2017 In Review

Discuss the latest news and rumors in the magic world.
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Dustin Stinett
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Joined: July 22nd, 2001, 12:00 pm
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2017 In Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » December 31st, 2017, 6:35 pm

The Genii Forum’s 2017 In Review

Heaven forbid I should let down my fan, so here we are, again, looking back at yet another year here on the Genii Forum. I cannot believe it. I cannot believe I finished it in time. I know I'm actually early, but I figure that I will let our European friends have it “on time,” and those of you on the East Coast of the USA can read it before you head off to party … or go to bed, which is more my speed these days.

Speed ... [sigh]

The speed with which time passes is the only thing that truly astounds me these days. In their song Time, Pink Floyd laments …

“And then one day you find / ten years have got behind you …”

Ten years? Try 50. (And I know I have friends who are, right now, saying, “Try 60 … 70 … 80.”)

Here’s a look back at the most recent one of them.

January

On the Cover of Genii: FL!P
Image

Milt’s at it Again …

Milt Larsen announces that he is working on another magic-themed private club, this one in Montecito (closer to Milt’s home). He optimistically hopes to open it in October (later in the year he amends this to early 2018).
http://www.lamag.com/askchris/another-m ... icipation/

Not That David Meade

Not unlike what happened to magician Oscar Munoz, who was confused by morons on the internet to be the United Airlines CEO of the same name, mentalist David Meade finds himself receiving death threats meant for doomsday theorist David Meade.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/act ... dd8ffae71e

Back to its Roots

Some argue that modern close-up magic started in Chicago back when there were numerous magic bars in the Windy City. Regardless, even those who doubt it can rejoice in the announcement that there will, once again, be a magic bar in Chicago.
https://www.thrillist.com/drink/chicago ... lounge-bar

Well!? We’re Waiting!

A post on the Facebook by Liam Montier reads, “Wow! What a day! I can finally reveal that Kaymar Magic has come to a deal to produce Peter Kane's material! We will be working very closely with his son to produce some truly hidden and forgotten classics!”

To date, just three Peter Kane items have appeared on the kaymar site (all of them good, by the way).
https://www.kaymarmagic.com/search?q=Peter+Kane

Don’t Be Number 13

If one goes by the title of Ben Robinson's book, 12 have died doing the bullet catch. If one goes by the New York Post, David Blaine was almost the 13th:
https://nypost.com/2017/01/06/david-bla ... oes-wrong/

One Time, In Magic Camp …

“Movieweb” announces … "Production has begun on Disney's Magic Camp, a live-action comedy starring Adam Devine (Workaholics, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, Pitch Perfect), Gillian Jacobs (Community, Girls) and Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jeffrey Tambor (Arrested Development, Transparent, The Larry Sanders Show) directed by Mark Waters (Bad Santa 2, Mean Girls). The film is shooting on locations in and around Los Angeles and is scheduled for release in 2017.

Tambor plays Roy Preston, the owner of a summer camp for aspiring young magicians and Devine is Andy, a former camper whose flailing career as a magician has forced him to return to the camp as a counselor. Also returning to the camp is Andy's former partner and current nemesis, Darkwood, played by Jacobs, who is now a successful magician. When preparations begin for the end-of-summer magic contest between rival teams of campers, Andy and his team of ragtag misfits must go head to head with Darkwood and her campers. In the process, Andy is inspired by the young campers and rediscovers his passion for magic"
https://movieweb.com/magic-camp-movie-p ... bs-disney/

(Disney has the film slated for release in April 2018.)

But Then the Real One Ends … :(

Mike Segal, who for two decades ran Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp in Toronto, Canada, announces that the institution will be discontinued.

Magicana a Mystery at the Museum

The Travel Channel's Mysteries at the Museum television program features a segment with David Ben, his Magiciana organization, Dai Vernon, and Houdini.

Another Sad Ending

The Feld family/organization announces they are ending the 146 year run of Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus in May of 2017.

Escape From Jail, Directly From Jail …

Our "Wild About Harry" pal John Cox is reports a kickstarter campaign by the Houdini Museum to launch a Houdini-centric Monopoly game:
http://www.wildabouthoudini.com/2017/01 ... opoly.html

http://houdiniopoly.com/

Gamer, Magician, Astronaut

Richard Garriott, who has performed magic aboard the International Space Station, releases his autobiography, Explore/Create: My Life in Pursuit of New Frontiers, Hidden Worlds, and the Creative Spark.

Inevitable Comparisons

Though it shouldn’t be, another magic venue opens that should not be compared to The Magic Castle. The Black Rabbit Rose is in Hollywood:
http://edit.hollywoodreporter.com/news/ ... les-972808

February

On the Cover of Genii: Katherine Mills
Image

Work Hard, Stay In School … Be David Copperfield

David Copperfield on success:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbe ... 1851192132

Obviously They Worked Hard, Probably Stayed in School …

They are not David Copperfield, but they are the nominees for the Academy of Magic Arts Awards:

CLOSE-UP
Shawn Farquhar
Andrew Goldenhersh
Bill Goodwin
Mike Pisciotta
Richard Turner

PARLOUR
Jon Armstrong
Chris Capehart
Shawn Farquhar
Handsome Jack
Derek Hughes

STAGE
The Evasons
Tina Lenert
Shoot Ogawa
Thommy Ten & Amelie van Tess (The Clairvoyants)
Justin Willman

LECTURE
Simon Coronel
Shawn Farquhar
Eric Jones
Mike Pisciotta
Richard Turner
Rob Zabrecky

Retiring to the Farm

Lance Burton hints he is leaving Las Vegas for Louisville
https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertain ... las-vegas/

Look Out Below

Magician? Can’t say.
Drunk? Maybe.
Stupid? Certainly.

Man survives 25 foot fall while climbing across the ceiling rafters at the Blackpool convention.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article ... iling.html

They Love Us! They Really, Really Love Us!

USPC’s magic-centric site:
http://www.bicyclecards.com/article_categories/magic/

Some of Us Know Those Who Can Do This Drunk …

A college student proves his sobriety by juggling for officers that pulled him over. A dash cam captures the performance that goes viral:
http://www.kmov.com/story/34681850/watc ... ids-ticket

We Will Never Know Why

Daryl commits suicide by hanging himself at The Magic Castle.

March

On the Cover of Genii: Steve Valentine
Image

New Meaning to “The Show is Dark”

Criss Angel passes out while on stage.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/peo ... /99066356/

Two Words: Fred Kaps

Fred Kaps on the Topit (1976 PCAM)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXK2bAUvUaU

Puzzling …

Mac King is featured in the March 8, 2017 Jumble seen in newspapers.

Two Words (or is it three?): Derek DelGaudio

A profile of Derek DelGaudio appears in the New York Times.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/15/maga ... .html?_r=1

Well Sew My Mouth Shut …

David Blaine announces a 40 city North American tour that starts in San Diego, California on May 30 and ends in Albuquerque, New Mexico on July 23.

Not So Strange to Us

The Fox Business Network’s Strange Inheritance television program features a collection of magic books. Several familiar faces appear in the piece.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oGFT5e ... Ijhxu-8dEm

April

On the Cover of Genii: David Ben
Image

And the winners are …

The winners and Fellowship honorees at the 49th Academy of Magical Arts Awards Show are:

Close-Up Magician of the Year: Mike Pisciotta
Parlour Magician of the Year: Handsome Jack
Stage Magician of the Year: Tommy Ten & Amelie van Tass
Lecturer of the Year: Rob Zabrecky

Junior Achievement Award: Collins Key
Award of Merit: Bill Smith
Award of Merit: Milt Larsen
Special Fellowship: Dr. Edwin Dawes
Special Fellowship: Franz Harary
Creative Fellowship: Sebastian Clergue
Performing Fellowship: Luis Piedrahita
Performing Fellowship: Fielding West
Literary & Media Fellowship: Dr. Lori Pieper
Lifetime Achievement Award: George Schindler
Masters Fellowship: Ger Copper

And the 2016 Magician of the Year is Derek DelGaudio

Objects Subjected to Subjective Objection

http://www.forums.geniimagazine.com/vie ... =6&t=49527

Secret is Not so Secret

Derren Brown: Secret opens off Broadway on April 21 and is scheduled to run through June 4 at the Linda Gross Theater.

While Sleight is Something of a Secret

The low budget film Sleight, with its intriguing trailer, has a limited opening and a 73 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

The Lawyers Probably Won

Columbus, Ohio dentist, magician, and collector Dr. Timothy Moore settled his $1 million lawsuit against New York collector Rory Feldman—best known for his Thurston holdings.
(The site has a registration/pay wall)
http://www.dispatch.com/news/20170404/m ... ia-lawsuit

More DelGaudio

Derek DelGaudio’s In And Of Itself opens in NYC on April 12 at the Daryl Roth Theater
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/12/thea ... audio.html

If You Can Get Through It …

A podcast on “SlashFilm” features a comparison of David Copperfield and Criss Angel's shows. (That segment, "After Dark," starts at about 1:10:55).
http://www.slashfilm.com/filmcast-ep-415-free-fire/

What? No Other Days in Magic History?

Okay, then just look at April 14 …
http://www.forums.geniimagazine.com/vie ... 12&t=49547

Getting the Willies … In a Good Way

“Herb’s Magic” interview of David Williamson:
http://www.herbsmagic.com/magic-in-new- ... c-and-more

Into Gardner?

Then go here: http://www.forums.geniimagazine.com/vie ... 10&t=49555

It’s Not Magic, But …

It’s not every day that Richard Kaufman profiles your personal physician:
https://boingboing.net/2017/04/25/colon ... docto.html

May

On the Cover of Genii: Frakson
Image

He’s Retired, Not Dead

The Lance Burton Video Magic Lessons on (where else?) Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072L1HLDS/

Long Before There Was Weinstein …

On Facebook, Jade publically levels serious accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior against Steven Kline, who was scheduled to provide tech services for the upcoming IBM/SAM combined convention:
https://www.facebook.com/jade.tjin/post ... nref=story

Later, an agreement between Kline and convention producers results in Kline’s withdrawal from the event. To the best of our knowledge, Mr. Kline has not made any public comments regarding this situation.

The MCA’s MCW FYI

The Magic Collectors Weekend in Montreal, Canada–May 25 to 27–will be held at a hotel and also at the McCord Museum where a massive collection of posters will be unveiled.

Meanwhile, at the MCW…

The Allan Slaight Awards are announced:

Max Maven: Lifetime Achievement
Derek Delgaudio: Sharing Wonder
John Lovick: Sharing Secrets
Edward Hilsum: International Rising Star
Eric Leclerc: Canadian Rising Star

Extended Secret

While still in previews, Derren Brown's off-Broadway show Secret is extended three weeks, through June 25, before its opening night of May 16.
https://www.broadway.com/buzz/188573/th ... y-opening/

That’s All Folks

Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Baily Circus, “The Greatest Show on Earth,” holds its final performance on May 21.

More Lounging Around

More on the Chicago Magic Lounge
http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertain ... olumn.html

June

On the Cover of Genii: Akira Fujii
Image

No Fear

An interview of David Blaine on “Fear{less}” with Tim Ferriss:
http://start.att.net/exclusive/audience ... im-ferriss

AGT’s Got Magic

It was not that long ago that America’s Got Talent treated magicians like the steerage passengers onboard the Titanic. Happily, that is no longer the case. Who knows what caused the change—which came before a magician won the competition—but it doesn’t matter. And the producers “leaked” a performance by Will Tsai before the new season started. Interestingly, it didn’t create that much of a stir here, but it was all over the Facebook. Precisely what AGT wanted. But far from just young Mr. Tsai, there were several good magicians on the show this season.

This clip includes performances by Colin Cloud (who would go on well into the competition), Tom London, Demain Aditya, twin brothers Tony and Jordon, and the aforementioned Will Tsai:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwY2L3JW5cY

Eric Jones went very deep into the competition, performing several fine pieces even though his audition was all but cut when it first aired. Parts of it would play on his second appearance, along with his “package” (Eric’s story will be forthcoming in a future issue of Genii):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAfmrQfW8OY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igG_lOq-8w8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XLK1mOj7uE

The Lounge Breaks Ground

The Chicago Magic Lounge breaks ground …
http://abc7chicago.com/entertainment/ch ... g/2070307/

DelGaudio and Oz

Derek DelGaudio & Frank Oz Discuss In & of Itself (and announce the show’s extension into at least December). When Oz mentions directing Brando, keep in mind that the actor refused to be in the same room with “that puppet man.”
https://www.buildseries.com/video/5953e ... 4eb374bd3/

A Three-fer…

A David Copperfield Museum visit, a interview with Homer Liwag, and a chat with the boss his own self:

The Museum:


Homer Liwag profile / interview :


David Copperfield interview :


More from Montreal …

Illusions: The Art of Magic: Posters from the Golden Age of Magic, the book attendees of the MCW received, is available at (where else other than the museum itself?) Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Illusions-Art-Ma ... 8874397585

Aaaand … Scene

In the July issue of M-U-M, Mike Close announces his retirement at the end of December as editor of the publication (Lisa Close will also retire as its Art Director). There is also an ad for the job of editor.

More Masters

The Masters of Illusion television program starts its sixth season on the CW Network.

July

On the Cover of Genii: Bill Malone
Image

More, But Limited, Gold

Potter & Potter announces the publication of The Golden Age of Magic Posters, a “limited-edition, deluxe art book showcasing nearly 800 vintage magic posters from the collection of Norm Nielsen. Only 200 copies will be sold.”

A Sign of the Times?

The IBM/SAM Combined Convention 2017 commences in Louisville, Kentucky (with, I am told, a fabulous printed program). Except for a daily podcast with little news of the convention proper, there is little coverage or buzz about the event.

Worth Thousands of Words

From the proprietors:
“In connection with our work on Propelled Pasteboards, the Throwing Card Blog, we have established a parallel Pinterest page which captures many of the wonderful cards featured in various posts, along with a few other throwing cards featured around the web. The page displays scores of the cards you'll find on Propelled Pasteboards in one spot.”
Throwing cards:
https://www.pinterest.com/trickbooks/ma ... ing-cards/
https://throwingcards.blogspot.com/

Here’s Something You Don’t See Every Day

From the MaxNY archives, Frank Garcia on Dick Cavett’s television program:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAD4JeW ... e=youtu.be

One Outa Three Ain’t Bad

Kaufman and Company releases its publishing schedule for the rest of 2017.

1. Big book by Ryan Matney coming in the spring.
2. Big book by Harapan Santoso Ong coming in August at Magic Live.
3. Really really BIG book on Theodore DeLand coming in time for the Christmas holiday.

(The Matney book is released, the Ong book has been cancelled, and the DeLand book will be in the second quarter of 2018—and absolutely worth the wait.)

Buzz on Busby

The Jeff Busby Auction Catalog is released. Speculation on the actual provenance of some of the items commences.
https://www.potterauctions.com/pdf/Catalog_051web.pdf

Season Four (and Counting)

What many consider the best American television vehicle for magic, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, begins its fourth season (its third in the United States) on the CW Network.

(With Masters of Illusion and Fool Us, the CW Network is the USA’s top television network for magic and magicians.)

August

On the Cover of Genii: Luke Jermay
Image

Ouch … OUCH!

Seen on a theater door:
“PLEASE NOTE: Due to an injury, Derren Brown has been medically advised not to perform until further notice. All performances are therefore cancelled. He is sincerely sorry not to be able to undertake the UNDERGROUND shows at the Corn Exchange in Cambridge but assures his fans he will be back on stage as soon as is physically possible. The theatre will be in touch to advise you regard refunds.”

Seen on the internet:
“I'm so utterly mortified to have to cancel a bunch of shows. I love doing this show more than anything else and the tour has been going down a storm. I know for many people it's a big deal to make the trip and come see it. I'm hoping to recover quickly and get back on the road as soon as I can and complete the tour as planned. Derren”

The Genii Convention’s Transparently Vague Announcement

“The three guys who created the TV special Street Magic in 1997 are working the Genii Convention:
1. Paul Harris
2. Michael Weber
3. XXXXX XXXXXX”

Well Damn ...

The death of Eugene Burger stuns the magic community.

Classic Correspondence?

Sold in the Busby auction:

Charlie Miller correspondence: $40,000
Vernon's correspondence with Faucett Ross: $42,000
An original set of Csuri Notebooks: $25,000

Sixteen lots of Paul Fox related items are pulled from the auction leading to further speculation …

Live from Las Vegas … MAGIC Live that is

In a thread started by “erdnasephile,” unofficial Genii Forum correspondent Bill Mullins posts several reports from MAGIC Live 2017.
http://www.forums.geniimagazine.com/vie ... 10&t=49919

FINALLY!!!

The ONLY authorized copy of The Magician starring Bill Bixby is released by VEI and is available (where else?) on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0753 ... MC3C&psc=1

September

On the Cover of Genii: Derren Brown
Image

The Worst Kept Secret Revealed

From Richard Kaufman:
“I can now happily confirm that David Blaine will appear at the Genii Convention in Orlando, Florida, October 4, 5, 6, 7, with workshops on Sunday the 8th. I will be interviewing David for an hour and then he will take your questions!”

Portugal Has Magic …

An Episode of Luis de Matos' New TV Show IMPOSSÍVEL from Portugal. Along with de Matos, the episode features performances by Topaz, Eric Jones, Luis Piedrahita (a nifty video), Victor Moiseev, An Ha Lim, and a conversation between de Matos, Jose Rodrigues Dos Santos, and Werner Reich.
https://www.rtp.pt/play/p3807/impossivel

And Mahdi Gilbert on another episode (nice and clear video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vx7jgsXZsoQ

He’s Baaaack

For a time, John Kennedy was one of the most prolific thinkers in magic. He (it seemed) stepped back for a bit, probably tired of being ripped off. For those not paying attention, he’s back and creating again for the masses. “Strange Brew” is just one of his new items:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DRikn4 ... e=youtu.be

The Same Only Different

“Genii Online” launches. While part of the Genii family, it is a separate entity with a separate crew.

From Richard Kaufman:
GeniiOnline is a new website that's completely different than what we do here and on MagicPedia.
GeniiOnline is run by editor Susan Arendt, and is part of our company. It is a place you will want to visit daily for the latest news, updates, and articles!
The Genii says, go now: https://geniionline.com/

Just Passing Through

After a long absence, legendary Hawaiian magician Allen Okawa returns to The Magic Castle for a whirlwind four day stay. While not performing in any of the showrooms, he does lecture before the membership. Some of us had a wonderful dinner with him in the Houdini Séance Room, where, among other miracles, he did this thing with a rock …
Image

October

On the Cover of Genii: Bebel
Image

Holy Coin Manipulations, Batman!

https://retconpunchdotcom.files.wordpre ... -fight.jpg

What a Shock … NOT

During an interview Criss Angel says he will be leaving the Luxor upon the end of the contract with Cirque du Soleil in 2018.

Better Late Than Never …
Or …
Diego Domingo, Mensch


From Diego:
“We are pleased to announce that on Tuesday, October 24, 2:00pm, we will dedicate a stone/marker for Olive ‘Dot’ Robinson. This will be at The Woodlawn Cemetery, in The Bronx, New York. Olive Robinson the wife and performing partner to William E. Robinson, aka ‘Chung Ling Soo,’ has been in an unmarked grave until now. Very glad we are able to finally do this for as she has been called, ‘One of the heroes of magic.’”
https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipO ... ZCb1htZWJR

New Victim … err … Editor

The SAM announces that the new editor of M-U-M is Alan Howard.

Not For a Lack of Trying

Open about two years at a cost of millions of dollars, Franz Harary's House of Magic in Macau closes.
https://www.ggrasia.com/studio-city-to- ... -operator/

Caveney to be Honored

It is announced that Yankee Gathering XVII will be held November 15 to 17, 2018, in Westborough, Massachusetts. The guest of honor will be Mike Caveney, performer, historian, author, and collector. All that will be missing is Ray Goulet, who passed away within days of the announcement.

Because When I Think “Magic,” I Think “Michael York and Kristi Sindt” (who?)

Apparently, in 1999, actor Michael York—along with someone named Kristi Sindt, who seems to be a real estate agent—hosted a series of television programs titled Magic and Beyond. All 26 episodes have the same description:

Michael York hosts this captivating series following many of the world's most popular and inventive magicians beautifully in their element. From close-up to spectacle, this show has every type of illusion you crave, with tricks that will leave you wondering how they were done without the use of camera tricks.

These productions have no IMDb entries, do not appear on Mr. York’s credits, and do not seem to have actually aired anywhere. View a trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esWuAlEN6xM

These 26 episodes can be viewed—for the time being—through (where else?) Amazon Prime’s streaming service:
https://www.amazon.com/Episode-1/dp/B07 ... and+beyond

Deal Us In

The long awaited documentary on Richard Turner, Dealt (directed by Luke Korem, son of magician Danny Korem), opens in Los Angeles and New York.
http://www.dealtmovie.com/

Still Relevant(?)

The 2017 Milbourne Christopher Foundation Awards are announced:

Illusionist Award: David Seebach
Mentalist Award: Ted Karmilovich
Close-Up Award: Marc DeSouza
Ambassador of Magic Award: David Oliver
Literary Award: Thomas Ewing
Masters Award: Al Belmont
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ron Urban

I Miss Charles Kuralt

The staple CBS television program Sunday Morning has a magic feature on Jonathan Bayme and Theory 11.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hocus-pocu ... new-again/

Mahdi Interviews …

Mahdi Gilbert’s Youtube series, The Magic Show

Chris Mayhew: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeXGcLzG3gI
The Sentimentalists: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz-Mc-htl3Q
Mark Lewis: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vYiairhhoI
James Alan: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIJannLkAD0
Kevin Yu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ua7iKvSKo-w
Lee Asher: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DorhinlDTWM

Thoughts on the Genii Convention

Buzz…
http://www.forums.geniimagazine.com/vie ... =1&t=50087

Review by Steve Bryant
http://littleegyptmagic.com/magic_october2017.html

CBS Wasn’t Enough …

A video with Jonathan Bayme of Theory 11 on Wall Street Journal Online:
http://www.wsj.com/video/the-magic-of-m ... 46E3A.html

Magic or Actor? The Answer is Yes

The Sacred Riana’s audition on 2017’s Asia’s Got talent television program. The performer went on to win the competition show (something she didn’t do on 2014’s The Next Mentalist).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7D_BNS2yL_0

Pinch Hitting

Apparently David Blaine was supposed to be on the show, but Dan Sperry appears on the Halloween episode of the Megyn Kelly television program instead. Everyone was dressed for the Halloween festivities, but Ms. Kelly—and Dan for that matter—fail to mention that Danny always looks like that.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sx9Pmq6p8EY

November

On the Cover of Genii: David Blaine
Image

Guilty

Frank Popovich, Jr.—the owner of Black Fox Trading Co. in Big Bear Lake, California (which included his magic shop) is convicted of murder in the first degree for fatally shooting a friend who, according to prosecutors, may have had an extramarital relationship with Popovich’s wife. The crime, which occurred in April of 2016, was captured by surveillance video. Popovich is scheduled to be sentenced in December and is facing 50 years in state prison.

Gilding the Lilly 23 Years After the Fact

Twenty-three years after Robert Parrish’s book, Words About Wizards: Recollections of magicians and their magic, 1930-1950, publisher David Meyer releases a limited printing of dust jackets, something the book never had.

Out of Control, Totally

Richard Kaufman announces a new edition of Chris Kenner’s Totally Out of Control that will include the complete run of Kenner’s publication, Magic Man Examiner. Limited to 500 copies, Totally Out of Control: Supreme MME Edition should be ready to ship soon after the New year.

Hof Sighting

Dani DaOrtiz organizes a one day seminar on Johann Nepomuk Hofzinser that takes place in Madrid, Spain. DaOrtiz, Miguel Angel Gea, Magic Christian, and Richard Hatch, give presentations on and some performances of the magic of the legendary Viennese magician. Mahdi Gilbert, the promised “mystery guest,” also gives a performance during this unique event.

Because When I Think “Professional Wrestling,” I Think “Max Maven”

Max Maven’s latest DVD project apparently borrows its name, Kayfabe, from the world of professional wrestling (of which Maven is an aficionado). Produced by Luis de Matos, this four disc “Essential Magic Collection” contains secrets that Maven has kept to himself for forty years.

Will There Be Beer?

A Denis Behr DVD project from Vanishing, Inc. is announced.

More Great Videos from Magicana

David Ben’s Magicana organization releases more vintage film that they have digitized. This collection of films shot in the 1970s by Larry Thornton include performances by Daryl, Paul Gertner, Albert Goshman, Paul Harris, Michael Skinner, and more.
http://www.magicana.com/movie-magic

More on Dealt

Jack Shalom conducts an interview with Luke Korem, the director of the Richard Turner documentary Dealt.
https://jackshalom.net/2017/11/24/dealt ... rd-turner/

Great Big-Ol-Star He Is …

Luis Piedrahita is a big-o-honkin’ star in Spain. That he writes magic books (and releases them in English) would be comparable to (before he was recently disgraced for being really creepy) Louis CK doing a book on magic. Coins and other Fables is Piedrahita’s book, in English, on coin magic.

Even More from Magicana

An authorized copy of the Daniel Zuckerbrot film, Dai Vernon: The Spirit of Magic (1999) is posted on the Magicana site. Narrated by Patrick Watson, the film includes interview segments with Max Maven, Persi Diaconis, Ricky Jay, Herb Zarrow, John Carney, and Steve Freeman, as well as Vernon’s sons, Edward and Derek Verner.
http://www.magicana.com/news/blog/dai-v ... irit-magic

With a Bullet …

In less than a month, a single post made on November 24 turns into a thread with 15 pages totaling 575 replies and over 15,500 views (and continues growing). I’d be lying if I claimed to agree with the initial statement.

December

On the Cover of Genii: 49 Boxes
Image

From TV, to the Road, to Installation

Masters of Illusion has enjoyed a long run on television, several successful tours across North America (one is currently running), and is now about to start its residency at Bally's Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The cast will rotate. The cast (and future trivia question answer) opening the show on December 6 is Greg Gleason, Tommy Wind, Farrell Dillon, Chris Randall, and Jason Bird.

Staffing Up …
Or …
How About a New Moderator, Too? :D


Genii announces that they are “currently seeking people to fill two positions…
1. Video reviewer
2. Trick reviewer
The job entails writing a column of 2,500 to 3,000 words three times a year. Text must be submitted as a Word doc and is subject to editing by, well, the Editor.
Apply by sending two sample reviews (one positive, the other negative) to me [Richard Kaufman] at moobooks@verizon.net
Thank you.”

More Mahdi

In his first television appearance in China, over 270 million people saw Mahdi Gilbert perform.

Says Mahdi, “JSBC asked me to perform some Cardistry, Card to Pocket, and Oil & Water for The Amazing Magicians 超凡魔术师, which is currently the number one show in China (which means it's the number one show in the world).”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnN55XCMi4I

Dancin’ Debbie

After an initial “Shout Out to Debbie,” Forum member AJM keeps tabs on the progress of Debbie MGee, Paul Daniels’ widow, on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, the UK’s version of Dancing With the Stars. She makes it deep into the competition, finishing as one of the three runners up.

Because He is Mr. Tenyo

The Chief Genii appears on the Japanese television program, Made in Japan showing some of his collection as well as his Tenyo Tome, Tenyoism.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_eSuHn ... u.be&t=508

In, Out, Repeat: Hey, It’s Vegas

Though their site currently lists their residency at Paris, Las Vegas as running through September of 2018, the hotel and casino’s site lists the last performance of Circus 1903: The Golden Age of Circus in the Paris Theatre as being on January 7. Ticketmaster lists Circus 1903 as opening at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, Missouri in March. Replacing the circus extravaganza in Vegas is a fire-themed magic show titled Inferno, which stars Joe Labero and The Fuel Girls:
http://infernoshow.com/

The Dickens You Say …

It’s not magic to most, but as a fan of Dickens and especially A Christmas Carol, I especially enjoyed hearing Neil Gaiman read and perform from Dickens’ own prompt book of the tale. I found it a magical way to close out the season.
https://www.brainpickings.org/2013/12/2 ... mas-carol/

A Halloween Treat Just in Time For Boxing Day

From 2013, a short film by Daniel Zuckerbrot with David Ben titled The Devil’s Playthings. Stay through the end of the credits to see all of the techniques used by Mr. Ben during the routine.
http://www.magicana.com/video/devils-playthings

Did He Say, “OFF WITH HER HEAD!”?

On the December 29 episode of BBC1’s Tim Vine Travels Through Time, John Archer plays King Henry VIII.

Generally Speaking …

A History Deal

Down Under History with Kent Blackmore
viewforum.php?f=12
http://sydneymagic.net/HISTORY/history.html

A Contemporary Deal

John Cox
http://www.wildabouthoudini.com/

Steve Bryant
http://littleegyptmagic.com/magic.html

A Whole Lot of Both
http://www.magicana.com/

Including the Posts Whining About Whiney-@$$ Snivelers…

The Erdnase thread reaches 137 pages, 5,440 replies (to the original post), and over 1,920,900 views.

Image
To Absent Friends

Here is the unavoidable list of those we lost this year. Please take a moment to remember them and/or think of their families, friends, and fans who will never forget them (and please forgive me if I missed someone):

Steve Baker
Donald “Don” Beach
Dr. Don C. Brown
Eugene Burger
Bob Cassidy
Rachel Colombini
Joseph Cress
Daryl
Trevor Dawson
Lee Delano
Paul Diamond
Peter Diamond
Celeste Evans
Fantasio (Ricardo Roucau)
Suley Fattah
Johnny Fox
Randy Gastreich
Eddie Gibson
Michael Giles
Ray Goulet
James Hamilton
Tommy Jones
Kevin King
Chuck Kirchner
Heidi Larsen
Aimee Liwag
Rose Marie
Bill McIlhany
John Moehring
Philip Morris
James Naples
Mike O'Dowd
Ian Ogilvy
Roni Shachnaey
Deanna Shimada
Siroco (Ralph Arbitelle)
Jeannie Smith
Raymond Smullyan
Edward Thomas
Bob "Torchy" Towner
Jim "Zee" Zachary

* * * *

So here it is, 2018. As always, thank you for your time used reading all this. Please know that I do not take it for granted. I wish you good health, happiness, and peace in 2018.

Dustin

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erdnasephile
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Re: 2017 In Review

Postby erdnasephile » December 31st, 2017, 7:46 pm

Reading this annual article is my favorite part of New Year's!

Bravo (yet again), Dustin!

Joe Mckay
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Favorite Magician: Lubor Fiedler
Location: Durham, England

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Joe Mckay » December 31st, 2017, 8:19 pm

Great as always! Amazing how fast this year has flown by. Feels like only yesterday I was enjoying Dustin's take on 2016.

Also - anyone know what thread Dustin is referring to here?

With a Bullet …

In less than a month, a single post made on November 24 turns into a thread with 15 pages totaling 575 replies and over 15,500 views (and continues growing). I’d be lying if I claimed to agree with the initial statement.

Leonard Hevia
Posts: 1951
Joined: January 17th, 2008, 12:00 pm
Favorite Magician: Dai Vernon, Frank Garcia, Slydini, Houdini,
Location: Gaithersburg, Md.

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Leonard Hevia » December 31st, 2017, 8:23 pm

Joe Mckay wrote:
Also - anyone know what thread Dustin is referring to here?

With a Bullet …

In less than a month, a single post made on November 24 turns into a thread with 15 pages totaling 575 replies and over 15,500 views (and continues growing). I’d be lying if I claimed to agree with the initial statement.


The Ennobling thread.

Joe Mckay
Posts: 2026
Joined: April 13th, 2008, 6:56 am
Favorite Magician: Lubor Fiedler
Location: Durham, England

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Joe Mckay » December 31st, 2017, 8:29 pm

Yeah - weird thread. Not sure if anyone ever mentioned this in that thread - but Jerry Andrus had an obsession with never uttering a single lie when performing magic.

Leonard Hevia
Posts: 1951
Joined: January 17th, 2008, 12:00 pm
Favorite Magician: Dai Vernon, Frank Garcia, Slydini, Houdini,
Location: Gaithersburg, Md.

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Leonard Hevia » December 31st, 2017, 8:31 pm

Joe Mckay wrote:Yeah - weird thread. Not sure if anyone ever mentioned this in that thread - but Jerry Andrus had an obsession with never uttering a single lie when performing magic.


Somebody did mention that in the thread.

performer
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Joined: August 7th, 2015, 10:35 pm

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby performer » December 31st, 2017, 9:36 pm

Me. I know everything.

Tom Gilbert
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Location: NH
Contact:

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Tom Gilbert » December 31st, 2017, 9:49 pm

Great job as always Dustin.

Bill Mullins
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Location: Huntsville, AL
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Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Bill Mullins » December 31st, 2017, 10:46 pm

Dustin Stinett wrote:Heaven forbid I should let down my fan,

Don't sell yourself short -- you have two, maybe three fans out here. And we are all pleased to read your year-end wrap-up. It's become a Genii Forum tradition!


Well!? We’re Waiting!

Obligatory Judge Smails link

A Sign of the Times?

The IBM/SAM Combined Convention 2017 commences in Louisville, Kentucky (with, I am told, a fabulous printed program).


Said fabulous program assembled by one Dustin Stinett . . .

I Miss Charles Kuralt


I can't think of Charles Kuralt without remembering Norm Macdonald's tribute on SNL. (unfortunately, NBC seems to have stepped on the online videos of the segment.) And it turns out that Norm may have been a little prescient.


To Absent Friends

Rose Marie


Did Rose have a magic connection that I missed?

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Dustin Stinett
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Favorite Magician: Sometimes
Location: Southern California
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Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » January 1st, 2018, 3:23 am

Rose Marie was an active supporter of the Castle in its early years. And for many years she was a presenter at the AMA Awards Shows. Even after she stopped appearing on stage, she attended the ceremonies.

Thanks for the kind words everyone.

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Steve Bryant
Posts: 1947
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Favorite Magician: Ballantine
Location: Bloomington IN
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Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Steve Bryant » January 1st, 2018, 10:41 am

And the Castle occasionally honored Rose Marie:

https://www.broadwayworld.com/los-angel ... s-20090715

Wonderful job again, Dustin.

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CraigMitchell
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Re: 2017 In Review

Postby CraigMitchell » January 1st, 2018, 1:20 pm

Great job as always, Dustin!

Anthony Vinson
Posts: 349
Joined: July 10th, 2010, 12:34 pm
Location: Georgia

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Anthony Vinson » January 1st, 2018, 5:03 pm

Thanks, Dustin. I know it took at least tens times as long to put together as it for me to read and enjoy it.

Ted M
Posts: 1187
Joined: January 24th, 2008, 12:00 pm
Favorite Magician: Dani DaOrtiz
Location: Madison, WI

Re: 2017 In Review

Postby Ted M » January 2nd, 2018, 4:40 pm

As always, this is appreciated. The moreso because I missed some of these items during the year!

Thanks Dustin!


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