Showing posts with label Dick Joiner. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dick Joiner. Show all posts

15 January 2024

Random thoughts about "An Evening of Magic Shop Memories"

Last Saturday, Jeff Pinsky hosted "An Evening of Magic Shop Memories" at The Browser's Den of Magic.

It was a lovely way to spend an evening!

We heard stories from: 

  • Mike Segal
  • Greg Hobor
  • Richard Lyn
  • Nicole Lee
  • Dick Joiner
  • Mike King
  • David Sutherland
  • Gordon Precious -- who, as an added bonus performed 2 effects for us!
  • Colin Geddes
  • David Peck
  • Jeff Hinchliffe,
  • Sammy Jakubowicz, and
  • our host Jeff Pinsky


Stories told included Magic Masters, Daytona Magic, Macy's, The Arcade, The Den (on Bloor across from Varsity Arena, above Yuk Yuk's, Bathurst and Eglinton, and now!), Morrissey's (Montreal and Toronto) and even Marie & Jack Hughes living room in London, England!  They also included names like Sophie Smith, Len & Bernice Cooper, Herb & Dan Morrissey, Henry Gordon, Jay Sankey, Gary Kurtz, David Ben, Mark Lewis, David Mitchell, Danny Tsukalis, Steve Martin, Jim Carey, Keanu Reeves, and more!

 

Did you know that:

  • Bernice Cooper often baby sat a Toronto magician's son at the store?
  • Dick Joiner first saw Mark Lewis in England?
  • David Copperfield once ended his grand illusion show in Toronto with "What's Next?" 
  • Keanu Reeves used to hang out at The Browser's Den of Magic?
  • There used to be a Canadian 25 cent bill!

 

Thank you older Jeff, for conceiving and hosting this wonderful evening of sharing!



From the January 14th Facebook post by Greg Hobor at The Browser's Den of Magic Facebook group:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13 August 2023

The Legacy of Sorcerers Safari - part 3

Recap (click to show | hide)

From Part 1 of the series:

In lieu of a physical reunion bringing together past campers and staff, Canada’s Magic is hosting a virtual reunion of sorts.  We’ve reached out to the Sorcerers Safari community with a dozen or so questions to help bring us up to date on what everyone has been up to since our magic camp days.

If you completed our survey, keep your eyes peeled for your segment!  

If you would like to participate but haven’t filled out the survey, there’s still time.  The survey can be found here:  https://forms.gle/umg77yj9QxUzfpm76

Thank you to all that contributed!


 

Mike, Jen, Sorcerers Safari staff, and alumni, this series is for you.

 

The Legacy of Sorcerers Safari
<< part 2  |  part 4 >>

 

Part 3 features:  Brett Chrest, Dick Joiner, and Matt DiSero

 

  Brett Chrest  
Scientist.

Attended camp as a camper from 2011 to 2014.

Since his time at camp Brett has:

  • Completed an undergraduate degree in biomedical science and moved from Canada to North Carolina to pursue a PhD as a cancer scientist.


In his own words:

  • Attending camp greatly improved my public speaking ability and gave me the confidence I have now to speak with authority and give presentations up on a stage.

  • Favourite Sorcerers Safari memory?  
    • Watching and sharing magic with our fellow roommates, counsellors, and our honoured guests later at night in our cabin before bed.

  • Biggest take-away from Sorcerers Safari?
    • The sense of community and belonging at a young age.

 

 

  Dick Joiner  
Professional magician,  DickJoiner.com

Attended camp for 18 years as staff from approximately 2001 to 2016.


In his own words:

  • Favourite Sorcerers Safari memory?  
    • Seeing so many young adults arriving at the camp with a dream and leaving at the end of a week with that dream becoming a reality.

  • Biggest take-away from Sorcerers Safari?
    • The friends made.
    • Seeing so many campers performing professional "entertainment" not only in Canada but around the world.

 Life is but a dream that can be magical...

 

 

  Matt DiSero 
Professional magician, MattDiSero.com

Attended camp the second or third year as a Special Guest.

Since his time at camp Matt has:




In his own words:

  • Favourite Sorcerers Safari memory?  
    • Sharing the stage with Josh Jay.

  • Biggest take-away from Sorcerers Safari?
    • I noticed the relationship between kids and counsellors was very good and the atmosphere supporting new magicians was really great.

 

Mike’s done an incredible job with that camp. Professional magicians working today can draw a direct lineage to their success and the camp. I hear that often.

 

 Thank you Brett, Dick, and Matt, for sharing your memories!

 Check back throughout the month to read updates from other Sorcerers Safari alumni and staff!

 

 Previously featured 

 

Learn more about Sorcerers Safari.

part 1part 2  | part 3 | part 4 | part 5 | part 6 | part 7 | part 8 | part 9 | part 10 | part 11 | part 12

<< part 2  |  part 4 >>

 

 

03 October 2022

Fergus: Ontario Week of Wonder (OWOW) Magic Festival [Oct 15 & 22]

From the OWOW Magic Festival:

October 15

Family Magic Show Matinee

  • Mike Segal, Dick Joiner, and Ryan Joyce (host)
     

Tricks & Other Mysteries 

  • Nicholas Wallace, The Sentimentalists (Mysterion & Steffi Kay), and Ryan Joyce (host)

October 22

  • Ryan Joyce at the Elora Distilling Company

 

 Read more and buy tickets.

 

 

From the September 20th Instagram post by the OWOW Magic Festival:

The magicians are returning to Elora & Fergus!

Our magic festival is thrilled to be returning to the Fergus Grand Theatre on Saturday, October 15 for two shows only!

Join us at 2 pm for Family Magic Show Matinee or at 8 pm for Tricks & Other Deceptions!

We're excited to welcome acclaimed magicians Nicholas Wallace, Sentimentalists, and Magic Mike Segal! 

 

 

 

 

 

14 January 2020

Toronto: Browser's Bash #6 in The Six update

A quick reminder that Andi Gladwin will be lecturing at The Den later in the month.


Browser's Bash logo  
From the Browser's Den newsletter:
We are thrilled that underground legend Erik Tait will be making a rare convention appearance for us! With killer Sleight of Hand chops he fooled Penn and Teller and on top of that he is damn funny! Not to be missed!
Other great talent locked in so far that includes Eric Bedard, Michel Huot, Aaron Patterson, Loran, Anthony Lindan, Bill McCourt, Chris Mayhew, Ben Train. With special free classes by Al Grose, Simon Rotstein & Greg Hobor. And of course everybody’s favourite MC, the one and only Dick Joiner! More names will be announced soon including our headliner… stay tuned! 



To buy your tickets go to http://www.browsersden.com/bash or call the shop, 416-783-7022.


07 October 2019

2019 "Holiday Magic"

The tradition continues with the 2019 HOLIDAY MAGIC SHOW raising monies to support Shrine Kids and the Shrine Children’s Hospitals.

The show is once again hosted by DICK JOINER who has been presenting this variety show annually for the past 28 years. Since the last tour in 2018, Dick has been busy touring across Canada, and filming special segments of the TV show “Anne with an E”, a continuing story of Anne of Green Gables. Dick is proud once again to bring first class entertainers to the touring show this year. They include:
  • RICHARD FORGET... an international award winning magician that places him at the forefront of the magic world.

    Richard has performed on stages in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia, as well as on live television in front of millions of viewers and before Royalty, mesmerizing a wide variety of audiences with his innovative illusions.
  • NATHANIEL RANKIN, The Canadian Champion of Magic, is an International award winning performer. His one man show “Astonishment” has been performed over 5000 times in 45 Countries and 5 continents.

    Nathaniel has completed numerous national and international tours. He has headlined on 28 luxury cruise ships. Among his entertainment awards – he is the winner of the Asti Theater Festival in Asti Italy.
  • THE ARESTOVS.  …. A husband and wife team providing outstanding talents specializing mainly in circus skills. They were initially trained with the Moscow State Circus, and have travelled the world performing various highly skilled acts. They toured with the Holiday Magic show a few years past and due to popular demand have been added to the 2019 tour with their mind blowing quick change act



Show dates + locations:- Note **** indicates Arestovs NOT appearing
  • Saturday November 2nd. Wolfville
  • Sunday November 3rd, New Glasgow
  • Monday November 4th, Charlottetown
  • Tuesday November 5th Glace Bay
  • Wednesday November 6th Halifax
  • Thursday November 7th Yarmouth
  • Friday November 8th Truro
  • Saturday November 9th Bathurst
  • Sunday November 10th Fredericton
  • Monday November 11th Moncton
  • Tuesday Nov 12th. St. John.
  • Friday November 15th Niagara Falls
  • Monday November 18th Chatham
  • Tuesday November 19th Windsor
  • Wednesday November 20th Sarnia
  • Thursday November 21st, Kitchener
  • Friday November 22nd London
  • Saturday November 23rd St. Thomas *****
  • Monday November 25th Belleville
  • Tuesday November 26th Brampton
  • Wednesday November 27th Peterborough
  • Thursday November 28th. St Catharines
  • Friday November 29th. Hamilton
  • Monday December 2nd. Brantford
  • Tuesday December 3rd. Barrie
  • Friday December 6th. Stratford *****
  • Tuesday December 10th. Woodstock ******   

18 August 2019

Magic at the 2019 PNE

This year's Pacific National Exhibition runs from August 17 to September 2.  Be sure to check out Ty Reveen in "Reveen: The Superconscious Experience" and Dick Joiner hosting "Abracadabark"!  (Of note, we saw David Acer host Abracadabark last Friday at the CNE and it's a really fun show.)


From the August 17th article "Tux-wearing Tyrone Reveen picks up at PNE where famous father left off" by Gordon McIntyre in the Vancouver Sun:
“This is an opportunity to implement some great special effects, some of which have never been seen before, that will blow people’s minds,” Ty Reveen said before beginning 15 nights of entertaining at the Pacific Coliseum during the PNE Fair.

“I do a few things in this show that will surprise even the people at the top levels of the magic industry.”

He’s followed in the footsteps of his famous father, who died in 2013, a couple of years after his son Ty took over the act.

Ty and his three brothers spent their early years in Chilliwack, West Vancouver and Richmond, their dad (yes he had a first name, Peter) having arrived in 1961 — “With literally five cents in his pocket,” Reveen le fils said.

The boys and their mother Coral later followed from their native Australia after the hypnotist had established himself.

Read more.


From the PNE website - Reveen:
Reveen: The Superconscious Experience

It’s the man they call Reveen! The legend continues with this mesmerizing and hypnotic show featuring high-speed memory demonstrations and mystical showmanship. Now Tyrone Reveen is following in his father’s footsteps and continuing the family tradition. The Superconscious Experience allows audience members to become the stars in one of the wildest and funniest shows that has left millions of people crying with laughter all over the world.  The legend continues, never forget Reveen.







Also from the PNE website - Abracadabark:
SuperDogs™️ presents Abracadabark. Prepare to be amazed, amused and bedazzled as the SuperDogs unleash their most magical show ever, Abracadabark! With a magician as your guide you’ll experience the magic of the SuperDogs like never before!





14 April 2019

Toronto: The Carnival of Wonders

With Jim Byrnes, James Alan, James Harrison, Bella Eurta, Dick Joiner, and Chris Campbell!


From Eventbrite:
The CARNIVAL is coming to town!
The Toronto Magic Company has partnered with the Super Wonder Gallery to bring you The Carnival of Wonders - a show experience unlike anything we've ever done before. For one night only we're transforming the our space into a carnival, complete with games, prizes, delicious carnival treats, interactive exhibits, and not one but TWO amazing shows!


Part I The Family Circus8:00-10:00pm

Fun for audiences of all ages!

Join Ringmaster Dick Joiner for the incredible Family Circus show, featuring jugglers, magicians, and jaw-dropping sideshow performers while you check out all the exibits. All attendees will get loot bags on the way in with chips for game play and food, as well as some fun surprises.


Part II The Midnight Carnival (Recomended for 16+)10:30pm -12:30am

Send the kids to bed - it's time to get a little wild. Con games, fortune telling, and incredible "freak" acts take the stage to show you things you won't believe can happen. Attendees of the Midnight Carnival will also get loot bags on the way in with chips for game play and food, as well as some additional fun surprises!

Tickets are $20 per time slot, or $30 for the the whole evening of fun (the Evening Package comes with enough chips and credits for an entire evening of fun!).
Read more and buy tickets.


29 January 2019

Toronto: Talent announced for the 2019 Browser's Bash

Browser's Bash logoBROWSER'S BASH 2019
Saturday, April 13, 2019

Here's a summary of the awesome talent announced for this year's Bash!


From the Browser's Den of Magic:

CHRIS CAPEHART - LEGENDARY STREET PERFORMER
Chris Capehart is a master magician and a regular headliner at Monday Night Magic in New York City. Come see why he is held in such high esteem by magicians around the world.


PAUL RICHARDS - CREATIVE CONJUROR
Founder of Elmwood Magic. Mr. Richards has been around the globe sharing his wonderful brand of magic. Eye Popping magic combined with good fun. One of the true gentlemen of the world of magic.

THE OUTERBRIDGES - INTERNATIONAL ILLUSIONISTS
International Illusionists Ted & Marion Outerbridge will cast a magic spell over the audience at this year's Bash. And share some secrets too!

DICK JOINER - EMCEE
Due to popular demand...Joining us again in 2019! He will share his infectious hysterical laugh, fun-loving zany manner and high paced interactive comedy magic. Dick Joiner plans to delight and astound us all day long.



RYAN BROWN - RISING STAR
Ryan will be sharing with us his love of the classics. Card Manipulation, Rings and Magic that will have your eyes popping out! One of the young stars of the Canadian Magic Scene.

GARRETT THOMAS - MASTER MAGICIAN
Due to your huge amount of requests Mr. Thomas will be returning to the Bash stage in 2019. He truly blew us all away in 2018 and that was only half his lecture. Wait to you see part two! Thanks Garrett!

JAMES HARRISON - PICKPOCKET
Finally on the Bash stage! Pickpocket Act and one of Canada's premier close up magicians. Be ready to clap. And be ready to hold onto your wallets & watches!

JACQUE SWAN - COIN MAGICIENNE
Canadian new talent, Ms. Swan will be sharing some of her coin magic with us that will make your magic eyes pop out! Don't blink as coins vanish and reappear at a mystifying speed.



ROBERT AND SCOTT PRESSWOOD - THE BUMBLING BERTS
Two of the busiest children's performers in the GTA. Combined they give more then 600 shows annually. Sit it and learn on their tips for making your family show reach it's potential. (at lunch break)



ANDREW WOO
Sit in and learn from over 35 years of experience performing and creating magic. Simple Methods with Strong Audience Impact!



JENNY PARSONS - HIDDEN CANADIAN GEM
Is she a comedian? Is she a magician? Is she a sorceress? You'll decide. Ms. Parsons will be sharing her unique world of fun and chaos! A hidden gem of the Canadian entertainment scene



CHRIS BRUCE - CARDICIAN EXTRAORDINAIRE
FREE Lunchtime Table Class on False Shuffles, Classic Force & Top Change

 
Read more and register!








01 November 2018

2018 "Holiday Magic"

Dick Joiner is once again presenting "Holiday Magic" with performances in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P.E.I., and Ontario.  This is a family style variety show raising much needed funds for the Shriners and their work for children's charities.

To support the show or to attend, tickets are available at 1-844-878-5271 (or last minute at the door if seating is available).  Doors for all shows open 30 minutes prior to curtain time.

The main show format features Neil Croswell and Ashley (just back from six months of cruise ship work), Craig Douglas our comedy juggler (a client favorite) and Ivan who will be presenting a Chair Stacking act + the Cyi wheel.  All shows are hosted by Dick Joiner.


Show dates and cities for this year:
  •     Nov 2nd 7pm -- Savoy Theatre, Glace Bay.
  •     Nov 3rd 1pm and 4pm -- Theatre in the square, New Glasgow.
  •     Nov 4th 1pm -- Cobequid Education Centre Theatre. Truro
  •     Nov 5th 7pm -- Capital Theatre, Moncton.
  •     Nov 6th 7pm -- Horton High School Theatre, Wolfville
  •     Nov 7th  7pm -- The Y'Ark Playhouse Theatre, Yarmouth
  •     Nov 8th 7pm -- Bella Rose Theatre. Halifax.
  •     Nov 9th 7pm -- Le Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown PEI.
  •     Nov 10th 1pm -- Bathurst High School Theatre. Bathurst.
  •     Nov 11th 1pm -- Bernard- Poirier Theatre, Fredericton.
  •     Nov 12th 7pm -- Imperial Theatre, St John
  •     Nov 21st 7pm -- Capital Theatre, Windsor.
  •     Nov 22nd 7pm -- Sarnia Lib. Theatre. Sarnia
  •     Nov 23rd. 7pm -- Forest City Church Theatre. London
  •     Nov 24th 1pm -- Humanities Theatre, Kitchener.
  •     Nov 24th 1pm -- Sanderson Centre, Brantford.
  •     Nov 26th 7pm -- Capital Theatre, Chatham
  •     Nov 27th 7pm -- Mowhawk Theatre, Hamilton
  •     Nov 28th 7pm -- Seneca Queen Theatre, Niagara Falls.
  •     Nov 29th 7pm -- Georgian Theatre, Barrie.
  •     Dec 4th 7pm -- Empire Theatre Belleville
  •     Dec 5th 7pm -- Rose Theatre, Brampton
  •     Dec 10th 7pm -- 34 Catharine St. St Catherines.

A smaller show consisting of Dick Joiner, Craig Douglas and Magic Mike will be offered on the following dates and venues:
  •     Nov 20th 7pm -- Masonic Centre, St. Thomas
  •     Dec 6th 7pm -- Market Centre, Woodstock
  •     Dec 7th -- Avondale Church Theatre. Stratford.


FOR TICKETS call: 1-844-878-5271


[with thanks to Dick Joiner for sending this information along]

25 January 2018

Toronto: Garrett Thomas announced for Browser's Bash 2018

Browser's Bash logo  
From the Browser's Den of Magic Facebook group:
Dear Denizens,

We are very happy to announce that Garrett Thomas will be joining us at this year's Browser's Bash.

You read that right! Magician Garrett Thomas Thomas will be at this year's 'Browser's Magic Bash'.

Mr. Thomas is known for being an innovator as well as one of the top card, coin, and ring sleight of hand men in the world. His numerous releases include Imagination Coins, Banded, Stand-Up Monte, Speedreader Deck and Ring Thing.

His original effects, extreme technical skills and keen understanding of human psychology culminate in highly visual, entertaining and enlightening routines. Garrett was a stand-out artist in the close-up show at the last Magic Live!

Garrett's dedication to the art of magic manifests not only in his performances but also in his strong commitment to teaching the science and psychology of magic to other magicians.

Garrett Thomas is joining Jay Sankey, Dick Joiner, Pop Haydn, Michael Close, Chris Pilsworth, James Alan, Nicholas Wallace and many others to help make Browser’s Magic Bash 4 the best Bash yet!

Hard to believe, but The 'Browser's 2018 Magic Bash' is now only three months away.

Tickets are still available. And we would love to have you join us for the day.

For full details on Browser's Magic Bash 2018 or to Buy Tickets please visit http://www.browsersden.com/bash/

Thank you for your kind support
Old Jeff, Young Jeff, John Talbot & The Browser's Den Team

Read more and buy tickets.

28 October 2017

Names announced for Browser's Bash 2018

Browser's Bash logo  
From Jeff Hinchliffe's post at the Browser's Den of Magic Facebook group:
Dear Denizens,

The launch of the Bash 2018 tickets was our most successful yet!

Thank you to all who have already purchased a ticket. We appreciate your kind support of this event!

Of course there are still plenty of great tickets available. Remember the earlier you buy the closer you will be to the stage!

And now...Bash Drum Roll please....Here are some of the talented performers who will be taking the stage at the Bash 2018. We will announce more big names soon!

DICK JOINER - Emcee
Joining us again in 2018! He will share his infectious hysterical laugh, fun-loving zany manner and high paced interactive comedy magic. With Dick Joiner returning as emcee we know that Bash 2018 will be another fun day!

MICHAEL CLOSE- Miracle Worker
Michael Close has a worldwide reputation in the magic community as an author, a creator, a performer, and a consultant. His specialty is sleight-of-hand, close-up magic, but he also has extensive experience in stand-up magic. He has lectured and performed for audiences around the world!

NICHOLAS WALLACE - Practitioner of the Art of Astonishment
Nicholas has been receiving rave reviews from both critics and audiences for his one-man stage shows. His most recent production "Séance" received glowing reviews from the Toronto Star, Now Magazine, The National Post, Torontoist and more.

JAMES ALAN - Blindfolded Card Magic Extraordinaire
One of Toronto's busiest working pros. His one man show Magic & Martini continues to fill the house each night leaving his audiences stunned, perplexed and entertained. We are pleased that James will be joining us on the Bash stage.

CHRIS PILSWORTH - Mixing Magic & Art
A rare breed of magician. A performer who stays true to his strong beliefs about magic as an art form yet always entertains his audiences. And always with a twist of originality. A Canadian hidden treasure.

And we have more big names to announce!

TO BUY TICKETS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BASH 2018 please follow this link: http://www.browsersden.com/bash
 
Thank you
-Jeff Pinsky, John Talbot, Jeff Hinchliffe & The Browser's Den Team



03 October 2017

2017 "Holiday Magic"

Dick Joiner is once again presenting "Holiday Magic" with performances in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P.E.I., and Ontario.  This is a family style variety show raising much needed funds for the Shriners and their work for children's charities.

If you would like to attend one of the shows, please call 1-877-948-6626 for ticket availability and information.

The East Coast Tour features:

The Ontario Tour features:

Scroll down to see the show dates (or download the PDF from Philae-Shriners.com):

East Coast:
  • Nov 4th 1pm show. Gwendolyn Kent Auditorium. Bathurst N.B.
  • Nov 5th 1pm show. Bernard Poirier Theatre. Fredericton. N.B.
  • Nov 6th 7pm show. Capitol Theatre. Moncton. N.B.
  • Nov 7th 7pm show. Horton High Theatre. Wolfville. N.S.
  • Nov 8th. 7pm show. Th'Yark Playhouse Theatre. Yarmouth. N.S.
  • Nov 9th. 5pm and 7.15pm shows. Bella Rose Theatre. Halifax. N.S.
  • Nov 10th. 7pm show Savoy Theatre. Glace Bay. N.S.
  • Nov 11th. 1pm and 4pm shows.Glasgow Square Theatre New Glasgow. N.S.
  • Nov12th. 1pm and 4pm shows.  I'Isle-Saint-Jean Theatre. Charlottetown . P.E.I.
  • Nov 13th 7pm show. Cobequid Ed Centre. Truro N.S.
  • Nov 14th 7pm show. Imperial Theatre. Saint John N.B.

Ontario:
  • Nov 18th 1pm show. Catherine Street Auditorium. St. Catharines.
  • Nov 20th 7pm show. Capital Theatre. Windsor.
  • Nov 21st 7pm show. Kiwanis Theatre. Chatham.
  • Nov 22nd. 7pm show. Library Theatre. Sarnia.
  • Nov 24th. 7pm show Forest City. London.
  • Nov 28th 7pm show. Empire Theatre. Belleville.
  • Nov 30th. 7pm show. Rose Theatre. Brampton.
  • Dec 1st. 7pm show. Sanderson Theatre. Brantford
  • Dec 2nd. 1pm show. Humanities Theatre. Waterloo
  • Dec 8th. 7pm show Seneca Queen Theatre, Niagara Falls
  • Dec 16th. 1pm and 4pm shows. Meadowvale Theatre. Mississauga


FOR TICKETS call: 1-877-948-6626. 


[with thanks to Dick Joiner for sending this information along]

17 September 2017

Toronto: Browser's Bash 2018 ticket sale reminder

Browser's Bash logo 
From the Browser's Den of Magic:
Tickets go on sale Monday, Sept 18th, 2017 - 10 am Sharp!




Talent currently booked for 2018 include:
  • Dick Joiner as emcee,
  • Michael Close (author of the Workers series and other ebooks), and
  • Nicholas Wallace.

Read more and buy tickets!



01 April 2017

The emcee for the day, Dick Joiner!

I spy a handlebar mustache, for those of you playing Magic Convention Bingo (Bash Edition) at home.

04 January 2017

More names announced for the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash

Browser's Bash logo  
From the Facebook group for the Browser's Den of Magic:

You're not alone! These artists will be with you at the 2017 Bash!
Announcing More Artists For the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash.
http://www.browsersden.com/bash

It's time to share even more artists with you that will spend the day with us at the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash.

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO - MORE BASH ARTISTS:

Atsushi Ono
- Kyoto Konjurer -
Atsushi Ono-san's relaxed charm, sense of humor and creative approach to performing magic have made him a popular magician and entertainer in
Japan as well as Western Canada.

Aaron Fisher
- Card Conductor -
Specializing in card magic, Aaron Fisher travels the world sharing his original thoughts and energetic performances with other fellow magicians.

Rosemary Reid
- Ms. Magic -
From her humble beginnings at Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp to becoming one of Canada's leading female magicians, Rosemary is going to answer the
one question she's been asked most often throughout her career. Can you guess what it is?

Adam Grace
- Renaissance Man -
Adam Grace, a profesional magician, musician, actor, speaker, writer and producer, tours the world sharing his love for all performing arts. He plans to
spend the entire day with us.

Also including:
- Michael Ammar
- Silly Billy
- Chris Mysterion & Steffi Kay
- Dick Joiner
- Buck Macleod
- Luiz Castro
- Keith Brown
- Scott Hammell

REGISTER NOW - Be A Part Of The 2017 Bash Experience
http://www.browsersden.com/bash

We hope you'll join us. It's unlike any other magic event around. You're going to love it! Book your ticket today by clicking the button above.

See you at the Bash on Saturday, April 1st, 2017!

Magical Hugs,
Jeff Pinsky, John Talbot, & Lee Asher
(Your faithful Browser's Magic Bash team)

24 November 2016

New names announced for the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash

Browser's Bash logo  
From the Facebook page of the Browser's Den of Magic:
A Party Of This Magnitude Only Comes Once A Year!

Where else can you get a scrumptious free lunch & dinner, the opportunity to spend the day with like-minded peers, and twelve hours of magic with so many top name magicians?

"The Browser's Magic Bash packs in more magic, with more value for your dollar, than anything we've ever offered you before."

Without further adieu, it's our pleasure to announce MORE amazingly talented artists who plan to spend the day with us at the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash.
- Dick Joiner
- Buck Macleod
- Scott Hammell
- Luiz Castro
- Keith Brown

Additionally:
- Michael Ammar
- Silly Billy
- & The Sentimentalists (Chris Mysterion & Steffi Kay)
...will spend the day with us, too. We plan to celebrate our common love for magic together.

If this fun sounds like the good times you're looking for, please take two minutes right now to register for the 2017 Browser's Magic Bash.

Browser's Magic Bash Tickets Starting At $99 Plus HST
http://www.browsersden.com/bash
(cut and paste if not clickable)

We hope you'll join us.

Book your ticket today, and see you at the Bash!

Magical Hugs,
Jeff Pinsky, John Talbot, & Lee Asher
(Your faithful Browser's Magic Bash Team)

14 October 2016

2016 Shriners' "Holiday Magic Show" and Firefighters' Fundraising

Updated November 1, 2018 to add:



Updated October 6, 2017 to add:


Dick Joiner is once again presenting the "Holiday Magic Show" with performances in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P.E.I., and Ontario.  This is a family style variety show raising much needed funds for the Shriners and their work for children's charities.

If you would like to attend one of the shows, please call 1-877-948-6626 for ticket availability and information.

The East Coast Tour features:


The Ontario Tour features:

 The Firefighters' Fundraiser shows (December 1st and 17th) feature:


Scroll down to see the show dates:


  • October 30th. Cobequid Education Centre, Truro, NS
  • November 1st. Horton High, Wolfville, NS
  • November 2nd. Y'Arc, Yarmouth, NS
  • November 3rd. Bella Rose Theatre, Halifax, NS
  • November 4th. Savoy Theatre Glace Bay, NS
  • November 5th. Theatre in the Square, New Glasgow., NS
  • November 6th. Le Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown, PEI
  • November 7th. Bathurst High School Theatre, Bathurst, NB
  • November 8th. Capital Theatre, Moncton, NB
  • November 9th.  Saint John High School, Saint John, NB
  • November 10th. Bernard-Poirier Theatre, Fredericton, NB
  • November 18th. Forest City Community Church, London, ON
  • November 19th.  Kiwanis Centre, Chatham, ON
  • November 21st.  Capital Theatre, Windsor, ON
  • November 22nd.  Sarnia Library Theatre, Sarnia, ON
  • November 26th.  Waterloo Humanities Theatre, Waterloo, ON
  • December 2nd.  Sanderson Centre Theatre, Brantford, ON


Firefighters' Shows:
  • December 1st. St. Catharines, ON
  • December 17th. Mississauga, ON




[with thanks to Dick Joiner for sending this information along]


09 June 2016

20 magical memories from Sorcerers Safari

Almost 20 years ago, armed only with the idea of making magic more accessible to kids who want to learn magic, "Magic Mike" Segal opened the doors to Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp.  Sorcerers Safari is Canada's only sleepaway magic camp, hosting up to 150 campers a year.

Words fail to adequately describe the phenomenon that is Sorcerers Safari.  Everyone comes away from camp with their own unique experience.  To mark their upcoming 20th anniversary, here’s a list of:

20 magical memories from Sorcerers Safari (in no particular order):
  1. My favourite camp memory would have to be when I first went to Sorcerers Safari. I saw all of my idols in magic and there were so many magicians that I had watched on TV and on YouTube. It was brilliant to see them perform and not only to see them perform but just to have a normal magic or even non magic conversation with them was amazing to me. It was literally like a dream come true!

    Brad B.
    Camper: 2014-2015


  2. The first year I ever attended I recall walking down a wooded path and seeing Michael Ammar talking to a group of campers who were seated under the shade of a huge tree.  Michael was talking about choosing magic as a career and I could see the look in all the campers eyes as I eavesdropped.  I knew in that very moment I would return to camp as often as I could as I felt something I’d never felt before.  Not sure how to describe it, but it was just so special.

    Shawn Farquhar (magichampion.com)
    Instructor: 2008-2013, 2015
  3. A favourite memory was making a card flourish duel that appeared in the 2013 camp video.


    Eric S.
    Camper: 2007-2014


  4. I was overwhelmed by the quality of instruction and the dedication of Mike, Jen and the entire board and staff. It was without doubt one the finest experiences I've had in my almost 40 years in the Magic business.

    Phil Matlin (PerfectMagic.com)
    Guest: 2014
  5. I would have to say that my favourite memory at camp would have to be after Brett C. and I performed the “cube in cube out” stage illusion. It was a huge relief that the whole thing went successfully and it was also the first routine that Brett and I created together.

    Holden L.
    Camper: 2008-2015

  1. Many of my favourite memories at Sorcerers Safari come from the late night jam sessions in the campers' cabins.  You never know what newest tricks or guest magicians you'll find.

    For example, a few years back, I witnessed Tyler Wilson sharing the longest and most entertaining card revelation I've seen. Over the course of about 45 minutes, the cabin filled with campers as they watched him attempt to find the card.  Pure suspense. Needless to say, he had no idea what the card was, and was playing us the entire time.

    The jam sessions offer a great opportunity to see the campers' talent and creativity.  In 2015, Philip B. and I posed an Ambitious Card challenge to the cabin.  They split into 2 teams to work together to create an Ambitious Card routine from scratch.  This impromptu competition went on for close to 2 hours and was a blast to watch!

    Sheldon Casavant (SheldonCasavant.com)
    Camper: 2003, Counsellor: 2004 and 2007, Instructor: 2015
  2. Trying to find only one Sorcerers Safari good memory is impossible because there are so many!  So let’s say that one of them is when Anders Bjorkman, Johnny Toronto, and I did a “fire trio act” together on the beach during the party night. I believe it happened in 2010. We literally had a blast!!!

    Loran, (LoranIllusion.com)
    Instructor: 2000 - 2015

  1. a) The first time (repeated over the years) that all the campers hit the stage on the final night to present their interpretation of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” ... (always a fun moment).
    b) Seeing the "shy and timid" take the stage for the first time in front of their peers and proudly present an effect they have learned at camp.
    c) The meal times with the table banging under the direction of Lee Asher.
    d) Seeing a camper on TELEVISION presenting magic... and only a few years earlier not being able to communicate...
    e) Year after year - the reunions. Campers emailing each other to make sure they would be in the same dorm.
    f) The chant of "we love Dick, we love Dick."

    Dick Joiner, (DickJoiner.com)
    Instructor: ~2001-2015


  2. Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp was the first time I ever went to camp. I'm in my seventies and it was fun and exciting. I loved the enthusiasm of the kids and their teachers, who were the best. We met old friends and made new ones. Keep up the good work and thank you Mike for inviting us.

    Evelyn Matlin (PerfectMagic.com)
    Guest: 2014
  3. I have so many wonderful memories of camp that it's near impossible to choose just one. But a camp classic that we continually reminisce about all the time happened on my first year when Rob 'Fish The Magish' Fishbaum secretly hid in the woods during the middle of the night, waited until I walked by, then jumped out making a loud squealing pig noise. I shrieked like a little girl, jumped into Steve Kline's arms completely terrified, and almost crapped my pants.

    It was an amazing moment. It's also when I knew these people would be part of my family for the rest of our lives. The best part, scaring the newbie staff has since become a long-standing camp tradition.

    Lee Asher (LeeAsher.com)
    Special Guest: 2001, Instructor: 2002-2015


  4. Lip Sync Battles


      

    Jeff P.

    Counsellor in Training: 2015
  5. When the whole camp did a one camera take lip dub! That was so exciting and EVERYONE had a part and nailed it! The video was a hit and definitely one to be remembered.

    Watch the 2011 Sorcerers Safari Lip Dub on YouTube:



    Lorena Watters (TrevorWatters.com)
    Instructor: 2010-2014

  1. a) I remember one night at the nightly stage shows in the Pinetages theatre:  the air was hot and thick… the performers were breaking a sweat after literally 30 seconds on stage.  And out of the blue we see Lee Asher come out and perform a trick (and a dance!) in a massive eggplant costume! It was epic.

    b) One year we decided to do a lip dub. It was amazing to see everyone come together and participate with such passion and precision. Check out the video it took us about a half-day to film. It was truly awesome.

    Eric Leclerc (EricLeclerc.com)
    Instructor: 2008-2015


  2. My favourite memory from camp was probably performing for Michael and Lisa Close's daughter on stage. I was able to use her last name to do a hilarious bit for the entire camp while poking fun of their last name.

    Chris Westfall (ChrisWestfallMagic.com)
    Instructor


  3. One of my favourite memories would be Eric Leclerc and a few of us attempting to scare RJ late at night with a bunch of scary halloween masks and then RJ wouldn't wake up. I have the video footage of it, but it is one of those bits that never made it into the annual Sorcerers Video, but was very funny to observe at the time.

    Chris Mayhew (ChrisMayhewMagic.com)
    Videographer: 2013-2015
  4. a) Performing on the camp stage. The first time I worked a stage, wore a mic, stood in front of the lights, and performed for a "big" crowd all came at camp. I'll never forget the love and support people showed me, and it's probably a major reason why I'm still getting up there today!

    b) Watching my campers grow up.  I still maintain relationships with campers I had a decade ago.  Some have become better performers than I would have ever imagined. Some are even better than I am... which is both awesome and infuriating!  One that stands out to me is Nathaniel Rankin.  I watched him grow from a cute, but shy, juggler to a world class magician performing on cruise ships around the world.  I don't take credit for his success -- that was all him -- but I'm glad to have been a stepping stone on his path to finding something that makes him so happy.

    Ben Train, (BenTrain.ca)
    Counsellor in Training: 2000-2001, Staff: 2002-2015

  1. This memory is from 2006.  For the end of the week camper show, Sami S. and I decided to dress up like veteran campers and counsellors, Kelvin and Dustin.  Every year, this eccentric duo would perform the “one-handed card trick” in which they are Siamese twins, joined at the hip where each only has the ability to use only one hand.  2006 marked one of the first years Kelvin was not at camp (but Dustin was) so we did not get to see their jubilant routine.  Instead, Sami and I dressed up like the duo and impersonated them and the one-handed card trick.  It was really goofy, not many people understood what we were doing.  But I distinctly remember Scott Hammell and Magic Mike in the audience laughing uncontrollably.

    This memory isn’t about the moment itself, but about the inside joke shared with the other veteran campers and staff that makes it stand out so strongly in my mind.  The inside jokes are what I remember now; nonsense jokes told around the campfire (knock-knock jokes will always be the funniest for me because of camp), and ridiculous one-liners.  There are moments with sugar shots, fruit stickers on our foreheads, crocket, fridge box racing, pushing Steve Kline in the lake and so many defining “coming of age” moments that bring me back to camp.  There are too many small memories to put one as the best, but the inside jokes between fellow campers and life-long friends are something I hold onto very dearly.

    Lauren Proctor
    Camper: 1999-2008
  2. My favorite memory is when Magic Mike told us that the visiting volleyball camp found an (invisible) deck, and not knowing what it was straightened all of the cards for us. I retell that story to magicians all the time.


    Jonah Babins (JonahBabinsMagic.com)
    Camper, Counsellor in Training, and Instructor


  1. Playing capture the flag with the kids during active time, then one of them realizing that I was the entertainer he watched on stage the night before! He was so excited, then I noticed a few more kids running around with me to beat the game!

    Trevor Watters (TrevorWatters.com)
    Instructor: 2010-2014



  2. I have so very many memories of camp, having been the guy who started it, and having attended every year, that it is hard to pick just one. There really are so many in the 20 years… but one stands out, and is particularly appropriate for this summer.

    I remember the summer 15 years ago when we switched our host camp after 5 years at another camp.  It was an amazing summer, as everything felt new again. The energy (which is never lacking at Sorcerers Safari) seemed to be ramped up that summer in everyone, staff and campers. Exploring the new grounds, and meeting new challenges really made everyone bring their ‘A’ Game. It was great.  The move was extremely positive, making me that much more excited to see what our move will bring this summer.

    Magic Mike Segal (SorcerersSafari.ca)
    Camp Director: 1996 - 2016

The 2016 season of Sorcerers Safari will run from Sunday August 7th through Friday August 12th, 2016.  For more information, or to register, please visit SorcerersSafari.ca