Theory & Thoughts for Magicians

In this episode we dig into what your magician character believes they are actually doing when they present magic. What is really happening to cause the magic effect? What does it mean when they snap their fingers?

Understanding the source of your power will clarify your presentation, fill out your character, and make your show more interesting.

Ryan explains the "Spectrum of Magicality," an indication of how much your character does, or does not, believe in magic.

• WIZARD - Knows magic, and knows how to use it. They command the mystical force to do as they wish.
• MYSTIC - Tapped into magical forces, but not in direct control of them.
• AGNOSTIC - Hasn't decided if they believe or not.
• SCIENTIST - May still experience the mysteries of the universe, but believes there is a rational explanation.
• JUGGLER - All about physical skill. There is no need for magic when you're this good at what you do.

“Sources of Magical Powers” by Bill Fienning, The Linking Ring November 2001 (pg 70) suggests there are five ways in which a human may come to have magical powers.

• Studied arcane knowledge.
• Powers enabled through an object, material, or words.
• An object with power of its own.
• Power passed from a supernatural being.
• Contact with a mystical force.

The success of your magic show hinges upon your audience being ready to receive it. I have a four phase process I use to develop a relationship with my audience, maintain a positive mood, and roll out the red carpet for a magical evening.

Through every moment of a routine your audience's interest is rising and falling. If it drains away, you're in trouble. Are you maintaining interest, attention, and creating a desire to see what happens next?

Theory and Thoughts for Magicians will be a series of focused topic discussions about improving your magic performances.

In this inaugural episode Ryan introduces a foundational belief in what it takes to become a unique, artistic magician. Why it's important to choose your own adventure in the magic world. The missing ingredient to the common advice; "be yourself."