On the Slant - September 2007

[Guest]

I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading Mr. Racherbaumer's column this month. This topic is something that I think about a lot, when trying to decide how my performance will evolve.

I really think, from my own limited experience, that magic sometimes carries the stigma of being a trivial, good for a laugh, affair. While I understand, especially in restaurant work, that certain circumstances call for different approaches, I feel that those who find a way to affect the minds and hearts of the audience take magic to another level.

Like John talks about in his article, magic routines sometimes boil down to the "five-gag films" format. I think that has its place in magic and an important one at that. It's just that I think at this moment in magic history it's overwhemingly predominant. It seems the intent is to fool and not entertain.

I'd like to know what others think about the points brought up in the column. Thanks in advance for any comments.