Canada's Got Talent: Getting to know Dean Gunnarson

Next in the the series of Canada's Got Talent contestants is Onanole's Dean Gunnarson!

 

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Who inspires you that is not an escape artist?
 
Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys has been a long-time friend and supporter. I have performed many shows for him over the years, and I admire his determination and willingness to take risks. Much like an escape artist.  I know there are people that don’t agree with him, but he will risk it all on what he believes is right for his team. I feel as an escape artist to have had to make many similar decisions.

 

What is your first memory of escapology?  How old were you?

When I was 10 years old and, in the 5th, grade my Mom bought me a book on Houdini. I was growing up in Texas at that time and everything was big there like Houdini was in my young eyes.  I read the stories of Houdini and how he could do anything. He was like a real life comic book hero.
 

Who from the escapology community inspires you?

James "The Amazing" Randi inspired me greatly. I remember an episode of Happy Days in 1978 where he played himself. That is true greatness when you get to play yourself in a fictional sitcom. In 1987 I met Randi and he believed in me enough to help get me on my first USA TV special, "In Search of Houdini." It was a two hour live special with many greats of magic on it. David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, Harry Blackstone Jr., Banachek, The Pendragons, and a young 23-year-old Dean Gunnarson from Canada. Randi got hurt in rehearsal and I went on live television to perform the Houdini Milk Can escape on live TV. It was the first time I ever attempted it. Randi later retired and named me as his successor and gave me all his handcuffs and escape equipment, including his Milk Can he used on Happy Days.
 

I’m always doing a variety of TV shows, corporate dates, and travelling. I will be performing in China again soon now that restrictions for performers have changed. Also, I will be back again at a great Magic Festival in Quebec City this September. I also have a film that we just finished taping being released later this fall. It is based on my book, "Dean Gunnarson : The Making of an Escape Artist" and my friendship in 1983 with a teenager named Philip [Hornan] who was battling cancer. We had such great adventures escaping from the RCMP detachments, performing magic shows at the Cancer Foundation for the other children, to trying to find the real magic to try and save his life. It’s an amazing story and one that I have carried with me for 40 years. Now I get to share it on the screen.

Was there anyone or anything instrumental to you becoming an escape artist?
 

Peter Reveen was the first true Showman I ever saw live on stage when I was 15 years old. The way he could stand on stage and command an audience! Wow. I thought that’s what an escape artist must be able to do. My time with James Randi over the years was always such a learning experience from a true master. My best friend and mentor for over 25 years was Bill Brace. He was a retired RCMP Officer that started the Society of Young Magicians (SYM) in Canada. I truly miss my friendship with all of them. Having a mentor is so important in life. People that we can look up to and ask for advice and information.  

I used to also travel to Minneapolis a lot in the 1980s and spent time at Eagle Magic Shop downtown. Toad Hall Toys in Winnipeg I also enjoyed when they started selling magic tricks and I would take some of the old magicians there for the afternoon and listen to their old stories of magic from another era.

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Did you ever get discouraged and think about quitting escapology?  
 
Sure, many times. A life in magic is a tough choice. Being self-employed is a challenge. You go through periods of great joy, success, and triumph, then waiting and looking for your next show and paycheck. You must be truly passionate, dedicated, and believe in yourself to succeed in this world. Never surrender to your fears or those telling you can’t succeed. It has been a long journey of over 40 years of escaping around the world, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat. When you feel like quitting you need to remind yourself why you started in the first place. The only people that have never failed at something are those that have never tried !

Do you have any pre-show rituals?
 

I like to get ready early and be prepared. I don’t like to feel rushed before going on stage. I like to get my energy up. I always warm up by stretching and warming up my voice (even though I can't sing ... lol) I actually took singing/voice lessons in the 1980s because I was losing my voice on stage. My coach taught me to always warm up my throat before a show. And lastly, I love a shot of Dr. Pepper before I take the stage. Must be my Texas roots …

 

 

 

What inspired you to be a part of this season of Canada's Got Talent?
 

I have said no to "all" the "Got Talents" for many years. When they asked me this year, I had always wanted to go back to Niagara Falls. They told me about this season and how exciting it was going to be, and I really wanted to part of it.  I also have some really special memories there with Henry Muller and The Houdini Museum. I wanted to attempt a big escape at the original home of the Daredevil, Niagara Falls so this was my chance.  So I had to say yes and give it my best.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
 

Magic has been a great career. I have travelled the world and seen and done many things people could only dream about. But most important to me are all the friendships I have developed from performing with so many great and wonderful magicians over the decades. Those friendships truly mean the world to me.

 

 

Thank you Dean, for making the time to answer our questions!  Break a leg on CGT!

Learn more about Dean at his website AlwaysEscaping.com or follow him on Instagram.

 

Was that Dean hanging upside down and on fire at the end of last week's episode?  Tune in next Tuesday to find out! 

 

Watch Canada's Got Talent Tuesday nights at CityTV.

 

 

 

 

Edmonton: Magic & Madness with Chris Gowen [Feb 3, 10, 14, 17, & 24]

From To Do Canada:

The Rec Room Presents: Magic & Madness with Chris Gowen

• Fri. Feb 03
• Fri. Feb 10
• Tue. Feb 14
• Fri. Feb 17
• Fri. Feb 24

Chris Gowen is an award-winning Magician, Comedian & “Master of sleight-of-hand”

Don’t miss Alberta’s first intimate magic experience and be astounded by magic unlike anything you’ve seen or can imagine, inches and feet away from where you are sitting, in an intimate setting designed for only 40 people in The Library at The Rec Room South Common by one of Canada’s best Magicians.

Chris Gowen has been performing for the top companies, universities, foundations, and at private parties in Alberta for over a decade to the highest accolades and reviews. 

Read more and buy tickets.

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding the Central rings in February 2023

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

Montreal, QC	Ring 62 (20th Century Ring)	- N/A.
Hamilton, ON	Ring 49 (The Doug Henning Magic Wand Club)	- N/A.
London, ON	Ring 265 (London Magician's Guild)	- N/A.
Kitchener, ON	Ring 235 (KW Magic Society)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ring 151 (Ottawa Society of Magicians)	- N/A.
Ottawa, ON	Ottawa / Gatineau magicians	- N/A
Toronto, ON	Ring 17 (Sid Lorraine Hat and Rabbit Club)	- Social meet-up. - Members' Night and swap meet / flea market. - Special Event - Alain Choquette Master Class.

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

 

 

 

 

Markham: Music and Magic for the Holiday Season [Dec 15]

Tickets at Eventbrite.

 

From the Facebook event:

Come join us for a magical evening of Christmas songs performed by the beautiful and talented Alexia Marian in between the mind-blowing magic acts of the under-rated underground genius Jeff Hinchliffe, the balloon maestro Sean Rooney, and master of sleight-of-hand Andrew Eland! Also featuring Michael Murphy on the drums and Kemin Zhang on the piano when not telling bad jokes and conspiracy theory stories about Santa Claus.

It's a fun date with that special someone or can be a wholesome evening with family and friends!

Everyone who comes to the show will also be eligible to enter the special lucky draw for some surprise Christmas presents, the top prize being a brand new violin!

 

 

 

 

Gwyn Auger lecturing at Blackpool 2023

Blackpool 2023 runs from the February 16th to 19th.

 

From the November 19th Facebook post by the Blackpool Magic Convention:

Gwyn Auger, the red-headed dynamo also known as "The Magic Assistant", has graced stages and conventions worldwide, winning both gold and silver medals for her assisting performances. Master Magician Lance Burton has referred to her as "The Most Enthusiastic Magician's Assistant". Gwyn can also be found online, providing helpful Marketing and Social Media advice for magicians in the magic publication "The Hermit". Gwyn is here to share that being a Magician's Assistant is more than just glitter, chiffon and a smiling face, and give you a bit of insight into all of the other aspects of her role.
Catch Gwyn’s lecture during Blackpool Magic Convention 2023

 

 

 

 

Quebec City: McBride’s Magic & Mystery School [July 25 - 30]

From the June 6th Facebook post by Jeff McBride:

McBride’s Magic & Mystery School will be Featured at this Year’s World Championship of Magic in Quebec

Las Vegas, NV, March 30, 2020 – The 2022 FISM (Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques) World Championships of Magic will takes place in Québec, Canada from the 25th - 30th July 2022 – and will feature the lead faculty of Jeff McBride’s Magic & Mystery School in Las Vegas, set up with its own space next to the dealer’s room.

Founder and master magician Jeff McBride, Dr. Lawrence Hass, who is Dean of the School, and Tobias Beckwith, emeritus faculty, will all deliver lectures featured at the convention.

They are joined by Will Bradshaw, an Instructor at the school, and Scott Steelfyre, Instructor and Media Manager for the school.

Jeff McBride is the founder of the Magic & Mystery School, which began back in 1991 with the first Mystery School retreat in upstate New York. The school added regular Master Classes and live Focus classes in 1999 when McBride relocated to Las Vegas to headline at Caesars Magical Empire.
Today, McBride Magic & Mystery School offers from 5-10 events live in Las Vegas each year, in addition to between 12 and 20 classes online. Jeff McBride, Larry Hass and Tobias Beckwith also offer one-on- one consulting to students of the school. Since 2010, the school also presents a weekly streaming show, Monday Night Mystery School.

McBride has received worldside acclaim as one of the most innovative and riveting magic performers ever since his first international tour at the age of 16, as opening act for the Fania Allstars in Japan. Known for his use of masks, mime, and world-class sleight of hand, McBride has been named Magician of the Year by Hollywood’s famed Magic Castle, among his many other awards. He has appeared on every major television network, most recently fooling Penn & Teller on their popular Fool Us! Show. His full evening shows have graced casino showrooms in Las Vegas, Tahoe & Atlantic City, as well as touring venues and arts festivals around the world.

Lawrence Hass, Ph.D., is the Dean of McBride’s Magic & Mystery School in Las Vegas. He is former Professor of Philosophy and Theater Arts at Muhlenberg College and former Professor of Humanities at Austin College. In 2010 he retired from college teaching to pursue magic full-time as a performer, teacher, author, and publisher.

Larry Hass creates magic shows that mix astonishing, artistic magic with ideas that lift the spirit. He performs at theaters, nightclubs, universities, public conferences, and corporate functions, across America and internationally. In 2019, he premiered his acclaimed full-evening theatrical magic show, Magical Life.

Tobias Beckwith was the founding administrator for the school, and among it’s earliest faculty, teaching both business and theater arts for magicians. Beckwith came to the world of magic from the New York theater, where he was part of the management and production teams for such long- running hits as The Fantasticks, Sweeney Todd and Oh! Calcutta!

The Mystery School team will be offering mini-lectures and workshops, as well as magic jam sessions in their space at the convention. Learn more about McBride’s Magic & Mystery School at https://magicalwisdom.com.

 

 

Florida: Bill Abbott at the Magic Hideaway [recurring]

From Magic Hideaway:

A brilliant magic and mind-reading experience with award-winning Master Magician Bill Abbott at the iconic Casa Monica Resort & Spa.

Indulge in a complimentary cocktail in the opulent Cobalt Lounge before being ushered into the Magic Hideaway, a boutique showroom with a vintage jazz vibe. One of the most intimate magic shows in the world featuring interactive mind-bending illusions happening literally inches away from you!

Read more.

 

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Hugues Sarra-Bournet at the Montreal Fringe [June 11 - 19]

From the may 30th article "Brownstein: Montreal Fringe Festival all grown up, but still out there" by Bill Brownstein in the Montreal Gazette:

Sarra-Bournet, a former Cirque du Soleil acrobat, is in rehearsal mode at Fringe headquarters at the Mainline Theatre. Following a clowning/dancing/juggling routine, Sarra-Bournet dons his magic chapeau and a cape — actually a giant eco-friendly garbage bag — and bedazzles those of us in attendance with a mind-blowing, sleight of hand card trick that would also suggest he has X-ray vision.

“Some people say clowns have no business doing magic, but I like to break the rules, trying to do everything I can,” says the Montrealer performing in his second Fringe. “I like to think of myself as a generalist. My character Mario goes to a talent contest every year, but never succeeds at any particular talent. So he’s always preparing something else. Sadly, he’s really not so good at anything.”

Disagree. From what we can see, this clown is a master of many métiers.

Read more.

A peek behind the curtain with Hollie England

 

 
You may already know that Hollie England toured with The Illusionsists, was a top 5 finalist in the Cyber Magic Superstar competition, appeared on Masters of Illusion, created Booked It, and was the director for Jamie Allan's Illusionarium in Toronto. 

Did you know that Hollie will be part of the Champions of Magic World Wide Wonders Tour  early next year?  Learn more about Hollie in the first of a series of cast interviews leading up to the Champions of Magic shows in Kitchener and Peterborough early next year.

What wondrous and extraordinary magical effect would you have shown me had I been there to interview you in person?
 
I wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise for anyone who may see the effect in the future but it would definitely involve 2 of my favorite things - celebrities and fire!    

What is your first memory of magic?

I used to always love watching the magic shows at the resorts we used to stay at on vacations to Spain and Italy when I was around 8 years old. I grew up in England watching Paul Daniels, Tommy Cooper and The Masked Magician (I know, how scandalous!) on TV. My parents still have the deck of cards that came with my ‘Wizbit Instant Magic Book’ as a kid (although I secretly wanted to be Debbie McGee because she was a ballet dancer like me).

 

 

 

Who inspires you that is not a magician?
 
Outside of magic, I’d say choreographer Bob Fosse (they say he is the only man who should tell a woman what to do with her body) and Gwen Stefani for her style.

Who inspires you magically?

Dai Vernon once said ‘Pick a trick and learn how to do it better than anyone else,’ and the most inspiring magicians for me have done this and are both creative and original: Enzo Weyne (France) is a true engineer of stage illusions and I love how his presentations always end with an unexpected twist. I love watching Cyril Takayama perform and wish I could experience his show live. Jeff Hobson and Dan Sperry are, to me, unparalleled in how they refine character, comedy and branding for a modern audience. Jamie Allan (UK) is flawless at fusing magic and technology beautifully, using iPads, laser beams and social media. Lastly, from Korea, Yu Hojin is the epitome of class and elegance. I’ve been mesmerized watching his acts literally hundreds of times live and he is the (rightly crowned) master of manipulation, but also of expression and art in magic. 

 

In this age of computer and robotic wizardry, why do you think audiences are still drawn to mentalism, sleight of hand, and illusion?

Arthur C Clarke said:
“Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”

Human nature will always want to be mystified and astonished and this magical feeling can truly be achieved through the right presentation and interaction. Technology and magic have evolved hand-in-hand and there will always be magical minds staying one step ahead and thinking of ways to fool people.

Above everything, we are performers and as Fitzkee says, the key to winning over an audience is to: ‘Make them like you better than your magic’.

 

Many magicians have a Canadian connection to magic.  Not including your recent Illusionarium experience, tell us about your Canadian magic connection.

Other than quoting Dai Vernon at the top of this article(!), I have worked with Canadian magician Darcy Oake. His attention to detail and modern approach to magic make him one of the most entertaining illusionists out there, as proven by his success on Britain’s Got Talent. I’m also a fan of Shin Lim, of course, who is the current king of TV magic.

 

What, if anything, makes you nervous about joining the Champions family?
 
I have very large shoes (heels) to fill! Kayla*  was the first female magician I saw perform at the Magic Castle in Hollywood many years ago and have followed her journey ever since. 
 
* Editor's note: Kayla Drescher will be leaving the Champions family next month and will not be present at their upcoming Canadian performances.

What are you most looking forward to about joining the Champions of Magic family?

Having been a fan of ‘Champions of Magic’ since I watched from the audience a few years ago, I am beyond thrilled to be joining the show. It’s a huge opportunity to be offered the chance to create and share new magic all over the world and I’m very excited to be working with such an outstanding cast and team.

 

 

 

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The Great Pause (COVID Lockdowns)

Did you experience any silver linings? 

I started off being really productive and creative, wanting to use this ‘free time’ wisely to really work on my stage act, researching and getting inspiration from books & videos & then getting feedback from magic mentors.

What was your comfort binge?
 
There were definitely the days where I stayed in pajamas, binge watched documentaries and ‘That Chapter’ YouTube channel and ordered vegan sushi on Ubereats.

Were you able to explore your personal passions?

I wanted to do something creative that didn’t feel like ‘work’ and so started to draw and paint again. I got an overwhelming response to my art & ended up selling my designs on tee’s, mugs, posters etc on Teespring- so it ended up being ‘work’ anyway! Most recently, I bought a piano keyboard and started to learn to play. I let myself do something it’s ok to suck at!

Did The Great Pause allow you to do anything that you wouldn't likely have been able to accomplish if you were touring? 

There were definitely phases of adjustment as I have lived ‘on tour’ for most of my adult life. Living on my own but having been used to being around a cast 24/7, connection was very important. I joined a lot of online magic events (which ultimately led me to my boyfriend!), lectures, Facebook groups, virtual jam sessions and then was able to get a ticket for the stream of Rick Thomas’ show in Branson.

 

How did you keep your skills fresh and performance ready?

I gave myself a deadline by applying to the ‘Cyber Magic Superstar’ competition during lockdown. I had to develop and practice my brand new act every day in order to get a good enough take to submit to the competition which was to be judged by Max Maven, Franz Harary and Shin Lim. Ultimately it’s how I started getting noticed and taken seriously as a magician when my video got shared throughout the magic community. I won a place in the top 5 and got featured in Franz Harary’s virtual shows as one of his favorite entries.

 

Did you have to adjust anything in your set to incorporate COVID precautions?
 
There’s a moment in my show where the volunteer pulls something out of my mouth. I think I’ll be doing it myself from now on!

Was there anything particularly memorable about your first live performance after The Great Pause?

It was a sold out show (but socially distanced) at ‘Late Night Magic’ at the Alexis Park Resort in Las Vegas. I had just been filming the ‘Go Big Show’ with Ben Blaque where we had to perform to an empty arena with no live audience (apart from the 4 celebrity judges).
 
To look out for the first time and actually see and hear real people’s faces and reactions was a reminder of why we are performers!

 

Have audience reactions to live magic performances changed after Lockdown? 

When audiences come to see a live show, they enter as an individual and leave as a group, because they’ve all been bound together by the same experience. I think that this feeling is intensified after lockdown as people have been missing and craving social interactions.

 

 

 

If you could go back in time to study (magic or otherwise) under anybody, who would you choose to be your mentor?

Having toured the world since 2008 with many high profile illusion shows, I’ve been blessed to have access to some of the greatest minds in magic. Since I decided I wanted to become a magician, the respect, encouragement, mentorship, friendship and one-on-one help (plus materials and ideas) I received from talented names such as Kevin James, Luis De Matos, Bizarro, Brett Daniels, Dan Sperry and FISM.

World Champion Yu Hojin has been overwhelming. I’d like to think it was because I’m a rare breed of crazy girl, genuinely interested in magic, addicted to performing and hungry to learn and create. What a rare dream come true to be able to direct, work and spend time with so many of these people who inspire and help me with my own act.

 

 

What’s your go-to Karaoke song?

I once did a cirque show with a very muscly, butch, Russian strongman and we sang ‘It’s Raining Men’ at karaoke in Niagara. However, my favorite thing is watching my boyfriend, who always dresses in a full suit, slay at karaoke with ‘Rap God’. It’s a little insane.

If you could only perform one effect for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Probably the Quick Change. I have way too many clothes and not enough suitcase space to wear them all!

 

If you could eliminate other performers performing an effect forever, what would it be?

A great magician can take any effect and make it into a great performance through unique, charismatic and dynamic presentation.

 

 

 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to perform with these wonderful, magical artists and to be able to return to Canada for some Tim Horton’s!

 

Thank you Hollie, for making the time to answer our questions!


Catch Champions of Magic in Kitchener and Peterborough early 2022! 

Big Trick Energy (Barker, Boyer, Leclerc, and Ramsay) debuts April 22nd

The TV show featuring the Fab Four self-proclaimed “Abracadipshits” of Canadian magic is set to debut on April 22nd.

From the January 21st article "AMC Releases ‘The Walking Dead’ Trailer for Extended 10th Season (TV News Roundup)" by Haley Bosselman in Variety:

TruTV also announced that “Big Trick Energy,” a magic reality series, will premiere April 22 at 10:30 p.m. This series follows master magicians and long-time friends Chris Ramsay, Eric Leclerc, Wes Barker and Alex Boyer as they shock and awe unsuspecting spectators — and each other — with magic tricks.

Read more.

Random thoughts about "The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum"

My family and I were invited to spectate "The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum" last night.  Quite frankly, we had no idea what to expect.

The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum is our newest ghoulish creation in which ticket buyers can choose to take part in the story using Dungeons and Dragons based role-playing, or merely witness the horrific adventure that will change each night: https://t.co/oDjRNb3cyp pic.twitter.com/cELWSOvNRN

— Eldritch Theatre 💀 (@EldritchTheatre) November 19, 2020

It's been a long time since my D&D days so we attended as spectators.

Like a Choose Your Own Adventure, but it's a live play, and it's D&D, and you are safe at home... https://t.co/E5aeKIqUAG

— Eric Woolfe (@ericwoolfe) November 16, 2020

Here are some random thoughts that came to mind while watching "The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum":

• No experience playing D&D?  No need to worry!  The talented Michael Ripley guided (DM'd) the adventure giving generous guidance to the novice adventurers who rose beautifully to the occasion! 
• Have D&D experience?  Help lead your adventurer party and be suitably challenged by the DM.
• It is exactly as advertised by Eric Woolfe:
• It is a live play with puppets.  
• The adventurers choose the direction of the adventure.
• Many of the outcomes are driven by the randomness of the roll of the dice.
• There are prerecorded video vignettes by such notables as Doctor Pretorious Wuthergloom and Kenneth Welsh!
  

  Novice members of the Susurring Order of the Lucid Platypus (role-played by patrons) receive a vision sent to them by the ancient Warlock, Ixa Lampoar (Kenneth Welsh), who leads them on a quest to recover the Piscine Key! (Spell casting is hard!) https://t.co/oDjRNb3cyp #theaTO pic.twitter.com/aIyIZvMVBU

  — Eldritch Theatre 💀 (@EldritchTheatre) November 17, 2020

  
  
• Every show is different.  (Even with the same adventurers, making the same choices, the randomness of the dice will lead to different outcomes.)
• For long time fans of Eric Woolfe and Eldritch Theatre, there are some well placed Easter eggs.   We caught throwbacks to "The Harrowing of Brimstone McReedy," "Buster Canfield and his Amazing Fleas!" and of course "Doc Wuthergloom's Haunted Medicine Show."  There were likely many, many more.)
  
• We witnessed a show with brave and entertaining adventurers!  (You don't need to be an actor to play.)
  Thank you Perdon, Scritch-Scratch, Al, Gormunga, and Sparkletastic!  (You want Sparkletastic on your campaigns.  The dice-gods were clearly in their favour!)
• Thank you talented DM Michael Ripley, puppeteers Kimwun Perehinec and Eric Woolfe, and the staff of the Eldritch Theatre (Melanie McNeil, Sandi Becker, Adrianna Prosser et al) for hosting an captivating evening's escape from reality.
  

 

Don't just take our word for it, here's what TV writer Mike McPhaden has to say:

Why watch a puppet-filled comic horror theatrical extravaganza, when you can be IN IT?! Part D&D, part theatre! I played last night and had a blast. Choose your ticket: player or spectator. Thanks to genius creator @ericwoolfe & wonderful DM @TalentedMr https://t.co/NlTSSuaOFa

— Mike McPhaden (@mcphadenmike) November 28, 2020

5 Things You Need To Know... to play The Deadly Doom of The Dungeons of Duodenum, with your guide Dungeon Master Ripley @TalentedMr https://t.co/khh8VLXoMN#theatre #dnd #interactivetheatre

— Eldritch Theatre 💀 (@EldritchTheatre) November 19, 2020

10% off Adventurer tickets for "The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum" at https://t.co/EWy8Vlol5k

code: CANADASMAGIC

details at https://t.co/mK7I3hpTdT

Thank you @EldritchTheatre! pic.twitter.com/iw7JesYvoW

— Canada's Magic (@canadasmagic) November 23, 2020

The "The Deadly Doom of the Dungeons of Duodenum" runs until December 5th.  

Details at EldritchTheatre.ca/dungeons

Disclosure:  My family and I were guests at this show. The opinions expressed above are entirely my own. I did not receive compensation for the writing or the publishing of this article.

 

 

Broken wand: Robert (Bob) Lang

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Robert Lang on September 30th.  Our thoughts go out to his family, and friends at this impossible time. 

People are sharing their remembrances about Robert over at the Edmonton Magic Club Public Facebook page.

 

 

From the September 29th obituary published in the Edmonton Journal:

LANG, Robert (Bob) Alonzo
September 26, 1930 - September 26, 2020

It is with deep sadness that the family of Robert Lang of Edmonton announce his passing on his 90th birthday. Bob is survived by his beloved children: Neil, Ken (Sonya) and Shauna (Rob) Byar, eight well-loved grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Robert was predeceased by his loving wife Jean, parents Robert and Mabel, brother Stuart and daughter-in-law Gay. Robert was a master locksmith and the founder/owner of Lang Locksmiths Ltd. Throughout his life he was also a magician, entertainer, ski instructor, Rotarian and occasionally sang O' Canada at football and hockey games. Scouting had a huge impact on his life, career and in the upbringing of his family.

Read more.

 

 

 

 

 

Broken wand: Paul Wildbaum

Updated August 18th to add:

• Alex Kazam has a wonderful 3 part tribute to Paul on Facebook.  Part 1, part 2, and part 3.
  

 

More information will be posted as it becomes available.  Our thoughts are with Paul's family and friends at this difficult time.

From the August 15th Facebook post by Peter Loung:

I am not one to throw the word genius around lightly, especially when referring to an individual. However, in this case that term cannot be more apt of a description for this genuinely beautiful and ridiculously talented soul. Paul Wildbaum was, and forever will be, the measuring stick in which other circus folk measure their skill. For over two decades I have had the honour and privilege to share both the stage and in-depth conversations, ranging the gamut from existential thought to the efficacy of wearing a clown nose, with this legend. To quote William Shakespeare, he was “…a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy…” and he was my friend. I am truly saddened to my core to hear of his passing yesterday, and no amount of words can impart the loss that I, and indeed the world, has suffered.

RIP Paul Wildbaum, you will be sorely missed.

My dear dear friend, mentor and veritable genius in all things circus and clown, Paul Wildbaum has passed.

I missed him after I moved away from Toronto and now won’t get another moment with the master. Rest In Peace sweet clown prince. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/AUjNEALaLx

— Bill Abbott (@billabbottlive) August 15, 2020

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Sad to report the passing of Paul Wildbaum. Paul was unquestionably a unique performer in Toronto, blending magic with clowning, mime and an assortment of allied arts. He was an inspiration and mentor to many. He will be deeply missed. (Photo: Seen here as Doctor-Professor Faux-Pas, performing the Human Glockenspiel at the Year-End Banquet, June 2012)

A post shared by Hat & Rabbit Club, Toronto (@hatandrabbitclub) on Aug 15, 2020 at 4:58pm PDT

  

Lawrence Larouche's virtual Happy Hour

From the July 3rd Facebook post by Lawrence Larouche:

HAPPY HOUR has just become more magical! Poor yourself a drink and join us at the Factory Fantastic for an hour of unbelievable interactive magic & mentalism. This is a live show in which you can participate in all the magical mischief served up by master magician and mentalist Lawrence Larouche. Click on the link for tickets. One ticket allows your household to take part in all the paranormal activities. Limited screens available… so don’t wait till the last minute. Friday the 7th at 5:00 p.m. VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE: Let the mind games begin!. Ticket available here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtually-impossible-let-the-mind-games-begin-tickets-114771847686

Toronto: Jay Sankey at the Ontario Science Centre

From the Ontario Science Centre:

March 14–22

Mind-bending Magic: The Science of Perception

World-renowned magician Jay Sankey makes the impossible possible by playing with perception, blurring the line of what is and what seems to be. As Jay mesmerizes, astounds and delights with his mind-bending routine, discover the connections between magic and the mind.  You’ll even learn a quick magic trick that you can do at home to wow your family and friends.

From Vegas to Paris to Tokyo, Jay has captivated audiences with close-up magic—and comedy—for more than 25 years. He holds the world record for creating more original illusions than any other human being alive.

We’re dealing in magic this #MarchBreak! Don’t miss Mind-bending Magic: The #Science of Perception with master magician @jay_sankey. ♣️ ♠️ ♥️ ♦️ https://t.co/c6JgOAZdPq pic.twitter.com/ApOiffMskT

— Ontario Science Centre 🔬 (@OntScienceCtr) February 27, 2020

Toronto: Luiz Castro lecture

From the Browser's Den of Magic:

Saturday, February 22

We are very pleased to present to you a Brand New Lecture by Luiz Castro! As you many of you know Luiz is a construction worker by day and a Master Magician by Night.

Luiz will be sharing with you all types of magic. Whether you are brand new to magic or a seasoned magician you will find something at this lecture. Luiz will be covering almost all areas of magic and all levels of skill. So there really will be something for everyone.

For Luiz magic is a passion, a love. Whether it is a sleight, a prop, or a routine... if Luiz adds the Luiz Touch it is always better.

Luiz is also always willing to help. In fact we cannot list all of the people in the magic community that he has helped. He is a walking, breathing encyclopedia of magic! So this is a good opportunity to meet him at the shop.

For the last several years, Luiz has been the Chief Coin Worker for Mechanic Industries, including working on the development of their brand-new COLLUSION effect. Luiz has also been instrumental in developing and starring in the instructional videos for a variety of Roy Kueppers products.


Read more and buy tickets.

Toronto: April Fools Magic Spectacular

From the Toronto Magic Company:

When was the last time you were fooled? I mean REALLY fooled?

Well you’ve NEVER been fooled like this!

In honour of April 1st, the most fooling day of the year, The Toronto Magic Company has gathered together some of the best and most popular magicians to ever appear on the hit TV show “Penn and Teller Fool Us”. Using world-class sleight of hand and mind-blowing illusions, these master magicians will prove that there’s nothing more fun than being fooled!

Featuring (in alphabetical order)

• Jason Palter - Fool Us, Season 5.
• Jay Sankey - Fool Us, Season 2
• Matt Disero - Fool Us, Season 3
• Nicholas Wallace - Fool Us, Season 5. FOOLER.
• Richard Forget - Fool Us, Season 4
• Ryan Joyce - Fool Us, Season 3
• The Sentimentalists - Fool Us, Season 5. FOOLER.
• Wes Barker - Fool Us, Season 2. FOOLER.
• Yan Markson - Fool Us, Season 4

This is a once in a lifetime event with VERY limited seating! Get your tickets before they disappear!

Read more and buy tickets.

2019 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 500 votes were cast in this "bragging rights" only contest.  You all have a lot of devoted fans!

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

Beacons of Inspiration (in alphabetical order by surname)

Gwyn Auger (aka The Magic Assistant)

Nominated by Aaron.
"I would like to nominate Gwyn Auger the Magic Assistant. Gwyn’s endless enthusiasm and passion for magic and the magic community is an inspiration, whether it is helping support young local magicians in Calgary, promoting the value of the assistant in the industry and her eagerness to help others at conventions or shows at the drop of a hat. Gwyn is one of the most professional, kindest, freelance magician assistants in the business who also recently branched out to perform her own act as part of the Celebrities of Magic in Bakersfield, CA. This year Gwyn was also the first assistant to perform at the new Magic Castle Cabaret in Santa Barbara, CA with Lance Burton."

"Gwyn is truly an amazing ambassador for the business!"

Website: Gwyn Auger
 

Comments from Gwyn's fans include:
- Gwyn totally deserves this she has been instrumental in the Calgary magic community as well as many larger circles globally.
- Talented and skilled people, one and all, but only Gwyn has the magic presence that makes those around her shine.

Voters' musical tastes include:  Frank Loesser / Hoagy Carmichael, Queen, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

James Harrison (aka Pickpocket James)
Nominated by Unknown, Amy Thibodeau, Missa Deadlove, Rex P., Mike Weiland, Anonymouos, and Unknown.  The quote below is from Unknown.

"James Harrison. He's the pickpocketing MASTER, he's got a YouTube video that is going viral like crazy right now with 2 million views and counting and he works like crazy, at home and internationally. So all of that is amazing, but here's why I think James REALLY deserves a nomination: He's the kindest, most giving magician I've met in years. When he's not on stage, he's off stage sharing his knowledge to apply what he's learned in the trenches to help others. So in short, I think James is inspirational because he covers both bases. He's one hell of a performer with incredible original creations and he's one hell of a good person to go with it."

Editor's note:

• The September 26th Modern Rogue episode "How Pickpockets Steal Watches" with James Harrison has over 1.8 million views.
• The September 30th Modern Rogue episode "How Pickpockets Steal Wallets" with James Harrison trended on YouTube in early October

Website: PickpocketMagic.com

Comments from James' fans include:
- Stole my watch while I 'watched' and I still missed it...AMAZING.
- I've seen him perform multiple times and can't tell you how great he is! Charismatic, talented and just a decent guy. Good for any event.

Voters' musical tastes include:  Bach, Peter Gabriel, and Green Day.

Carisa Hendrix (aka Lucy Darling)
Nominated by Lukas Stark.
"I would like to nominate Carisa Hendrix not only is her public work charming and incredible, her success in a primarily male dominated industry (and world), and her humble Canadian beginnings, but her penguin lecture is the best 5 hours I've spent thinking about my magic for years and the best work I've ever heard about bringing character to your magic."

Editor's note:

• In case you missed it, Carisa is the co-founder of Shezam, the feminist magic podcast that hopes to make itself obsolete."
• In June of this year, she received the Magicana's Allan Slaight award for Canadian Rising Star.
• Carisa lectured and performed at the first OWOW Magic Festival this year.
• Carisa Hendrix LIVE ACTS (Penguin Live).

Website: CarisaHendrix

Comments from Carisa's fans include:
- Phenomenal entertainer and lecturer. Goes out of her way to give of herself to anyone who asks.

Voters' musical tastes include:  Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, and Elton John.

Ryan Joyce
Nominated by Anonymous.
"Ryan Joyce for creating Canada's most unique magic festival. The OWOW Magic Festival brought more than a dozen of the top magicians to the most magical place in Canada - Fergus, ON to perform for the public this past Halloween. For magicians, Ryan has created a fun-space where they can gather and further their own careers - Wondertown - which includes Magicians Masterclass and the new podcast Magicians Talking Magic. We should all be so dedicated in furthering the art and the perception of our art."

Editor's note:

• In addition to launching the first ever OWOW Magic Festival,  Ryan co-hosts the podcast "Magcians Talking Magic," and does a lot of travelling for shows.

Website: RyanJoyce.com

Comments from Ryan's fans include:
- His work and efforts speak volumes and he is all about bringing the magic community together.

Voters' musical tastes include:  The Beatles, Pitbull, and Ed Sheeran.

Ken McCreedy
Nominated by Jason Maiuri.
"Ken McCreedy for his vast knowledge of Canadian magic as well as being a mentor to so many great acts."

Editor's note:

• Ken has an extensive knowledge of Canadian magic history and is very generous with sharing his knowledge! 

Website: KenMcCreedy.com

Comments from Ken's fans include:
- Always entertaining and full of surprises.  He is a kind and patient teacher.  It is an Honour to be his assistant.

Musical tastes include:  Bruce Springsteen, Simon & Garfunkel, and  Deep Purple.

The Sentimentalists (Chris Mysterion and Steffi Kay)

Nominated by Ross.
"I always felt the Toronto fixtures known as "The Sentimentalists" would shine on a bigger international stage. Their numerous TV appearances this year solidified this. They are an inspiration as a fellow Toronto based Canadian performer. Especially Steffi being the first woman Mentalist to fool Penn and Teller."

Editor's note:

• After being eliminated from America's Got Talent Season 14 during the Judge Cuts, they returned as the wildcard in the quarterfinals!

Website: TheSentimentalistsMagic.com

Comments from The Sentimentalists' fans include:
- These two are AMAAAAAAAAAZING. Been in the business nearly half a century, at this point, and I've never seen a live mentalism act to top theirs. Just a stunning act. Stunning.

Voters' musical tastes include:  Steve Miller, Queen, and Harry S. Miller.

Anastasia Synn (aka Sia Synn)
Nominated by Krystal Lawrence.
"She's a freakin cyborg pioneering a new brand of magic! It's been getting worldwide attention, she's been on international news with her crazy implants."

Edtitor's note:

• Anastasia has over 30 implants.
• You can read more about her biohacking in the September 6th article "A cyborg magician explains why she implanted 26 microchips and magnets in her body" by Rebecca Robbins in Stat News.
• Jonah Babins interviews Anastasia in the September 19th episode of Discourse in Magic, "Biohacking Magic with Anastasia Synn."

 
Website: Synnister.com

Anastasia's fans were people of few words.

Musical tastes include:  Radiohead, Crystal Eyes, and Rag'n'Bone Man.

Editor's Choice

Ted and Marion Outerbridge

Nominated by Unknown.
"I would like to nominate Ted & Marion Outerbridge as being truly inspirational entertainers in the world of magic. What you see on the stage is exactly what you get off the stage. They are soft spoken, humble and sincere - but extremely passionate and talented in everything they do. From costuming to scripting, choreography and illusion, they do it all!"

Editor's note:

• Ted and Marion lectured and performed at The Browser's Bash this year.
• They moved to Smith Falls, ON earlier this year and created an opportunity for themselves to have a very well received standing show at their local theatre!
• Ted and Marion are in the process of restoring their new home, the "Keyhole House."  They've found a note dated 1892 and signatures that date back to the year the house was built, 1897.

 
Website: TedOuterbridge.com

The Outerbridge's fans were also people of few words.

Voters' musical tastes include:  Smash Mouth, Brockhampton, and Frank Sinatra.

Readers' Choice

Mike Norden
Nominated by Anonymous.

Congratulations to Mike for winning the 2019 "Readers' Choice Inspirational Canadian Magician of the Year" award!


Keep up the great work!


Website: MagicShows.ca

Mike's fans were most likely to not follow instructions, and also most likely to get the date wrong.

Musical tastes include:  A wide assortment of Christmas music.