Julie Eng, Executive Director of Genii

Congratulations Julie!  Looking forward to seeing what you have up your sleeve!

 

From the July 20th Facebook post by Julie Eng:

Friends: Some exciting news to share!

After twenty years of working with Magicana, I will be leaving my role as executive director at the end of July. It’s been an incredible tenure: I’ve met so many fascinating characters; I’ve worked with devoted and passionate people; I’ve been privileged to be part of extraordinary projects. I am also very proud of the body of work that has become part of Magicana’s legacy. It has been an honour to work with such a visionary and unique charity driven by the mandate of elevating our art—and a charity that has been led by an exceptional board of directors and artistic director David Ben. We were a lean team, but we got things done!

But I’m not going far! I’m staying firmly within the magic world, joining Genii Enterprises as its new executive director! The owners of Genii—Randy and Kristy Pitchford—have set forth a new and exciting vision to expand the Genii universe, and it will be my job to steer Genii  to that new direction. There are so many new and exciting areas opening up, and I’ll be sharing more and more as we move toward 2025.

So, for now, that is what’s happening. It’s a lot. But it is so exciting to see this organic development unfold! Lots more to share! Soon!

Details about changes at Magicana can be found on the Sharing Wonder blog:
https://www.magicana.com/news/blog/remembering-future

 

 

From the July 20th post "Remembering the Future" by David Ben at Magicana:

I’ll start with a big one: On July 31, Julie Eng will be moving on from Magicana to take on a new role as the Executive Director of Genii. Given Randy and Kristy Pitchford’s vision and philanthropic nature, and Julie’s indefatigable energy and creative flair, I predict that wonders will never cease. Everyone involved with Magicana, and I in particular, are very proud of Julie. She has been part of Magicana since 2004; we are delighted to see her take on this new and exciting role as she continues her journey in magic.

Although I do not know exactly what they have up their sleeves, I do know one or two things. The primary one from our perspective is that Magicana will be migrating, among other things, its online content—including The Screening Room and all the current online exhibitions—to Genii!  This will take some time, and Magicana’s site will remain as is until the migration is completed. All of the resources that you have come to love and explore will remain available not just in the present, but also in the future. 

Read more.

 

2024 Canadian Rising Star

Congratulations to Gabriella Lester for winning the Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star award!  

  

From the June 17th Instagram post by Magicana:

The Slaight Family Foundation founded the Allan Slaight Awards a decade ago to celebrate magic as an art. As we kick off this week of celebration, we are delighted to congratulate GABRIELLA LESTER as this year’s Canadian Rising Star!

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MAGICANA | Sharing Wonder (@sharingwonder)

 

 

 

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2023 Allan Slaight awards

From Magicana:

And, that means the Allan Slaight Awards are now open. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to the art of magic in five categories. The Slaight Family Foundation gives away an astonishing $50,000 per year to acknowledge shining stars, magic makers and wonder sharers, all in an effort to support and encourage this wonderful art of magic.

So, come on, magic friends…. Tell us about an exciting up-and-coming magician you know or have seen. Or, tell us about a fantastic magician who should be recognized for outstanding contributions either as a performer, or from a lifetime of contributions to magic. Maybe you saw an unbelievable performance last year? Or, did you read or learn or gain special insight from a book, podcast or streaming service? Tell us. We want to know.

To make your nomination, simply visit this Allan Slaight Awards page and fill in the blanks. 

Read more and make your nomination.

From the January 19th Instagram post by Sharing Wonder:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MAGICANA | Sharing Wonder (@sharingwonder)

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023 Canadian Rising Star

Congratulations to Atsushi Ono for winning the Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star award!

Read our previous interviews with Atsuhi:

• Canada's Got Talent: Getting to know Atsushi Ono
• Canada's Got Talent: Checking in with Atsushi Ono    
  

 

From the June 19th post "Canadian Rising Star 2023" at Magicana:

A dynamic professional magician from Calgary, Atsushi has turned his childhood dream into a thriving career. He raised his game this year by auditioning for Canada’s Got Talent and made his way to the finale round.

Far beyond competitions, Atsushi seeks to further the art of magic. He sets out to bring joy with wonderment. Atsushi has revealed himself to be a thoughtful, hardworking magician, constantly pushing past stereotypes as he embraces the curious ways of being a professional magician. Atsushi’s passion for magic and his quest to be the best performer he can be make him a true rising star.

Read more.

 

From the June 19th Tweet by Magicana:

Meet this year's Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star, ATSUSHI ONO! This award also comes with $5,000 and an iPad. Come and meet this Calgary magician and learn more about how he knocked the socks off the Canada's Got Talent panel of judges! WATCH: https://t.co/XU6sgHmwqm pic.twitter.com/rO2To4M26r

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) June 19, 2023

 

 

 

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2022 Allan Slaight awards

Still no sign of a category for "Best Blog Focused on Canadian Magicians Run by a Member of IBM Ring 17."  Dang.

 

From Magicana:

And, that means the Allan Slaight Awards are now open. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to the art of magic in five categories. The Slaight Family Foundation gives away an astonishing $50,000 per year to acknowledge shining stars, magic makers and wonder sharers, all in an effort to support and encourage this wonderful art of magic.

So, come on, magic friends…. Tell us about an exciting up-and-coming magician you know or have seen. Or, tell us about a fantastic magician who should be recognized for outstanding contributions either as a performer, or from a lifetime of contributions to magic. Maybe you saw an unbelievable performance last year? Or, did you read or learn or gain special insight from a book, podcast or streaming service? Tell us. We want to know.

To make your nomination, simply visit this Allan Slaight Awards page and fill in the blanks. 

Read more and make your nomination.

 

Allan Slaight Award nominations are now O P E N! Talk to us. Tell us who you think should be an award recipient! Details: https://t.co/k4M0AlwSvj pic.twitter.com/iQ0pGXIUC2

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) January 12, 2023

 

 

 

 

2022 Canadian Rising Star

Congratulations to Neil Croswell for winning the Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star award!

 

From the June 20th article "Canadian Rising Star 2022" at Magicana: 

Past recipients of this award include Mahdi Gilbert, Luc Langevin, Eric Leclerc, Nick Wallace, Carisa Hendrix, The Sentimentalists: Mysterion and Steffi Kay, and Jonah Babins.

This year we are delighted to add NEIL CROSWELL to this bright list of rising stars. Watch the award video and meet this Toronto-based performer who has successfully turned what was a childhood hobby into a busy, thriving career as a touring illusionist.

Congratulations to NEIL CROSWELL, the 2022 Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star recipient! Did you catch Neil's story on our site? Visit: https://t.co/c5kHz1OxjC and find out more about Neil, and this award, which comes with $5,000 from the Slaight Family Foundation. pic.twitter.com/iajDmpCVBa

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) June 20, 2022

 

 

 

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2021 Allan Slaight awards

At this time we'd like to remind you, that the nominees in the 2020 Readers' Choice Awards are an excellent place to start if you're looking for potential nominees!

Still no sign of a category for "Best Blog Focused on Canadian Magicians Run by a Member of IBM Ring 17."  Dang.

 

From Magicana:

Nominations are now being accepted for work completed in 2021. The deadline for nominations is April 3, 2022. Nominations received after the deadline will be kept on file and considered for the following year.

Thank you for considering nominating someone for the Allan Slaight Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the pursuit of the impossible. The nomination process consists of four steps:

1. Your information
2. Information about your nominee
3. Supporting documentation
4. Reviewing your information and submitting

 

In addition to basic information about you and your nominee, you will also have the opportunity to provide

1. A biography (up to 4500 characters)
2. A description of the work and why you are nominating this person (up to 1800 characters)

 Read more and submit your nominations!

 

It’s that time again! The Allan Slaight Awards for magic is OPEN FOR NOMINATIONS for work completed in 2021! Tell us about extraordinary artists and organizations making exceptional contributions to magic, and how they are making an impact on magic. https://t.co/cRKqFOj7XB pic.twitter.com/jH8a4xck6x

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) January 10, 2022

 

 

Magicana recipient of the 2021 Founders Award

Congratulations to Julie Eng and David Ben!

 

From the November 8th Tweet by Magicana:

Magicana is the 2021 Founders Award recipient  for “long-standing and exemplary accomplishments in the disciplines of magic collecting & magic history that ... reflect the mission & ideas of the New England Magic Collectors Association.”  Thank you for this tremendous honour!

Magicana is the 2021 Founders Award recipient for “long-standing and exemplary accomplishments in the disciplines of magic collecting & magic history that ... reflect the mission & ideas of the New England Magic Collectors Association.” Thank you for this tremendous honour! pic.twitter.com/ddNMylJMKu

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) November 8, 2021

 

2021 International Rising Star

Congratulations to Billy Kidd for winning the Allan Slaight International Rising Star award!

 

From the June 22st article "International Rising Star 2021" at Magicana: 

The Allan Slaight International Rising Star Award acknowledges outstanding work by an up-and-coming magician and comes with a prize of $5,000 from the Slaight Family Foundation—and it also includes an iPad to commemorate the occasion. Past recipients of this award are: Henry Vargas of Brazil, Jorge Blass of Spain, Edward Hilsum of Great Britain, Noah Levine of the United States, Ding Yang of China, and Diego Vargas of Costa Rica.

We are delighted to add BILLY KIDD of Great Britain, to the growing international list of dynamic performers.

Read more.

Meet @Billykiddshow ...this year’s International Rising Star! She is exciting, interesting, and super curious. She pushes herself and her magic further. We are proud to present BILLY KIDD with this award on behalf of the Slaight Family Foundation. MEET: https://t.co/s61WnAAWUn pic.twitter.com/6yyhiWZVqc

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) June 22, 2021

 

2021 Canadian Rising Star

Congratulations to Jonah Babins for winning the Allan Slaight Canadian Rising Star award!


From the June 21st article "Canadian Rising Star 2021" at Magicana: 

As is our tradition, we start off by introducing you to this year’s Canadian Rising Star. This award acknowledges outstanding work by emerging Canadian magicians, and comes with a prize of $5,000 from the Slaight Family Foundation. Past recipients of this award include Mahdi Gilbert, Luc Langevin, Eric Leclerc, Nick Wallace, Carisa Hendrix and The Sentimentalists (Mysterion and Steffi Kay).

We are thrilled to now include JONAH BABINS on this impressive list of rising stars.

We invite you to meet this energetic Toronto-based magician. Jonah is an accomplished and impressive performer who is dedicated to building and fostering an inclusive and interesting community. A true rising star.

AND IT BEGINS! We start the #AllanSlaightAwards by introducing this year’s #CanadianRisingStar He's an accomplished and impressive performer, based in Toronto, and is dedicated to building and fostering an inclusive and interesting community. WATCH: https://t.co/7Xt00n9ynh pic.twitter.com/hRGqWwzVVN

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) June 21, 2021

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2020 Allan Slaight awards

At this time we'd like to remind you, that one of our voters in our 2020 Readers' Choice Awards suggested that "Regardless of who wins, I hope they are all considered for Allan Slaight awards."  That's an excellent place to start if you're looking for potential nominees!

Still no sign of a category for "Best Blog Focused on Canadian Magicians Run by a Member of IBM Ring 17."

 

From Magicana:

Nominations are now being accepted for work completed in 2020. The deadline for nominations is April 2, 2021. Nominations received after the deadline will be kept on file and considered for the following year.

Thank you for considering nominating someone for the Allan Slaight Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the pursuit of the impossible. The nomination process consists of four steps:

1. Your information
2. Information about your nominee
3. Supporting documentation
4. Reviewing your information and submitting

 

In addition to basic information about you and your nominee, you will also have the opportunity to provide

1. A biography (up to 4500 characters)
2. A description of the work and why you are nominating this person (up to 1800 characters)

 Read more and submit your nominations!

 

ALLAN SLAIGHT AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN! https://t.co/eUFN2A9OtA The Slaight Family Foundation established the awards in 2015 and has pledged to give $50,000 a year to celebrate exceptional work. Nominations for works completed in 2020 are now being accepted. pic.twitter.com/O6r4qhXodL

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) January 10, 2021

2020 Readers' Choice award results

 Thank you all for participating in the spirit in which the awards were intended:

a fun way to recognize and celebrate all of the wonderful things being done by the fabulous talent in our country.

Over 190 votes were cast in this "bragging rights" only contest.  You all have a lot of devoted fans!

Here are the results of our fifth annual "Readers' Choice Inspirational Canadian Magician of the Year" award!

 

Some general comments were submitted:

• "Regardless of who wins, I hope they are all considered for Allan Slaight awards."
   
  Excellent observation, I hope that our readers respond accordingly when Allan Slaight Award nominations open in the New Year!
    
  
• "They were all Fantastic," "Everyone is great!"
   
  
• "Thanks again for doing this... "
   
  You are very welcome!  Thank you for helping spread the word about Canada's wonderful talent!
  
  

 

 

Beacons of Inspiration (in alphabetical order by surname)

Gwyn Auger (aka The Magic Assistant)

Nominated by Jonathan I. who wrote:
"The bigger the magic, the more important all of the team players are, and when it comes to a magic community, the same definitely applies. For me, personally, when I returned to magic about 10 years ago, Gwyn kindly befriended me (not knowing who I was) and it’s been an important part of my ongoing journey through the art of magic. She’s been quite an ambassador for the art and is one of those glues that holds a community together—which is especially important during a time like this. So, I humbly nominate Gwyn for this recognition."

Editor's note:

• Gwyn was interviewed by Bruce Kalver last month, as part of the Backstage SAM Podcast series.
  

Website: Magician.org/member/magicassistant.

 

Comments from Gwyn's fans include:
- Gwyn Rocks!

Ryan Joyce and Graeme Reed (aka Graemazing)

Nominated by Ryan P. who wrote:
"They have been producing a ton of stuff, podcasts, tv shows, pizza parties and more all giving an opportunity for other Canadian magicians to perform and connect. The high quality standards of their production are certainly inspiring to me!"

Additionally, Graeme was nominated by Doug H. who wrote:
"He has not let COVID 19 interfere with his ability to present his magic. He has and continues to perform his excellent Magic in awesome creative ways - online. He is not only the most entertaining guy I know, he's Graemazing!"

Editor's note:

• In the early days of The Great Pause, Ryan and Graeme hosted Magicians Pizza Party events to help the community feel less isolated.
  
• Ryan started The Elora Fergus Podcast to foster a sense of community in that area.
  
• Graeme hosted a free virtual magic show over the summer.
  
• Since March, Ryan and Graeme have produced over 50 Magicians Talking Magic podcasts, including a series devoted to skills development during lockdown. 
  (Yesterday they released their 100th episode!)
  
• They had their first ever virtual OWOW Magic Festival, which boasted a Hallowe'en special featuring Nicholas Wallace, Joan Caesar, Graeme Reed, Mark Clearview, and Scott Hammell.
  

 

Website:  RyanJoyce.com and GraemeReedMagic.com.

Comments from Ryan and Graeme's fans include:
- These guys are amazing. Entertaining and creative.
- Graeme is great, but that Ryan guy is ...
  [Editor's note:  Ryan, cut that out!]

Magicana (David Ben and Julie Eng)
Nominated by Ben T. who wrote:
"My nomination this year is Magicana. Not only did they start the year off by helping curate the Art of Illusion exhibit at the AGO - which created all sorts of new magic fans - but they also mobilized quickly to set up the "Allan Slaight Magicians Relief Fund" to help magicians across Canada deal with the pandemic."
"Because of all that they've done for the community this year, I nominate Magicana!"

Editor's note:

• The Illusions: The Art of Magic exhibit at the AGO featured more than 55 colourful vintage posters from the Allan Slaight Collection, in addition to employing many local magicians.
• They handled the implementation and administration of the Allan Slaight Relief Fund, which helped to defray cost-of-living expenses incurred by professional Canadian magicians early in The Great Pause.
  
• Magicana also runs the annual Allan Slaight Awards which recognize excellence in magic.
  

 

Website:  Magicana.com

Comments from Magicana's fans include:
- The work this team puts together is essential to our magic community. They are truly keeping the spirit alive.
- that AGO thing was awesome for bringing magic to a multitude of muggles

Phil Pivnick (aka WonderPhil)
Nominated by Ian C. who wrote:

"Phil is already Toronto’s best family and children’s entertainer (A1 media) and has a 5 star rating on Google and YELP.  But apart from that he is truly a really nice guy. He’s recently started creating magic for sale to the magic community demonstrating his creativity.  He’s really helpful to anyone who asks.  Sitting down for a session with Phil is a roller coaster of ideas.  What if we do this, how about this or that move.  I’ve always been impressed with his business sense and it shows in his marketing and shows."

Editor's note:

• Phil is offering a free livestream magic show on December 13th.
  

Website: MagicInToronto.com

Romaine (aka Roman Szydlowski)

Nominated by Luiz C. who wrote:
"I nominate Romaine ( Roman Szydlowski).  He has been one of Canada's hidden talent for too long.  He shared stage with the best magicians, has been a mentor to many famous magicians and inspiration to thousands.  If you ever had a chance to sit down with him you know that you always learned something new from him."

Editor's note:

• To get a full appreciation for what Luiz hints at above, visit Romaine's biography at Genii Magazine.
  

Comments from Romaine's fans include:
- Best Canadian manipulator of all times.
- While Romaine is not as active in magic these days, and in poor health, this man deserves credit for his longevity and talent.

Editor's Choice

Alex Zander

Nominated by Shawn F. who wrote:
"I would like to nominate Alex Zander, who during this year has united magicians, not only in Canada but around the world by using the IBM JAM online to bring magic into the homes of all of us at no cost. For the first thirty days of the lock down we had a lecture every single day and now, eight months later the IBM JAM continues on a weekly basis to offer all magicians a way to connect. He gained nothing personally from doing this task and it taxed his free time greatly. It's inspiring to see the selfless acts of another in support of the greater good."

 

Editor's note:

• Alex, the youngest IBM President, finished his term with tough decisions to make about the IBM Convention.
  
• He was part of the organizing committee for this year's virtual PCAM.
  

 
Website: GottaBeMagic.com

Comments from Alex's fans include:
- Hope he wins! He’s worked so hard this whole year and has had many sleepless nights from working out all the tech issues and he deserves this!
- I have attended many of the IBM JAMs (lectured at one too) so I know the great value they've been in keeping the magic community connected when we can't connect in person. Alex even took time to virtually attend my magic club's first digital meeting back in April. He is a tireless worker for the greater good of magicians everywhere and I can't think of a more worthy recipient of the 2020 "Readers' Choice Inspirational Canadian Magician of the Year" award!
- He’s a kind a generous guy...helped me (a total stranger) get tix to the Magic Castle for my 50th for my best friend, mom and husband. It was so special. Thank you Alex!
- Amazing leadership at such a young age!
- A huge thank you for Alex organizing all the IBM JAMs!! Loved them, a great distraction from all the craziness.

 

Readers' Choice

Carisa Hendrix, Miranda Allen, and Richard Lee (aka Team Lucy Darling, The Star Ship Quarantine)
 
Nominated by Anonymous.

Congratulations to Carisa, Miranda, and Richard for winning the 2020 "Readers' Choice Inspirational Canadian Magician of the Year" award!

Keep up the great work!

Website: CarisaHendrix.com, MirandaAllen.ca, and NorthernLightTheatre.com/richard-lee-hsi/.

 

Comments from Carisa, Miranda, and Richard's fans include:
- To go from regularly performing all over the world to a consistent string of high quality online shows (with some runs lasting for months) is a phenomenal effort in these unprecedented times.
- They are absolutely wonderful!!!!
- I am beyond inspired by how these three built an amazing remote show while quarantined together, including building pieces of their set. I'm grateful for their existence!
- Sparkle and joy were in short supply till Lucy did her online show
- All nominees sound outstanding, but the level of professionalism, innovation, dedication, and prestidigitation that Team Lucy Darling puts into their performances is outstanding to say the least. They are the clear winners of this competition and I'd award it to them, not just for the great country of Canada, but arguably for the world as well.

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vote now for the 2020 Readers' Choice Award

 

The nominations are closed and voting is now open for the fifth annual 2020 "Readers' Choice Inspirational Canadian Magician of the Year" award!

Take a moment to acknowledge that this has been an extraordinary year.  Many of you embraced new skills and a new performing landscape.  Some of you took on work outside of performing.  Some of you continue to struggle with the day-to-day.  No matter your situation, give yourself a pat on the back.  You've made it this far.  To paraphrase Tom Brady, you didn't come this far to only come this far.  You've got this!

Congratulations to everyone for inspiring someone(s) enough for them to submit your name!  (I'm always tempted at this point, to declare all of the nominees as winners and not bother with the voting part. However, a vote was promised and a vote there shall be.)

Voting will close on Wednesday, December the 23rd at 11:59pm EST.

To vote, scroll down to the bottom of this post and participate in the poll. (Click through the Google Forms link if the poll does not appear in your browser.)

Let's have a look at the nominees (listed in alphabetical order by surname):

Gwyn Auger (aka The Magic Assistant)

Nominated by Jonathan I. who wrote:
"The bigger the magic, the more important all of the team players are, and when it comes to a magic community, the same definitely applies. For me, personally, when I returned to magic about 10 years ago, Gwyn kindly befriended me (not knowing who I was) and it’s been an important part of my ongoing journey through the art of magic. She’s been quite an ambassador for the art and is one of those glues that holds a community together—which is especially important during a time like this. So, I humbly nominate Gwyn for this recognition."

Editor's note:

• Gwyn was interviewed by Bruce Kalver last month, as part of the Backstage SAM Podcast series.
  

Website: Magician.org/member/magicassistant.

Carisa Hendrix, Miranda Allen, and Richard Lee (aka Team Lucy Darling, The Star Ship Quarantine)

Nominated by Anonymous.
"They took the lockdown by storm. In their isolation they created a unique virtual performance that was simultaneously witty, creative and magical with a wicked blend of technology and Lucy Darling sass. Surely that counts as inspiration."

Editor's note:

• Carisa wrapped up the second season (and is co-founder) of Shezam, the feminist magic podcast that "hopes to make itself obsolete."
• In March, Miranda invited Carisa to stay with her and Richard for a couple of months.  They opened a window into their lives and their coping mechanisms (and entertaining antics) during the early days of The Big Pause, from The Star Ship Quarantine on Twitter. 
  
• Miranda did a fabulous escape on Fool Us (season 7, episode 4).
  
• Carisa was the recipient of the recipient of the 2019 AMA Stage Magician of the Year award and was featured on the May cover of Genii.
  
• Carisa also started up the Spark Creative Facebook group last spring in an effort to help keep people focused and creative.
  
• They offered free shows (May 15th live stream and Lucy Darling's Halloween Spooktacular Extravaganza), in addition to their widely acclaimed virtual shows. (Did I mentioned Neil Gaiman gave them a shout out on Twitter?)
  
  

Website: CarisaHendrix.com, MirandaAllen.ca, and NorthernLightTheatre.com/richard-lee-hsi/.

Ryan Joyce and Graeme Reed (aka Graemazing)

Nominated by Ryan P. who wrote:
"They have been producing a ton of stuff, podcasts, tv shows, pizza parties and more all giving an opportunity for other Canadian magicians to perform and connect. The high quality standards of their production are certainly inspiring to me!"

Additionally, Graeme was nominated by Doug H. who wrote:
"He has not let COVID 19 interfere with his ability to present his magic. He has and continues to perform his excellent Magic in awesome creative ways - online. He is not only the most entertaining guy I know, he's Graemazing!"

Editor's note:

• In the early days of The Great Pause, Ryan and Graeme hosted Magicians Pizza Party events to help the community feel less isolated.
  
• Ryan started The Elora Fergus Podcast to foster a sense of community in that area.
  
• Graeme hosted a free virtual magic show over the summer.
  
• Since March, Ryan and Graeme have produced over 50 Magicians Talking Magic podcasts, including a series devoted to skills development during lockdown. 
  (Yesterday they released their 100th episode!)
  
• They had their first ever virtual OWOW Magic Festival, which boasted a Hallowe'en special featuring Nicholas Wallace, Joan Caesar, Graeme Reed, Mark Clearview, and Scott Hammell.
  

 

Website:  RyanJoyce.com and GraemeReedMagic.com.

Magicana (David Ben and Julie Eng)
Nominated by Ben T. who wrote:
"My nomination this year is Magicana. Not only did they start the year off by helping curate the Art of Illusion exhibit at the AGO - which created all sorts of new magic fans - but they also mobilized quickly to set up the "Allan Slaight Magicians Relief Fund" to help magicians across Canada deal with the pandemic."
"Because of all that they've done for the community this year, I nominate Magicana!"

Editor's note:

• The Illusions: The Art of Magic exhibit at the AGO featured more than 55 colourful vintage posters from the Allan Slaight Collection, in addition to employing many local magicians.
• They handled the implementation and administration of the Allan Slaight Relief Fund, which helped to defray cost-of-living expenses incurred by professional Canadian magicians early in The Great Pause.
  
• Magicana also runs the annual Allan Slaight Awards which recognize excellence in magic.
  

 

Website:  Magicana.com

Phil Pivnick (aka WonderPhil)
Nominated by Ian C. who wrote:

"Phil is already Toronto’s best family and children’s entertainer (A1 media) and has a 5 star rating on Google and YELP.  But apart from that he is truly a really nice guy. He’s recently started creating magic for sale to the magic community demonstrating his creativity.  He’s really helpful to anyone who asks.  Sitting down for a session with Phil is a roller coaster of ideas.  What if we do this, how about this or that move.  I’ve always been impressed with his business sense and it shows in his marketing and shows."

Editor's note:

• Phil is offering a free livestream magic show on December 13th.
  

Website: MagicInToronto.com

Romaine (aka Roman Szydlowski)

Nominated by Luiz C. who wrote:
"I nominate Romaine ( Roman Szydlowski).  He has been one of Canada's hidden talent for too long.  He shared stage with the best magicians, has been a mentor to many famous magicians and inspiration to thousands.  If you ever had a chance to sit down with him you know that you always learned something new from him."

Editor's note:

• To get a full appreciation for what Luiz hints at above, visit Romaine's biography at Genii Magazine.
  

Alex Zander

Nominated by Shawn F. who wrote:
"I would like to nominate Alex Zander, who during this year has united magicians, not only in Canada but around the world by using the IBM JAM online to bring magic into the homes of all of us at no cost. For the first thirty days of the lock down we had a lecture every single day and now, eight months later the IBM JAM continues on a weekly basis to offer all magicians a way to connect. He gained nothing personally from doing this task and it taxed his free time greatly. It's inspiring to see the selfless acts of another in support of the greater good."

 

Editor's note:

• Alex, the youngest IBM President, finished his term with tough decisions to make about the IBM Convention.
  
• He was part of the organizing committee for this year's virtual PCAM.
  

 
Website: GottaBeMagic.com

 

 

Vote now!

In an effort to combat bots and spam, you are required to sign into a Google account before voting.  Your vote will not be shared.  Your email address will not be used for marketing.

 

 

  

 

 

New England Magic Collectors Association virtual gathering

From the November 2nd post at Magicana:

For the first time in its thirty-four year history, the Gathering is going virtual.

Maintaining its legendary anchors of being an informative and social event, NEMCA has planned an incredibly wonderful and jam-packed weekend on November 14 and 15, including special tributes for guests of honour, Peter Lane and Byron Walker.

The best part? You can enjoy this entire conference from the comfort, and safety, of your own home.

Lectures, discussion panels, social breaks and even an auction are all planned for this online extravaganza. For only $25 you can be part of two full days of wide-ranging topics exploring the likes of, collecting Houdini, seldom-seen gambling books, women in magic’s history, and—wow—collections, collections, collections.

Read more and register.

 

 

 

Did you hear?! One heck of a deal is being offered. NEMCA's presenting #YankeeGathering2020 online, Nov 14, 15, for only $25! A serious bargain and, wow, there are two jam-packed days of #coolmagic programming. Don't miss this one. REGISTER NOW. More: https://t.co/4idmWJgger pic.twitter.com/ITr3s9jDSG

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) November 2, 2020

 

 

"Illusions: The Art of Magic" in Apollo Magazine

I had the good fortune to visit this exhibit at the Art Gallery of Ontario back in February.  You can read my "Random thoughts about 'Illusions: The Art of Magic.'"

"Illusions: The Art of Magic" is scheduled to close at the AGO on November 8th.

From the July 24th article "Illusions: The Art of Magic" in Apollo Magazine:

The celebrity performers of their day, magicians were integral to the show-business boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embarking on worldwide tours to dazzle audiences with their tricks and stunts. This display of posters, photographs and archival documents at the Art Gallery of Ontario (until 8 November) explores the remarkable feats of performers such as Harry Kellar and Harry Houdini, as well as lesser known magicians such as Adelaide Herrmann, while a series of projections shines a light on famous illusions of the era.

Read more.

[via The Society of American Magicians]

2020 Canadian Rising Star

Congratulations to Chris Mysterion and Steffi Kay, The Sentimentalists, on winning the Canadian Rising Star award!


From the June 29th article "Canadian Rising Star 2020" at Magicana:

We are so excited to share the news.

Every day this week, we will announce a recipient for each category of the Allan Slaight Awards on behalf of the Slaight Family Foundation.

We are delighted start by naming this year’s 2020 Canadian Rising Star—make that Stars.

This award acknowledges outstanding work by an emerging Canadian magician and it comes with a prize of $5,000 from the Slaight Family Foundation, and it also includes an engraved iPad to commemorate the occasion. Past recipients of this award include Mahdi Gilbert, Luc Langevin, Eric Leclerc, Nick Wallace and Carisa Hendrix.

Read more.

Breaking news: Allan Slaight Relief Fund for Professional Magicians

With tremendous thanks to the Slaight Family Foundation for their generosity!


From Magicana:

And just like that, the Canadian magic industry has vanished.

In response to difficult and devastating times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for magicians who work in the gig economy, the Slaight Family Foundation has pledged to help.

Allan Slaight Relief Fund 

To contribute during these trying times, the Foundation has established the Allan Slaight Relief Fund of $150,000 to help defray cost-of-living expenses incurred by professional Canadian magicians. The Slaight Family Foundation has partnered with Magicana to administer the payment of funds to applicants who meet eligibility.

The relief fund was initiated to help with monthly costs, such as groceries, utilities, phone and Internet bills, up to a maximum of $500 per application. Because of the uncertainty of how long we must maintain strict social distancing, applicants can reapply for assistance thirty days after receiving a prior payment, until the fund is depleted.

If you are a Canadian citizen, living in Canada, working as a full-time professional in magic with at least three years of experience, you are eligible for funding assistance. We understand that many magicians are semi-professionals. We would, however, ask that applications at this time be reserved for those who rely on magic as their sole source of income.

Read more to learn about the application process.

Random thoughts about "Illusions: The Art of Magic"

Visit "Illusions: The Art of Magic" February 22nd to May 18, in the AGO’s Sam & Ayala Zacks Pavillion.

The exhibition is free for AGO Members, AGO Annual Pass holders and visitors 25 years and under.

I participated in the recent media preview of the upcoming AGO exhibition, "Illusions: The Art of Magic," which features more than 55 colourful vintage posters from the Allan Slaight Collection.*  The collection is guest curated by Magicana’s artistic director and historian David Ben.

Adolph Friedländer, Comedians de Mephisto Co. Allied with Le Roy-Talma-Bosco, 1905. 186.5 × 266.5 cm. M2014.128.318. ©McCord Museum

The exhibition is a journey back to the Golden Age of Magic.  During this time magicians of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were among the first artists to embark on international tours.  Promotional posters portrayed magician's magical powers through illustrated advertisements ranging in size from postcards to wall-sized posters.

“These posters tell us so much about that time – the public’s fascination with Asia, with spiritualism, the occult and the changing role of women in society,” says Julian Cox, the AGO’s Deputy Director and Chief Curator. “Toronto was a popular stop on the international touring circuit for magicians, and Houdini performed here numerous times over his career. These works and the stories behind them remain as captivating today as they were one hundred years ago.”

The Metropolitan Printing Company, Adelaide Herrmann and Company, About 1905, 20th century, 76.7 x 50.2 cm. Purchase, funds graciously donated by La Fondation Emmanuelle Gattuso. M2014.128.207. © McCord Museum

Listen to the February 18th interview with Julie Eng in the CBC q studio where she talks about the exhibit, cultural appropriation, the role of women in magic, and how many of their stories have been overshadowed and forgotten.

There are many focal points within the exhibition, such as: women in magic, spiritualism, cultural appropriation, and the symbolism of devils, skulls, & demons.



More than posters.

In addition to the beautiful posters, there are wonderful video clips too.  For example:

A still shot from video of Harry Blackstone and his dancing handkerchief

A still shot from an interview with Julie Eng talking about her life in magic.

A still shot from video of Houdini's variation of a forearm riffle.

Keep an eye open for these "hole in the wall" viewing portals to catch a peek of more video!

Make your own magic poster
There's a station where you can digitally create your own magic poster!  (Complete with a legend that explains what all the animals and other objects on the posters represent.)

The exhibition also features other magcially historical items such as:

• wonderful selections from David Ben's collection, including Hofzinser cards and items particular to magic in Toronto (including a vistors' book from Arcade Magic!)
• handcuffs used by Houdini, and
• Houdini's straitjacket

Hofzinser cards from David Ben's collection

Visitor book from Arcade Magic.  From David Ben's collection.

Houdini's straitjacket.

Av Yaga, Alexander, the Man Who Knows, 1915, 20th century
207.9 x 107.7 cm. Purchase, funds graciously donated by La Fondation Emmanuelle Gattuso. M2014.128.3. © McCord Museum

But wait!  There's more!

There will be daily live performances at the exhibition provided by the Toronto Magic Company.  Confirmed performers include:

- James Alan (Classics of Magic)
- Jonah  Babins (Interactive Impossibilities)
- Harry Zimmerman and Chris Mayhew (Close-Up Magic)
- Toronto Magic Showcase
- Toronto Magic Company (Making Magic)
- Ben Train (Mental Mysteries)

Check the Toronto Magic Company website for the performance schedule.






Visit "Illusions: The Art of Magic" February 22nd to May 18, in the AGO’s Sam & Ayala Zacks Pavillion.   The exhibition is free for AGO Members, AGO Annual Pass holders and visitors 25 years and under.


--
* ABOUT THE ALLAN SLAIGHT COLLECTION
Acquired by the McCord Museum thanks to La Fondation Emmanuelle Gattuso, the Allan Slaight Collection is one of the world’s largest collections of rare magic posters comprising more than 600 posters and more 1,000 documents and rare books. The collection was named in honour of the Canadian businessman and magic enthusiast Allan Slaight.

Magicana accepting nominations for the 2019 Allan Slaight awards

Still no sign of a category for "Best Blog Focused on Canadian Magicians Run by a Member of IBM Ring 17."
 
 

From Magicana:

Nominations are now being accepted for work completed in 2019. The deadline for nominations is April 3, 2020. Nominations received after the deadline will be kept on file and considered for the following year.

Thank you for considering nominating someone for the Allan Slaight Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the pursuit of the impossible.  The nomination process consists of four steps:

1. Your information
2. Information about your nominee
3. Supporting documentation
4. Reviewing your information and submitting

In addition to basic information about you and your nominee, you will also have the opportunity to provide

1. A biography (up to 750 words)
2. A description of the work and why you are nominating this person (up to 300 words)

Read more and submit your nominations.

Toronto: Golden Age of Magic

From Magicana:

In February 2020, the Golden Age of Magic will once again emerge—this time in Toronto—in the forthcoming exhibition, Illusions: The Art of Magic at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO).

Originally curated by Christian Vachon of the McCord Museum in Montreal, and guest curated by Magicana’s artistic director and historian David Ben, the exhibition will showcase fifty-five gorgeous, vintage posters from the Allan Slaight Collection of the McCord Museum. The exhibition celebrates magic’s greatest luminaries, including the one and only Harry Houdini, highlighting photographs, films, documents, autographs and objects once belonging to Houdini.

Read more.

From the Sharing Wonder Twitter feed:

The Golden Age of Magic comes to Toronto in Feb 2020 in "Illusions: The Art of Magic" at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). The exhibition will showcase fifty-five gorgeous, vintage posters from the Allan Slaight Collection at the McCord. MORE: https://t.co/g6ZcifGAOJ pic.twitter.com/i5oqIZ8Wf5

— Magicana (@sharingwonder) July 31, 2019