2013. It could be labeled as “The Year of the Big-Ol’-Book Set.” Mike Caveney’s Wonders, Gaetan Bloom’s Full Bloom, and Magic Christian’s Non Plus Ultra, the first two English language volumes of his monumental work on Hofzinser. All of them highly anticipated. All of them representing the lifework of their author and/or subject. All of them remarkable on every level. But there was more to 2013 than just these incredible books. Now that it is behind us, let us have a look back…
January
On the Cover of Genii: Steve Cohen
Starting the New Year with a Golden Event
The Magic Castle—the place some said wouldn’t last a year—turns 50 years old on January 2. A huge Founders’ Day Party at the Castle starts with a gathering outside the front door (with the press and the Larsen Family) and then moves inside with food, entertainment, a big cake, and a lot of socializing well into the night. The elegant “Limited Addition” souvenir plate is a highlight for the lucky attendees who receive one.
J. Fred Muggs Would Have Loved This
NBC’s “Today Show” does a segment on the 50th anniversary of the Magic Castle.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znFDP-nIpZ4
A New Member of the Club (But There are No Hats and T-Shirts)
Apollo Robbins joins the short list of magicians who have been featured in the pages of The New Yorker; a list that includes Dunninger, Penn & Teller, Jamy Ian Swiss, and Ricky Jay.
From Hugo to Houdini
Brian Selznick, the author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret which was adapted into the Martin Scorsese film, “Hugo,” has had another of his works optioned into a film. The Houdini Box is in preproduction. Kealan O’Rourke will write and direct the film version. O’Rourke has some television and short films under his belt, but this will be his first feature.
Speaking of Short Films
R. Paul Wilson produces and directs several short films in early 2013. The films cover subjects from asking the question, “Is Magic an Art?” to creativity in magic, and “The Greatest Hustler of All Time” (Titanic Thompson). But above all, there is a wonderful short called “The Magic Box” that is a must-see. All of the films, which are appropriate for (and should be shared with) the general public can be found at http://www.youtube.com/user/rpwfx
My “Supply Teacher” Wears a “Waistcoat,” Puts “Petrol” in His “Estate Car,” and Prefers to be “Knocked Up” at the Same Time Every Day
John Archer is one of four magicians in a series (going into its second run) on CBBC called "Help! My Supply Teacher is Still Magic." Noted by Forum Member, David Kapln, “The program is aimed at young kids. John Archer and others do magic while posing as substitute teachers.” (“Supply Teachers” being what we ugly Americans call “Substitute Teachers.”)
Imagine What Stepping On Lego Bunny Ears Must Feel Like
Toy giant Lego produces a magic kit geared toward young girls called “Mia's Magic Tricks.” It features a bunny vanish.
Richard Kaufman: Magic Tease (part one)
The Chief Genii tantalizes one and all with a vague announcement about a new project. All we are told is that it is not a book and it is, “a project of material by one of the most famous close-up magicians in the last quarter of the 20th century. He published some during his lifetime, but [not] nearly enough, and he died prematurely.”
Big? Really?
Criss Angel apparently promised a “big announcement” and it is that he is returning to TV in the fall. Spike TV’s press release describes it: “Over the hourlong [sic] episodes, Angel will attempt new demonstrations never attempted by any mystifier [sic] in history. Whats [sic] more, hell [sic] also for the first time reveal the creative process behind the magic, letting the audience in to the think tank where his team prepares for some of his trademark illusions.”
Maybe Someone Needed to Provide a Translation into “A-Hole” so He Could Understand What Was Being Requested
Derek Lever informs John Gapp, the President of the Society of World Deaf Magicians, that he would not provide an interpreter at his convention and that he refuses to allow Mr. Gapp to ask any of the lecturers if they have any objections to an interpreter being allowed to attend. And, according to Mr. Lever, "Breaching this code of practice will result in action being taken against you [Mr. Gapp]."
All The King’s Men Could Not Put Houdini Back Together Again—But They Found Him
The original gravesite bust of Houdini, destroyed in 1975, was discovered in a private collection. A current photo of the granite bust, which is in several pieces, can be found on John Cox’s “Wild About Harry” site: http://www.wildabouthoudini.com
Richard Kaufman: Magic Tease (part two)
After many guesses, it is revealed that the new project is a collection of audio tapes sent to Allen Okawa by Michael Skinner. Instead of letter writing, the two men shared audio cassette tapes. Mr. Okawa kept all of those he received from Skinner in which the legendary magician talks about his magic.
February
On the Cover of Genii: Mago Migue
We Knew Him When…
It is reported that Rob Zabrecky will appear in Ryan Gosling's directorial debut. The working title of the horror movie (you were expecting maybe a romantic comedy?) is "How to Catch a Monster." Robbie Z plays a cab driver.
Going … Going … (part one)
Potter & Potter’s Winter Magic Auction Results:
300 of 305 Lots sold
$186,460 Total Hammer Price
The Science of Penn & Teller
P&T’s Cups and Balls routine is the subject of a scientific paper published on the Internet (Perceptual elements in Penn & Teller’s “Cups and Balls” magic trick by Hector Rieiro, Susana Martinez-Conde, and Stephen L. Macknik, all of whom are associated with the Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute). Fortunately, for those concerned about exposure, the paper reads exactly like a scientific paper.
The Levitation Disappeared
Apparently a story on/with/including (?) the levitation made the front page of the New York Observer on February 18, but danged if I can find it.
A Bargain if You Ask Me (and no doubt, Malini would agree!)
During its February 22 auction, Lawsons Auctioneers in Australia had as Lot #1863 Max Malini's costume. The lot included his white leather gloves, white silk half-length trousers (breeches), shoes, an ivory topped walking stick, a black cotton bag, and two white painted “timber eggs.” The low and high estimates: $300 and $500. The hammer price was a mere $5,000.
Just Another Line on the Resume
Magician, collector, historian, photographer, and all around cool guy, Bill Taylor is recognized with the John Bonner Medal of Commendation by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his work in Visual Effects in film.
March
On the Cover of Genii: Danny Orleans
Magic Mondays in March
David Copperfield hosts magic segments every Monday during March on NBC’s “Today Show.”
Ba-Ba Wa-Wa Ain’t Got Nothin’ on Uncle Matt
Interviews with some of magic’s great personalities begin appearing in iGenii with our very own Matthew Field conducting the interrogations. Filmed at the Genii Bash, interviewees through the years include Tom Stone, Rob Zabrecky, David Ben, Uri Geller, Ton Onosaka, Roberto Giobbi, Juan Tamariz, Stephen Minch, John Carney, and Bob Farmer.
Too Easy and Too Serious
“Fire in Colon” may be low hanging humor fruit, but this is too serious: A fire in the business district of Colon, Michigan completely destroys two buildings and damages others causing the loss of several small businesses in the tightknit community. Abbott’s Magic is not among them—though the fire was just a block or so away—and (most importantly) no one is injured.
You’ll Catch a Glimpse of Him if You Make it Past the Girl in the Bikini
A commercial made for the Bahamas includes David Copperfield doing magic for some children. It airs during the Superbowl.
More Commercialism
A new commercial for Staples uses magic (and Mark Wilson’s stuff).
These Outlaws are Wanted Alive
A new magic television show airs on The Travel Channel. Called "Magic Outlaws," it stars Chris Korn, David Minkin, and Ben Seidman.
Because – Because – Becaaaaause – All of the Wonderful Things He Does
Disney's 23 magazine reports that James Franco studied under Lance Burton for the new movie, “Oz: The Great and Powerful.”
Not So Incredible
“Yes, it looks funny, but is that what enters people’s (and Hollywood’s powers that be) minds when they think of magic and magicians? Hmmm.”
Yours truly posted those words one year ago today when reporting (in the 2012 Review) on the release of the trailer for “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone.” Of course, the film’s depiction of the magicians in the movie was just one of the problems it had. (Not that I’m saying “I told you so.”)
Putting a Poll in the (Magic) Field
About.com has a "Reader's Choice" for “favorite magicians” (stage and close-up).
“Who is the Best Stage/Illusion/Television Magician?”
Steve Cohen 56%
Justin Willman 18%
Jeff McBride 11%
David Copperfield 7%
Penn and Teller 5%
“Who is the Best Close-Up Magician?”
Justin Flom 49%
Paul Vigil 21%
Eric Jones 10%
Jay Sankey 6%
Michael Vincent 6%
Jon Armstrong 4%
Those Respondents Obviously Don’t Read USA Today
An article on David Copperfield appears in the March 13 issue of USA Today.
Or Watch the “Today Show”
David Copperfield and Penn & Teller co-host the Monday Magic Segment on the “Today Show” on March 18.
How About the Wall Street Journal?
An article appears in the Wall Street Journal about Bill Kalush and his Conjuring Arts Research Center. The piece includes names like Ricky Jay, David Copperfield, and David Blaine among others.
Ivy League Magic
Princeton offers a course titled, "The Mathematics of Magic Tricks and Games."
Beyond Folly
The producers of the Brookledge Follies announce a weekend long all-inclusive and all-immersive entertainment called “Beyond Brookledge” to be held in June. Curious minds begin to dream (and shake their piggybanks).
April
On the Cover of Genii: Rob Zabrecky
Brick, Mortar, and 34 Candles
April 1 is Best Magic and Costume's 34th anniversary. The Anaheim, California magic shop can be found at 625 South Magnolia Avenue.
Knock It Off with the Knock Offs
NPR does a piece on the issue of “knock off magic” with comments from Losander, Jeff McBride, and Kevin James.
Now You Can Walk All Over Penn & Teller
Magic’s “Bad Boys” receive a star on Hollywood’s “Walk of Fame.”
And Then the “Real Award”
The Academy of Magical Arts holds its annual awards show at the Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles. The member voted award winners are:
Lecturer: Harry Anderson
Close-Up: Derek DelGaudio (for the second consecutive year)
Parlour: Helder Guimaraes (for the second consecutive year)
Stage: Rob Zabrecky (for the second consecutive year)
And the Fellowship winners as selected by the Board of Trustees:
Special Fellowship: Carl Williams
Performing Fellowship: David Williamson
Special Fellowship: Luis de Matos, David Britland, and Marco Tempest
Lifetime Achievement: Alan Shaxon (yes, he found out before he passed away)
Creative Fellowship: Paul Kieve
Literary Fellowship: David Charvet
Masters Fellowship: Juan Tamariz
Magicians of the Year: Penn & Teller (Teller, in a heartfelt speech made upon receiving the award at the Magic Castle on the same day they received their Hollywood Star, says, “Forget the star; this is the real award.”)
Desperately Seeking a Good Movie About Magic
Joe Tyler Gold and Tammy Caplan’s “Desperate Acts of Magic” makes its (limited) debut in New York. The comedy features real magicians in several key rolls and Tony Clark and David Regal were the consultants. The cast: Joe Tyler Gold, Valerie Dillman, Jonathan Levit, Sascha Alexander, John Getz, Stephen Wastell, William Salyers, Jordi Caballero, Hiawatha Johnson Jr., Tammy Caplan, Cameron Sanders, Rob Zabrecky, Farrell Dillon, Brian Gillis, Tom Ogden, and Eric Buss.
See the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9ScoKQNWjo
Going … Going … (part two)
Potter & Potter’s Cardini Auction Results:
Total Auction:
292 of 298 Lots sold
$543,935 Total Hammer Price
Cardini Collection Only:
226 of 227 Lots sold
$456,555 Total Hammer Price
(It also marks the last time I do an “auction analysis” due to online result reporting changes made by Live Auctioneers—dang it!)
But Where are the Fetching Lingerie Pix?
David Copperfield appears in Maxim magazine.
From Franklin Avenue to Wall Street
An article on the Magic Castle Junior Program appears in the Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1000142 ... 31106.html
Jamin’ with Jimmy
Some rare video of Jimmy Grippo (from an episode of the “Merv Griffin Show”):
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQKtEkcXOkI
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnz71b4Si_Q
May
On the Cover of Genii: “Merlin” (Doug Henning and Chita Rivera)
Dang! I Had 30 Days in the Pool!
“Centerfolds of Magic,” a magic show featuring Penthouse Pet of the Year Taya Parker and several other shapely-adorables, opens on May 1 at the Downtown Plaza Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. It closes on May 28.
MagicPedia Milestone
Because of its devoted contributors—and Joe Pecore—MagicPedia reaches 7,500 articles which includes 3,000 magicians, 1,700 books, and 500=plus periodicals.
http://www.magicpedia.net
Caveney’s is Bigger
“Tiny Plungers” become all the rage and Jon Armstrong holds the first ever workshop dedicated to the miniature plumber’s tool at the Magic Apple.
Step Aside Big Ben: There’s Another Tourist Attraction in the Country
Located in North Walsham in Great Britain, “Davenport’s Magic Kingdom” opens.
Theatre for Sale…
The home of “Le Grand David and His Own Spectacular Magic Show” for 35 years, Cabot Street Cinema Theatre, in Beverly, Massachusetts, is for sale. The 800 seat theatre is listed for $1.3 million.
Going … Going … (part three)
Potter & Potter’s Gambling Memorabilia Auction Results:
257 of 267 Lots sold
$74,255 Total Hammer Price
I Get Around (get around-round-round)*
CBS’s “Sunday Morning” runs a feature on David Copperfield.
*With Thanks to the Beach Boys
Does the WSJ Now Have a Magic Editor?
The Wall Street Journal runs a piece on the documentary, “Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay.”
Hide the Silverware
"Now You See Me,” Louis Letterier’s magical “heist” movie starring Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Woody Harrelson, Mélanie Laurent, Dave Franco, and Isla Fisher opens on May 31st.
June
On the Cover of Genii: The Duviviers
Watchin’ and Talkin’ Magic with Dick
Steve Cohen holds a special screening and discussion of his TV special (on the History Channel), “Lost Magic Decoded.” The host: Dick Cavett.
Bill Taylor is Recognized by the Film Academy, Copperfield Has all Those Emmy Awards, All We Need Now is Someone to Win a Grammy…
Magic aficionado Jules Fisher and his partner Peggy Eisenhauer win a Tony Award (actually his ninth) for their lighting design for Tom Hanks’ Broadway play "Lucky Guy" (written by the late Nora Ephron).
Speaking of the Tonys…
AMA (The Magic Castle) President Neil Patrick Harris hosts the Tony Awards (and garners more great reviews for his hosting prowess—hello Oscars?!?).
I Promise: No Crack Jokes*
The great city of Toronto holds its “Luminato” art festival. It has a section devoted to magic (which David Ben, Julie Eng, and the rest of their Magiciana team work on). Featured performers include: Miguel Puga, pianist Paz Sabater, and Luis Britos as the “Primordial Spirit,” performed the Canadian premiere of their show, "Concerto for Piano and Pasteboards." Steve Cohen presented "Chamber Magic," and Rafael Benatar performed his "Compositions."
*Believe me, I REALLY wanted to, but self-control got the better of me.
We Ain’t Gunna Git Out Dun by Them Kunadians!
The first “Louisville International Festival of Magic, Illusion & the Unusual” is held in
June in Louisville, Kentucky. Performers include Lance Burton, Mac King, David Williamson, Max Maven, Rob Zabrecky, and Michael Weber
More WSJ Magic
The new edition of the Taschen book on magic, MAGIC: 1400s-1950s by Mike Caveney and Jim Steinmeyer is featured in a photo spread In the Wall Street Journal.
Buyin’ the Slammer
Penn Jillette puts his Las Vegas home, which he calls “The Slammer,” on the market. The 7,900 square foot, seven-bedroom home is listed at $2.1 million. (I know where you can get a theatre for half that much.)
A Real Miracle
David Oliver has a successful double lung transplant. To the donor and his/her family: Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for saving the life of our friend and colleague. Turning an unimaginable loss into the most generous gift possible … there are no words.
July
On the Cover of Genii: Imam
But What About the WSJ?
Mentalist and magician (and marathon runner) Oz Pearlman is featured in a full-page article in Sports Illustrated as well as appearing in USAToday.
Magic Goes Through the Wormhole
An episode of “Through the Wormhole” with Morgan Freeman deals with the question, “Is Reality Real?” Part of the show is taped at Steve Spill’s magic theater, Magicopolis, in Santa Monica, California.
Do You Think He Got His Materials at Michael’s or Joann’s?
A “lost” Houdini scrapbook is discovered by a Southern California antique dealer.
IBM Honors
Awards given out at the 2013 IBM National Convention held in Phoenix, Arizona:
Close-Up
Youth:
1st place – Drake Stanton
2nd place – Tamer Qafiti
Adult:
1st place – Alberto Lorenzo
2nd place – Rune Carlsen
People's Choice Close Up Award and Obie 4F Close-Up Award – Alberto Lorenzo
Stage
Youth:
1st place (and winner of the FANTASMA Prize Package – Eli Portala
2nd place – Thirawat Kongnugul Thailand
Adult:
1st place – Ming Ya Liu
2nd place – Chris Randall
People's Choice Stage Award – Ming Ya Liu
Karrell Fox Comedy Award –Sadaharu Suzuki and Toshiharu Odjima
McBride Magic & Mystery School Scholarship – Tamer Qafiti
IBM Endowment and Development Scholarships to the Sorcerer's Summer Safari Magic Camp – Salvatori Adler and Jason Knight
Magic IS Mentioned…
An interview of legendary comic book artist and card magician Jim Steranko appears on Collider.com:
http://collider.com/jim-steranko-marvel ... ore-272451
More Masters of Illusion
The CW Network orders 13 one hour episodes of the Gay Blackstone produced magic shows, “Masters of Illusion” for its 2014 schedule. Taping begins in July and runs through early September. Locations include Los Angeles' Hollywood Boulevard, New York's Times Square, as well as New Orleans and Orlando.
Going … Going … (part four)
Potter & Potter’s Summer Auction Results:
300 of 316 Lots sold
$65,515 Total Hammer Price
August
On the Cover of Genii: Ali Cook
Wonders Will Never Cease
Mike Caveney’s magnum opus, Wonders and its companion volume The Conference Illusions, is released. The $240 set of books comes in a slipcase lined with what appears to be material from Caveney’s trademark houndstooth jacket.
Gaetan’s Creativity Blooms
Full Bloom, unpublished material along with Gaetan Bloom’s collected works is released as a two-volume set.
Just ONE Little Book?!?
Richard Kaufman and Steve Cohen collaborate on a new book of unique Japanese magic called Japan Ingenious.
(All three of these works are released at the “MAGIC Live!” convention and all three sell very well.)
That Was Quick
Jesse Eisenberg’s horrific “performance” of magic on the David Letterman television program notwithstanding, a sequel to “Now You See Me” is announced.
Brick, Mortar, and 10 Candles
The Magic Apple celebrates its tenth anniversary. The Studio City, California magic shop—and popular magic lecture venue—can be found at 11390 Ventura Boulevard.
Tongue in Cheek or Foot in Mouth?
Or…
Did Debbie Cut Him Off?
The UK Daily Mail reports that Paul Daniels believes that men are more creative than women so that's why men are better at magic. And why aren’t women more creative (according to Daniels)? Young girls are obsessed by fashion while boys carry on playing with toys as they grow older.
Going … Going …(part five)
Potter & Potter’s Magic Live! Auction Results:
40 of 40 Lots sold
$36,895 Total Hammer Price
Reconnecting the Circle
Genii and the Magic Castle (the Academy of Magical Arts) are inextricably linked, so when Genii and the AMA join forces—AMA members now receive iGenii as a part of their membership—it just seemed like the natural thing to do.
Brick, Mortar, Aluminum, and a Sad Goodbye
After more than a half a century in business, Morrissey Magic of Canada closes.
September
On the Cover of Genii: Mike Caveney
A First Time for Everything
His controversial and ethics-challenged (within the magic community) choice of material notwithstanding, Collins Key becomes the first magician to make it into finals of “America’s Got Talent.” He does not win.
More David*
David Copperfield appears in Forbes:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/morganbrenn ... pperfield/
I Gotta Have More David!*
David Copperfield posts a “rant” about Penn Jillette and why “he’s a bad guy” (complete with printed documentation):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAfsgC3x6JM
Guess What? I’ve Got a Fever … and the Only Prescription is More David!*
Variety reports that David Copperfield has created a film production company.
*With a wink and a nod to SNL and Christopher Walken
Heeeeeere’s Johnny!
Johnny Carson as magician "El Mouldo!":
http://mnw.squarespace.com/magicnewsfee ... ouldo.html
(The “ringer” is Tracy Newman, member of the Groundlings and sister of comedic actress and original SNL cast member Laraine Newman. She and Ricky Jay were dating at the time—and RJ once used her in a “hypnosis” routine, but that’s another story I will leave to Pete Biro.)
October
On the Cover of Genii: Eugene Burger
Go East Young Men!
“Nothing to Hide” starring Helder Guimarães and Derek DelGaudio and directed by Neil Patrick Harris opens Off-Broadway at the Romulus Linney Courtyard Theatre. It’s scheduled to run through December 8. (The show, which receives rave reviews and sells out regularly, is held over into January 2014.)
Beetlejuice! … Beetlejuice! … Geico! … wait, what?
Reminiscent of the “waiting room” scene in the movie “Beetlejuice” (1988), Geico Insurance airs a new commercial that—sort of—uses "magic." The spot takes place in a doctor's waiting room (versus that of the afterlife social workers). Waiting is a girl cut in halves, sitting in different chairs. Waiting with her is a stereotypical magician in a bad tux.
Putting the Magic in Jeopardy (part one)
On October 11, the legendary quiz show “Jeopardy” has a category called “Magic Words.”
$200
A: Two-word rhyming phrase also a movie title
Q: Hocus Pocus
$400
A: Horace Goldin patented it
Q: Sawing in Half
$600
A: Never finished the novel that inspired his name
Q: David Copperfield
$800
A: Bullwinkle tries this classic trick but gets a lion
Q: Pulling a Rabbit Out of a Hat
$1000
A: Peter Lamont wrote about this most famous trick
Q: Indian Rope Trick
Apparently it’s Not Just “Jealous Magicians” Who Think He’s a [Insert Favorite Rude Epithet Here]
Variety reviews Criss Angel's new cable show "BeLIEve" and calls him an "egomaniacal eccentric."
Leaving it to the Kids to Get it Right
A new student play at Bob Jones High School (Madison, Alabama) puts on a production of the “Life of Houdini,” an original script written by Dwayne Craft and the school’s drama department. Two local magicians help with the production. Matt Adams designs and builds the illusions used in the show (Sub Trunk and a DeKolta Chair) while Genii Forum Member Trace Cooper consults on the performance of the magic. The production goes to a state level high school drama competition and wins. As a result, the youngsters will compete at a national competition in March of 2014.
The Other Magical Close
An article on Lisa Close (Michael Close's [much] better half appears in the Beach Metro Community News:
http://www.beachmetro.com/2013/10/10/magic-crazy-life/
Going … Going … (part six)
Potter & Potter’s Bill King Collection Auction Results:
380 of 385 Lots sold
$228,865 Total Hammer Price
Harry’s Not Home!
The current resident of Harry Houdini’s Harlem Brownstone publicizes his desire to be left alone through the New York Daily News. Other national media pick up the story via the World-Wide-Web.
November
On the Cover of Genii: The Aronsons
Arcane Knowledge on a Need-to-Know Basis, and We Need to Know!
The DVD of “Deceptive Practices: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay” is released on November 5.
Making History with History
2013 marked the thirteenth Los Angeles Conference on Magic History. The consensus among those lucky 250 or so invited to the event is that it is one of the best ever. The recreation of the Astarte Levitation, Jarrett’s Sawing an Egg, Morritt’s Vanishing Donkey and Elephant (scaled down to fit the space, of course), and Charles Carter’s Spirit Cabinet are just some of the highlights.
Another hit is the field trip to the International Printing Museum, something anyone in or visiting Southern California can experience. There we saw how our beloved handbills, posters, periodicals, and books were printed before the computer age. We also learn where “mind your Ps and Qs” and “Upper and Lower Case” comes from. (Keeping in mind that they are reverse images, it would be common for a lower case ‘p’ to be mistaken for a lower case ‘q’ and vice versa. And the capital letters were kept in the “upper” section of the letter case while the small letters were in the “Lower” case.)
And we discover how it came to be that those who chose not to attend the field trip and later regretted it became “Out of Sorts.”* Do go if you ever have the opportunity!
http://www.printmuseum.org/
*So here’s the deal with “Out of Sorts”: The typesetter would have his case full of letters which were, of course, sorted appropriately and referred to as “sorts.” In the printing game back then, time was money. If the typesetter’s apprentice did not keep the sorts filled (particularly the most used letters), the typesetter would become angry at his apprentice for being “Out of Sorts.” (With thanks to Larry Horowitz for sharing this one with me after he learned it while at the museum.)
Immortal?
Parody site “The Onion” places David Copperfield at the top of their list of “the world’s most powerful people” for the third year in a row.
“Indeed, the editorial board of this newspaper believes that Mr. Copperfield cannot, in fact, be killed.”
We Live to Delight Betty White
Mike Caveney appears on NBC’s “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” during a segment titled "Delight Betty White." Mr. Caveney does part of his incredible Coffee and Hoop Juggle and, in fact, delights Ms. White.
An Ancient Take on “Rinse and Spit”
To promote his new special, David Blaine makes an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show on ABC. He performs Water Spouting—a centuries old stunt—wherein large quantities of water and is swallowed and then “spouted” forth.
Home Invader
During his new special, “Real or Magic,” David Blaine is asked to “get the f*** out of my house” by mega-movie star Harrison Ford. Blaine had just made a card named by Ford appear in an orange in Ford’s own kitchen. The new show, which has much more magic than several of his last shows, is considered by many Blaine’s best since his premier show, “Street Magic” from 1996.
The Davids Do “Nightline”
Both David Copperfield and David Blaine make appearances during a segment on ABC’s “Nightline.”
Bet He’s Not Headed to a Chinese Labor Camp***
Taiwanese magician Lu Chen receives the Berglas Award at the International Magic convention in Great Britain.
John Henry Pepper’s Magic Kit
Leading up to its first Christmas, the unique magic kit “Holografx,” which combines Pepper’s Ghost with iPhone technology, makes The Daily News.
It’s On … It’s Off … It’s On
There is some confusion about the 2014 “Magic Collectors Weekend” (“MCW”) which was scheduled to be in the Cincinnati area. The Magic Collectors’ Association cannot be involved in the confab which becomes a by-invitation-only event (apparently due to size restrictions), so the 2014 MCW is technically cancelled by the MCA, but the sponsors of the event are still producing a conference called “Cincinnati Magic Collectors Convention” for those invited.
If “Gas” is “Petrol” and “Pants” are “Trousers,” What’s the British Word for “Emmy”?
John Archer and Anthony Owen (along their team) win a BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Award in the Children's Entertainment category for their work on the UK show "Help! My Supply Teacher is Magic."
Camp Granada it Ain’t
Mike Segal’s popular Sorcerers Safari Magic & Performance Camp produces a short “documentary” video of the 2013 camp (be certain to watch all the way to the end):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ITulwyK ... rBCiv9eZ8Q
(And for those too young to get the subject line reference: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jjiWS__Mp0 )
December
On the Cover of Genii: David Williamson
(A note of thanks regarding the cover images: All of them were pinched by me from our friends at the Penguin Magic site. I hope they do not mind as I thought of doing this mere hours before posting this, so I didn’t have time to ask. Yes, the images are property of Genii, but it is their bandwidth! So my thanks to them and be sure to visit them for your magical needs!
Two Las Vegas Yankees in Queen Elizabeth’s Court
A quick summer tour of Great Britain by Penn & Teller is announced. The duo will spend most of June at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham, and the Eventim Apollo Hammersmith in London.
Not So Grim for the Seller
A poster for Houdini's silent film “The Grim Game” (1919) is purchased at auction for the record price (for a Houdini poster) of $67,166 by David Copperfield.
Maybe He Should Have Been Driving Blindfolded(?)
63-year-old (UK) TV psychic Derek Acorah is charged with careless driving following a car crash in Merseyside.
What Happens if It’s Better Than “BeLIEve”?
With Criss Angel sidelined due to a shoulder injury, a show called "Criss Angel's Magic Jam" featuring Nathan Burton, Banachek, Krystyn Lambert, Jason Byrne, Tony Clarke, Armando Vera, Russ Merlin, with Angel acting as host will run at the Luxor during February and March in place of “BeLIEve.”
***But These Guys Are
According to the Washington Post “card tricksters” do hard time with burglars, pickpockets, sex workers, blackmailers, political prisoners (such as those who criticize the government in public or online and members of underground Christian churches or banned spiritual movements such as the Falun Gong) in Chinese labor camps.
Hangin’ With Ricky
Registration for the first “Ricky Jay's Congress of Wonders” opens. The event will take place in New York in July, 2014.
Top Ten Ricky
In an article by Chris Nashawaty in Entertainment Weekly, "Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay" is listed as the 7th best film of 2013.
A Promotion for the Magic Clerk
The Hollywood Reporter reports that TruTV has ordered 12 episodes of a magic “reality series” featuring Michael Carbonaro (who achieved notoriety through his “Magic Clerk” segments on NBC’s “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” The show is slated to begin in the summer of 2014.
Kickstarting the Brookledge Follies
Erika Larsen, the producer of the “Brookledge Follies” which are by-invitation-only variety entertainments held at the theater at the Larsen Family Home, Brookledge (originally built by Floyd Thayer), initiates a “Kickstarter” campaign to raise funds to update the electrical work in the decades-old venue. The campaign works, garnering donations of over $30,000.
More Funny Money
Following the lead of its Commonwealth Realms, Australia and Canada (and a dozen other nations), it is announced that Great Britain will transition from paper to polymer proving that governments do not check with magicians and their needs when making important decisions.
Hugh’s Not Harry
Citing scheduling conflicts, Hugh Jackman bows out of playing the lead in the long-planned Broadway musical “Houdini.”
Putting the Magic in Jeopardy (part two)
There is another magic category—“It’s Magic Time”—on the episode Jeopardy which airs on December 23. All but the $1,000 clue is answered correctly.
$200
A: Their contract says the talking one eats fire, but doesn’t shoot it.
Q: Penn & Teller
$400
A: Kuda Bux famous for driving a car this way.
Q: Blindfolded
$600 (Daily Double; $2,000 risked)
A: Leonardo DiCaprio hosted his “Street Magic” special
Q: David Blaine
$800
A: His walk on Water YouTube video received [x] views.
Q: Criss Angel
$1,000 (Video)
A: He is known for having 52 Assistants
Q: Ricky Jay (the video was of him throwing cards into a watermelon)
Now THAT’S (these days apparently) Entertainment!
A new A&E Network “reality series” starring Andrew Mayne is scheduled to begin airing in January. The magic appears to be used as “pranks” on the show.
Because After “Reality TV,” America Cannot Get Enough “Street Magic”
Dan White, who has worked as a consultant and producer for David Blaine, stars in two episodes of his own “street magic” style TV show called “White Magic” that air on the Travel Channel.
It Requires a “Ultra” BIG Stocking
Released in time, copies of the first two volumes in English of Magic Christian’s Non Plus Ultra (published by Hermetic Press and the Conjuring Arts Research Center)—the long awaited tome on Johann Nepomuk Hofzinser—start arriving at the homes of purchasers. It appears to be the most common Christmas present delivered by Santa Claus to Genii Forum members.
Julie Eng is Magic
Julie Eng has had a tough year—she lost a beloved uncle as well as her grandmother—but she carries on strong, devoting her time and skills (and not just her “magical” skills) to a special program called “My Magic Hands” that uses magic for rehabilitation for kids:
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/12 ... ities.html
The Winner and Still the Champion…
With 68 pages, 2,697 posts, and 1,301,483 views as of the end of 2013, the “Erdnase” thread remains the most popular in the history of the Genii Forum.
To Absent Friends
“Death never comes at the right time, despite what mortals believe. Death always comes like a thief.”
― Christopher Pike
“The ending shouldn't determine the meaning of anything, a story or a life. Logically, I don't think it can—didn't Heidegger say something to that effect? That the meaning of all our moments cannot be contingent upon an end-point over which we have no control? That if we are happy right now, that means something, even if we die tomorrow? Narrative integrity is overrated. I don't need to know that the story of my life has a happy ending to enjoy it. A good thing, too, because I hear all the characters die in the end.”
― Alexa Stevenson
“Yeah, I get it: everyone dies; it’s just a part of life. Well I still think it sucks.”
― Dustin Stinett
Here is the unavoidable list of those we lost this year (with one from 2012 that we didn’t find out about until after the New Year). Please take a moment to remember them and/or think of their families and friends who will never forget them (and please forgive me if I missed someone):
Imam Hossain (71 – died Dec. 2012)
Alexander Adrion (89)
David Bendix (78)
Peter Berglas (son of David Berglas) (55)
John Calvert (102)
Ruth Carlsson (93)
Bill Chaudet (91)
Albert Chingg, Jr. (87)
Maurine Christopher (92)
Rod “The Hop” Dee (56)
Earnest Earick (53)
Terri Eddings (63)
Willie Eng (76)
Mary Eng (Julie Eng’s Grandmother) (91)
Dr. Bob Escher (71)
Harry Garrison (77)
Gene "Phantini" Grant (86)
Ed Hill (59)
Roland Hill (84)
Jan Howlett (David Ben’s wife)
JP Jackson (77)
Jon LeClair (47)
Amos Levkovitch (65)
Johnny Lonn (68)
De Yip Loo (87)
Dennis Loomis (69)
Charles McCall (77)
Celeste Mills (ageless)
Hans Moretti (84)
Stan Musial (Baseball Hall of Famer and Amateur Magician) (92)
Dick Newton (85)
John Nicholls
Karl Norman (95)
Rev. Robert E. Olson (85)
Bob Ostin (83)
Peter Reveen (77)
Roy Roth (83)
Monica Roucau (Fantasio’s wife)
Gertrude Smith (92)
Bob Steiner (78)
Parker Swan (85)
Tonny Van Dommelen (86)
Rick Walker (64)
Bart Whaley (85)
Akira Yamada (Tenyo Founder) (81)
* * * *
If my math is correct—and since I was once paid to do math I like to think that it is—this is the eighth one of these silly things that I have done here on the Genii Forum. I do it because I enjoy it. I do it because it exercises what is left of my time-addled mind. But mostly I do it for those of you who—each year—willingly part with some of your valuable time to read and, hopefully, enjoy it. I cannot thank you enough for that.
On behalf of Richard Kaufman and the rest of us here at the Genii Forum, thank you for your continued participation. We wish you all a New Year that is filled with Good Health, Happiness, and Peace!
