10 April 2023

Halifax: Vincenzo Ravina -- Actual Wizard and Global News interview [Apr 22, May 13, Oct 30]

From Halifax Magician:

After two sold out performances, Actual Wizard returns to the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts by popular demand.

In this unusual show, actual wizard and Halifax magician Vincenzo Ravina brings his magic to an odd little room with two pianos in it.

Vincenzo will emerge from his mysterious smoke-filled cave to show you some strange stuff.

There will be: Potions! Ghosts! Playing Cards! Murder!

Actual Wizard is funny, mystifying, absurd, and experimental.

Read more and buy tickets.


From the April 5th upload by Global News Morning Halifax:

Global’s Eilish Bonang is joined in studio by actual wizard and magician, Vincenzo Ravina to talk about his upcoming magic show at the Maritime Conservatory and perform a mind-blowing magic trick!

 

 

 

 

 

Kanata: Mind Games with Peter Mennie [Apr 13]

From the March 28th Instagram post by Peter Mennie:

It's coming up soon. Date night in Ottawa!

 

 

 

 

Toronto: Quentin Reynolds lecture [Apr 22]

From the Browser's Den of Magic newsletter:

Saturday, April 22nd

Originally from Dublin, now living in Manchester, Quentin had his first gig at 14. Now a professional magician for over 35 years, he's lectured and performed all over the world, and he has amassed a lifetime of knowledge he'd like to share with you!

Whether you perform professionally or for fun, Quentin will show how to take a simple trick or idea and turn it into a fully fledged routine. He will illustrate his processes with examples from his own repertoire.

Quentin is truly a magic GP, a general practitioner and his experience covers everything from Children's and Family shows, to Close-Up, Stand-Up and Mentalism. All these areas will be covered.

Read more and buy tickets.

 

 

 

 

09 April 2023

Burlington and Kitchener: Billy Kidd at the Burlington Comedy Festival [Apr 21] and An Evening of Comedy and Variety with Brent Butt [Apr 28- 29]

From the March 10th Instagram post by the Burlington Comedy Festival:

We're coming for YOU #BurlOn! Here's your lineup for the 2023 Burlington Downtown Comedy Festival:
@tvsjondore
@davehemstad
@arthursimeon
@ol_bebsie
@sandrabattaglini
@zabrinadouglas
@billykiddshow



 

 

From the April 9th Instagram post by Billy Kidd:

One day I would love to devote myself to building Stone Walls on the fields. But first I have to perform some shows in Stirling, Burlington and Kitchener-Waterloo Canada with @brentbutt , Jon Dore, Zabrina Douglas and many others…April 21,27,28,29. 

 

 

 

New York: Lucy Darling [Apr 15]

From the April 4th Instagram post by Carisa Hendrix:

Hey NYC!! This is your chance to catch the FULL Lucy Darling SHOW!!! The beautiful Emelin Theatre is bringing me out to Westchester, New York. @theemelintheatre

 

 

 

 

 

Ireland: Wes Barker [Apr 15]

From the March 27th Facebook post by Steve Spade:

Can't wait to share the stage with this man, he is going to be my special guest act this April the 15th for one night only in Flanagan's on the lake Killaloe
♠️🇮🇪🇨🇦
Wes Barker is the funniest magician in Canada and one of the most popular magicians in the world. His YouTube and Facebook channels have 100s of millions of views. He has appeared on numerous shows like America's Got Talent, Ellen, MTV, and most famously Penn & Teller: Fool Us (which he won). Wes even has his very own TV show in the US called Big Trick Energy!


 

 

 

 

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.