Random thoughts about 90th birthday parties

Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending two 90th birthday celebrations, both for Toronto's very own Gordon Precious.  Gordon is an absolute gentleman in every sense of the word.  I've known Gordon for close to 20 years and in that time he's been consistently positive, welcoming and encouraging.  He's younger at heart than many people of my generation.  Simply having Gordon in your life, makes you a better person.

First up was the Browser's event:

• The event was extremely well attended.  There were people in attendance that I didn't see that day -- it was that packed.
• It was fabulous showing of friendship from the magic community.  (Folks drove in from Kitchener, Hamilton and Ottawa!)
• No one does the the Vanishing Birdcage like Gordon.
• David Merry did a set that kept everyone in stitches.
• Jeff always throws wonderful celebration parties!
• I am incapable of entering a magic shop without leaving with a purchase.
• Read more about it (and see pictures) at the Browser's Den blog.

And later in the week, a celebration by Ring 17 at their year end banquet:

• The banquet was also very well attended.  (Folks also drove in from Kitchener, Hamilton and Ottawa!)
• Gordon did a wonderful set, entertaining young and old alike!
• There was a Zig-Zag illusion that went off without a hitch.
• I had no idea Gordon could breathe fire.
• Paul Wildbaum and Bill Abbott were entertaining, as always. 
• See photos at the Ring 17 Facebook group.

Wonderful celebrations for a wonderful person!  Happy birthday Gordon!

Asi Wind Special Guest at Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp

From Sorcerers Safari Facebook Group:

Toronto, Ontario. - June 27th, 2014 EST - Amidst rampant magic forum speculation, Sorcerers Safari Summer Magic Camp announced it is bringing in a world renowned mentalist as the special guest at Magic Camp this summer.

With several best selling DVDs & downloads, a one-man show 'Concert of the Mind' under his belt, and a ton of great unpublished ideas – Asi Wind has lots to offer the campers. Asi Wind is famous for his exceptional performances, he's also known for consulting on David Blaine's latest special, which has received international acclaim. Now imagine what it would be like to spend a camp session with him?!

Read more.

This year Sorcerers Safari Magic Camp runs from Friday August 15^th through to Wednesday August 20^th.  They are currently taking registrations at http://www.sorcererssafari.ca

Toronto: Big Sale at Browser's Den!

From Browser's Den of Magic:

SATURDAY JULY 19th BIG SALE OF MAGIC TRICKS/PROPS & BOOKS!AT: Browser's Den of Magic!
(Admission-Free)

Dear Magic Friends,

Over the past couple of weeks we have acquired some collections of used magic in very good condition. 

On the date above the collection of books, tricks, props will be available for sale as soon as our doors open.

Read more.

Halifax: Francis Menotti lecture

From Magic Information Canada's Twitter stream :

Added @FrancisJMenotti lecture in Halifax TONIGHT (Thursday Jun 26) to http://t.co/Q7MlBSEtGj @roddoiron
— Doug C. (@magicinfo_ca) June 26, 2014

Review: The Uncertainty Project

From Mooney on Theatre:

James Alan’s stage magic leaves Toronto audiences stunned, at the Wychwood Theatre 

“How did he do that?” I asked myself this countless times during James Alan: The Uncertainty Project which is currently playing at the Wychwood Theatre. The show, written by Alan and directed by James Biss, is one full of magic and illusion that is both impressive and entertaining.

Read more.

Quebec: Luc Langevin

From Perfect Magic's Facebook page:

Post by Perfect Magic.

David Merry, Bob Cates nominated for Best Variety Act

Voting opens today.  Best of luck Dave and Bob!

From Canadian Comedy:

NOMINEES IN THE 2014 CANADIAN COMEDY AWARDS

Live / Best Variety Act

• Bob Cates

• David Merry [warning: sound]

• Morro and Jasp

• Shirley Gnome

• Wes Borg

Read more.