Search found 102 matches

by Fred Zimmerman
May 31st, 2011, 2:29 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: a question about Ethics in Mentalism
Replies: 35
Views: 9379

Re: a question about Ethics in Mentalism

Hi, Just reviewing this thread, and am in agreement with Steve. However, just to be clear, Derren did not originate the pseudo-scientific approach. That had been around for several years (decades) before Derren arrived on the scene. However, he did develop & "popularize" it in the UK (...
by Fred Zimmerman
May 6th, 2010, 5:42 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Picture Duplication help
Replies: 14
Views: 4572

Re: Picture Duplication help

Richard's right. You're basically asking how a trick is done on an open forum, which is a no-no. And quite frankly, as a working mentalist, I have several ways of performing the same "effect" -- pic dupes included -- so asking for a method is a little basic. It is clear that you are not fa...
by Fred Zimmerman
December 7th, 2009, 12:16 pm
Forum: Collector's Marketplace
Topic: VERY RARE tony Andruzzi book on eBay - The Negronomicon - The Locked Book!
Replies: 0
Views: 1082

VERY RARE tony Andruzzi book on eBay - The Negronomicon - The Locked Book!

Hi again, OK, this one is very rare - Tony Andruzzi's "Negronomicon," otherwise known as "The Locked Book." For sale on eBay! This was Tony's FIRST book he created by hand. It is number 299 (the second last one he made) and is made from a different cover stock (suede), so for Col...
by Fred Zimmerman
November 25th, 2009, 5:33 pm
Forum: Collector's Marketplace
Topic: eBay Auction: Tony Andruzzi's "Grimoire of ye Mage"
Replies: 0
Views: 735

eBay Auction: Tony Andruzzi's "Grimoire of ye Mage"

Hi all, I just posted a new auction item on eBay. It is #225 of the 250 that were handmade by Tony. It includes the two calligraphed letters needed to complete two of the effects, and - very rare - the handmade prop box Tony included in many of the early copies. The props themselves are long gone, b...
by Fred Zimmerman
October 29th, 2008, 1:25 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism
Replies: 19
Views: 8120

Re: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism

We're ALL still learning, and if anyone ever says otherwise, they're either lying, stupid, or dead. The best thing about an event like that is it gives you the confidence to know that even in less-than-ideal circumstances (which are more the norm that we'd like in strolling situations) you can perse...
by Fred Zimmerman
October 28th, 2008, 12:58 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism
Replies: 19
Views: 8120

Re: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism

Hi again, Thank you for the kind responses. I've been busy lately and have just now been able to check back, and I'm gratified that some have found my post useful. I just finished a weekend of two strolling gigs, and they could NOT have been more different. They also help clarify some of the points ...
by Fred Zimmerman
October 15th, 2008, 5:00 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism
Replies: 19
Views: 8120

Re: Suggestions for Walk-around Mentalism

I'd like to offer some quick advice about walk-around mentalism. Over 60% of my work is in this area, so I've given this a great deal of thought. It's one thing to list effects you will use during walkaround (mentalism or otherwise), but it's equally, if not MORE, important to think about three very...
by Fred Zimmerman
October 25th, 2007, 12:45 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Max Maven's "The Hawk"
Replies: 4
Views: 1448

Re: Max Maven's "The Hawk"

Hi, I don't have it in front of me, but the Gilbreath simply works - it cannot fail. However, here are some troubleshooting thoughts: 1) Review how to split the pack for the riffle. If you're using the Tamaraiz tabled "push-together" idea, you have to be careful doing this because if it's ...
by Fred Zimmerman
September 18th, 2007, 12:32 pm
Forum: Link Watch
Topic: Julien Maire's "Digit" magic printer illusion
Replies: 3
Views: 777

Re: Julien Maire's "Digit" magic printer illusion

The video on his website tips the method - it was filmed too close. But still, the apparatus to accomplish the effect had to have been very well made. It operates so smoothly.

Fred Z
by Fred Zimmerman
August 6th, 2007, 9:27 am
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Why have i stopped being funny?
Replies: 18
Views: 7356

Re: Why have i stopped being funny?

Hi, Well, what a journey! And to tell you the truth, I don't have any concrete advice for you at this time. However, I may have a few questions that, were you to answer them for yourself, may help you start identifying what's going on. Clearly, by conciously changing your process of communication, y...
by Fred Zimmerman
April 24th, 2007, 9:39 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: magical oxymorons???
Replies: 56
Views: 4313

Re: magical oxymorons???

Instant Memorized-Deck System.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
April 24th, 2007, 9:36 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Max Maven to Undergo Heart Surgery Monday
Replies: 133
Views: 40279

Re: Max Maven to Undergo Heart Surgery Monday

"Triple" bypass?

The rule of three, even with your surgery. (Or should I say, Thurgery)

Feel better,

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
March 28th, 2007, 9:36 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Name of Trick Needed
Replies: 4
Views: 821

Re: Name of Trick Needed

Emerson/West certainly put out a version, although since it uses an age-old principal, I'm not sure you could nail down a true "originator." Perhaps looking for the company that "popularized" it may be less of a chore.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
March 15th, 2007, 8:40 am
Forum: Magicana
Topic: Invisible Touch
Replies: 24
Views: 9412

Re: Invisible Touch

Of course, for what I'm about to say, I don't have specific the book/trick credit-that has been lost to the vagaries of time. When I was in College in the late seventies, I was beginning to switch to Mental items. I learned a simple routine (simplistic?) where you had someone write a word on a card,...
by Fred Zimmerman
March 7th, 2007, 9:50 am
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: will this put max maven out of work?
Replies: 6
Views: 1581

Re: will this put max maven out of work?

While I haven't read the actual report, I find it interesting that they stopped at trying to see if a person would add or subtract numbers. Clearly, the person's attitude about math will have an impact on the results of this study. There are many people who, upon hearing they will need to make a &qu...
by Fred Zimmerman
March 6th, 2007, 9:14 am
Forum: General
Topic: Best Book Ever Written
Replies: 43
Views: 4029

Re: Best Book Ever Written

I'd like to make a suggestion from a practical point of view. Many of the classic Magic tomes suggested on this thread only break the surface of great books. There are indeed many fabulous books, all of which deserve their praise. However, I think we've seen the emergence of a new modern classic - C...
by Fred Zimmerman
February 1st, 2007, 7:19 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Walk Around Magic
Replies: 19
Views: 2265

Re: Walk Around Magic

Just to add another level of information - very often, Street Performers need to get a permit. This is the case in Chicago, and many other cities. There are also specific regulations about performing, (areas, volume, etc.) but that shouldn't be a problem. As Jeff said, don't be fooled by the Blaine-...
by Fred Zimmerman
January 23rd, 2007, 2:32 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Walk Around Magic
Replies: 19
Views: 2265

Re: Walk Around Magic

Hi, This kind of "guerilla" magic is a rarified beast. Approaching people without any rhyme of reason is a tricky business (no pun intended). However, when you've actually been "hired" or "asked" to perform at a location, then I find the following opening very successfu...
by Fred Zimmerman
January 5th, 2007, 8:46 am
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: What is the most deceptive Book Test?
Replies: 61
Views: 23893

Re: What is the most deceptive Book Test?

Here'a a more logistical answer to the initial question, rather than philosophical. I like to use the Hoy version, with some embellishments. You can use any books (almost), and allows you to focus more on the specific time, place, and theme of the performance. I guess this maps back to where, when, ...
by Fred Zimmerman
January 4th, 2007, 2:20 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: What is the most deceptive Book Test?
Replies: 61
Views: 23893

Re: What is the most deceptive Book Test?

My major concern about book tests is the "WHY" of them. I think if you can find a good "why" for doing them, apart from "simply because I can," then it doesn't matter what version you use. If you do it well, for a reason that resonates with the audience, pick a book tes...
by Fred Zimmerman
December 21st, 2006, 3:00 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: "You probably know this but..."
Replies: 15
Views: 2244

Re: "You probably know this but..."

I'll be the first to wade in. If you have any experience working in various venues, you are bound to come upon someone doing this. I have on many occasions, although fewer over the last several years. I feel there are two ways to think about this: 1) You should have your "set" tight enough...
by Fred Zimmerman
December 21st, 2006, 2:45 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Does anyone know about a way you can guess a person Birthday
Replies: 23
Views: 18112

Re: Does anyone know about a way you can guess a person Birthday

Hi,

This is a less direct way of doing it, but any Datebook Effect could be routined to show a result of "I knew when your Birthday was because ..."

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
December 15th, 2006, 3:04 pm
Forum: General
Topic: patters
Replies: 53
Views: 6739

Re: patters

Hi, Just a side note on the origin of the word "patter." Yes, it is a Middle English phrase, but HOW it was coined is interesting. In those days, (and up until the early 1960s), the Catholic Church used the Latin Mass. (Trinitine, if my memory serves.) And especially in those days, the con...
by Fred Zimmerman
June 27th, 2006, 1:52 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Definitive list of “Easter Eggs” on magic DVDs
Replies: 43
Views: 4312

Re: Definitive list of “Easter Eggs” on magic DVDs

There's an Easter Egg on this website that contains some incredible interviews with Vernon, some rare footage of Al Baker, and home movies of Houdini.

But of course, you all new that already.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
June 26th, 2006, 7:14 am
Forum: Link Watch
Topic: Video - Weird Magic by Mats Kjellstrom
Replies: 6
Views: 886

Re: Video - Weird Magic by Mats Kjellstrom

...then thanks, it was very funny. I've got to get with it.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
June 23rd, 2006, 1:10 pm
Forum: Link Watch
Topic: Video - Weird Magic by Mats Kjellstrom
Replies: 6
Views: 886

Re: Video - Weird Magic by Mats Kjellstrom

Forgive me for being dense, but this is a gag, right?

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
May 26th, 2006, 12:32 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: New Theory on Becoming Invisible
Replies: 5
Views: 805

Re: New Theory on Becoming Invisible

I, too, have seen other articles on this and the idea of a "cloth" is not in the cards at present.

The word they prefer to use is "shield."

Fred Z.
by Fred Zimmerman
May 18th, 2006, 2:31 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Free copy of Roy Benson by Starlight contest
Replies: 240
Views: 42820

Re: Free copy of Roy Benson by Starlight contest

...it's so late, it's gotten me to thinking ... 1) Da Vinci Code released 2) A book from the "MIRACLE" Factory is said to be "coming," but the arrival is shrouded in mystery 3) The name "Benson" translates as "Excellent son," and "Roy" translates as ...
by Fred Zimmerman
May 12th, 2006, 7:00 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Free copy of Roy Benson by Starlight contest
Replies: 240
Views: 42820

Re: Free copy of Roy Benson by Starlight contest

It's so late ...

... it's become the sequel to "Protocols..."

It's so late ...

...even Busby made a crack about it.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
April 14th, 2006, 8:54 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Blaine set to live in aquarium
Replies: 3
Views: 557

Re: Blaine set to live in aquarium

Wouldn't it be easier to simply perform some magic?

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
April 13th, 2006, 2:29 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Harry Lorayne Magic Books...Two "thumbtips" UP or DOWN?
Replies: 12
Views: 1772

Re: Harry Lorayne Magic Books...Two "thumbtips" UP or DOWN?

Just thought I'd hop in... I, too, began my card life on Harry's books. I still use the "Lorayne Poker Deal" to GREAT effect, and I also use the subtlties I learned from his material for the impromptu Out of This World. And lastly, I'll never be able to sell my My Reputation Makers because...
by Fred Zimmerman
March 14th, 2006, 1:37 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Looking for mentalism trick involving water.
Replies: 27
Views: 3503

Re: Looking for mentalism trick involving water.

You could take "Think-a-drink" a la a lot of people, especially Wakeman, and down-size it to be a mental-type effect. Audience member calls out a drink, and it is produced from the (opaque) tumbler. Perhaps a lot of work for a little effect, but perhaps it could build with others. Fred Zim...
by Fred Zimmerman
February 14th, 2006, 1:35 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Arising cards..
Replies: 42
Views: 2964

Re: Arising cards..

Re: Weber card rise.

Edge marks and serious chops?

Fred Z.
by Fred Zimmerman
February 6th, 2006, 2:55 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Wayne Dobsons richochet
Replies: 3
Views: 624

Re: Wayne Dobsons richochet

Just my two-cents, but in this militaristic world we live in, children shooting guns at things for fun during a show doesn't seem like a good idea. I know, it's just ballons, and we're all enlightened people, and we can wrap our minds around it properly, but you never know who's in the audience, and...
by Fred Zimmerman
February 6th, 2006, 12:10 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Australian Magician Tim Ellis & Ethics
Replies: 3
Views: 703

Re: Australian Magician Tim Ellis & Ethics

This seems to be a tempest in a teapot. This kind of Internet Marketing has been going on for years and is considered widely as "SOP." Companies the world over routinely embed all sorts of searchable terms in their websites. As far as ethics go, I think the trademark laws are fairly clear....
by Fred Zimmerman
February 6th, 2006, 9:04 am
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Chairvelopes
Replies: 2
Views: 950

Re: Chairvelopes

Heck, just use two Himbers. I've easily put two Himbers in one pocket, shown one, replaced it, and then taken out the appropriate one when the need arises. It can be done very cleanly.

Hope this helps.

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
February 3rd, 2006, 1:19 pm
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: What is your opinion about background music
Replies: 10
Views: 1949

Re: What is your opinion about background music

Hi, As in any theatrical production, your music is another character in your show. It makes entrances, exits, supports a scene in the background, or drives it in the foreground. And just like anything, too much would make it looose its "specialness." Even musicals and operas have moments o...
by Fred Zimmerman
January 20th, 2006, 9:54 am
Forum: Mentalism & Mental Magic
Topic: Cash Out by Greg Arce
Replies: 6
Views: 940

Re: Cash Out by Greg Arce

Hi Greg,

What's the turn-around time on receiving the e-book? I'm not complaining, just asking? I ordered Thursday and was wondering if I'd receive it Friday or to start looking next week.

Thanks!

Fred Zimmerman
by Fred Zimmerman
January 16th, 2006, 7:00 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Favorite Trick that uses the Elmsley Count
Replies: 80
Views: 22133

Re: Favorite Trick that uses the Elmsley Count

This is just a side note, but an observation regarding how the Elmsley is used. I prefer tricks where the "count" is used casually to display cards, and not to literally "count" them. The moment you draw attention to the number of cards you have, people will start not believing t...
by Fred Zimmerman
January 12th, 2006, 7:31 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Magic Forum Revealing Passwords to Magic Sites
Replies: 88
Views: 12142

Re: Magic Forum Revealing Passwords to Magic Sites

"Obviously we have to strike a balance between many different views..." Why? Let's say I want to form an ethical position on bank robbery. I go out and poll 100 people, including other bank robbers. The results are mixed. Many think Bank Robbery is not ethical - that it's illegal. Many thi...

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