The Newest Trick in the Book is back Tuesday October 3rd, at 8:30pm, for a FREE Halloween themed show, with Benzi Train, James Alan, James Harrison, and Shamus Mac Gregor!
Last month, I attended the
September 5th edition of "The Newest Trick in the Book," billed as "Toronto's ONLY magic open-mic."
I had no idea what to expect from a magic open-mic. I thought it might be a slightly more dressed up version of watching folks jam at the club or the magic shop. As it turns out I'd previously seen most of the performers on this program both jamming casually and performing professionally. Would the evening be a repeat of stuff I'd already seen?
The verdict: no. Well, sometimes yes. But not really.
Let me explain.
The event takes place at
See-Scape Toronto, a sci-fi bar and gaming café. It's a cozy space filled with wonderful people. (And lots of games.)
Everything about the place is interesting.
You were probably wondering about the show.
The evening was a TONNE of fun. The performances were elevated well beyond a typical jam. Each of the performers had an energy that was different from what I expected of them. Perhaps it was the buzz of doing something in front of an audience for the first time?
It was also clear to me, that the performers were having more fun than usual too! I witnessed the child-like excitement of bringing a new idea to life, the brilliance of turning the tables on an old standard, freshening up a classic, and the general enjoyment of working things out in front of a safe crowd. (I've heard more than one professional espouse the importance of having a "safe place" to try things out in front of an audience. I better appreciate the wisdom now.)
If you're in the Toronto area, I encourage you to both attend and perform at "The Newest Trick in the Book."
Trivia questions: who said what?
| 1) Iä! Iä! Cthulhu fhtagn! |
a) Sammy Jakubowicz
|
| 2) Mr. Harrison, it's time for your medication. |
b) Chris Westfall |
| 3) That's what I would do if I were in your position. But I'm a jerk. |
c) James Harrison |
| 4) I'm not a thief, I'm a magician. |
d) James Alan |
With thanks to the wonderful performers!
