they will tell you that it can all be done, within budget and with no moaning, but don't hold your breath! Really, they don't do it on purpose, but the ideal set, lighting and sound are seldom achievable, even in the professional theatre. Then you will adjust your expectations and they will go away and think it through again.

There is some wonderful software available now which stage designers can harness to show the director what to expect from their design. It generates 3D drawings, shows lighting states, and can be worked on and then harnessed to a good theatre system. The Director can see what is planned and make little changes and see what they will look like. It is well worth looking for such a piece of software, or asking the design crew if they work with one. They are not terribly expensive and are well worth searching for and buying if you intend to do more than one show/play.

Once you have some knowledge of what the stage will look like, then you can make the cast aware of what to expect. Sometimes it is useful to let them see the drawings or print-outs of the staging, so they can have some idea what they will be contending with. I was in a production of 'Seussical' recently where we were surprised and somewhat horrified to discover that there wasn't room for all of us to dance as we had learned once the set was in place. I try to place chairs in people's way, declaring them to be - 'a tree', 'the desk' - this helps performers to be more aware of the limitations of the stage. It is sometimes useful to define the acting area for rehearsals by chalking the shape on the floor of the rehearsal room. Chalk wipes off easily and it really does help the performers.

If you are really lucky with your designers you will get something like what you were hoping for, in time and under budget. And during the Technical Rehearsal, when all the snags are revealed, and dealt with, you will be grateful you did the preparation. Whatever the perceived disaster in the 'Tech', it would be a great deal worse if you had not done the preparation, and far less easily dealt with. The audience will never know what you went through, and neither, probably will the cast. Good. That's how it should be. If it looks hard it isn't working. If the audience applauds the set, I get worried. It's the play they should be seeing - not the set. That's just the canvas the piece of art is drawn upon.

I am Dianna Moylan, in my mid-sixties, an ex-teacher who has been involved for many years in local amateur dramatics, I have directed, designed and made costumes, taught the songs and performed in many musicals and plays. I live in a small house which is rapidly becoming swamped with doll house stuff which I build, renovate, sell and hoard. My site, http://www.diannadollhouses.co.uk is newly launched. I also sell on eBay. In addition to loving making dolls' houses I enjoy writing a lot and welcome this opportunity to have a say. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dianna_Moylan

Magician's Workshop - The Importance of Practicing Your Magic Tricks

You've just hit the local magic shop, picked up some cool new magic tricks, and are ready to astound your friends and family members with your wizardry, right? Not so fast. While many magic tricks are easy to perform, practice makes perfect! As with any art form, practicing magic requires extensive practice. Not only must you master the mechanics of the trick, you must also master your script, delivery, and distraction techniques - all while injecting your own personal flair into the act.

Start by getting to know your magic tricks. How do they work? What other props might you need to pull off the trick? Read the instructions and then try the trick out for yourself. Your first few attempts will likely be clumsy, which is fine. At this point, you want to understand the mechanics of the magic trick so that you can do it properly. Once you know what to do, practice without worrying about showmanship. The goal is to be able to handle the trick with ease.

After you're comfortable with the basics, it's time work up a routine. When you buy magic tricks at the magic shop, ask for a demonstration. This will give you an idea of how the trick is typically performed. If you've ordered your tricks from an online magic shop, check to see if a video demo is available. Seeing the magic tricks in action first will give you a better idea of the showmanship involved. Now, begin practicing your lines.

Use a video camera to record yourself performing your magic tricks. You'll be able to see how others may perceive the illusion as well as analyze your delivery style. If your trick requires sleight of hand, a video camera is an excellent tool for evaluating your progress. Once you've perfected your act, you're ready to amaze your audience!

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Preparing For Your Dance Auditions

We've all been there. Heard about an audition for that dream job. Maybe it's for a music video, a world tour or to get onto the client roster of a prestigious dance agency. And we want it so much and wonder how we can best prepare for it.

Well it is possible to prepare for auditions. Of course there isn't that much background reading to do or learning lines like for an acting audition. In fact anything could happen at an audition, you never know and they can throw something unexpected at you if they feel like it.

However certain types of information about the audition can be very useful for your preparations. The first is what dance styles the audition will be based around. You will then know what to expect and can even pop into some dance classes in that dance style so that you're up to speed with it.

It also helps to know who the choreographer is and a bit about them. If you know who the choreographer is you can find out about their previous work. This'll give you an idea of their choreography style as there can be very different choreography styles even within one style of dance. Knowing who the choreographer is can even give you a clue to what types of dancers they like to work with if you look at their previous work. Watch any videos of the choreographer that you can.

Knowing what the director is looking for is also a great piece of information to have. They will often tell you how they want you to dress and the type of role this is. You can then think about what you should wear to look the part for the role you are auditioning for.

The day before a dancing audition you should find out how you're going to get to the audition and how long it will take to get there. Always leave more time than you think is necessary. Find out about any changes to travel, disruptions to trains and anything which might affect your journey.

Have clothes prepared and ironed for the next day. It can be a good idea to have several different clothing options with you so that you can change costumes with any new information that comes to light on the day.

Travel to auditions with a map, water, CV and pics and clothing alternatives. You may also choose to bring music just in case and even your showreel but these are optional and would probably be things they would bring up if they wanted you to bring them.

Ryan Heddik is the author of the unique and inspiring guide 'Dance In A Pop Video.' In it he lays down exactly what it takes to become a successful dancer at auditions and making the transition into music videos and TV work. Sign up for his free email tips at http://www.boxdancer.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Heddik

Leonard Bernstein and the Story of the West Side Story

At the age of 15, Louis became Leonard Bernstein. As a child, Leonard was always interested in music and was frequently taken to concerts. He began to play piano and attended the Garrison School, Boston Latin School, Harvard University, and the Curtis Institute of Music. In his life, Bernstein accomplished a great deal. When "West Side Story" came to life, his career skyrocketed.

Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" has been a classic love story for hundreds of years. In 1957, the classic masterpiece of love, death, and fury was given a new flare. Leonard Bernstein composed the music for the cast of main characters. With a plot similar to "Romeo and Juliet," the musical amazed audiences worldwide. Arthur Laurents wrote the book. Bernstein composed the music, and Stephen Sondheim created the lyrics for Bernstein's music.

The love story is set in 1950's upper west side Manhattan. The plot, similar to Shakespeare's infamous love story, surrounds two gangs. A member from each gang falls in love. Tony, who is a Manhattan gang member, falls in love with Maria, a Puerto Rican gang leader's sister. Like Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," "West Side Story" illuminated themes of juvenile delinquency, but the delinquency was represented through the gang wars and mischief instead of rival families.

The music by Leonard Bernstein from the play has become quite popular over the last 51 years, especially with the 1961 release of "West Side Story" the film. Bernstein's most famous numbers include the following: "Maria," "America," "Somewhere," "Jet Song," and "I Feel Pretty".

Starting on September 26, 1957, "West Side Story" was performed 732 times prior to going on tour. It was nominated for Best Musical in 1957's Tony Awards, but it did not win. However, the Tony Award for Best Choreography did go to "West Side Story" that year. 2008 marks the 50th anniversary revival of "West Side Story." The revival begins July 22 at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London. While the original cast will not be performing, the new cast is eager to perform this amazing play, which has been staged in numerous theatres and opera houses all over the world. Another revival is set for Washington, D.C.'s National Theatre and in mid-December.

National tours for "West Side Story" have crossed the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Australia, Israel, and Africa. Adaptations of the play have also been written. Philippe Gobeille presented a French version of this play in 2008 in Quebec and a Philippine version is scheduled to begin performances in September 2008.

References to "West Side Story" and many of the musical pieces in it have influenced many facets of music and culture. "I Feel Pretty" has been featured in the films "Anger Management" and "Dirty Dancing." References to the play can also be exhibited in "Analyze That," "Shrek," Michael Jackson's "Beat It" music video, Saturday Night Live, and Friends.

References to the play can also be heard in modern music. Santana's "Maria Maria," Kiss's "Hide Your Heart," Metallica's "America," Dire Straits' "Romeo and Juliet," and Alice Cooper's "Gutter Cat vs. the Jets" all have ties or references to "West Side Story." Bernstein's legendary music will remain a staple of pop culture for centuries to come.

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Basic Magic Tricks For Basic Magic Kits

Well, giving you the first trick, it is actually very easy to perform. Water to Ice, well what you will do is pour water into a cup and then dump out a couple of ice cubes and no water. People will wonder how the water turned into ice. This can be really surprising for some who don't know the trick, for this trick you need a cup that isn't see-through, maybe a solid color cup will do. When no one is looking, you will stuff a sponge in the bottom of the cup. Then put a couple ice cubes on top of the sponge inside the cup. While everyone is watching, pour water into the cup. The sponge will absorb the water so when you turn the cup over all that will pour out will be the ice cubes. That can definitely a treat and the magic kits are so simple as well.

How about the famous disappearing coin trick? Well it is another easy magic trick that uses a simple magic kit. Well, basically for this trick you will sit at a table and place a coin in front of everyone. Then you will take one of your hands and place it over the coin. With three fingers, you will drag the coin across the table making sure you keep your hand and arm parallel to the table. Drag the coin to the edge of the table and let it drop into your lap. As you pick your hand up, rub your fingers together and look surprised like the coin is vanishing. Then turn your hand to the on-lookers and show them your hand is empty. Another well played magic trick that has people guessing again the only magic kit you used was a coin.

Those 2 easy magic tricks can get you started on learning more. People might look at it as a very simple trick but it can still surprise a lot of people and you'll be surprised as well as on how the simple tricks uses simple props or magic kits. Essentially, more and more people will be amazed if you can continually do tricks in a manner and make everyone seems pleased on how the tricks are being made. Well, having simple magic tricks using simple magic kits can really be enjoyable and practical as well.

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Entertaining Through Magic Tricks

There are many people who love to perform in front of others. Although it is common that you would see dancers and singers, there are also those who prefer to amaze their audience through the use of their magic tricks. If you are interested to learn the process, then you can start browsing the Internet for possible tips that may be useful for you in the process.

With most magicians, they simply have to make sure that they perform their trick the right way. Then the people would be amazed by the trick and keep on thinking how they were able to do it. You can also do this by learning through different articles and self help videos. You should also remember that practice is important if you want to get the best results when you are already on stage. This will give you more options and you can even practice more to make your tricks harder for the audience to know.

There are many individuals who are interested to know how the tricks are done. If you are one of them, you should try to understand the scientific concepts behind it so that you would also know how you can do it in front of other people. You will not have a hard time getting audience when you perform the magic tricks since the people are always ready and willing to see how the tricks are done and participate during the process. You should amuse them and keep them from thinking how to do the tricks and this is the basis of a good magician- having a good show.

Entertaining can be done if you know some magic tricks. You can do the tricks professionally or you simply have to break the ice in a party. There will be more people delighted with what is happening and you can feel more fulfilled as you get to see the audience happy or shocked by the tricks that you have just done. You should remember to practice so that you will not make a fun out of yourself when you are already performing. The smallest details should not be forgotten. Thus, you have to be very careful in performing your tricks and learning the magic tricks would not be possible for you overnight. Thus, you have to spend more time and even continue practicing so as you get to be so familiar with the tricks. After which you understand the concept behind the tricks, it would be easier to make your own tricks and have them personalized.

You should not worry about those who do not approve of the use of magic tricks but you should only put in mind that all that you want would be to entertain your friends and other important individuals.

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Make Your Own Magic Tricks

You may know popular magicians that are able to allure many audiences because of their unique and complicated magic tricks. If you are also an aspiring magician, you would want to learn how they perform their tricks and how they are able to make it as if it was done through the use of magic. But just like any other thing that must e learned, you have to start with the simpler ideas and information before you can actually learn the more complex tricks.

To start, you have to observe how they perform the tricks. You have to try to understand the magic tricks so that you will also learn how you will be able to perform them the right way. You have to practice the tricks for many times so that you would really be familiar with it and doing it in front of other people would not be too difficult.

If you can observe, there are many tricks that make use of a certain apparatus or material that can help the magician with their magic tricks. Often this is the one that creates deviation and shift of interest of the audience. You may be amused by how these apparatus work magically but when you check the concepts behind it, they actually consist of the simpler concepts. This article can give some samples of these concepts and you can simply tweak some of the ideas and make it look more complicated. But if you have fully learned the basic ideas, then tweaking them into something that is more complicated would still be easy.

One of the commonly used concepts behind the magic tricks is camouflage. You can make a small object appear look bigger by controlling the way that the audience perceives the materials. You can also make use of other material such as secret pockets so that you can hide an object or make it appear. Additionally, you will have to use secret movements during your performance of the tricks so that you can move things and control them. You should be careful not to expose to your audience how the tricks are done so that they will keep the interest in your tricks. You can also make use of an apparatus that can make an object appear or disappear like when you are performing card tricks. You have to control the materials that you use so that the audience will only see the magic and not the manipulation behind it.

If you are able to learn the simpler tricks, you will also know how to manipulate the apparatus and you can still use it in other magic tricks that may use the same idea only it is more complex.

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Baby Boomers' Love For Theatre - Unleash That Actor In You

Theatre is loved by baby boomers. Not without good reason. The theatre from of art which teaches values and love of culture that definitely were prime to our baby boomers, when they were venturing out in the 50s to 60s. one can not go without noticing the influence of theatre in today as was the influence of hippies back then during their peak.

Love for culture and stage that had become common during amidst the culture of the baby boomers also lets us now that this was nothing less than a well educated det of people. These baby boomers definitely had some influential exposure from the college that they attended or their own parents which undoubtedly has gone a long way in preserving this very important part of our society right through the time this very generation had been in charge.

Almost all the baby boomers have been very fascinated by the theater and its givings to the cultural world. For these it is more than just watching plays and being a good patron of art and culture. Its something more. Many of them feel that there is a desperate performer inside them who wants to just get out there and walk onto the stage and act out a play and show to everyone that here is a potential actor, breaking all the hesitance inside each of them. But the unwillingness and shyness to take that chance has been keeping us all and even giving it a try. However this kind of risk and step taking maybe an easy and possible task for all of us when we are young, the case is not the same when we grow into adults. As adults there is always a need to preserve one's image and pride when one should try to never look stupid especially like on a stage and we forget a line.

As all the baby boomers progress towards the age of retirement, they get more in touch with the creative side of themselves. This point in their life is priceless when they have all the opportunities to explore that thing inside them who wants to take the plunge into the acting world. They can find out for themselves if they really can unleash the actor inside them and also succeed in captivating the audience with their talents and keep them glued to their seats.

It should be noted that if at all there was a voice inside us that cried out to make it big as well as keep in touch with the creative side of themselves, then theatre is indelibly the answer to sprout new wings even if old age is the condition prevailing. Why not? Why not take a chance in life to perform that task which you have always wanted to try all your life. Retirement shouldn't put you down. Actually that should be the time when you actually let go and tell yourself " this is it and I have it in me to give it a try. Why not give it a try? I am definitely trying this out.

Your entire life unsure timidness has kept you from trying out the actor in you in a real role played in a real play. When finally you give it a try and it clicks and when you hear that rousing applause from the audience side at the end of the play, you know that you have everything in you, you will know what you have kept yourself from all your life.

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Magic - Art, Craft, Or Just a Bunch of Tricks?

A question I've often heard thrown about has to do with "magic" (I'm talking about presenting magic tricks and illusions) being art. Is Magic art? Well, the answer to that question depends greatly on who you are asking.

In my experience, if you ask that question to many in the "theatre community" they will most likely say "no". If you ask someone on the street the question, they will probably say "no" also. They are right and they are wrong.

I don't care if we are talking about sculpture, acting, music, drawing, magic, painting or "fill in the blank", none of these are art "by definition." They are first a craft. That craft can approach and become art in the right hands. The same holds true when we are talking about magic or illusion. In the right hands the presentation of magic can become fantastic performance art, in the wrong hands it can become unbearable. I imagine we have all heard lousy musicians or bands. Maybe you have seen a painting that is simply a horrible mess, I know I have. And, I have seen some terrible magicians.

If one magician is terrible, does that mean all magic is? Of course not. That is silly. Just like one bad painter, sculptor, musician doesn't make all painting, sculpture, or music bad. Unfortunately, many people have the opinion of "magic" being bad simply because they had a bad experience with a lousy performer or, maybe, they just don't get it.

Many times I've heard people claim they don't like magic because it is all a trick or it is not real or some other nonsense. I point out, politely, that your favorite TV show is not real. nor are the movies you like to watch or the latest fiction book on the bestsellers list. It is all make believe. Just like magic is make believe. In the right hands, magic elevates you, entertains you, intrigues you and, yes, fools you too in the most wonderful way because what you have just witnessed defies explanation. If the magical performer is really good, you won't care "how it's done" anyway because you'll be too busy enjoying yourself.

So, is Magic which has often been called the "second oldest profession" art? Yes, in the right hands Magic can become Art.

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