08 April 2023

A peek behind the curtain with Piff the Magic Dragon [2023]

We were delighted to interview Piff the Magic Dragon ahead of his upcoming Canadian tour!


A peek behind the curtain with Piff the Magic Dragon 


Casino Nova Scotia [Apr 28]
Casino NB [Apr 29]
Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls [May 21 -23]
TCU Place, Saskatoon [Oct 10]
Casino Regina [Oct 12]
Club Regent Event Centre, Winnipeg [Oct 13]



Read our 2020 interview where we learn about Piff's:
 
- first memory of magic
- inspirations
- take on Canadian audiences
- connection to Canadian magic
- most memorable touring misadventure
- pre-show rituals, and
- mental health tips
 
Was there anyone or anything that was instrumental to you becoming a magician? 

My journey into magic was influenced by a combination of different factors. I was captivated by magic shows, books, and DVDs that I came across during my childhood. However, it was my chance encounter with a card trick performed by a fellow student at university that truly sparked my interest in magic. From there, I delved into magic books and sought advice from experienced magicians who became mentors, helping me develop my skills and hone my craft.
 


What magic-adjacent disciplines have you studied? 

I have studied several magic-adjacent disciplines, such as theater, voice, and acting. These experiences have greatly informed my stage performances by enhancing my stage presence, audience engagement, and storytelling abilities. As a result, I've been able to create a more well-rounded and captivating show for my audience.

 

What is your most important self-care practice while on tour?

My most important self-care practice while on tour is ensuring that I get enough rest. Traveling and performing can be physically and mentally demanding, so it's crucial to make sure I'm well-rested to maintain my energy levels and stay sharp. In addition, I also make sure to exercise regularly, eat healthily, and take time for relaxation and mindfulness.



Watch Piff's special 
on YouTube.

  

Did you ever get discouraged and think about quitting magic?  
 
Of course, as with any creative pursuit, there have been times when I felt discouraged and considered quitting magic. But what encouraged me to continue was my passion for entertaining people and the desire to create unique magical experiences. Additionally, the support from my friends, family, and fellow magicians helped me overcome those moments of doubt.

What about your 2023 show would "2013 you" find unbelievable to imagine as your current reality?
 
If 2013 me were to look at my 2023 show, I think the most unbelievable aspect would be the scale and success of it all. Back then, I could never have imagined performing in front of such large audiences, collaborating with renowned magicians, and even having my own TV specials. The growth and evolution of both my act and character have been truly remarkable, and I am extremely grateful for how far I've come.

 
 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
 
I'd like to share that Mr. Piffles, the World's Only Magic Performing Chihuahua™, has been an essential part of my act and a constant source of joy and inspiration. We've built a strong bond over the years, and his presence has undoubtedly contributed to our success. Mr. Piffles is not just a canine sidekick, but a true partner in crime, and I couldn't imagine performing without him.

 

Thank you Mr. Magic Dragon, for making the time to answer our questions! 

 
Catch Piff at:  

 

Learn more about Piff at his website PiffTheMagicDragon.com and follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saskatoon, Regina, and Winnipeg: Piff the Magic Dragon [Oct 10, 12 & 13]

In addition to Piff's East Coast and Ontario shows, in October you can catch him in Saskatoon, Regina, and Winnipeg!

 

Casino Nova Scotia [Apr 28]
Casino NB [Apr 29]
Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls [May 21 -23]
TCU Place, Saskatoon [Oct 10]
Casino Regina [Oct 12]
Club Regent Event Centre, Winnipeg [Oct 13] 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

07 April 2023

ICYMI: Canadian Conjurors video podcast ep. 1 -- Ryan Joyce interviews Glenn West

The Canadian Association of Magicians (CAM) has launched a new video podcast series.  

First in the monthly series is Glenn West talking about creating new magic effects.

 

From the CAM website:

In this interview:

  • How his father impacted his magic
  • Glenn shares his process for creating original magic effects.
  • How "blank spots" influence Glenn's creativity
  • What social media app helps Glenn keep up-to-date with magic trends
  • What one piece of advice Glenn would give magicians interested in developing their own magic.
  • PLUS, we reveal the secrets of a new video series that Glenn will host for CAM!

Read more and watch video.



 

 

 

Hamilton and London: Nicholas Wallace [Apr 14, May 27]

From the March 29th Instagram post by The Staircase:

Come join us for a night to remember! Drinks, laughs and good times featuring outstanding comedians from across the golden horseshoe & GTA!

APRIL 14, 2023 - 8PM
$ 20

FEATURING :

Try-Racial
Johnson & Georgiou
Chantal Lim
Big Chick Energy
Nicholas Wallace

and your host

Matthew Surina!

 

 

 

 

From the April 3rd Instagram post by Nick Wallace:

London Ontario! I’m coming to you with the new show on May 27th at @thegrandlondon .

 

 

 

06 April 2023

Thank you to our April 2023 sponsors!

Thank you to our sponsors for their generous support.

This site would not be possible without their backing.

We're grateful to have the support of:

The next time you see them, let them know you saw their sponsorship here!



 










 
 
For more information about purchasing Sponsored Posts or about our Platinum, Gold, or Silver level sponsorships, please visit our Sponsorship page.

Or you can Be Our Friend for only $20 per year! 

Donations of any size are always welcome.


or 

 

 

 

 

 

05 April 2023

Rounding the Western rings in April 2023

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

CityClubEvent(s)
Calgary, ABRing 66 (Calgary Magic Circle, Les Brocklesby Ring)- N/A.
Edmonton, ABEdmonton Magic Club- N/A.
Winnipeg, MBThe Magic Club of Winnipeg- N/A.
Fraser Valley, BCIBM Ring 387 (Fraser Valley Magic Circle, Celeste Evans Ring)- N/A.
Vancouver, BCRing 92 (Vancouver Magic Circle)- N/A.
Vancouver, BCSAM 95  (Carl Hemeon Assembly)- N/A.
Victoria, BCRing 183 (Victoria Magic Circle)  - N/A.


Please leave a comment or e-mail me about corrections or omissions.

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Central rings in April 2023

Confirm details about dates and locations by visiting each club's website.

Montreal, QCRing 62 (20th Century Ring)- N/A.
Hamilton, ON Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)- Andrew Woo lecture.
Hamilton / Burlington, ON Hamilton Burlington Magic Society
- N/A.
London, ONRing 265 (London Magician's Guild)- (Chop) cups and balls.
Kitchener, ONRing 235 (KW Magic Society)- N/A.
Ottawa, ONRing 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)- N/A.
Ottawa, ONOttawa / Gatineau magicians- N/A
Toronto, ONRing 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)- Social meet-up.
- Pro-panel with:
  - Anthony Lindan
  - Richard Lyn
  - Phil Pivnick
  - BenTastic and Mel Magic
  - Aaron Matthews


Please leave a comment or email me about corrections or omissions.