2025
2024
Ben Jackson Did It! He Fooled Penn & Teller on "Fool Us"
Big congratulations to Ben Jackson for representing Houston as the first local magician not only to appear on the show but also to win the coveted award for fooling Penn & Teller!
Friday night March 22, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. on the CW Network Ben Jackson was seen performing in Las Vegas on the Penn & Teller stage at the Rio Hotel and Casino. This was been over a year in the making and keeping it secret. It was filmed last August and been kept under wraps until now. A good secret is hard to keep, but Ben has been "tight lipped" about it until he was given approval to make this announcement. I also understand that he had a little outside help from other magicians including another local magus.
Ben says, "While I don't want to spoil anything, I will divulge that my routine involved 20 yarn balls, Greek mythology, pure sleight-of-hand, and a commonality that both Teller and I share: a love for the classical language, Latin. I'll be representing our wonderful magic community here in Houston!"
Well, now that the episode has aired, we know the result. It was odd, too, that they first said Ben didn't fool them, but when they came back from the commercial break, they admitted that they were wrong in guessing his method so, indeed, he did fool them and was awarded the prize trophy! You can watch his video below.
In case you happened to miss the television promo Ben did on the local Fox 26 station on Wednesday prior to the broadcast, you can watch him here: https://www.fox26houston.com/video/1428465
Way to go, Ben, and congratulations!
Friday night March 22, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. on the CW Network Ben Jackson was seen performing in Las Vegas on the Penn & Teller stage at the Rio Hotel and Casino. This was been over a year in the making and keeping it secret. It was filmed last August and been kept under wraps until now. A good secret is hard to keep, but Ben has been "tight lipped" about it until he was given approval to make this announcement. I also understand that he had a little outside help from other magicians including another local magus.
Ben says, "While I don't want to spoil anything, I will divulge that my routine involved 20 yarn balls, Greek mythology, pure sleight-of-hand, and a commonality that both Teller and I share: a love for the classical language, Latin. I'll be representing our wonderful magic community here in Houston!"
Well, now that the episode has aired, we know the result. It was odd, too, that they first said Ben didn't fool them, but when they came back from the commercial break, they admitted that they were wrong in guessing his method so, indeed, he did fool them and was awarded the prize trophy! You can watch his video below.
In case you happened to miss the television promo Ben did on the local Fox 26 station on Wednesday prior to the broadcast, you can watch him here: https://www.fox26houston.com/video/1428465
Way to go, Ben, and congratulations!
Scott Wells Receives Special Fellowship Award from the Academy of Magical Arts
A "Night of Stars" in Los Angeles, California
Dateline: May 17, 2024
The stars were out in Hollywood for the annual awards ceremony of the Academy of Magical Arts (The Magic Castle) as magicians were recognized for their various achievements, both throughout the past year and during their lifetimes. Members of the AMA voted on Close-Up Performer of the Year, Lecturer of the Year, etc. and the Boards of Trustees and Directors gave special awards to others who have made significant contributions to the art of magic over their lifetimes, such as Penn & Teller who received a Masters Fellowship.
Scott Wells received this Special Fellowship for his dedication in producing The Magic Word Podcast. The award reads as follows:
The Academy wishes to honor Scott Wells for his considerable contribution to the creative world of magician, mind readers, stage illusionists, and ardent admirers of the art of astonishment. In recognition of his Magic Word Podcast, beginning in 2011 and now numbering over 800 episodes, we celebrate those special conversations with esteemed colleagues and contemporaries that bring us insight, encouragement, and inspiration. The Academy of Magical Arts commends Mr. Wells for promoting not only the personal stories of fascinating individuals, but fellowship amongst our extended family of artists and entertainers everywhere.
Presented this 17th day of May, 2024 but Mark Wooster, President, Board of Directors, and Christopher Hart, Chair, Board of Trustees.
Congratulations to our fellow and brother magician, Scott Wells, for this exceptional honor.
A "Night of Stars" in Los Angeles, California
Dateline: May 17, 2024
The stars were out in Hollywood for the annual awards ceremony of the Academy of Magical Arts (The Magic Castle) as magicians were recognized for their various achievements, both throughout the past year and during their lifetimes. Members of the AMA voted on Close-Up Performer of the Year, Lecturer of the Year, etc. and the Boards of Trustees and Directors gave special awards to others who have made significant contributions to the art of magic over their lifetimes, such as Penn & Teller who received a Masters Fellowship.
Scott Wells received this Special Fellowship for his dedication in producing The Magic Word Podcast. The award reads as follows:
The Academy wishes to honor Scott Wells for his considerable contribution to the creative world of magician, mind readers, stage illusionists, and ardent admirers of the art of astonishment. In recognition of his Magic Word Podcast, beginning in 2011 and now numbering over 800 episodes, we celebrate those special conversations with esteemed colleagues and contemporaries that bring us insight, encouragement, and inspiration. The Academy of Magical Arts commends Mr. Wells for promoting not only the personal stories of fascinating individuals, but fellowship amongst our extended family of artists and entertainers everywhere.
Presented this 17th day of May, 2024 but Mark Wooster, President, Board of Directors, and Christopher Hart, Chair, Board of Trustees.
Congratulations to our fellow and brother magician, Scott Wells, for this exceptional honor.
One Night Only! Naathan Phan with Hayden Allcorn
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday March 28, 2024
Where: Coronation Theater, 3420 Rusk St a3, Houston, TX 77003
Magic is all over Houston! You will not want to miss this opportunity to see Naathan Phan LIVE for his one-night-only appearance along with Heyden Allcorn. You can scan the QR Code in the graphic or follow the following link.
Ticket link - www.bit.ly/foolyoutwice-032824
And Naathan is offering 10% off with "MAGI10" to members of the local magic community. Be sure to input that code when checking out.
For a little visual of what to expect, here is a quick trailer - https://vimeo.com/921653524/d33f8d6633
This is open to the public so be sure to bring your family, invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to this show. It promises to be an outstanding evening!
Where: Coronation Theater, 3420 Rusk St a3, Houston, TX 77003
Magic is all over Houston! You will not want to miss this opportunity to see Naathan Phan LIVE for his one-night-only appearance along with Heyden Allcorn. You can scan the QR Code in the graphic or follow the following link.
Ticket link - www.bit.ly/foolyoutwice-032824
And Naathan is offering 10% off with "MAGI10" to members of the local magic community. Be sure to input that code when checking out.
For a little visual of what to expect, here is a quick trailer - https://vimeo.com/921653524/d33f8d6633
This is open to the public so be sure to bring your family, invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to this show. It promises to be an outstanding evening!
Funeral and Broken Wand Ceremony for Bill King
Our friend and long time member of the Houston Magic Community, William "Bill" Russell King, died peacefully on February 25, 2024. As reported in his obituary, "Bill has been a magician since he was a kid. He would share stories about saving his money and riding on a bus to get downtown to visit the magic shop and see what was new that he could purchase and then master. He performed at children's birthday parties and children's hospitals, and he had a short stint at Dave and Busters doing close-up magic with coins and cards. He was active in the Houston Association of Magicians and enjoyed spending time honing his craft.Always kind and quick-witted, Bill was easygoing and easy to love. He made an impact on everyone he met, whether he knew you personally or not. His claim to fame was calling his friends and family on their birthdays and singing the Happy Birthday chorus, including the addition to the end with '…and many more.'
At his last hospital stay, the discharge nurse said he was a 'precious soul' and charming and funny. He had smiling blue eyes and walked very fast. He had a knack for putting people at ease."
To read the full obituary, you can visit: www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/houston-tx/william-king-11683127
Bill's funeral service was held Saturday, March 9, 2024. The Broken Wand ceremony was presented by Gene Protas and Scott Wells at 9:30 a.m. then the funeral followed after a brief intermission at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston, Texas.
Our friend and long time member of the Houston Magic Community, William "Bill" Russell King, died peacefully on February 25, 2024. As reported in his obituary, "Bill has been a magician since he was a kid. He would share stories about saving his money and riding on a bus to get downtown to visit the magic shop and see what was new that he could purchase and then master. He performed at children's birthday parties and children's hospitals, and he had a short stint at Dave and Busters doing close-up magic with coins and cards. He was active in the Houston Association of Magicians and enjoyed spending time honing his craft.Always kind and quick-witted, Bill was easygoing and easy to love. He made an impact on everyone he met, whether he knew you personally or not. His claim to fame was calling his friends and family on their birthdays and singing the Happy Birthday chorus, including the addition to the end with '…and many more.'
At his last hospital stay, the discharge nurse said he was a 'precious soul' and charming and funny. He had smiling blue eyes and walked very fast. He had a knack for putting people at ease."
To read the full obituary, you can visit: www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/houston-tx/william-king-11683127
Bill's funeral service was held Saturday, March 9, 2024. The Broken Wand ceremony was presented by Gene Protas and Scott Wells at 9:30 a.m. then the funeral followed after a brief intermission at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston, Texas.
Zombie magic and gambling club Magic Island will come alive again this summer
The left-for-dead entertainment facility had been decaying on Southwest Freeway for years but it looks to have a new lease on life.
By Jef Rouner, Chronicle Correspondent
Dateline: March 18, 2024
Houstonians who have driven by Magic Island off of the Southwest Freeway as of late may have noticed some activity going on in the parking lot adjacent to the Egyptian-themed entertainment venue.
After the Astrodome, Magic Island may be Houston’s second-most famous abandoned entertainment venue. The club, shuttered for 10 years, will finally reopen this summer. Many Houstonians will be happy that stage magic is returning. And the club plans to offer private gambling tables this time around. By sheer luck, I got a chance to poke around the inside of the venue as it moves forward with its renovation. After hiking up from the Southwest Freeway feeder road, I expected to find locked doors. Instead, I met new general manager Michael Loneman, who previously worked at the South Shore Harbor Resort in League City.
Loneman, with his windswept hair and black button-up shirt, has a stage-magician's air about him. While he wouldn't allow me to take pictures of the current renovations, he did offer a short, guided tour. The space opened in 1984 and had its heyday in the late 1980s. Magic Island once showcased Vegas-style stage magic shows, close-up magic, clairvoyants and tarot readings.
Once it closed, the club became an odd mixture of opulence and decay. The garish Egyptian décor was covered in graffiti and littered with discarded fixtures. In 2018, Mohammad Athari, a local neurologist, bought the place with plans to have it open within a few years. But the pandemic derailed plans for the nightspot. However, late last year, signs went up heralding its return.
The biggest news Loneman could offer about the new Magic Island is that it will host private gambling. Black Club members will be able to play poker, blackjack and roulette in a bespoke room. No word yet on whether membership cards will still be taken by an animatronic snake, as they were during the club’s original run.
Is private gambling legal in Texas? State law is unclear on the question, and this ambiguity has allowed dozens of clubs to open around the state.
The Texas Penal Code, Section 47, prohibits individuals or establishments from receiving “any economic benefit other than personal winnings.” This statute prohibits establishments from taking a cut of gambling proceeds, colloquially called a rake.
At least 30 private gambling clubs have opened in Texas, citing a loophole in current law that allows them to operate if they charge membership fees instead of taking a cut of profits. Since May 2019, police have raided some of the private gambling clubs in Houston. Charges were dismissed, and it was revealed that even members of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office had visited the raided clubs.
While the legality is in limbo, Loneman seems confident Magic Island will be safe for VIP members. “We’re a private club, so having private members, different rules apply,” he says. “That doesn’t mean we won’t serve the general public, because we will. But if you’re a member of the Black Club at Magic Island, there are different laws that apply to you. You know, kind of like a teenage daughter who wants to drink wine with the family.”
The gambling is only part of the new experience at Magic Island. The venue will be geared toward hosting events and gatherings. Loneman is especially proud of the club's refurbished outdoor patio. He’s installed a retractable awning to protect partygoers as they mingle. The spot is custom-made for the selfie generation as it faces west, he pointed out. “Most restaurants in this area are not facing the right way,” says Loneman. “When it comes to engagements and special events, you’ll get a lot of great pictures because of the sunset. Plus, when you’re coming down the freeway, there’s no better form of advertising than to look over and see people dancing and having fun.”
Inside, the building is about 80% done. All of the graffiti is gone, and some of the original Egyptian-themed decorations have been preserved. The host stand is a tasteful marble structure that allows hosts to guide guests into a 500-person ballroom complete with a small stage. Upstairs is a lounge with an enormous bar. Here the Egyptian theme is even stronger, though there are fewer statues and more faux artifacts displayed museum-style behind glass. Loneman recently had a brand-new grand piano delivered. A disco room with a retractable ceiling lets visitors dance under the few stars that shine through at night.
It is a far cry from the rotting structure that urban explorers have been chronicling since 2008. Loneman says they are aiming for a summer opening and will be taking holiday bookings starting in July. And, yes, Loneman promises there will still be magic.
“A lot of memories were made here,” he says. “Presidents dined here, congressional representatives, movie stars, lots of people of notoriety. We’re excited to be reopening …. This is where the magic happens.”
The left-for-dead entertainment facility had been decaying on Southwest Freeway for years but it looks to have a new lease on life.
By Jef Rouner, Chronicle Correspondent
Dateline: March 18, 2024
Houstonians who have driven by Magic Island off of the Southwest Freeway as of late may have noticed some activity going on in the parking lot adjacent to the Egyptian-themed entertainment venue.
After the Astrodome, Magic Island may be Houston’s second-most famous abandoned entertainment venue. The club, shuttered for 10 years, will finally reopen this summer. Many Houstonians will be happy that stage magic is returning. And the club plans to offer private gambling tables this time around. By sheer luck, I got a chance to poke around the inside of the venue as it moves forward with its renovation. After hiking up from the Southwest Freeway feeder road, I expected to find locked doors. Instead, I met new general manager Michael Loneman, who previously worked at the South Shore Harbor Resort in League City.
Loneman, with his windswept hair and black button-up shirt, has a stage-magician's air about him. While he wouldn't allow me to take pictures of the current renovations, he did offer a short, guided tour. The space opened in 1984 and had its heyday in the late 1980s. Magic Island once showcased Vegas-style stage magic shows, close-up magic, clairvoyants and tarot readings.
Once it closed, the club became an odd mixture of opulence and decay. The garish Egyptian décor was covered in graffiti and littered with discarded fixtures. In 2018, Mohammad Athari, a local neurologist, bought the place with plans to have it open within a few years. But the pandemic derailed plans for the nightspot. However, late last year, signs went up heralding its return.
The biggest news Loneman could offer about the new Magic Island is that it will host private gambling. Black Club members will be able to play poker, blackjack and roulette in a bespoke room. No word yet on whether membership cards will still be taken by an animatronic snake, as they were during the club’s original run.
Is private gambling legal in Texas? State law is unclear on the question, and this ambiguity has allowed dozens of clubs to open around the state.
The Texas Penal Code, Section 47, prohibits individuals or establishments from receiving “any economic benefit other than personal winnings.” This statute prohibits establishments from taking a cut of gambling proceeds, colloquially called a rake.
At least 30 private gambling clubs have opened in Texas, citing a loophole in current law that allows them to operate if they charge membership fees instead of taking a cut of profits. Since May 2019, police have raided some of the private gambling clubs in Houston. Charges were dismissed, and it was revealed that even members of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office had visited the raided clubs.
While the legality is in limbo, Loneman seems confident Magic Island will be safe for VIP members. “We’re a private club, so having private members, different rules apply,” he says. “That doesn’t mean we won’t serve the general public, because we will. But if you’re a member of the Black Club at Magic Island, there are different laws that apply to you. You know, kind of like a teenage daughter who wants to drink wine with the family.”
The gambling is only part of the new experience at Magic Island. The venue will be geared toward hosting events and gatherings. Loneman is especially proud of the club's refurbished outdoor patio. He’s installed a retractable awning to protect partygoers as they mingle. The spot is custom-made for the selfie generation as it faces west, he pointed out. “Most restaurants in this area are not facing the right way,” says Loneman. “When it comes to engagements and special events, you’ll get a lot of great pictures because of the sunset. Plus, when you’re coming down the freeway, there’s no better form of advertising than to look over and see people dancing and having fun.”
Inside, the building is about 80% done. All of the graffiti is gone, and some of the original Egyptian-themed decorations have been preserved. The host stand is a tasteful marble structure that allows hosts to guide guests into a 500-person ballroom complete with a small stage. Upstairs is a lounge with an enormous bar. Here the Egyptian theme is even stronger, though there are fewer statues and more faux artifacts displayed museum-style behind glass. Loneman recently had a brand-new grand piano delivered. A disco room with a retractable ceiling lets visitors dance under the few stars that shine through at night.
It is a far cry from the rotting structure that urban explorers have been chronicling since 2008. Loneman says they are aiming for a summer opening and will be taking holiday bookings starting in July. And, yes, Loneman promises there will still be magic.
“A lot of memories were made here,” he says. “Presidents dined here, congressional representatives, movie stars, lots of people of notoriety. We’re excited to be reopening …. This is where the magic happens.”
2023
The Celebration of Life and Broken Wand Ceremony for Jeff Lanes
The Celebration of Life and Broken Wand ceremony for Jeff Lanes will be held on Saturday, November 11th at the IATSE Hall , 3030 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77009. Doors will open at 1:30pm with the broken wand ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Magicians and others will be available until 5:00 p.m. Strolling magicians will also be in attendance to entertain mourners with a little close-up magic, as Jeff would have loved and insisted.
Jeff was past President of all three Houston Magic clubs. SAM Assembly 19, IBM Ring 39 as well as the Houston Association of Magicians. He was also a member and officer of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, IATSE Local 51. His brothers Brian and Fred will be in attendance, so please stop by and express your condolences to his family if you’re able.
Light snacks and beverages will be served from 2:00pm to 5:00pm as well.
Free Magic Show starring World Famous Magician Chip Romero. Celebration of life and Broken Wand ceremony for Jeff Lanes. Magic Show Theater Tribute Show Saturday November 11th, 2023. A special thanks to Lanny Kibbey who will present a Magic Show Tribute to Jeff at 7:00pm at:
The Magic Show Theater,
6981 SH-6 S, Houston, TX 77083
Reservations are required for tickets to the tribute Magic Show. Lanny has graciously offered free admission to magicians and IATSE members using an online code reserved for those special friends and relatives of Jeff and his family. You can reserve your space by clicking on the following link. For free admission you must enter the code FREEJEFF
https://magicshowtheater.wellattended.com/events/jeff-lanes-memorial-show
We look forward to seeing many of Jeff’s friends and coworkers for the Celebration of Life and Broken Wand Ceremony next Saturday, November 11th. If you have any questions, please feel free to email , text or call Gene Protas at 281-455-5527.
The Celebration of Life and Broken Wand ceremony for Jeff Lanes will be held on Saturday, November 11th at the IATSE Hall , 3030 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77009. Doors will open at 1:30pm with the broken wand ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Magicians and others will be available until 5:00 p.m. Strolling magicians will also be in attendance to entertain mourners with a little close-up magic, as Jeff would have loved and insisted.
Jeff was past President of all three Houston Magic clubs. SAM Assembly 19, IBM Ring 39 as well as the Houston Association of Magicians. He was also a member and officer of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, IATSE Local 51. His brothers Brian and Fred will be in attendance, so please stop by and express your condolences to his family if you’re able.
Light snacks and beverages will be served from 2:00pm to 5:00pm as well.
Free Magic Show starring World Famous Magician Chip Romero. Celebration of life and Broken Wand ceremony for Jeff Lanes. Magic Show Theater Tribute Show Saturday November 11th, 2023. A special thanks to Lanny Kibbey who will present a Magic Show Tribute to Jeff at 7:00pm at:
The Magic Show Theater,
6981 SH-6 S, Houston, TX 77083
Reservations are required for tickets to the tribute Magic Show. Lanny has graciously offered free admission to magicians and IATSE members using an online code reserved for those special friends and relatives of Jeff and his family. You can reserve your space by clicking on the following link. For free admission you must enter the code FREEJEFF
https://magicshowtheater.wellattended.com/events/jeff-lanes-memorial-show
We look forward to seeing many of Jeff’s friends and coworkers for the Celebration of Life and Broken Wand Ceremony next Saturday, November 11th. If you have any questions, please feel free to email , text or call Gene Protas at 281-455-5527.
Annual Magic Swap Meet At November Meeting
MONDAY, November 4, 2022 is our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme will be: Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $20.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell. Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, November 4, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$20.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
MONDAY, November 4, 2022 is our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme will be: Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $20.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell. Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, November 4, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$20.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
Labor Day Weekend - T.A.O.M. convention in Houston
The Texas Association of Magicians was held September 1-4, 2023 in Houston, Texas at the Hilton Post Oak - Galleria. The talent this year was outstanding with:
Be sure to register today at https;//taom.org/2023
- illusionist Rob Lake
- Steve Valentine
- Michael Finney
- Mario the Maker and Katie
- Chad Long
- Christopher Carter
- Doug Conn
- Chip Romero
- Brent Braun
- Magical Katrina
- Harry Maurer
- Dave and Jake Rangel
Be sure to register today at https;//taom.org/2023
Jamie Salinas - An Evening of Dinner, Magic and Comedy
A delightful evening suitable for the entire family.
Jamie Salinas will be presenting his full evening show in June at Pallotta's Restaurant.
Where: Pallotta's Restaurant
When: Thursday June 22nd. Dinner at 6:00 pm, Magic begins promptly at 7:30
How Much: $60.00 per person
Jamie Salinas will be presenting his full evening show in June at Pallotta's Restaurant.
Where: Pallotta's Restaurant
When: Thursday June 22nd. Dinner at 6:00 pm, Magic begins promptly at 7:30
How Much: $60.00 per person
HAOM Memorial Day Picnic
FREE for All Local Magicians and Families ONLY! This event is limited to a strict maximum of 60 people. The Houston Magic Clubs are sponsoring this year’s Barbecue and the the catering limit is 50 meals.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED Access will be strictly enforced since the catering and theater capacity is limited.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic and BBQ
Where: Magic Show Theater 6981 HWY 6, Houston, TX 77083
When: Monday, May 29th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:30, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
RSVP REQUIRED. Please make your reservations online by Clicking Here. If you need additional information, then please call Travis Bryant at 346-280-0699. Since reservations are limited and they are going fast, please make sure you have confirmed your reservation online.
There will be plenty of food and lots of magic.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED Access will be strictly enforced since the catering and theater capacity is limited.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic and BBQ
Where: Magic Show Theater 6981 HWY 6, Houston, TX 77083
When: Monday, May 29th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:30, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
RSVP REQUIRED. Please make your reservations online by Clicking Here. If you need additional information, then please call Travis Bryant at 346-280-0699. Since reservations are limited and they are going fast, please make sure you have confirmed your reservation online.
There will be plenty of food and lots of magic.
Scott Wells Receives VALENTINE Award from VANISH Magazine
From VANISH Magazine and columnist, Nick Lewin, the annual Valentine Awards were presented in the February 2023 issue to five recipients. Those who received the award were: Scott Wells, David Blaine, Jeff Hobson, Colin Cloud and Connie Boyd. Scott received this award for his work with The Magic Word Podcast which chronicles history in the making of our magical art.
To read the article, please click on the graphic here.
To read the article, please click on the graphic here.
2023 Annual Magic Banquet
This year's annual banquet will be a very reserved event. We will have a pizza dinner at the IATSE Meeting Hall on our usual meeting night (first Monday of the month) beginning around 7:00 with the Installation of Officers ceremony being conducted sometime soon thereafter. There will be a $5.00 charge per person for the pizza and there will not be any outside entertainment booked for this event. Following the ceremony, it will be a usual meeting night with members performing as usual. So, please bring something to perform and entertain the rest of the members at this meeting. This year's event will not be open to the public.
When: Monday February 6, 2023
Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with pizza to arrive sometime after 7:00
Where: at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway. Click here for directions.
Cost: $5.00 for the pizza.
Remember, this is not open to the public so please don't invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers as in years past.
This year's annual banquet will be a very reserved event. We will have a pizza dinner at the IATSE Meeting Hall on our usual meeting night (first Monday of the month) beginning around 7:00 with the Installation of Officers ceremony being conducted sometime soon thereafter. There will be a $5.00 charge per person for the pizza and there will not be any outside entertainment booked for this event. Following the ceremony, it will be a usual meeting night with members performing as usual. So, please bring something to perform and entertain the rest of the members at this meeting. This year's event will not be open to the public.
When: Monday February 6, 2023
Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with pizza to arrive sometime after 7:00
Where: at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway. Click here for directions.
Cost: $5.00 for the pizza.
Remember, this is not open to the public so please don't invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers as in years past.
2022
HAOM, IBM Ring 39 and SAM Assembly 19 Holiday Dinner Banquet
Our December meeting will be another special event! We will have our holiday party. Here are the details with more information to come as we finalize the details. We will be having a dinner at the union hall that will be catered by Spanish Flower. We will have chicken and beef fajitas with rice, beans, tortillas, chips and hot sauce. Tickets will need to be purchased for the dinner in advance.
After dinner, there will be a dessert party and all are invited to attend. Please feel free to bring a dessert to share with the group. After dessert, there will be a short meeting for each organization. After the meeting is adjourned, there will be the annual White Elephant Magic Gift Exchange! To participate in this fun event, bring a wrapped gift that is magic related that has a minimum value of $25.00 and is in good working condition.
I hear Santa himself will make an appearance and give out magic goodie bags with free magic! Want to invite and spouse, friend or family member? Please do but keep in mind that the dinner is optional and there is a fee per person. The club will cover the additional costs of the dinner keeping it low for you and your guests.
Here is the schedule:
6:15 PM - Door Open for Dinner Ticket Holders
6:30 PM – Dinner for Ticket Holders
7:00 PM - Doors Open for All Attendees for Desserts
7:00 PM – Short Magic Club Meetings
7:30 PM – White Elephant Gift Exchange (See Rules Below)
8:30 PM – Special Guest Santa who will give out FREE Magic Gifts!
9:00 PM – Mix and Mingle
Buy Dinner Tickets by Clicking HERE!
Rules for the White Elephant Gift Exchange
Our December meeting will be another special event! We will have our holiday party. Here are the details with more information to come as we finalize the details. We will be having a dinner at the union hall that will be catered by Spanish Flower. We will have chicken and beef fajitas with rice, beans, tortillas, chips and hot sauce. Tickets will need to be purchased for the dinner in advance.
After dinner, there will be a dessert party and all are invited to attend. Please feel free to bring a dessert to share with the group. After dessert, there will be a short meeting for each organization. After the meeting is adjourned, there will be the annual White Elephant Magic Gift Exchange! To participate in this fun event, bring a wrapped gift that is magic related that has a minimum value of $25.00 and is in good working condition.
I hear Santa himself will make an appearance and give out magic goodie bags with free magic! Want to invite and spouse, friend or family member? Please do but keep in mind that the dinner is optional and there is a fee per person. The club will cover the additional costs of the dinner keeping it low for you and your guests.
Here is the schedule:
6:15 PM - Door Open for Dinner Ticket Holders
6:30 PM – Dinner for Ticket Holders
7:00 PM - Doors Open for All Attendees for Desserts
7:00 PM – Short Magic Club Meetings
7:30 PM – White Elephant Gift Exchange (See Rules Below)
8:30 PM – Special Guest Santa who will give out FREE Magic Gifts!
9:00 PM – Mix and Mingle
Buy Dinner Tickets by Clicking HERE!
Rules for the White Elephant Gift Exchange
- Participation is voluntary
- Bring a wrapped magic related gift with a minimum value of $25.00
- If you participate, you will be given a number that will be randomly picked to know what order you will be in.
- The person who draws number one will pick an unopened gift from the table and open it so that everyone can see what the item is.
- The person with the next number can either open an unopened gift from the table or steal an opened gift.
- A gift can only be stolen 3 times and once it has been stolen for the third time, it will no longer be in play.
- This process will continue until the last person has had a turn.
- Finally, the person who got to go first can keep their gift or exchange it for any gift that has not been deemed as frozen and out of play.
Annual Magic Swap Meet At November Meeting
MONDAY, November 7, 2022 we is our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme will be: Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $20.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell. Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, November 7, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$20.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
MONDAY, November 7, 2022 we is our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme will be: Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $20.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell. Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, November 7, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$20.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
A Paranormal Experience in Houston
If you listen, they will speak.
Throughout the spooky month of "boo" (or October as some call it), you will have limited opportunities to participate in a theatrical production of a seance presented each Sunday evening in the Old Market Square in downtown Houston. After a four year hiatus, Jamie Salinas and Scott Wells are back at La Carafe speaking to the dead. Seats are limited so be sure to book your tickets in advance and not be left out of what the Houston Chronicle calls, "the best seance in Houston" with a "five ghost" rating.
For those who believe, no explanation is necessary.
For those who don't believe, no explanation will suffice.
If you listen, they will speak.
Throughout the spooky month of "boo" (or October as some call it), you will have limited opportunities to participate in a theatrical production of a seance presented each Sunday evening in the Old Market Square in downtown Houston. After a four year hiatus, Jamie Salinas and Scott Wells are back at La Carafe speaking to the dead. Seats are limited so be sure to book your tickets in advance and not be left out of what the Houston Chronicle calls, "the best seance in Houston" with a "five ghost" rating.
- Sundays: October 9, 16, 23 and 30
- 7:00 PM - Mix and Mingle in the cash bar with spooky "up close" magic presented by Scott Wells
- 8:00 PM - The Paranormal Experience upstairs...if you dare!
- $65.00
- Info and Tickets at: https://paranormalexperience.org/
For those who believe, no explanation is necessary.
For those who don't believe, no explanation will suffice.
Annual Memorial Day Magicians' Barbecue
FREE for All Local Magicians and Families ONLY! This event is limited to a strict maximum of 50 people. The Houston Magic Clubs are sponsoring this year’s Barbecue and the the catering limit is 50 meals.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED Access will be strictly enforced since the catering and theater capacity is limited.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic and BBQ
Where: Magic Show Theater 6981 HWY 6, Houston, TX 77083
When: Monday, May 30th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:30, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
RSVP REQUIRED. Please send your reservations to CAESAR by texting him at 832-495-2427 or by email at caesarthemagician@yahoo.com Since there are only 25 spaces available at this time please make sure you have confirmed your reservation with Caesar.
There will be plenty of food and lots of magic. Jeff Lanes will host an open mic magic show so please be ready to perform if you wish to participate. All participants will receive a copy of Jamie Salinas’ Universal Keno Prediction compliments of Betty Protas.
Luis Carreon - The Elegance of Deceiving
What: An "in-person" Lecture
Who: Luis Carreon
Date: Tuesday May 24, 2022
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Where: IATSE Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston, TX (the usual meeting place for the S.A.M./H.A.O.M.)
Cost: $20 per person - NOTE: this is not part of the Lecture Series
More: Luis Carreon is an accomplished and well-respected magician. He won the Harlan Tarbell Close-up Competition Award from the International Brotherhood of Magicians two years in a row. He also took home first place at the Chicago Magic Competition hosted by The Society of American Magicians.
With his unique style of humor and wisdom, Luis regularly travels the country teaching other magicians about the art of magic. He is, also, the head demonstrator at Magic Inc., the oldest family-owned magic shop in the country. He has performed his show Bending Minds and Bending Dreams at theaters all around Chicago. Internationally, Luis has been featured on the Univision evening news showcasing his talents. He was honored to be a semi-finalist on Tengo Talento, the Spanish language equivalent of America's Got Talent. In addition, he is also a frequent performer at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California.
Luis can be seen performing regularly at The Chicago Magic Lounge where he is also one of the founding members.
About the Lecture
In this new Lecture, Luis will teach you time tested material from both of his Penguin Lectures. He will share techniques and subtleties to make your magic more elegant and strong. All of this material has been perfected in the real world from walk around magic to the biggest stages in magic at the moment.
This lecture has something for everyone from cards to coins to material that hasn't been published.
Testimonials:
"What do you get you combine dangerous chops, dangerous good looks and a charming personality? Luis Carreon! One of the few card magicians that knows how to keep the action happening and audience enthralled from start to finish, and one of my favorite live performers." -Bill Abbott
"Simply put, Luis Carreon is one of the best magicians in the world. What sets him apart, is his ability to marry technical virtuosity with an entertaining, and often hilarious, performing persona. His magic fools audiences badly, without making fools of them. His performances are an invitation into a world where anything can happen and does! I am thrilled that he has agreed to share some of his secrets with all of us! I look forward to learning from Luis and you should too!" -Benjamin Barnes, Entertainment Director at The Chicago Magic Lounge
"The Card Magic Of Luis Carreon is Impressive Dynamic and Modern, I Love IT!" -Fenik, Mexico's premiere Magician
"Luis Carreon handles the cards smoothly and effortlessly and has the soft touch that magicians admire." -Rafael Benatar
"Luis' Magic is very visual and unique. I think you will find something in his lecture you can use in your own performance." -Dan Fleshman
"Luis Carreon offers the perfect combination of chops and charm. He's a delight to watch perfrom." -Michael Close
"He becomes the soul of the deck and by doing this he can express his love with magic to the audience. He's a very giving person." -Maestro Voronin
"I always look forward to more excellent shows from Luis Carreon." -Ken Weber
Who: Luis Carreon
Date: Tuesday May 24, 2022
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Where: IATSE Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston, TX (the usual meeting place for the S.A.M./H.A.O.M.)
Cost: $20 per person - NOTE: this is not part of the Lecture Series
More: Luis Carreon is an accomplished and well-respected magician. He won the Harlan Tarbell Close-up Competition Award from the International Brotherhood of Magicians two years in a row. He also took home first place at the Chicago Magic Competition hosted by The Society of American Magicians.
With his unique style of humor and wisdom, Luis regularly travels the country teaching other magicians about the art of magic. He is, also, the head demonstrator at Magic Inc., the oldest family-owned magic shop in the country. He has performed his show Bending Minds and Bending Dreams at theaters all around Chicago. Internationally, Luis has been featured on the Univision evening news showcasing his talents. He was honored to be a semi-finalist on Tengo Talento, the Spanish language equivalent of America's Got Talent. In addition, he is also a frequent performer at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California.
Luis can be seen performing regularly at The Chicago Magic Lounge where he is also one of the founding members.
About the Lecture
In this new Lecture, Luis will teach you time tested material from both of his Penguin Lectures. He will share techniques and subtleties to make your magic more elegant and strong. All of this material has been perfected in the real world from walk around magic to the biggest stages in magic at the moment.
This lecture has something for everyone from cards to coins to material that hasn't been published.
Testimonials:
"What do you get you combine dangerous chops, dangerous good looks and a charming personality? Luis Carreon! One of the few card magicians that knows how to keep the action happening and audience enthralled from start to finish, and one of my favorite live performers." -Bill Abbott
"Simply put, Luis Carreon is one of the best magicians in the world. What sets him apart, is his ability to marry technical virtuosity with an entertaining, and often hilarious, performing persona. His magic fools audiences badly, without making fools of them. His performances are an invitation into a world where anything can happen and does! I am thrilled that he has agreed to share some of his secrets with all of us! I look forward to learning from Luis and you should too!" -Benjamin Barnes, Entertainment Director at The Chicago Magic Lounge
"The Card Magic Of Luis Carreon is Impressive Dynamic and Modern, I Love IT!" -Fenik, Mexico's premiere Magician
"Luis Carreon handles the cards smoothly and effortlessly and has the soft touch that magicians admire." -Rafael Benatar
"Luis' Magic is very visual and unique. I think you will find something in his lecture you can use in your own performance." -Dan Fleshman
"Luis Carreon offers the perfect combination of chops and charm. He's a delight to watch perfrom." -Michael Close
"He becomes the soul of the deck and by doing this he can express his love with magic to the audience. He's a very giving person." -Maestro Voronin
"I always look forward to more excellent shows from Luis Carreon." -Ken Weber
Curt Miller as "The Conjurer"The Conjurer is an “Intimate Magical Experience” like nothing you’ve ever seen! Amazing Close-Up Magic, Side-Splitting Clean Comedy, Audience Interaction, Theatrical Lighting, Music & Video are combined in a beautiful vintage magic theater atmosphere. It’s a GREAT DATE NIGHT or GROUP OUTING!
You’ll witness World-Class Sleight-of-Hand Magic & Hilarious Comedy performed right before your eyes in an immersive intimate setting that will transport you into another world. The show is highly interactive and includes an incredible trick you will perform yourself! Arrive early and enjoy a drink and/or dinner before your incredible magic & comedy experience for a complete & unforgettable evening.
This is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Professional Comedy Magic up close & personal: only 36 seats per show, so get your tickets now to make sure you don’t miss out!
Here are the upcoming dates for Curt Miller's new show "The Conjurer":
April 29-30: JW Marriott by the Galleria
May 6-7: JW Marriott by the Galleria
June 10-11: South Shore Harbour Resort
July 8-9: The Woodlands Waterway Marriott
You’ll witness World-Class Sleight-of-Hand Magic & Hilarious Comedy performed right before your eyes in an immersive intimate setting that will transport you into another world. The show is highly interactive and includes an incredible trick you will perform yourself! Arrive early and enjoy a drink and/or dinner before your incredible magic & comedy experience for a complete & unforgettable evening.
This is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Professional Comedy Magic up close & personal: only 36 seats per show, so get your tickets now to make sure you don’t miss out!
Here are the upcoming dates for Curt Miller's new show "The Conjurer":
April 29-30: JW Marriott by the Galleria
May 6-7: JW Marriott by the Galleria
June 10-11: South Shore Harbour Resort
July 8-9: The Woodlands Waterway Marriott
Annual Magic Swap Meet
MONDAY, April 4, 2022 we had our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme was a Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $10.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell.
Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, April 4, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$10.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
MONDAY, April 4, 2022 we had our monthly magic club meeting and the month’s theme was a Magic Swap Meet\Flea Market. So how did this work? It was FREE to attend and only $10.00 for a table with a limited number of tables available to sell your stuff!
Sellers are responsible for their own payment methods and can set any price they want of the items to sell.
Buyers – Bring cash as cash is king but be prepared to have small bills.
Monday, April 4, 2022
6:30 PM Seller Set-up Time
7:00 PM Doors Open for Buyers and Attendees
FREE ADMISSION
IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall
3030 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77009
$10.00 per Table to Sell (MUST RESERVE A TABLE IN ADVANCE)
Reserve a Table:
Jamie@MagicByJamie.com
832-724-3045
Paul Driscoll Captured LIVE at Main Street Crossing
Paul Driscoll's recent show at Main Street Crossing is now available for On Demand Streaming. Paul is the first non-musical artist ever to play this historic venue which has featured such acts as Crystal Gayle, Billy Bob Thornton, Lyle Lovett, The Gatlin Brothers and Herman's Hermits.
This performance is Paul's return engagement to Main Street Crossing, and is the full 50-minute show performed in this intimate venue before a live audience. To stream the show go to: https://mixnstream.com/driscoll.html
Paul Driscoll's recent show at Main Street Crossing is now available for On Demand Streaming. Paul is the first non-musical artist ever to play this historic venue which has featured such acts as Crystal Gayle, Billy Bob Thornton, Lyle Lovett, The Gatlin Brothers and Herman's Hermits.
This performance is Paul's return engagement to Main Street Crossing, and is the full 50-minute show performed in this intimate venue before a live audience. To stream the show go to: https://mixnstream.com/driscoll.html
I.B.M. Ring #39 FOOL US
DATELINE HOUSTON, TX: on Monday, January 24, 2022 we will have our very own “FOOL US” show! It will be an online meeting. David and Jake Rangel will be our “Penn and Teller”, and Jamie Salinas, will be the host (Allison) and back stage judge “Johnny Thompson\Mike Close”
Here are the rules so far, which are subject to change:
If this goes well, we will do this again at a future meeting with a different Penn and Teller and a different back stage judge as well as different contestants.
This is being limited to one hour so based upon the contestants and what they will do, will determine how many contestants we can have but we expect six contestants.
Will there be a “Fool Us” trophy? Yes there will be! There may be other prizes as well!
DATELINE HOUSTON, TX: on Monday, January 24, 2022 we will have our very own “FOOL US” show! It will be an online meeting. David and Jake Rangel will be our “Penn and Teller”, and Jamie Salinas, will be the host (Allison) and back stage judge “Johnny Thompson\Mike Close”
Here are the rules so far, which are subject to change:
- Participants must sign up with Jamie Salinas and be accepted to compete.
- You can perform live or submit a recording to me, Jamie Salinas prior to the meeting night.
- Your act must be less than 10 minutes in length
- You must get with Jamie Salinas ahead of time and explain how the trick works so that I will know if David and Jake were fooled.
If this goes well, we will do this again at a future meeting with a different Penn and Teller and a different back stage judge as well as different contestants.
This is being limited to one hour so based upon the contestants and what they will do, will determine how many contestants we can have but we expect six contestants.
Will there be a “Fool Us” trophy? Yes there will be! There may be other prizes as well!
2021
H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 Annual Holiday Party
It has been a difficult two years and it's now time to celebrate the season. Monday December 6, 2021 will be our annual holiday party. Please join the fun as we exchange "White Elephant" gifts. Please bring a wrapped magic gift of some sort to the party. There will be plenty of food and beverages as we also celebrate the birthday of Betty Protas that evening. Gene will be bringing another cake with a photo on the icing.
Please arrive at 6:00 p.m. at the usual place (IATSE Local #51 Hall) and join the celebration! And be sure to bring something new to perform to entertain during the performance part of the evening, too!!
It has been a difficult two years and it's now time to celebrate the season. Monday December 6, 2021 will be our annual holiday party. Please join the fun as we exchange "White Elephant" gifts. Please bring a wrapped magic gift of some sort to the party. There will be plenty of food and beverages as we also celebrate the birthday of Betty Protas that evening. Gene will be bringing another cake with a photo on the icing.
Please arrive at 6:00 p.m. at the usual place (IATSE Local #51 Hall) and join the celebration! And be sure to bring something new to perform to entertain during the performance part of the evening, too!!
Meeting Canceled? Well, not really...
During the pandemic, the local clubs have been meeting online:
Houston Association of Magicians (H.A.O.M.)
S.A.M. Doug Kornegay Assembly #19
I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39
7:30 p.m.
Location: Online!!! Watch for link in upcoming email. If you are not on the HoustonMagic.com email distribution list, then please send your request to be put on the list to Scott Wells at scottwellsmagic@gmail.com
We have been advised not to congregate during this current pandemic. That means we need to find alternate ways to meet. Jamie Salinas has identified a great way to get together online using Zoom Video Conferencing. During the week leading up to the meeting, many members have been testing the platform on computers, laptops, phones and smart tablets. They are all easily accessible to using this app. It would be preferable for you to have a video camera, but it's not necessary. It would also be nice to have audio capabilities, too, but even that isn't necessary. Without those two, you can still watch and listen, but no one can see or hear you. But all phone obviously have audio and all smart phones have video, even if your computer does not.
As we move closer to the meeting night, an email will be sent out to the HoustonMagic.com email list with instructions on how to log in and join us. It will be much easier than you think to get online and join us. You only need to click on the link that will be sent to you and download the Zoom app then enter the meeting ID number and password. Then "BOOM", you're in! See you Monday!
During the pandemic, the local clubs have been meeting online:
Houston Association of Magicians (H.A.O.M.)
S.A.M. Doug Kornegay Assembly #19
I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39
7:30 p.m.
Location: Online!!! Watch for link in upcoming email. If you are not on the HoustonMagic.com email distribution list, then please send your request to be put on the list to Scott Wells at scottwellsmagic@gmail.com
We have been advised not to congregate during this current pandemic. That means we need to find alternate ways to meet. Jamie Salinas has identified a great way to get together online using Zoom Video Conferencing. During the week leading up to the meeting, many members have been testing the platform on computers, laptops, phones and smart tablets. They are all easily accessible to using this app. It would be preferable for you to have a video camera, but it's not necessary. It would also be nice to have audio capabilities, too, but even that isn't necessary. Without those two, you can still watch and listen, but no one can see or hear you. But all phone obviously have audio and all smart phones have video, even if your computer does not.
As we move closer to the meeting night, an email will be sent out to the HoustonMagic.com email list with instructions on how to log in and join us. It will be much easier than you think to get online and join us. You only need to click on the link that will be sent to you and download the Zoom app then enter the meeting ID number and password. Then "BOOM", you're in! See you Monday!
Local Magicians Star in LIVE Stage Show on August 22, 2021
Preamble Lounge & Craft House in Webster, Texas, will host a night of cocktails with conjurers, magicians and con men featuring David and Jake Rangel, Shaun, Alex Rangel and Caesar.
Date: Sunday August 22, 2021
Ticket Prices: $10.00 and $15.00
Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Preamble Lounge & Craft House, 20801 Gulf Freeway, Suite 12, Webster, Texas 77598
For more details and ticket information, please contact David Rangel at 713-363-1533 or by email at thedavidrangel@gmail.com
Preamble Lounge & Craft House in Webster, Texas, will host a night of cocktails with conjurers, magicians and con men featuring David and Jake Rangel, Shaun, Alex Rangel and Caesar.
Date: Sunday August 22, 2021
Ticket Prices: $10.00 and $15.00
Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Preamble Lounge & Craft House, 20801 Gulf Freeway, Suite 12, Webster, Texas 77598
For more details and ticket information, please contact David Rangel at 713-363-1533 or by email at thedavidrangel@gmail.com
Live Magic, Music and Comedy Is Back! Paul Driscoll Returns to Main Street Crossing
Paul Driscoll will be sharing this stage with Houston music icon, RAY ROGERS, for a truly special evening on Thursday, August 12th.
Ray and his band "Bojangles" were discovered by Liza Minnelli, who featured them in her international tours, on stages of Las Vegas, and on her national TV appearances. Many Houstonians will remembers Ray's legendary night spot, "Club Bojangles." Ray is a great entertainer and multi-instrument musical and vocal artist. He will be performing the songs of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Jim Croce, Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, Bobby Darin, and many more favorites.
Most recently, Ray has been working with Clint Black in Nashville. And Paul Driscoll will have some new tricks up his rather long sleeves for his return to this landmark live entertainment venue in Tomball, Texas.
Main Street Crossing offers a small, but excellent dinner menu which can be previewed at their website. They offer a selection of over 40 beers and a wonderful choice of wines as well.
Date: Thursday August 12, 2021
Doors and Kitchen open at 6:00 p.m.
Showtime is 8:00 p.m.
Main Street Crossing is an intimate venue, so seating is limited.
Here are all the details and ticket information: https://mailchi.mp/3f2ff941cd51/paul-driscoll-at-main-street-crossing
Paul Driscoll will be sharing this stage with Houston music icon, RAY ROGERS, for a truly special evening on Thursday, August 12th.
Ray and his band "Bojangles" were discovered by Liza Minnelli, who featured them in her international tours, on stages of Las Vegas, and on her national TV appearances. Many Houstonians will remembers Ray's legendary night spot, "Club Bojangles." Ray is a great entertainer and multi-instrument musical and vocal artist. He will be performing the songs of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Jim Croce, Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, Bobby Darin, and many more favorites.
Most recently, Ray has been working with Clint Black in Nashville. And Paul Driscoll will have some new tricks up his rather long sleeves for his return to this landmark live entertainment venue in Tomball, Texas.
Main Street Crossing offers a small, but excellent dinner menu which can be previewed at their website. They offer a selection of over 40 beers and a wonderful choice of wines as well.
Date: Thursday August 12, 2021
Doors and Kitchen open at 6:00 p.m.
Showtime is 8:00 p.m.
Main Street Crossing is an intimate venue, so seating is limited.
Here are all the details and ticket information: https://mailchi.mp/3f2ff941cd51/paul-driscoll-at-main-street-crossing
Alain Nu - Mentalism from The Man Who Knows
What: A Virtual Lecture
Who: Alain Nu
Date: TBD
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Online. Zoom link to be provided when available. Watch this space for further information.
Cost: This will be a FREE lecture for this online event.
More: Alain Nu is someone you should really grab your chance to see. It is not often that he lectures for the magic world, as most of his career has been focused on being a full-time stage performer (for corporate events, theaters, casinos, and cruise ships). He has also starred in a four-part mini-series on TLC and is the author of two books, State Of Mind and Picture Your ESP, both available on Amazon and in bookstores. After spending the first few months of the pandemic honing a virtual mentalism show that kept his performing career going, he was uniquely qualified to be invited as one of the few stage acts to reopen live performances in Las Vegas. Alain performed over 130 shows at the Alexis Park Resort between November 2020 and August 2021.
Alain Nu is not just any "mentalist." He is a truly gifted, clever, and creative artist. In this brand new lecture, Alain will teach you a full repertoire of his own original VIRTUAL and INTERACTIVE mentalism routines. While perfect for performing over Zoom, many of the routines presented can also immediately go into your LIVE show repertoire as well! These routines are all clever and strong, require a very minimal set up, and many of them have even been tested onstage in Las Vegas! This lecture will reveal many of Alain's brand new and most unique show-stoppers, and he promises that some are destined to become mentalism classics. He will also be offering e-books of his out-of-print manuscripts at this event!
Lecture Overview:
1) Some very cool VIRTUAL card tricks
2) A super-clever virtual effect regarding Sacred Geometry
3) A virtual prediction effect in which the spectator separates four red cards from four black cards in a most straightforward way
4) Alain's solution to a perfect (near impromptu/no switch) Confabulation. This effect is a true show-stopper -- live OR virtual
5) Alain's perfect solution to an "any-book" book-test. As seen in Las Vegas!
6) If there's more time ... Alain has written multiple tomes of creative works and has been published in trade journals, periodicals, and books worldwide -- MAGIC, MUM, Vanish, The Linking Ring, Stephen Hobbs' Labyrinth, John Bannon's Impossibilia and Dear Mr Fantasy, Neal Scryer and Friends, Lee Earl's Syzygy, Jeff McBride's Mystery School Book, not to mention the underground books he wrote and put out himself and through Lee Asher's website.
Testimonials:
"Alain Nu's 2022 lecture for The Magic Circle was excellent. His mentalism routines were strong and intriguing, and many of the members will definitely add them to their own arsenals. Alain is passionate and meticulous and that showed clearly in his lecture, which is highly recommended." -- Gunnar Kr. Sigurjónsson, Associate of the Inner Magic Circle
"Alain presented a fantastic Zoom lecture for The Elders. Everyone had a great time, and learned a lot they can put to use. In addition to the prepared material, his thinking on questions he was asked provided valuable insights from his vast performing experience. Many are digging deeper into Alain's deep catalog of other output as a result too. There's a lot of treasure there to reward them. I highly recommend Alain Nu's mentalism lecture. Any group can benefit from it, from lifetime professionals to those just discovering mentalism." - Allen Gittelson (Mentalist, Editor and contributor to the Psychological Subtleties series)
"Thank you, Alain, for your seminar yesterday for Stolina Magie (Germany). I enjoyed your ideas and your view on mentalism. I’m not so much into virtual or Zoom magic, but I love propless mentalism, and enjoyed your two and a half hours very much, including many of your little ruses and ploys, and especially your book test! This was great food for thought and will certainly find its way into my work. I loved the personal touch of your seminar, your remarks on your experiences during the pandemic, how you developed from being a younger performer, all your references to where you found the original ideas of your routines, your philosophy, and -finally - your personality, honesty and kindness." -- A German lecture attendee (with extraordinarily good taste)
"I have seen so many lectures on zoom and gotta say that Alain's lecture is one of the best. There were several great effects that were good for either 'in person' or even on Zoom that I could see myself doing. He taught several other effects which I felt were super strong and are definitely going into my repertoire. Highly recommended lecture!" -- Robert Ray, President of SAM Assembly #248 / Vice President of IBM Ring 55
"Just looking through the table of contents will give you a notion of the valuable material within these pages. Alain is never one to share pipe dreams, but rather solid material direct from his working repertoire including the background of where these originated. Every piece in these notes is not only worth using but can be used remotely either on the phone or through Zoom so are great for performing in front of many people or to use when promoting and selling your show to a prospective booker. I highly recommend you invest in these notes if you want real world, 21st century material that is versatile enough to be used in any performance situation." - Paul Alberstat (Psychic Entertainer, Mentalist, Intuitive)
"The final piece alone in Alain Nu's most recent book, is worth double the price of the book. I’ve performed with this piece on a few occasions already, and it’s a reputation maker. Honestly, it’s so good that I wish he hadn’t released it yet. In one routine he reveals two audience member star signs, a randomly thought of number, while also predicting 'the description' of who the final audience member will be. The performer doesn’t use any gimmickry or have to use any pre-show. It’s all blocking, pacing, and stage craft. It’s definitely my favourite new routine of the last couple years. But you also get a bunch of card effects you can do on a Zoom show, Nu’s work on revealing star signs, plus a great piece where the entire audience ends up with the same mystic number, and MORE! It’s all solid and fleshed out work. This is not to be missed!" - Stuart Palm (Psychic Entertainer, Hypnotist, Fortune Teller)
What: A Virtual Lecture
Who: Alain Nu
Date: TBD
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Online. Zoom link to be provided when available. Watch this space for further information.
Cost: This will be a FREE lecture for this online event.
More: Alain Nu is someone you should really grab your chance to see. It is not often that he lectures for the magic world, as most of his career has been focused on being a full-time stage performer (for corporate events, theaters, casinos, and cruise ships). He has also starred in a four-part mini-series on TLC and is the author of two books, State Of Mind and Picture Your ESP, both available on Amazon and in bookstores. After spending the first few months of the pandemic honing a virtual mentalism show that kept his performing career going, he was uniquely qualified to be invited as one of the few stage acts to reopen live performances in Las Vegas. Alain performed over 130 shows at the Alexis Park Resort between November 2020 and August 2021.
Alain Nu is not just any "mentalist." He is a truly gifted, clever, and creative artist. In this brand new lecture, Alain will teach you a full repertoire of his own original VIRTUAL and INTERACTIVE mentalism routines. While perfect for performing over Zoom, many of the routines presented can also immediately go into your LIVE show repertoire as well! These routines are all clever and strong, require a very minimal set up, and many of them have even been tested onstage in Las Vegas! This lecture will reveal many of Alain's brand new and most unique show-stoppers, and he promises that some are destined to become mentalism classics. He will also be offering e-books of his out-of-print manuscripts at this event!
Lecture Overview:
1) Some very cool VIRTUAL card tricks
2) A super-clever virtual effect regarding Sacred Geometry
3) A virtual prediction effect in which the spectator separates four red cards from four black cards in a most straightforward way
4) Alain's solution to a perfect (near impromptu/no switch) Confabulation. This effect is a true show-stopper -- live OR virtual
5) Alain's perfect solution to an "any-book" book-test. As seen in Las Vegas!
6) If there's more time ... Alain has written multiple tomes of creative works and has been published in trade journals, periodicals, and books worldwide -- MAGIC, MUM, Vanish, The Linking Ring, Stephen Hobbs' Labyrinth, John Bannon's Impossibilia and Dear Mr Fantasy, Neal Scryer and Friends, Lee Earl's Syzygy, Jeff McBride's Mystery School Book, not to mention the underground books he wrote and put out himself and through Lee Asher's website.
Testimonials:
"Alain Nu's 2022 lecture for The Magic Circle was excellent. His mentalism routines were strong and intriguing, and many of the members will definitely add them to their own arsenals. Alain is passionate and meticulous and that showed clearly in his lecture, which is highly recommended." -- Gunnar Kr. Sigurjónsson, Associate of the Inner Magic Circle
"Alain presented a fantastic Zoom lecture for The Elders. Everyone had a great time, and learned a lot they can put to use. In addition to the prepared material, his thinking on questions he was asked provided valuable insights from his vast performing experience. Many are digging deeper into Alain's deep catalog of other output as a result too. There's a lot of treasure there to reward them. I highly recommend Alain Nu's mentalism lecture. Any group can benefit from it, from lifetime professionals to those just discovering mentalism." - Allen Gittelson (Mentalist, Editor and contributor to the Psychological Subtleties series)
"Thank you, Alain, for your seminar yesterday for Stolina Magie (Germany). I enjoyed your ideas and your view on mentalism. I’m not so much into virtual or Zoom magic, but I love propless mentalism, and enjoyed your two and a half hours very much, including many of your little ruses and ploys, and especially your book test! This was great food for thought and will certainly find its way into my work. I loved the personal touch of your seminar, your remarks on your experiences during the pandemic, how you developed from being a younger performer, all your references to where you found the original ideas of your routines, your philosophy, and -finally - your personality, honesty and kindness." -- A German lecture attendee (with extraordinarily good taste)
"I have seen so many lectures on zoom and gotta say that Alain's lecture is one of the best. There were several great effects that were good for either 'in person' or even on Zoom that I could see myself doing. He taught several other effects which I felt were super strong and are definitely going into my repertoire. Highly recommended lecture!" -- Robert Ray, President of SAM Assembly #248 / Vice President of IBM Ring 55
"Just looking through the table of contents will give you a notion of the valuable material within these pages. Alain is never one to share pipe dreams, but rather solid material direct from his working repertoire including the background of where these originated. Every piece in these notes is not only worth using but can be used remotely either on the phone or through Zoom so are great for performing in front of many people or to use when promoting and selling your show to a prospective booker. I highly recommend you invest in these notes if you want real world, 21st century material that is versatile enough to be used in any performance situation." - Paul Alberstat (Psychic Entertainer, Mentalist, Intuitive)
"The final piece alone in Alain Nu's most recent book, is worth double the price of the book. I’ve performed with this piece on a few occasions already, and it’s a reputation maker. Honestly, it’s so good that I wish he hadn’t released it yet. In one routine he reveals two audience member star signs, a randomly thought of number, while also predicting 'the description' of who the final audience member will be. The performer doesn’t use any gimmickry or have to use any pre-show. It’s all blocking, pacing, and stage craft. It’s definitely my favourite new routine of the last couple years. But you also get a bunch of card effects you can do on a Zoom show, Nu’s work on revealing star signs, plus a great piece where the entire audience ends up with the same mystic number, and MORE! It’s all solid and fleshed out work. This is not to be missed!" - Stuart Palm (Psychic Entertainer, Hypnotist, Fortune Teller)
Magic and Martinis Thursday Virtual Happy Hour
Do you miss hanging out with magic friends at meetings and conventions? Well, then this is for you!
Since May 2020 Scott Wells has been hosting a weekly online "virtual happy hour" that features magician guests from across the country and welcomes everyone to participate in the Live Streaming videos. These go live each Thursday night on Facebook and YouTube where attendees can watch, listen and participate through the chat line where you will be recognized and your questions answered in real time by the guests.
Each week Scott welcomes three different guests as they "gather around the virtual bar" to talk about magic and what everyone has been doing during quarantine. This is the next best thing to being with each other. And as long as we cannot see each other in person or shake hands or hug each other, this is the next best thing.
And to make it feel as if you are actually attending a magic convention, you can download your FREE convention badge, write in your name and take a selfie. Scott will then show your picture during the broadcast and give you a "shout-out." Join the fun and register for the convention. It's free and it's fun. Click Here to download your PDF file, print it out, put it in one of your old convention badge holders, then take a selfie and send it to scott@themagicwordpodcast.com scott@themagicwordpodcast.com
If you missed any of the past episodes, they are all archived and posted on Facebook and YouTube. Enjoy!
Do you miss hanging out with magic friends at meetings and conventions? Well, then this is for you!
Since May 2020 Scott Wells has been hosting a weekly online "virtual happy hour" that features magician guests from across the country and welcomes everyone to participate in the Live Streaming videos. These go live each Thursday night on Facebook and YouTube where attendees can watch, listen and participate through the chat line where you will be recognized and your questions answered in real time by the guests.
Each week Scott welcomes three different guests as they "gather around the virtual bar" to talk about magic and what everyone has been doing during quarantine. This is the next best thing to being with each other. And as long as we cannot see each other in person or shake hands or hug each other, this is the next best thing.
And to make it feel as if you are actually attending a magic convention, you can download your FREE convention badge, write in your name and take a selfie. Scott will then show your picture during the broadcast and give you a "shout-out." Join the fun and register for the convention. It's free and it's fun. Click Here to download your PDF file, print it out, put it in one of your old convention badge holders, then take a selfie and send it to scott@themagicwordpodcast.com scott@themagicwordpodcast.com
If you missed any of the past episodes, they are all archived and posted on Facebook and YouTube. Enjoy!
Ben Jackson is Back, Baby!
We are thrilled to welcome guests back to Houston’s most intimate theatrical experience hosted exclusively at Four Seasons Hotel Houston. Join us July 30th or 31st for an evening of downtown sophistication and miracles on demand!
When: July 30 and July 31
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Houston
More Information and Tickets: www.benjacksonmagic.com/live
We are thrilled to welcome guests back to Houston’s most intimate theatrical experience hosted exclusively at Four Seasons Hotel Houston. Join us July 30th or 31st for an evening of downtown sophistication and miracles on demand!
When: July 30 and July 31
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Houston
More Information and Tickets: www.benjacksonmagic.com/live
Covid-19 Takes Tom Tyner
Another of our Houston magician members has been taken by the dreaded virus that is plaguing the world. Tom Tyner passed on Thursday January 7, 2021 from Covid-19. He was one of our elder members of our local magic community and beloved by many. Tom was always seen at our annual Installation of Officers Banquets and holds the record for bringing the most people and selling the most tickets. Tom often joined us for dinners before our meetings and was always cheerful and fun to be around. He loved magic and often performed for friends at dinner parties. Over the past several years, Tom was unable to attend the meetings because of a failed back operation and his deteriorating eyesight. Aloha, my friend.
Another of our Houston magician members has been taken by the dreaded virus that is plaguing the world. Tom Tyner passed on Thursday January 7, 2021 from Covid-19. He was one of our elder members of our local magic community and beloved by many. Tom was always seen at our annual Installation of Officers Banquets and holds the record for bringing the most people and selling the most tickets. Tom often joined us for dinners before our meetings and was always cheerful and fun to be around. He loved magic and often performed for friends at dinner parties. Over the past several years, Tom was unable to attend the meetings because of a failed back operation and his deteriorating eyesight. Aloha, my friend.
Steve Shain Passes
It is with much sadness that we have to report the passing of one of Houston's great magicians. On Saturday January 9, 2021, Steve Shain passed peacefully after battling Covid 19. Due to quarantine restrictions, he was unable to be attended by his wife, Lila, or any family or friends in his final moments. Steve was a multiple recipient of the Bob Blau Award from the Scott Hollingsworth I.B.M. Ring #39 for his many contributions. Most importantly, Steve was one who always gave freely not only of his time in sharing ideas, but also with his coordination of the hospital shows. He was always the first to work with charity shows and although an adept sleight-of-hand artist and knowledgeable practitioner of magic, he never performed for pay but instead donated his performances to those who needed it most. He had a depth of knowledge (particularly card magic) from his huge library of magic books and was a frequent attendee at the annual, invitation-only Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic in New York where he was always warmly welcomed as he exchanged card moves and magic ideas with magicians from around the world. He will be sadly missed by us all. Aloha, my friend.
It is with much sadness that we have to report the passing of one of Houston's great magicians. On Saturday January 9, 2021, Steve Shain passed peacefully after battling Covid 19. Due to quarantine restrictions, he was unable to be attended by his wife, Lila, or any family or friends in his final moments. Steve was a multiple recipient of the Bob Blau Award from the Scott Hollingsworth I.B.M. Ring #39 for his many contributions. Most importantly, Steve was one who always gave freely not only of his time in sharing ideas, but also with his coordination of the hospital shows. He was always the first to work with charity shows and although an adept sleight-of-hand artist and knowledgeable practitioner of magic, he never performed for pay but instead donated his performances to those who needed it most. He had a depth of knowledge (particularly card magic) from his huge library of magic books and was a frequent attendee at the annual, invitation-only Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic in New York where he was always warmly welcomed as he exchanged card moves and magic ideas with magicians from around the world. He will be sadly missed by us all. Aloha, my friend.
Annual Installation of Officers Magic Banquet Went Virtual in 2021
Due to quarantine restrictions, we did something different this year. This Valentine's Day on Sunday February 14, 2021 we gathered together some of the most notable magic celebrities from across our city and from around the world to come together for an awesome, memorable virtual experience. Every guest had a front row seat in the Zoom event that was attended by over 130 logins which represented an attendance of well over 300 total viewers at home. The pre-show kicked off with a 15 minute slideshow presentation that was re-played afterwards when the virtual show ended.
Scott Wells hosted the event and quickly introduced a foreign guest from Israel, Uri Geller, who sent his greetings and congratulatory message to the incoming officers. Since we typically have close-up magic before the formal induction ceremonies, we opened with the close-up performance of Suzanne the Magician who was ably and virtually assisted by Betty Protas with a mysterious card trick followed by her beautiful cups and balls. The installation of officers was presided by National Officers. The officers of the S.A.M. Assembly #19 were installed by the Most Illustrious, National President of the S.A.M. Joel Zaritsky. The I.B.M. Ring #39 officers were installed by the International President of the I.B.M., Stephen Bargatze. And Bill Palmer installed the 2021 officers for the H.A.O.M. This was followed by a "Hail and Farewell" tribute to those members of our group who passed during this past year. Then the magic began.
David Rangel and his son, Jacob, (a.k.a. Curiously Enough) opened with a dual act that was a coin routine. Jake did a curious jumbo card trick then his father, David closed with a currency "hustle" at the bar. Our own Curt Miller involved a Zoom room volunteer to assist in a clever and comedic "Bank Night" routine involving envelopes. Our young magician member, Wyatt Moncla, next performed a pair of card tricks involving his sister as the volunteer. From Los Angeles, Gregory Wilson performed one of the oldest tricks in magic using a stick and a rock that was extremely clever and deceptive. Internationally acclaimed illusionist, Franz Harary, next showed up to congratulate the incoming officers and wish our group well. Former Houston resident, Banachek, next performed an interactive trick where guests were encouraged to touch the screen to ultimately divine the correct animal. Publisher of the former MAGIC Magazine, Stan Allen, next sent greetings and felicitations from Las Vegas. Next from Las Vegas, Murray Sawchuck, gave us a backstage peek into his dressing room as he performed the "Wellington Light Board." He was followed by yet another Las Vegas performer, Fielding West who produced Bob the Bird. Closing out the show, Paul Draper performed a two ring routine to his singing accompaniment of "Pure Imagination" from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. A very satisfying conclusion to a delightful evening.
All of this would not have been possible without the aid and assistance of our producer, Jamie Salinas and all those who contributed their individual parts in making this a most memorable event.
Due to quarantine restrictions, we did something different this year. This Valentine's Day on Sunday February 14, 2021 we gathered together some of the most notable magic celebrities from across our city and from around the world to come together for an awesome, memorable virtual experience. Every guest had a front row seat in the Zoom event that was attended by over 130 logins which represented an attendance of well over 300 total viewers at home. The pre-show kicked off with a 15 minute slideshow presentation that was re-played afterwards when the virtual show ended.
Scott Wells hosted the event and quickly introduced a foreign guest from Israel, Uri Geller, who sent his greetings and congratulatory message to the incoming officers. Since we typically have close-up magic before the formal induction ceremonies, we opened with the close-up performance of Suzanne the Magician who was ably and virtually assisted by Betty Protas with a mysterious card trick followed by her beautiful cups and balls. The installation of officers was presided by National Officers. The officers of the S.A.M. Assembly #19 were installed by the Most Illustrious, National President of the S.A.M. Joel Zaritsky. The I.B.M. Ring #39 officers were installed by the International President of the I.B.M., Stephen Bargatze. And Bill Palmer installed the 2021 officers for the H.A.O.M. This was followed by a "Hail and Farewell" tribute to those members of our group who passed during this past year. Then the magic began.
David Rangel and his son, Jacob, (a.k.a. Curiously Enough) opened with a dual act that was a coin routine. Jake did a curious jumbo card trick then his father, David closed with a currency "hustle" at the bar. Our own Curt Miller involved a Zoom room volunteer to assist in a clever and comedic "Bank Night" routine involving envelopes. Our young magician member, Wyatt Moncla, next performed a pair of card tricks involving his sister as the volunteer. From Los Angeles, Gregory Wilson performed one of the oldest tricks in magic using a stick and a rock that was extremely clever and deceptive. Internationally acclaimed illusionist, Franz Harary, next showed up to congratulate the incoming officers and wish our group well. Former Houston resident, Banachek, next performed an interactive trick where guests were encouraged to touch the screen to ultimately divine the correct animal. Publisher of the former MAGIC Magazine, Stan Allen, next sent greetings and felicitations from Las Vegas. Next from Las Vegas, Murray Sawchuck, gave us a backstage peek into his dressing room as he performed the "Wellington Light Board." He was followed by yet another Las Vegas performer, Fielding West who produced Bob the Bird. Closing out the show, Paul Draper performed a two ring routine to his singing accompaniment of "Pure Imagination" from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. A very satisfying conclusion to a delightful evening.
All of this would not have been possible without the aid and assistance of our producer, Jamie Salinas and all those who contributed their individual parts in making this a most memorable event.
2020
John Star Succumbs
NOTE: From the December 13, 2020 Facebook page of Curt Miller: Ladies & Gentleman, the great John Star has passed. He was truly a Master Magician; a regular at the famed Magic Castle for years, a member of England’s “Magic Circle,” a performer to the stars (Michael Caine, Lady Di…) and truly one of the funniest and most charming people I’ve ever known. His kind, gentle nature made everyone love him (his English accent and razor-sharp wit helped as well). I am grateful for the many adventures we had and for the thousand times we had lunch and shared tales of old adventures, new magic routines and stories about last night’s audience.
I’ve been saying goodbye over the last six years as his Lewy Body Dementia slowly took him away. And even though he lost his magic and most of his words, he never lost his comedy timing. He was a treasure.
RIP my best friend.
NOTE: From the December 13, 2020 Facebook page of Curt Miller: Ladies & Gentleman, the great John Star has passed. He was truly a Master Magician; a regular at the famed Magic Castle for years, a member of England’s “Magic Circle,” a performer to the stars (Michael Caine, Lady Di…) and truly one of the funniest and most charming people I’ve ever known. His kind, gentle nature made everyone love him (his English accent and razor-sharp wit helped as well). I am grateful for the many adventures we had and for the thousand times we had lunch and shared tales of old adventures, new magic routines and stories about last night’s audience.
I’ve been saying goodbye over the last six years as his Lewy Body Dementia slowly took him away. And even though he lost his magic and most of his words, he never lost his comedy timing. He was a treasure.
RIP my best friend.
Walter "Zaney" Blaney Passes
NOTE: From the obituary in Genii Magazine: They say that “everything’s bigger in Texas.” When it comes to magicians, few can fill the boots of the 6’6” tall Texan, Walter “Zaney” Blaney. His life and legacy are the stuff that dreams are made of.
Walter was born February 11, 1928 and had many young magician friends that led him to his professional career. He and Mark Wilson used to watch the Blackstone, Sr. show in Dallas then hang out at Douglas’ Magic Land with other aspiring tricksters. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Drama from the University of Texas after switching from Chemical Engineering with only a semester to complete. Along the way in life he considered being in the clergy, a career he didn’t pursue, but he did run for Congress on the Republican ticket. He and his first (and only) wife, Joyce, had three daughters, Becky, Shannon and Carol, who were the never-ending focus and true loves of his life. But Magic was probably his fourth daughter whom he loved unconditionally.
Of course, Walter is best known for the development of his “Ladder Levitation” and “The Hoop” but along the way he invented “The Great Escape” among others. Few magicians know that in addition to creating illusions, he originated “the clean hand” gag line. His profession as a magician took him across the globe and to foreign destinations where he delighted and mystified the public as well as magicians. He appeared on many TV talk and game shows like “To Tell The Truth” and “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” among so many more. Six different Texas State Governors appointed Walter as the “Ambassador of Magic” and he was a favorite of the Mercury Mission NASA astronauts. Among the many autographed photos of Presidents, politicians and astronauts that he personally knew and proudly displayed in his living room, the one that stood out for me was signed by Alan Shepard saluting the flag on the moon saying, “Walter, this is real magic!”
Walter made his mark as a corporate, after-dinner entertainer with his comedy and pickpocket routine that kept the audience laughing. He had a unique take and style unlike anyone before or since. And his rapid reproduction of the Birdcage Vanish was a closely guarded secret that he took to his grave. He also was one of the pioneers of trade show magic with his company “Show Stoppers” that took him across the country.
He was often seen at magic conventions where he stood out and attracted attention. He always posed for pictures with everyone and shared stories and his friendship with all he met. Walter always carried index cards and a pen in his shirt pocket where he would jot notes of memories that would be “going in my book.” Unfortunately, in later years as his eyesight and health deteriorated, he was unable to complete more than just his early years before he became a full time professional.
Walter died peacefully in hospital on November 11, 2020 surrounded by his family after suffering a brain injury from a fall. He is survived by his three beautiful daughters, their husbands and five grandchildren. Aloha, my friend.
Scott Wells, M.I.M.C. with Gold Star
NOTE: From the obituary in Genii Magazine: They say that “everything’s bigger in Texas.” When it comes to magicians, few can fill the boots of the 6’6” tall Texan, Walter “Zaney” Blaney. His life and legacy are the stuff that dreams are made of.
Walter was born February 11, 1928 and had many young magician friends that led him to his professional career. He and Mark Wilson used to watch the Blackstone, Sr. show in Dallas then hang out at Douglas’ Magic Land with other aspiring tricksters. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Drama from the University of Texas after switching from Chemical Engineering with only a semester to complete. Along the way in life he considered being in the clergy, a career he didn’t pursue, but he did run for Congress on the Republican ticket. He and his first (and only) wife, Joyce, had three daughters, Becky, Shannon and Carol, who were the never-ending focus and true loves of his life. But Magic was probably his fourth daughter whom he loved unconditionally.
Of course, Walter is best known for the development of his “Ladder Levitation” and “The Hoop” but along the way he invented “The Great Escape” among others. Few magicians know that in addition to creating illusions, he originated “the clean hand” gag line. His profession as a magician took him across the globe and to foreign destinations where he delighted and mystified the public as well as magicians. He appeared on many TV talk and game shows like “To Tell The Truth” and “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” among so many more. Six different Texas State Governors appointed Walter as the “Ambassador of Magic” and he was a favorite of the Mercury Mission NASA astronauts. Among the many autographed photos of Presidents, politicians and astronauts that he personally knew and proudly displayed in his living room, the one that stood out for me was signed by Alan Shepard saluting the flag on the moon saying, “Walter, this is real magic!”
Walter made his mark as a corporate, after-dinner entertainer with his comedy and pickpocket routine that kept the audience laughing. He had a unique take and style unlike anyone before or since. And his rapid reproduction of the Birdcage Vanish was a closely guarded secret that he took to his grave. He also was one of the pioneers of trade show magic with his company “Show Stoppers” that took him across the country.
He was often seen at magic conventions where he stood out and attracted attention. He always posed for pictures with everyone and shared stories and his friendship with all he met. Walter always carried index cards and a pen in his shirt pocket where he would jot notes of memories that would be “going in my book.” Unfortunately, in later years as his eyesight and health deteriorated, he was unable to complete more than just his early years before he became a full time professional.
Walter died peacefully in hospital on November 11, 2020 surrounded by his family after suffering a brain injury from a fall. He is survived by his three beautiful daughters, their husbands and five grandchildren. Aloha, my friend.
Scott Wells, M.I.M.C. with Gold Star
From England, John Carey to present his Virtual World Tour Lecture for I.B.M. Ring #39
Acclaimed international close-up magician, John Carey, will present his virtual magic lecture for the Scott Hollingsworth I.B.M. Ring #39 September monthly meeting. This will be a Zoom meeting/lecture at our usual time and "unusual" place...online. Watch your email for the Zoom URL to attend this one.
Who: John Carey
When: Monday, September 28, 2020
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Other: John Carey is the critically acclaimed author of six books of highly commercial and practical close up magic and has myriad DVDs and downloads to his name. His work has taken him so far to 20 countries around the world and his material is in the repertoire of magicians globally.
In his 90 minute Zoom lecture, John will be teaching you an array of highly practical effects that you will enjoy and actually want to use! There will be classic effects with coins such as coins to purse, spellbound, the hanging coins and a beautiful coins across, all given the Carey treatment. Powerful and doable workers!
Cards are covered, too, with a beautiful and moveless cutting the Aces, a highly visual approach to twisting the Aces, the invisible palm and John’s amazing stealth assembly, which the great John Bannon called a neo-classic and has proven extremely popular with card magicians around the world.
John will also teach two very strong versions of the broken and restored rubber band you will love. Finally he will have a discussion on the art of Equivoque, with 3 effects performed and taught, with both dice and cards. Carey’s work on Equivoque will open your eyes to a world of possibilities!
An evening with Carey is an event you will not want to miss. Seven of the items in the lecture are brand new and unpublished and this will be the first time John has shared them. He will also perform material from his latest book, Reflections we are sure you will love. All the material is strong, commercial and practical. You are in for a treat!
Acclaimed international close-up magician, John Carey, will present his virtual magic lecture for the Scott Hollingsworth I.B.M. Ring #39 September monthly meeting. This will be a Zoom meeting/lecture at our usual time and "unusual" place...online. Watch your email for the Zoom URL to attend this one.
Who: John Carey
When: Monday, September 28, 2020
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Other: John Carey is the critically acclaimed author of six books of highly commercial and practical close up magic and has myriad DVDs and downloads to his name. His work has taken him so far to 20 countries around the world and his material is in the repertoire of magicians globally.
In his 90 minute Zoom lecture, John will be teaching you an array of highly practical effects that you will enjoy and actually want to use! There will be classic effects with coins such as coins to purse, spellbound, the hanging coins and a beautiful coins across, all given the Carey treatment. Powerful and doable workers!
Cards are covered, too, with a beautiful and moveless cutting the Aces, a highly visual approach to twisting the Aces, the invisible palm and John’s amazing stealth assembly, which the great John Bannon called a neo-classic and has proven extremely popular with card magicians around the world.
John will also teach two very strong versions of the broken and restored rubber band you will love. Finally he will have a discussion on the art of Equivoque, with 3 effects performed and taught, with both dice and cards. Carey’s work on Equivoque will open your eyes to a world of possibilities!
An evening with Carey is an event you will not want to miss. Seven of the items in the lecture are brand new and unpublished and this will be the first time John has shared them. He will also perform material from his latest book, Reflections we are sure you will love. All the material is strong, commercial and practical. You are in for a treat!
Gregory Wilson Presented His "Lockdown Lecture" to I.B.M. Ring #39 on July 27, 2020
Even though we are not having physical lectures for our group, we do continue to host virtual events presented by guest performers and lecturers during our regular I.B.M. meetings. Gregory Wilson gave us a two hour lecture during our July meeting. It included a lot of new material that we can perform virtually and online for our friends on Zoom or Skype. Plus he pulled out a couple of his classic effects then offered us some great savings on some of his products.
Even though we are not having physical lectures for our group, we do continue to host virtual events presented by guest performers and lecturers during our regular I.B.M. meetings. Gregory Wilson gave us a two hour lecture during our July meeting. It included a lot of new material that we can perform virtually and online for our friends on Zoom or Skype. Plus he pulled out a couple of his classic effects then offered us some great savings on some of his products.
How Magic Clubs Can Evolve By Andi Gladwin - Sunday, October 4, 2020
If there's one thing I've missed more than anything in 2020, it's lecturing for magicians. I had the busiest year of my career booked with lectures in close to a dozen countries, with requests to focus on various different topics and deep-dives. The primary reason I love to lecture is that it gives me the opportunity to meet and interact with magicians from all over the world, hear their viewpoints, and see their magic.
I'm one of those frustratingly positive people who believe that the world will mostly return to normal after the pandemic. But I also have to ask myself, how will things change for magic clubs around the world? Here are some thoughts:
More focus on communication between club nights
This year, I have received regular requests to lecture online, share short videos with groups, and interact with magicians in new ways (such as on Facebook groups, Zoom hangouts, and so on). And while I don't think those will be the primary ways magic clubs will meet ongoing, I do think we'll see more magic clubs have more regular hangouts and interactions between club nights. This way, magic clubs become more than a monthly outing, but instead a group of people all wanting to share and improve their magic.
Beginners outreach and support
I have noticed more people than ever before starting up magic. Local magic clubs can become the go-to place to help these new people progress and improve their skills. It's a win/win as clubs will grow, and magic will get better.
Less visiting lecturers
At least initially, I sense that we'll see less lectures passing through magic club's each month. But perhaps that's OK for a while, because when your club has a visiting lecture, it will be a much more special experience.
More agility
I am often surprised at how far in advance magic clubs (especially British magic clubs) arrange their club nights. Even before the pandemic, I was receiving requests to lecture two years in the future. But we've now seen that the world can change in a heartbeat and so I hope that magic clubs start planning just a few months ahead so that they can respond to things that happen around them.
Better support for local events
The world needs entertainment more than ever before. Magic clubs could easily become a source of that entertainment with local performances and shows.
Whatever happens, I'm excited to get back to touring and visiting magic clubs!
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For more information, you can visit the Vanishing Inc. blog and website at: https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/blog/how-magic-clubs-can-evolve
I'm one of those frustratingly positive people who believe that the world will mostly return to normal after the pandemic. But I also have to ask myself, how will things change for magic clubs around the world? Here are some thoughts:
More focus on communication between club nights
This year, I have received regular requests to lecture online, share short videos with groups, and interact with magicians in new ways (such as on Facebook groups, Zoom hangouts, and so on). And while I don't think those will be the primary ways magic clubs will meet ongoing, I do think we'll see more magic clubs have more regular hangouts and interactions between club nights. This way, magic clubs become more than a monthly outing, but instead a group of people all wanting to share and improve their magic.
Beginners outreach and support
I have noticed more people than ever before starting up magic. Local magic clubs can become the go-to place to help these new people progress and improve their skills. It's a win/win as clubs will grow, and magic will get better.
Less visiting lecturers
At least initially, I sense that we'll see less lectures passing through magic club's each month. But perhaps that's OK for a while, because when your club has a visiting lecture, it will be a much more special experience.
More agility
I am often surprised at how far in advance magic clubs (especially British magic clubs) arrange their club nights. Even before the pandemic, I was receiving requests to lecture two years in the future. But we've now seen that the world can change in a heartbeat and so I hope that magic clubs start planning just a few months ahead so that they can respond to things that happen around them.
Better support for local events
The world needs entertainment more than ever before. Magic clubs could easily become a source of that entertainment with local performances and shows.
Whatever happens, I'm excited to get back to touring and visiting magic clubs!
-----------------
For more information, you can visit the Vanishing Inc. blog and website at: https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/blog/how-magic-clubs-can-evolve
Monday August 10, 2020: I.B.M. Ring #39, S.A.M. Assembly #19 and H.A.O.M. Paid Members to Play the Hottest Game Show on the Market!
Monday August 10, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. all dues paying members of the local magic clubs will participate online with one of the most exciting online experiences you can have. And there will be CASH prizes to the winners!
Game Shows To Go is the Country’s premier game show for events production company. Created by C.J. Johnson, they put on shows for corporate and association groups, casinos, colleges, high schools, fairs and festivals and just about anyone who needs great entertainment at their events. They even have amazing live VIRTUAL EVENTS! which will be presented this August for our local Houston group!
Not only will this be a fun, interactive event, there will be cash prizes to winners and finalists of the show. Perhaps you might remember this event from the 2019 T.A.O.M. event in San Antonio that was hosted by Gus Davis. This will be open to all members of I.B.M. Ring #39 who have paid their 2020 dues.
Sign up TODAY to make log-in smoother on Monday.
Go to https://triviastreamgameshow.com/houstonmagic and follow the directions. First you will be told to go to Twitch; it only takes a few seconds to join there. To open the Twitch app, you need to click on the hot link on the top of the page. It says: To Play Trivia Stream you’ll need a Twitch.tv account. It’s FREE.
Second: After you have created an account and have a username for Twitch, go back to the game show page to finish registering with ToGoEvents for our show. You will need to complete the form with your Twitch username, your actual name and email address (so they can send you your prizes should you win). You will also have to complete the form with the name of the club(s) where you are a current, dues paying member. If you have not yet paid your dues, then please look to the recent mail that you should have received through the USPS.
Third: Scroll to the very bottom of the ToGoEvents website (where you registered) and watch the 23-second tutorial that tells you everything for you that you will need to do when you get online Monday night. That's it! You'll be all set to sign in on Monday, August 10.
Use the same link above to sign in on Monday. After you sign up with Twitch (TODAY!!!!!), just click on the link above the video saying: Search for HAOMGameShow or follow link Games will start at 8:00, but most everyone will sign in between 7:30 and 7:45 to chat and visit. You'll also have time during that period to ask questions of the hosts about the games. This is gonna be fun!
Monday August 10, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. all dues paying members of the local magic clubs will participate online with one of the most exciting online experiences you can have. And there will be CASH prizes to the winners!
Game Shows To Go is the Country’s premier game show for events production company. Created by C.J. Johnson, they put on shows for corporate and association groups, casinos, colleges, high schools, fairs and festivals and just about anyone who needs great entertainment at their events. They even have amazing live VIRTUAL EVENTS! which will be presented this August for our local Houston group!
Not only will this be a fun, interactive event, there will be cash prizes to winners and finalists of the show. Perhaps you might remember this event from the 2019 T.A.O.M. event in San Antonio that was hosted by Gus Davis. This will be open to all members of I.B.M. Ring #39 who have paid their 2020 dues.
Sign up TODAY to make log-in smoother on Monday.
Go to https://triviastreamgameshow.com/houstonmagic and follow the directions. First you will be told to go to Twitch; it only takes a few seconds to join there. To open the Twitch app, you need to click on the hot link on the top of the page. It says: To Play Trivia Stream you’ll need a Twitch.tv account. It’s FREE.
Second: After you have created an account and have a username for Twitch, go back to the game show page to finish registering with ToGoEvents for our show. You will need to complete the form with your Twitch username, your actual name and email address (so they can send you your prizes should you win). You will also have to complete the form with the name of the club(s) where you are a current, dues paying member. If you have not yet paid your dues, then please look to the recent mail that you should have received through the USPS.
Third: Scroll to the very bottom of the ToGoEvents website (where you registered) and watch the 23-second tutorial that tells you everything for you that you will need to do when you get online Monday night. That's it! You'll be all set to sign in on Monday, August 10.
Use the same link above to sign in on Monday. After you sign up with Twitch (TODAY!!!!!), just click on the link above the video saying: Search for HAOMGameShow or follow link Games will start at 8:00, but most everyone will sign in between 7:30 and 7:45 to chat and visit. You'll also have time during that period to ask questions of the hosts about the games. This is gonna be fun!
Gregory Wilson Presented His "Lockdown Lecture" to I.B.M. Ring #39 on July 27, 2020
Even though we are not having physical lectures for our group, we do continue to host virtual events presented by guest performers and lecturers during our regular I.B.M. meetings. Gregory Wilson gave us a two hour lecture during our July meeting. It included a lot of new material that we can perform virtually and online for our friends on Zoom or Skype. Plus he pulled out a couple of his classic effects then offered us some great savings on some of his products.
Even though we are not having physical lectures for our group, we do continue to host virtual events presented by guest performers and lecturers during our regular I.B.M. meetings. Gregory Wilson gave us a two hour lecture during our July meeting. It included a lot of new material that we can perform virtually and online for our friends on Zoom or Skype. Plus he pulled out a couple of his classic effects then offered us some great savings on some of his products.
Meir Yedid Lectured at Zoom Meeting for I.B.M. Ring #39 on Monday, April 27
For the April meeting of the Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39, magic dealer, creator and award winning magician, Meir Yedid joined us for a 45 minute lecture. Here is what was in the lecture:
Meir Yedid’s Bag Of Trix Lecture
This online lecture will last around 30 minutes. The premise and theme revolves around the wallet/purse that Meir always carry with me when he goes out. It is basically his "Bag Of Trix,” just like Felix The Cat. He will show you the props and tricks he carries and what he does with them in seemingly impromptu situations. In addition to those he will show you a card routine that he likes to do and customize for any occasion. For advanced card magicians he will show you a new unpublished sleight and its 40-year evolution.
All attendees received access to some free stuff.
For the April meeting of the Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39, magic dealer, creator and award winning magician, Meir Yedid joined us for a 45 minute lecture. Here is what was in the lecture:
Meir Yedid’s Bag Of Trix Lecture
This online lecture will last around 30 minutes. The premise and theme revolves around the wallet/purse that Meir always carry with me when he goes out. It is basically his "Bag Of Trix,” just like Felix The Cat. He will show you the props and tricks he carries and what he does with them in seemingly impromptu situations. In addition to those he will show you a card routine that he likes to do and customize for any occasion. For advanced card magicians he will show you a new unpublished sleight and its 40-year evolution.
All attendees received access to some free stuff.
Monty Dale Goodrum Hospitalized in Kingwood for Coronavirus
DATELINE KINGWOOD, TEXAS - JULY 28, 2020:One of our local members of the Houston magic community has fallen ill to the recent viral outbreak. Although not a regular attendee of our meetings or activities, Monty Goodrum is still someone we need to support. Unfortunately, not only Monty has fallen ill, but also his wife. They could use your prayers, thoughts, and words of support, encouragement and gifts of laughter.
You can visit his Facebook page to learn more about Monty and to leave your words of healing. You can find his page at: https://www.facebook.com/Dale.Goodrum
You can visit his Facebook page to learn more about Monty and to leave your words of healing. You can find his page at: https://www.facebook.com/Dale.Goodrum
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 - Join the Oakland, CA Zoom Meeting featuring Jamie Salinas, Scott Wells, Kayla Drescher and Patrick Martin
This Tuesday night, May 12, 2020 The Oakland Magic Circle invites you to their first Virtual Meeting. The Zoom doors open at 7:00 p.m. PST (that's 9:00 p.m. for us in Texas) for online socializing with the meeting starting at 7:30 p.m. PST. Their special guests will be Scott Wells of the Magic Word podcast and Jamie Salinas calling from Texas, followed by Kayla Drescher fresh from her tour with “Champions of Magic” and the bay area’s Patrick Martin wraps the official program. Each will perform some magic, discuss how they are approaching the world of “virtual magic” and answer questions.
Scott and Jamie will be on first because of the time difference, so be sure to be online by 9:30 to hear their 20-30 presentation.
Members and guests are encouraged to perform a new effect or favorite routine. We expect the open camera will start between 9:15-9:30 p.m. PST (11:15-11:30 p.m. Texas time)
For more details and how to gain access please visit the OMC website at https://oaklandmagiccircle.com/
Scott and Jamie will be on first because of the time difference, so be sure to be online by 9:30 to hear their 20-30 presentation.
Members and guests are encouraged to perform a new effect or favorite routine. We expect the open camera will start between 9:15-9:30 p.m. PST (11:15-11:30 p.m. Texas time)
For more details and how to gain access please visit the OMC website at https://oaklandmagiccircle.com/
Click on the graphic above to visit the Brown Paper Tickets website to reserve your seats today!
Annual Magic Banquet
This year's annual banquet promises to bring you even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Our Master of Ceremonies will present local talent plus a possible guest or two from outside Houston. We will also be featuring many of the local magicians who will be strolling around during the cocktail hour.
When: Sunday February 16, 2020
Time: Doors open at 4:00 p.m. with strolling, close-up magic starting at 4:30 and dinner beginning at 5:30. Showtime for the gala stage is 7:00 p.m.
Where: SPJST Lodge 88 Hall, 1435 Beall, Houston, TX 77008 (in the Heights) CLICK HERE for directions
Cost: General Admission tickets (young and old alike) will be $30.00. VIP tickets are $45.00 (limited to the first 65 sold) and receive reserved dinner seating and reserved seating in rows 2-4 at the Gala Show.
All tickets include dinner, close-up magic and a gala stage magic show.
You need to make your reservations early because in previous years we had to turn away people at the door because we were SOLD OUT! Go to 2020magicbanquet.brownpapertickets.com to order your tickets TODAY!
Remember, this is open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
This year's annual banquet promises to bring you even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Our Master of Ceremonies will present local talent plus a possible guest or two from outside Houston. We will also be featuring many of the local magicians who will be strolling around during the cocktail hour.
When: Sunday February 16, 2020
Time: Doors open at 4:00 p.m. with strolling, close-up magic starting at 4:30 and dinner beginning at 5:30. Showtime for the gala stage is 7:00 p.m.
Where: SPJST Lodge 88 Hall, 1435 Beall, Houston, TX 77008 (in the Heights) CLICK HERE for directions
Cost: General Admission tickets (young and old alike) will be $30.00. VIP tickets are $45.00 (limited to the first 65 sold) and receive reserved dinner seating and reserved seating in rows 2-4 at the Gala Show.
All tickets include dinner, close-up magic and a gala stage magic show.
You need to make your reservations early because in previous years we had to turn away people at the door because we were SOLD OUT! Go to 2020magicbanquet.brownpapertickets.com to order your tickets TODAY!
Remember, this is open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
Ben Jackson: Magic, Music & Mayhem!
Escape into the heart of Downtown.
Unwind in a haven of luxury.
Sip handcrafted cocktails.
Witness a display of elegant deceptions.
Native Houstonian and winner of the World Magic Seminar in Las Vegas, Ben Jackson, is giving the ancient art of magic a face-lift. Ben has performed on NBC’s Today Show with David Copperfield, as the hands of Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the film Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, and was America’s magician in disguise on Candid Camera. His fresh and creative approach has garnered international recognition amongst his peers and repeat performances from business moguls, socialites, and discerning clientele around the country.
Now you can see Ben live in his one-man-show, Magic, Music & Mayhem, proudly hosted by the Bayou City's favorite luxury destination, Four Seasons Hotel Houston. Witness an unbelievable 90-minute performance mere inches from your seat. In this one-of-a-kind production, flashy props and leather pants have been replaced by Ben’s quick wit and internationally acclaimed dexterity. You’ll see unexplainable sleight-of-hand magic, feats of the mind, and dazzling piano playing.
For tickets and more information, please visit www.BenJacksonMagic.com. Seating is limited. PLEASE NOTE: This performance is strictly for attendees 12 and up. No children, please.
Escape into the heart of Downtown.
Unwind in a haven of luxury.
Sip handcrafted cocktails.
Witness a display of elegant deceptions.
Native Houstonian and winner of the World Magic Seminar in Las Vegas, Ben Jackson, is giving the ancient art of magic a face-lift. Ben has performed on NBC’s Today Show with David Copperfield, as the hands of Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the film Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, and was America’s magician in disguise on Candid Camera. His fresh and creative approach has garnered international recognition amongst his peers and repeat performances from business moguls, socialites, and discerning clientele around the country.
Now you can see Ben live in his one-man-show, Magic, Music & Mayhem, proudly hosted by the Bayou City's favorite luxury destination, Four Seasons Hotel Houston. Witness an unbelievable 90-minute performance mere inches from your seat. In this one-of-a-kind production, flashy props and leather pants have been replaced by Ben’s quick wit and internationally acclaimed dexterity. You’ll see unexplainable sleight-of-hand magic, feats of the mind, and dazzling piano playing.
For tickets and more information, please visit www.BenJacksonMagic.com. Seating is limited. PLEASE NOTE: This performance is strictly for attendees 12 and up. No children, please.
Special Opportunity at I.B.M. Ring #39 in January - FREE Promo Shots
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Best wishes to you and yours for a prosperous and happy 2020. Don't forget to plan ahead for the January 27 Ring 39 meeting. We will have a photographer set up to take action or head shots for you to use in your personal promotion. Dress accordingly. Please bring a routine (no more than five minutes) that will display any props you want in the photo. There will also be a professional backdrop and close-up performance table available. We'll also have someone available to record or shoot with your own camera.
If you do not plan to have a promo picture taken, then please dress in suitable business attire so when you are seen as an audience member, it looks like a professional environment and not in front of friends at a bar wearing t-shirts and jeans.
The photographer, lighting, etc., are all done by volunteers. It's a service of Ring 39 for our members. The best idea is for people to bring their own cameras so they have many options to choose the shots they like. Otherwise, Judy will just pick out a few to send them.
Mark your calendar now -- Monday, January 27 at 7:00 p.m. at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood in Houston.
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Best wishes to you and yours for a prosperous and happy 2020. Don't forget to plan ahead for the January 27 Ring 39 meeting. We will have a photographer set up to take action or head shots for you to use in your personal promotion. Dress accordingly. Please bring a routine (no more than five minutes) that will display any props you want in the photo. There will also be a professional backdrop and close-up performance table available. We'll also have someone available to record or shoot with your own camera.
If you do not plan to have a promo picture taken, then please dress in suitable business attire so when you are seen as an audience member, it looks like a professional environment and not in front of friends at a bar wearing t-shirts and jeans.
The photographer, lighting, etc., are all done by volunteers. It's a service of Ring 39 for our members. The best idea is for people to bring their own cameras so they have many options to choose the shots they like. Otherwise, Judy will just pick out a few to send them.
Mark your calendar now -- Monday, January 27 at 7:00 p.m. at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood in Houston.
2019
Paul Driscoll: One Man Show, One Night Only
Paul's show will be at MAIN STREET CROSSING on October 15th. The show is 75% sold out, but good seats are still available.
I hope you'll join me for a very special evening in this perfect setting for my magic and comedy! Main Street Crossing is an intimate venue, so seating is limited. Get your tickets before they DISAPPEAR!
Doors and Kitchen Open at 6:00 PM
Showtime at 8:00 PM
For Venue Website Click Here.
For Ticket Information Click Here
Paul's show will be at MAIN STREET CROSSING on October 15th. The show is 75% sold out, but good seats are still available.
I hope you'll join me for a very special evening in this perfect setting for my magic and comedy! Main Street Crossing is an intimate venue, so seating is limited. Get your tickets before they DISAPPEAR!
Doors and Kitchen Open at 6:00 PM
Showtime at 8:00 PM
For Venue Website Click Here.
For Ticket Information Click Here
A Night of Magic with Rick Hebert
Rick Hebert will be performing a magic show for the First Baptist Church of Seabrook, 1506 Bayport Blvd., Seabrook, Texas 77586 on Friday, Oct. 25. This is a fund raiser for the youth group. If you would like to have some fun and support a great cause then consider joining us for a night of magic!
Rick's audiences are held spellbound with his good, clean fun with no embarrassing situations for anyone. Rick is a member of the Society of American Magicians (SAM), International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM), and the Houston Association of Magicians (HAOM). He has performed at Houston's Magic Island, the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, and many corporate events including Siemens, National Oilwell Varco, Baker Hughes, and many others, as well as numerous private parties. You will not want to miss this!
The doors will open at 6:30 pm and the show will start at 7:00 pm.
Tickets are on sale online through Eventbrite by Clicking Here.
Rick Hebert will be performing a magic show for the First Baptist Church of Seabrook, 1506 Bayport Blvd., Seabrook, Texas 77586 on Friday, Oct. 25. This is a fund raiser for the youth group. If you would like to have some fun and support a great cause then consider joining us for a night of magic!
Rick's audiences are held spellbound with his good, clean fun with no embarrassing situations for anyone. Rick is a member of the Society of American Magicians (SAM), International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM), and the Houston Association of Magicians (HAOM). He has performed at Houston's Magic Island, the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, and many corporate events including Siemens, National Oilwell Varco, Baker Hughes, and many others, as well as numerous private parties. You will not want to miss this!
The doors will open at 6:30 pm and the show will start at 7:00 pm.
Tickets are on sale online through Eventbrite by Clicking Here.
Annual Memorial Day Magicians' Banquet - FREE for All Local Magicians and Families ONLY!
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 27th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited. RSVP REQUIRED. Please send your reservations to Gene Protas by texting him at 281-455-5527 or by email at eprotas@gmail.com
There will be plenty of food and lots of magic. Jamie Salinas will host a magic show that will include performances by Scott Wells, David and Jacob Rangel, Shane Wilson, and featuring Greg Lancaster as our spotlight performer.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 27th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited. RSVP REQUIRED. Please send your reservations to Gene Protas by texting him at 281-455-5527 or by email at eprotas@gmail.com
There will be plenty of food and lots of magic. Jamie Salinas will host a magic show that will include performances by Scott Wells, David and Jacob Rangel, Shane Wilson, and featuring Greg Lancaster as our spotlight performer.
Robbie Bennett Presents Magic, Comedy & More!
Preview new material at MATCH - Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston on May 2, 2019 and tickets are going FAST! Bring friends, family, and strangers. Fun for the whole family. TICKETS & INFO: https://matchouston.org/events/2019/anomaly-magic-robby-bennett
Preview new material at MATCH - Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston on May 2, 2019 and tickets are going FAST! Bring friends, family, and strangers. Fun for the whole family. TICKETS & INFO: https://matchouston.org/events/2019/anomaly-magic-robby-bennett
Don Billings Succumbs
Following a long battle with Pulmonary illness, Don Billings passed away on Tuesday evening, March 5, 2019 surrounded by his family and loving wife, Darla. Don was a long time member of the H.A.O.M. and frequently performed at hospitals and for charity events. He often performed and lectured at the H.A.O.M. meetings. In 2017 he received the Life Time Achievement Award from I.B.M. Ring #39.
Viewing will be held on Monday, March 11th from 6pm to 9pm at Forest Park East. 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598 The funeral will be held on Tuesday March 12th at 12:30pm at the Forest Park East Chapel at the same address.
The family invites all to join them at the viewing on Monday and Celebration of Life on Tuesday. Both the viewing and Celebration are open to all.
May Don’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
Following a long battle with Pulmonary illness, Don Billings passed away on Tuesday evening, March 5, 2019 surrounded by his family and loving wife, Darla. Don was a long time member of the H.A.O.M. and frequently performed at hospitals and for charity events. He often performed and lectured at the H.A.O.M. meetings. In 2017 he received the Life Time Achievement Award from I.B.M. Ring #39.
Viewing will be held on Monday, March 11th from 6pm to 9pm at Forest Park East. 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598 The funeral will be held on Tuesday March 12th at 12:30pm at the Forest Park East Chapel at the same address.
The family invites all to join them at the viewing on Monday and Celebration of Life on Tuesday. Both the viewing and Celebration are open to all.
May Don’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
Scott Hollingsworth - 2019 Magician of the Year
Scott Hollingsworth was presented with the Magician of the Year Award at the 2019 Installation of Officers Banquet. This is his fifth time in taking this prestigious award. Scott has exemplified the spirit of Magic in Houston for decades having been the Entertainment Director for Houston's Magic Island for over 20 years. He still performs regularly throughout south Texas and beyond and is an excellent ambassador for our clubs.
Congratulations, Scotto. Some people clap. Some people throw money, But all we can say is "WOW!"
Congratulations, Scotto. Some people clap. Some people throw money, But all we can say is "WOW!"
Scott Hollingsworth - Awarded Houston's 2018 "Magician of the Year"
Congratulations to Scott Hollingsworth who was named Houston's "Magician of the Year' for an unprecedented fifth time! Scott received this most prestigious award at the annual Officers Installation and Annual Magic Banquet on Sunday February 16, 2019.
Congratulations to Scott Hollingsworth who was named Houston's "Magician of the Year' for an unprecedented fifth time! Scott received this most prestigious award at the annual Officers Installation and Annual Magic Banquet on Sunday February 16, 2019.
Burt Rosenbluth Receives Bob Blau Award
Burt Rosenbluth was presented with the prestigious Bob Blau Award at our annual Installation of Officers Banquet in 2019. This award is not given out every year but only given when someone has done something of exceptional merit for the club(s). This past year, Burt has been taking a lot of his own time researching magic history and making it come alive at the I.B.M. Ring 39 meetings. Each month Burt gives a short presentation about some aspect of magic that is of interest to our community and reveals little known facts that enlighten and educate us all on our rich magical heritage.
Thank you, Burt Rosenbluth, for your service and congratulations on being presented with this award.
Thank you, Burt Rosenbluth, for your service and congratulations on being presented with this award.
Jacob Rangel Receives Junior Magician of the Year Award
For the first time in over a decade, the Junior Magician of the Year Award was again presented. This year at our annual Installation of Officers Banquet it went to Jacob Rangel who exemplifies the commitment and passion for our craft and serves as an example to other young magicians everywhere. Jake has a YouTube Channel called "Curiously Enough" that features interviews and a travelogue of his magical adventures featuring the interesting people he meets on his journey. Be sure to check out and subscribe to his YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyTIVVTxR0mKvThpGoipqew
Congratulations, Jake. We look forward to watching you continue your magical journey in life.
Congratulations, Jake. We look forward to watching you continue your magical journey in life.
Annual Magicians' 2019 Banquet - Installation of Officers
This year's annual banquet was attended by nearly 250 magicians and guests from the public. It featured strolling close-up magic before dinner by some of Houston's brightest performers aged from 11 to 81. And the gala evening show was co-emceed by the father/son team of David and Jacob Rangel and highlighted the magical skills of Shane Wilson, Lanny Kibbey and cruise ship magician, Chip Romero, Don't miss next year's event. And as always, this is open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
2018
Ben Jackson Presents "Magic, Music and Mayhem" at La Columbe d'Or this Christmas
Enjoy an intimate evening of outstanding magic and music presented by Ben Jackson in Houston's most intimate, theatrical experience nestled inside one of the world's smallest luxury hotels, La Colombe d'Or. Ben will be performing on December 21-23 and again December 26-27. More information on tickets at: https://www.benjacksonmagic.com/live/
Please be advised that the age minimum for this performance is 12 years old..
Please be advised that the age minimum for this performance is 12 years old..
Robbie Bennett at Wortham Center on Saturday December 22nd
This December, “It will snow in Houston.” A can’t miss theatrical event, Robby Bennett and special guests will showcase a family-friendly winter wonderland full of surprises, illusions, comedy, acrobatics and more.
A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE FOR ALL AGES... Within this spectacle of magic, acrobatics and comedy, your perception of time will be altered. The elements will be manipulated. Your impression of what is possible will be shattered. All of this and much more happens over the course of one show with the performer Free Press Houston calls, “One of the most celebrated illusionists going.” ...And he's bringing friends!
Illusionist, magician, sleight-of-hand artist and entertainer extraordinaire, Robby Bennett has been professionally astonishing and captivating audiences since the age of thirteen earning him multiple awards from peers for his efforts towards the art of magic. Considered one of the most versatile performers in the industry, with appearances on Good Morning America, Inside Edition, SportsCenter, and every major network, Bennett brings his latest extravaganza, ANOMALY: THE MAGIC OF ROBBY BENNETT AND OTHER CURIOSITIES to Houston for one night only, Saturday, December 22 at 7:30pm at the Wortham Center, Cullen Theater. !
Get tickets for our Christmas Show at http://www.houstonfirsttheaters.com/Wortham-Center/Events/ArtMID/1436/ArticleID/1939/Anomaly-The-Magic-of-Robby-Bennett-and-Other-Curiosities
Use Promo Code ANOMALY for $10 off every ticket!
A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE FOR ALL AGES... Within this spectacle of magic, acrobatics and comedy, your perception of time will be altered. The elements will be manipulated. Your impression of what is possible will be shattered. All of this and much more happens over the course of one show with the performer Free Press Houston calls, “One of the most celebrated illusionists going.” ...And he's bringing friends!
Illusionist, magician, sleight-of-hand artist and entertainer extraordinaire, Robby Bennett has been professionally astonishing and captivating audiences since the age of thirteen earning him multiple awards from peers for his efforts towards the art of magic. Considered one of the most versatile performers in the industry, with appearances on Good Morning America, Inside Edition, SportsCenter, and every major network, Bennett brings his latest extravaganza, ANOMALY: THE MAGIC OF ROBBY BENNETT AND OTHER CURIOSITIES to Houston for one night only, Saturday, December 22 at 7:30pm at the Wortham Center, Cullen Theater. !
Get tickets for our Christmas Show at http://www.houstonfirsttheaters.com/Wortham-Center/Events/ArtMID/1436/ArticleID/1939/Anomaly-The-Magic-of-Robby-Bennett-and-Other-Curiosities
Use Promo Code ANOMALY for $10 off every ticket!
A Curious Christmas on December 12th at Match Theater
A Curious Christmas Variety Show presented on Wednesday December 12, 2018 by Curiously Enough, the local, award-winning father and son magic duo from Houston, Texas Dave & Jake Rangel.
This show will feature music by Andrew Karnavas & The Mighty Orq followed by mind-bending Mentalism of Caesar. Closing out the night will be Dave & Jake and maybe a special guest.
Join us after the show in the lobby for a small meet and greet of all the performers, take photos and check out their custom merchandise!
Get tickets for our Christmas Show at https://matchouston.org/events/2018/curious-christmas?fbclid=IwAR2HKKHawD3qh6PCvn2o68w81UBjfKf_T7LcZIamrmx6jDAShlLFXydo8cw
This show will feature music by Andrew Karnavas & The Mighty Orq followed by mind-bending Mentalism of Caesar. Closing out the night will be Dave & Jake and maybe a special guest.
Join us after the show in the lobby for a small meet and greet of all the performers, take photos and check out their custom merchandise!
Get tickets for our Christmas Show at https://matchouston.org/events/2018/curious-christmas?fbclid=IwAR2HKKHawD3qh6PCvn2o68w81UBjfKf_T7LcZIamrmx6jDAShlLFXydo8cw
Texas Ren Fest to Feature "PhilNick the Great" Phil Nichols
Huzzah! Phil Nichols will be doing four shows daily at the Texas Renaissance Festival from September 29th through November 25th as PhilNick the Great the King’s Ventriloquist at the Hacienda San Jorge stage. His show times are 11:30, 1:30, 3:30 and an adult show at 5:30. Drew Hayen will be strolling as Jakem the King’s Magician. The Great Rondini will be doing his escape show. A Magical Festival ahead.
He has also been selected to perform at Dickens on the Strand. More details once I get them.
He has also been selected to perform at Dickens on the Strand. More details once I get them.
THE CURT MILLER MAGIC AND COMEDY SHOW LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX
DAILY, JULY 2 through 8, 2018
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 10th great year with many new surprises for 2018! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, dance, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 90,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people levitating and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly “Vegas-style” magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 2 through 8, 2018
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
OFFICIAL WEBSITE (Info & Video): http://MagicComedyShow.com
INFO: 832-767-2692
LOCATION: Moody Gardens Hotel, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
DAILY, JULY 2 through 8, 2018
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 10th great year with many new surprises for 2018! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, dance, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 90,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people levitating and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly “Vegas-style” magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 2 through 8, 2018
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
OFFICIAL WEBSITE (Info & Video): http://MagicComedyShow.com
INFO: 832-767-2692
LOCATION: Moody Gardens Hotel, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
Judge Frank Price Passes
1938-2018 - Our beloved friend and Past President of the T.A.O.M. and the H.A.O.M as well as the local I.B.M. Ring #39 and S.A.M. Assembly #19, Judge Frank C. Price, passed away on Saturday May 19, 2018 from cancer. He spent the last few days of life being cared for by his wife, Melissa, and surrounded by family and friends at Houston Hospice.
A celebration of the life of Frank Price was held at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, 11612 Memorial Drive, Houston 77024, on May 24, 2018, at 10:00 am. Those who did not attend are welcome to make a donation of choice or to The American Cancer Society.
A complete obituary is posted here: www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/frank-price-obituary?pid=189063035
1938-2018 - Our beloved friend and Past President of the T.A.O.M. and the H.A.O.M as well as the local I.B.M. Ring #39 and S.A.M. Assembly #19, Judge Frank C. Price, passed away on Saturday May 19, 2018 from cancer. He spent the last few days of life being cared for by his wife, Melissa, and surrounded by family and friends at Houston Hospice.
A celebration of the life of Frank Price was held at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, 11612 Memorial Drive, Houston 77024, on May 24, 2018, at 10:00 am. Those who did not attend are welcome to make a donation of choice or to The American Cancer Society.
A complete obituary is posted here: www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/frank-price-obituary?pid=189063035
Annual Memorial Day Magicians' BBQ
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ and special performance by Kiko Pastur
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 28th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ and special performance by Kiko Pastur
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 28th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the three Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
David Rangel - Awarded Houston's 2017 "Magician of the Year"
Congratulations to David Rangel who was named Houston's "Magician of the Year' for 2017. David received this most prestigious award at the annual Officers Installation and Annual Magic Banquet on Sunday February 18, 2018.
Congratulations to David Rangel who was named Houston's "Magician of the Year' for 2017. David received this most prestigious award at the annual Officers Installation and Annual Magic Banquet on Sunday February 18, 2018.
Photo by Aoife Haney. Click on the image for more photos from the 2018 Annual Magic Banquet.
Photo by Aoife Haney Photography
Annual Installation of Officers Magic Banquet
This year's annual banquet brought even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Over 300 people enjoyed Scott Wells, our Master of Ceremonies, who presented the magic of David Rangel (winner of Houston's "Magician of the Year" for 2017) and his son, Jacob Rangel, who performed some outstanding, award-winning magic and Cruise Ship Magician, Chad Chesmark, closed the show with a hilarious performance that had everyone crying with laughter. We will also featured many of the local magicians who strolled around during the cocktail hour.
For a slideshow of some photos taken at the banquet, be sure to check out these professional photos taken by Aoife Haney Photography https://www.aoifehaneyalbums.com/houstonmagicgala2018/
Don't miss out on attending next year's show! And bring your friends! Remember, this is always open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
This year's annual banquet brought even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Over 300 people enjoyed Scott Wells, our Master of Ceremonies, who presented the magic of David Rangel (winner of Houston's "Magician of the Year" for 2017) and his son, Jacob Rangel, who performed some outstanding, award-winning magic and Cruise Ship Magician, Chad Chesmark, closed the show with a hilarious performance that had everyone crying with laughter. We will also featured many of the local magicians who strolled around during the cocktail hour.
For a slideshow of some photos taken at the banquet, be sure to check out these professional photos taken by Aoife Haney Photography https://www.aoifehaneyalbums.com/houstonmagicgala2018/
Don't miss out on attending next year's show! And bring your friends! Remember, this is always open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
Don Billings Receives Life Time Achievement Award for 2017
Congratulations to Don Billings for receiving the Life Time Achievement Award from I.B.M. Ring #39 for 2017. This is a very special because it's not given out every year. This very special award was presented to Don during the Installation of Officers Banquet on February 18, 2017.
Congratulations to Don Billings for receiving the Life Time Achievement Award from I.B.M. Ring #39 for 2017. This is a very special because it's not given out every year. This very special award was presented to Don during the Installation of Officers Banquet on February 18, 2017.
Click photo above for map.
I.B.M. Ring #39 Returns to Bayou Manor
REMINDER: Effective with our January 2018 meeting, the I.B.M. Ring 39 returned to its former meeting place at Brazos Towers at Bayou Manor, 4141 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX 77025 We meet at 7:00 p.m. Click here for directions.
We are uncertain as the future of continuing our relationship with the Bayou Manor and continuing to have our meetings there. If you have any suggestions for where we should meet as a permanent home for our club, then please contact David Hinkin at dhinkin@wt.net Please watch this website for updates.
Please be respectful for the need to be quiet for the residents and observe the parking rules.
REMINDER: Effective with our January 2018 meeting, the I.B.M. Ring 39 returned to its former meeting place at Brazos Towers at Bayou Manor, 4141 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX 77025 We meet at 7:00 p.m. Click here for directions.
We are uncertain as the future of continuing our relationship with the Bayou Manor and continuing to have our meetings there. If you have any suggestions for where we should meet as a permanent home for our club, then please contact David Hinkin at dhinkin@wt.net Please watch this website for updates.
Please be respectful for the need to be quiet for the residents and observe the parking rules.
Richard Turner's "DEALT" Screening in Houston on January 17, 2018
Houston will finally play host to a screening of "DEALT", a documentary of Richard Turner's most unusual life. The film will be screened in Katy, TX at the Alamo Draft House, 531 Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450 on Wednesday night, January 17, 2018. If there is enough advanced support from the local magicians, then the promoters will have some cool swag for our group including movie posters and specially designed playing cards.
The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and runs 82 minutes. Richard Turner will not be able to personally attend, but they will be doing a post-screening Skype Q&A with Richard. There will be a special price for the event which is only $5.41 (plus $1.50 processing fee). You can order tickets directly through a special website that is set up for this event at: https://drafthouse.com/houston/show/film-club-dealt If you have indicated that you want to attend, or you have decided now that you want to see the movie and be part of this event, then you need to reserve your tickets now. There is limited seating. And now that the website is “live”, Richard and his production crew will be notifying all of their Houston friends about this event, so it could start to fill up quickly. If you have still not clicked on the link and purchased your tickets but wish to buy them at the box office, you might check on the website first before leaving to make sure there are seats available.
Here is a promotional bit about the movie:
One of the most renowned card magicians of all time, Richard Turner astounds audiences around the world with his legendary sleight of hand. What they may not even realize and what makes his achievements all the more amazing is that he is completely blind. Charting Turner’s colorful life from his tumultuous childhood to the present, “Dealt” reveals how through determination and force of will, he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles to rise to the top of his profession. It’s both a tantalizing, up-close look at the secretive world of magic and a candid, awe-inspiring
portrait of a man who lives beyond his limitations.
Houston will finally play host to a screening of "DEALT", a documentary of Richard Turner's most unusual life. The film will be screened in Katy, TX at the Alamo Draft House, 531 Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450 on Wednesday night, January 17, 2018. If there is enough advanced support from the local magicians, then the promoters will have some cool swag for our group including movie posters and specially designed playing cards.
The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and runs 82 minutes. Richard Turner will not be able to personally attend, but they will be doing a post-screening Skype Q&A with Richard. There will be a special price for the event which is only $5.41 (plus $1.50 processing fee). You can order tickets directly through a special website that is set up for this event at: https://drafthouse.com/houston/show/film-club-dealt If you have indicated that you want to attend, or you have decided now that you want to see the movie and be part of this event, then you need to reserve your tickets now. There is limited seating. And now that the website is “live”, Richard and his production crew will be notifying all of their Houston friends about this event, so it could start to fill up quickly. If you have still not clicked on the link and purchased your tickets but wish to buy them at the box office, you might check on the website first before leaving to make sure there are seats available.
Here is a promotional bit about the movie:
One of the most renowned card magicians of all time, Richard Turner astounds audiences around the world with his legendary sleight of hand. What they may not even realize and what makes his achievements all the more amazing is that he is completely blind. Charting Turner’s colorful life from his tumultuous childhood to the present, “Dealt” reveals how through determination and force of will, he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles to rise to the top of his profession. It’s both a tantalizing, up-close look at the secretive world of magic and a candid, awe-inspiring
portrait of a man who lives beyond his limitations.
Click on the graphic above to visit the Flickr website with the photos from MeltedPlastic.
View Current Images From Inside The Magic Island
We received a link from one of our members, Dusten Gray, that points to a Flickr website with pictures from the Magic Island. They appear to be recent photos from 2017 and shows that apparently homeless people have been living in the building It doesn't show any of the artifacts nor posters which leads me to think that they have been removed, stolen, or otherwise "disappeared" You can see the sad shape of the Island by visiting the link at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/meltedplastic/sets/72157668069139375
We received a link from one of our members, Dusten Gray, that points to a Flickr website with pictures from the Magic Island. They appear to be recent photos from 2017 and shows that apparently homeless people have been living in the building It doesn't show any of the artifacts nor posters which leads me to think that they have been removed, stolen, or otherwise "disappeared" You can see the sad shape of the Island by visiting the link at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/meltedplastic/sets/72157668069139375
2017
Local Magicians Help Bring Comedy Relief to Victims of Hurricane Harvey in Houston
November 6th - Houston Magicians' Flea Market
The H.A.O.M. will not be holding its usual "annual Fall magic auction" but instead hosting a Flea Market. The regularly scheduled meeting for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 on Monday November 6, 2017 will be our "new" annual flea market. Since the I.B.M. Ring #39 did not host its annual magic flea market again this year due to problems with the hosting facility, the groups have combined to do away with the usual "Live Auction" and just have a gigantic magic flea market.
Sellers will pay $10 for each table to display your sales items. You can pay for the tables when you arrive. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. so you can load in your magic treasures. There will be no charge for buyers. Everyone is invited!
The H.A.O.M. will not be holding its usual "annual Fall magic auction" but instead hosting a Flea Market. The regularly scheduled meeting for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 on Monday November 6, 2017 will be our "new" annual flea market. Since the I.B.M. Ring #39 did not host its annual magic flea market again this year due to problems with the hosting facility, the groups have combined to do away with the usual "Live Auction" and just have a gigantic magic flea market.
Sellers will pay $10 for each table to display your sales items. You can pay for the tables when you arrive. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. so you can load in your magic treasures. There will be no charge for buyers. Everyone is invited!
Ben Jackson Returns to La Colombe d'Or Hotel For Special Engagements
As seen on NBC's TODAY with David Copperfield, as the hands of Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the film Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, and as America's 'magician in disguise' on Candid Camera, Houston magician Ben Jackson is bringing his intimate show, "Magic, Music, & Mayhem" to La Colombe d'Or, one of the world's smallest luxury hotels nestled in the heart of Houston's Museum District.
This 90 minute theatrical experience allows guests to witness magic up-close and personal. Flashy props and leather pants have been replaced with quick wit and digital dexterity. Ben's fresh and creative approach has garnered international recognition amongst his peers and repeat performances from business moguls, socialites, and discerning clientele around the country.
Relax in La Colombe d'Or's Art Gallery, sip on your elixir of choice, and witness an evening of elegant deceptions as performed by your host, Ben Jackson. Seating is limited.
When: August 25th & 26th
September 29th & 30th
October 27th & 28th
Time: Two seatings: 7:00 pm. and 9:00 p.m.
More: for tickets and more information: www.BenJacksonLIVE.com
As seen on NBC's TODAY with David Copperfield, as the hands of Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the film Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, and as America's 'magician in disguise' on Candid Camera, Houston magician Ben Jackson is bringing his intimate show, "Magic, Music, & Mayhem" to La Colombe d'Or, one of the world's smallest luxury hotels nestled in the heart of Houston's Museum District.
This 90 minute theatrical experience allows guests to witness magic up-close and personal. Flashy props and leather pants have been replaced with quick wit and digital dexterity. Ben's fresh and creative approach has garnered international recognition amongst his peers and repeat performances from business moguls, socialites, and discerning clientele around the country.
Relax in La Colombe d'Or's Art Gallery, sip on your elixir of choice, and witness an evening of elegant deceptions as performed by your host, Ben Jackson. Seating is limited.
When: August 25th & 26th
September 29th & 30th
October 27th & 28th
Time: Two seatings: 7:00 pm. and 9:00 p.m.
More: for tickets and more information: www.BenJacksonLIVE.com
Broken Wand "Celebration of Life" for John Moehring held on October 14, 2017
We gathered to celebrate the life of our friend John Moehring on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 11:00 am. The celebration was rescheduled due to the approach of Hurricane Harvey. It will be held at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston. Please share this to help us spread the word in the community and contact Mark Holstein at meholstein@outlook.com with questions. If you wish to share a thought or memory regarding John and can not attend, please let Mark know.
We were able to LiveStream the "celebration of life" here on this Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/scottwells2 So, if you cannot personally attend, please consider checking in on Facebook to watch the ceremony.
John, the "Texan Trixter", passed away on July 9 at his residence at Brookdale Shadowlake Assisted Living community in Houston after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 74.We will gather to celebrate the life of our friend John Moehring on Saturday, August 26 2017 at 11:00 am. The celebration will be held at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston. Further details will follow. Please share this to help us spread the word in the community. Please feel free to contact me with questions.
John, the "Texan Trixter", passed away on July 9 at his residence at Brookdale Shadowlake Assisted Living community in Houston after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 74. Moehring was born in Houston on July 19, 1942, and grew up in Rockdale, Texas where he first developed an interest in magic. He was self taught in the art, reading techniques in books and watching magicians on television. As a teenager, he quickly rose to prominence with his award winning magic act. He eventually caught the eye of a producer for Ed Sullivan television show, the highest rated variety entertainment program at that time, while he was performing in the Texas State Pavillon at the World's Fair, New York in 1966. John appeared on the Ed Sullivan show on April 24, 1966. That appearance led to extensive bookings in nightclubs, on cruise ships, and in theaters around the world.
John later became a producer of shows in theme parks, including Astroworld in Houston, and produced "The Wizard's Secrets", one of the longest running and most attended attractions in Las Vegas. Moehring was also an author of books on magic, including successful biographies of magicians Del Ray and Marshall Brodien. He served as a writer, director, and creative consultant to many famous magicians. John was Associate Editor of MAGIC from January 1997 through December 2001 (5 years). He was Editor of MAGIC from January 2002 through June 2005 (3.5 years), when he quit to start working on M-U-M — he got a full six months to prepare for his editorship of M-U-M. He was editor of M-U-M from January 2006 through December 2008 (3 years).
He returned to Houston on retirement in 2011. He is survived by his son Charles Moehring, his sister Jeanne Moehring-Haley, his brother in law Frank Haley and his cousins Darr Kuykendall and Holly Kuykendall-Bryant of The Grove, Texas. Arrangements are pending.
We gathered to celebrate the life of our friend John Moehring on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 11:00 am. The celebration was rescheduled due to the approach of Hurricane Harvey. It will be held at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston. Please share this to help us spread the word in the community and contact Mark Holstein at meholstein@outlook.com with questions. If you wish to share a thought or memory regarding John and can not attend, please let Mark know.
We were able to LiveStream the "celebration of life" here on this Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/scottwells2 So, if you cannot personally attend, please consider checking in on Facebook to watch the ceremony.
John, the "Texan Trixter", passed away on July 9 at his residence at Brookdale Shadowlake Assisted Living community in Houston after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 74.We will gather to celebrate the life of our friend John Moehring on Saturday, August 26 2017 at 11:00 am. The celebration will be held at the IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, 3030 North Freeway, Houston. Further details will follow. Please share this to help us spread the word in the community. Please feel free to contact me with questions.
John, the "Texan Trixter", passed away on July 9 at his residence at Brookdale Shadowlake Assisted Living community in Houston after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 74. Moehring was born in Houston on July 19, 1942, and grew up in Rockdale, Texas where he first developed an interest in magic. He was self taught in the art, reading techniques in books and watching magicians on television. As a teenager, he quickly rose to prominence with his award winning magic act. He eventually caught the eye of a producer for Ed Sullivan television show, the highest rated variety entertainment program at that time, while he was performing in the Texas State Pavillon at the World's Fair, New York in 1966. John appeared on the Ed Sullivan show on April 24, 1966. That appearance led to extensive bookings in nightclubs, on cruise ships, and in theaters around the world.
John later became a producer of shows in theme parks, including Astroworld in Houston, and produced "The Wizard's Secrets", one of the longest running and most attended attractions in Las Vegas. Moehring was also an author of books on magic, including successful biographies of magicians Del Ray and Marshall Brodien. He served as a writer, director, and creative consultant to many famous magicians. John was Associate Editor of MAGIC from January 1997 through December 2001 (5 years). He was Editor of MAGIC from January 2002 through June 2005 (3.5 years), when he quit to start working on M-U-M — he got a full six months to prepare for his editorship of M-U-M. He was editor of M-U-M from January 2006 through December 2008 (3 years).
He returned to Houston on retirement in 2011. He is survived by his son Charles Moehring, his sister Jeanne Moehring-Haley, his brother in law Frank Haley and his cousins Darr Kuykendall and Holly Kuykendall-Bryant of The Grove, Texas. Arrangements are pending.
Jerry Schoonover, aka Jerry Paul, Succumbs
I received word from Eloise Schoonover that her husband of 47 years, Jerry "Paul" Schoonover, passed away on Tuesday August 29, 2017. He had been in ill health for a while with long term visits in and out of the hospital over the past year. The memorial service will be held on Saturday September 9th at 2:00 p.m. at the Hosanna Lutheran Church, 16526 Ella Blvd , Houston, TX 77090 which is just south of 1960 and west of of I-45. Their home church (Cypress Creek Christian Church) was flooded and Hosanna Lutheran has opened their doors to the family for his service.
Jerry Paul was a professional entertainer with over 40 years of experience. He performed close-up and Cabaret magic for after dinner shows, entertainment for the cocktail party, convention, trade show and hospitality suite.For 26 years Jerry has performed at trade shows and hospitality suites as a Corporate Magician for Browning Ferris Industries in addition to other corporations from coast to coast. Jerry Paul was also a Mentalist and Hypnotist and has performed both on stage and in a close-up setting.
Although not a regular attendee at our local H.A.O.M. club meetings over the past several years, he had renewed his interest and attendance over the past year or two and attended many of the lectures sponsored by the club.
I received word from Eloise Schoonover that her husband of 47 years, Jerry "Paul" Schoonover, passed away on Tuesday August 29, 2017. He had been in ill health for a while with long term visits in and out of the hospital over the past year. The memorial service will be held on Saturday September 9th at 2:00 p.m. at the Hosanna Lutheran Church, 16526 Ella Blvd , Houston, TX 77090 which is just south of 1960 and west of of I-45. Their home church (Cypress Creek Christian Church) was flooded and Hosanna Lutheran has opened their doors to the family for his service.
Jerry Paul was a professional entertainer with over 40 years of experience. He performed close-up and Cabaret magic for after dinner shows, entertainment for the cocktail party, convention, trade show and hospitality suite.For 26 years Jerry has performed at trade shows and hospitality suites as a Corporate Magician for Browning Ferris Industries in addition to other corporations from coast to coast. Jerry Paul was also a Mentalist and Hypnotist and has performed both on stage and in a close-up setting.
Although not a regular attendee at our local H.A.O.M. club meetings over the past several years, he had renewed his interest and attendance over the past year or two and attended many of the lectures sponsored by the club.
THE CURT MILLER MAGIC AND COMEDY SHOW
LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX
DAILY, JULY 1 through 7, 2017
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 9th great year with many new surprises for 2017! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, dance, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 85,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people levitating and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly “Vegas-style” magic show right
here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 1 through 7, 2017
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
OFFICIAL WEBSITE (Info & Video): http://MagicComedyShow.com
INFO: 832-767-2692
LOCATION: Moody Gardens Hotel, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX
DAILY, JULY 1 through 7, 2017
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 9th great year with many new surprises for 2017! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, dance, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 85,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people levitating and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly “Vegas-style” magic show right
here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 1 through 7, 2017
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
OFFICIAL WEBSITE (Info & Video): http://MagicComedyShow.com
INFO: 832-767-2692
LOCATION: Moody Gardens Hotel, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
John Ice Succumbs - Broken Wand Memorial Services were on June 1, 2017
John William Ice, age 82, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2017, at the Park Manor of Westchase nursing home in Houston, Texas, following a long battle with dementia. He is survived by his daughter Susan and husband Scott MacCall of Bozeman, Montana; his daughter Karen Baker; and his grandchildren Kasey Baker, Kelly Baker, and Randy Baker, each of the Houston area. He is also survived by his ex-wife of 21 years, Kathy Walker of Georgetown, Texas. John was born on June 8, 1934, in Anna, Illinois, to Julia and Rayburn Ice. He had a long career in the printing business in both Chicago and Houston.
He was also a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and The Society of American Magicians. John was a Past President of our organizations and a long-time auctioneer for our annual Magic Auctions. A memorial service and Broken Wand Ceremony will be held at the National Cremation Service chapel, 5400 Highway 6 North, Houston, on Thursday, June 1 at 3:00 p.m.
John William Ice, age 82, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2017, at the Park Manor of Westchase nursing home in Houston, Texas, following a long battle with dementia. He is survived by his daughter Susan and husband Scott MacCall of Bozeman, Montana; his daughter Karen Baker; and his grandchildren Kasey Baker, Kelly Baker, and Randy Baker, each of the Houston area. He is also survived by his ex-wife of 21 years, Kathy Walker of Georgetown, Texas. John was born on June 8, 1934, in Anna, Illinois, to Julia and Rayburn Ice. He had a long career in the printing business in both Chicago and Houston.
He was also a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and The Society of American Magicians. John was a Past President of our organizations and a long-time auctioneer for our annual Magic Auctions. A memorial service and Broken Wand Ceremony will be held at the National Cremation Service chapel, 5400 Highway 6 North, Houston, on Thursday, June 1 at 3:00 p.m.
Annual Memorial Day Magicians' Banquet Enjoyed By All!
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ and special performance by Tyler Wilson
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 29th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the 3 Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ and special performance by Tyler Wilson
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 29th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the 3 Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited.
Yeager Lee Markins, Jr. Passed on April 23, 2017
Yeagar Lee Markins Jr. was born on October 25, 1933 in Houston, Texas to parents Yeager Lee Markins Sr. and Jennie Delle Davis and entered into eternal rest on April 23, 2017 at the age of 83. Yeager graduated from Lamar High School and Rice University; with his degree in accounting. Yeager served in the United States Air Force and after began working as a CPA. He was also the first to own and A/C company in Henderson.
His true passion was magic and he loved working as a magician. He was a member of the Dallas Magician Club and the Houston Association of Magicians. Yeager even built illusions for other magicians. He enjoyed the ham radio and his saltwater fish aquarium.
Yeager.was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Henderson, Lions Club in Henderson, Shriner-Sharon Temple in Tyler and Henderson County Hamn Operators Club. He was Christian by faith and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Yeager was preceded in death by his parents and sister Carol Markins York. He is survived by his loving children; Ellen L. Markins of Seagoville, Yeager Lee Markins III and wife Maryjane of Salme, NH, Frank A. Markins and wife Levina of Baytown and Cynthia R. Markins King and husband Teddy of Gun Barrel City, 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, other loving family members and many more friends.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made in Mr. Markin's memory to First Baptist Church Music Ministry, 522 W. Main St., Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 or 903-887-6887.
Yeagar Lee Markins Jr. was born on October 25, 1933 in Houston, Texas to parents Yeager Lee Markins Sr. and Jennie Delle Davis and entered into eternal rest on April 23, 2017 at the age of 83. Yeager graduated from Lamar High School and Rice University; with his degree in accounting. Yeager served in the United States Air Force and after began working as a CPA. He was also the first to own and A/C company in Henderson.
His true passion was magic and he loved working as a magician. He was a member of the Dallas Magician Club and the Houston Association of Magicians. Yeager even built illusions for other magicians. He enjoyed the ham radio and his saltwater fish aquarium.
Yeager.was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Henderson, Lions Club in Henderson, Shriner-Sharon Temple in Tyler and Henderson County Hamn Operators Club. He was Christian by faith and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Yeager was preceded in death by his parents and sister Carol Markins York. He is survived by his loving children; Ellen L. Markins of Seagoville, Yeager Lee Markins III and wife Maryjane of Salme, NH, Frank A. Markins and wife Levina of Baytown and Cynthia R. Markins King and husband Teddy of Gun Barrel City, 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, other loving family members and many more friends.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made in Mr. Markin's memory to First Baptist Church Music Ministry, 522 W. Main St., Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 or 903-887-6887.
Scott Wells and David Hinkin Take Top Awards at Annual Installation of Officers Magic Banquet
At the annual Installation of Officers Magic Banquet on February 19, 2017, two prestigious awards were presented to Scott Wells received Houston's Magician of the Year Award. This was presented "For outstanding service to the Houston Association of Magicians". David Hinkin was awarded the Bob Blau Award "In recognition for his achievement in the art and brotherhood of magic". Congratulations, guys!
The Magician of the Year award is presented to the member who has accumulated the most points in the current fiscal year and, after winning, is not eligible for the next three years. For more information on how the points are awarded, click here.
At the annual Installation of Officers Magic Banquet on February 19, 2017, two prestigious awards were presented to Scott Wells received Houston's Magician of the Year Award. This was presented "For outstanding service to the Houston Association of Magicians". David Hinkin was awarded the Bob Blau Award "In recognition for his achievement in the art and brotherhood of magic". Congratulations, guys!
The Magician of the Year award is presented to the member who has accumulated the most points in the current fiscal year and, after winning, is not eligible for the next three years. For more information on how the points are awarded, click here.
Click on the graphic above to view a one minute promo video.
Video Promo of Magic Banquet by Jamie Salinas
Once a year, the Houston Association of Magicians holds their annual banquet for their installation of officers. The event is open to the general public as there are strolling magicians before dinner and a full evening gala show after dinner.
Once a year, the Houston Association of Magicians holds their annual banquet for their installation of officers. The event is open to the general public as there are strolling magicians before dinner and a full evening gala show after dinner.
Lanny Kibbey and Robbie Bennett "Spring Break Magic Show"
Come on out to see some great magic and comedy at the Joke Joint Comedy Club on Thursday March 16th. Bring the family as it will be fun for everyone. The Joke Joint Comedy Club is located at 11460 Fuqua St #300, Houston, TX 77089 Phone: (281) 481-1188
Come on out to see some great magic and comedy at the Joke Joint Comedy Club on Thursday March 16th. Bring the family as it will be fun for everyone. The Joke Joint Comedy Club is located at 11460 Fuqua St #300, Houston, TX 77089 Phone: (281) 481-1188
Click on the photo to watch the video on YouTube
Phil Kampf & Lindsey Olson on Great Day Houston
Phil talks about his summer magic camp for kids plus promotes the Houston Children's Festival on April 1-2, 2017. Phil requests that local magicians who want to help and perform at the festival should contact him..
Phil talks about his summer magic camp for kids plus promotes the Houston Children's Festival on April 1-2, 2017. Phil requests that local magicians who want to help and perform at the festival should contact him..
Scott Wells Selected as the Official Magician for the Super Bowl LI in Houston
Scott Wells was selected by the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee as the official magician to perform at Super Bowl LIVE. Super Bowl LIVE is a FREE nine-day fan festival in downtown Houston celebrating Super Bowl LI. Anchored in Discovery Green and encompassing more than 250,000 square feet, Super Bowl LIVE features live music and performances, interactive exhibits, great food and a 90-foot tall virtual reality trip to Mars. With so much to do and so many great performances, there is something for everyone who visits. There will be 75 different local acts performing as part of this event including dancers, musicians, singers, and variety acts including Scott Wells who will perform on stage and with strolling street magic under the tent at Super Bowl LIVE. Hours vary by weekends will be from 10 a.m. to late at night.
Scott’s scheduled performances will be Saturday January 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday February 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday February 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. but there may be additional times added. More info on Super Bowl LIVE at http://www.discoverygreen.com/superbowllive
Scott Wells was selected by the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee as the official magician to perform at Super Bowl LIVE. Super Bowl LIVE is a FREE nine-day fan festival in downtown Houston celebrating Super Bowl LI. Anchored in Discovery Green and encompassing more than 250,000 square feet, Super Bowl LIVE features live music and performances, interactive exhibits, great food and a 90-foot tall virtual reality trip to Mars. With so much to do and so many great performances, there is something for everyone who visits. There will be 75 different local acts performing as part of this event including dancers, musicians, singers, and variety acts including Scott Wells who will perform on stage and with strolling street magic under the tent at Super Bowl LIVE. Hours vary by weekends will be from 10 a.m. to late at night.
Scott’s scheduled performances will be Saturday January 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday February 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday February 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. but there may be additional times added. More info on Super Bowl LIVE at http://www.discoverygreen.com/superbowllive
Magician Daniel Garcia leaves Texans players speechless
Past President of the T.A.O.M. and local magician, Daniel Garcia made news on KHOU with some great video that you can view on the KHOU website. Just click on the graphic accompanying this story. Way to go, Danny!
Past President of the T.A.O.M. and local magician, Daniel Garcia made news on KHOU with some great video that you can view on the KHOU website. Just click on the graphic accompanying this story. Way to go, Danny!
2016
Houston Association of Magicians Makes the News
Local ABC television affiliate, Channel 13, visited the November 2016 meeting of the H.A.O.M. (during the Mike Pisciotta lecture) in order to shoot a news segment to follow the broadcast of the David Blaine TV special. Scott Wells was featured in this segment but you can also see several other local magicians in the audience plus a cool card trick performed by David Rangel.
Local ABC television affiliate, Channel 13, visited the November 2016 meeting of the H.A.O.M. (during the Mike Pisciotta lecture) in order to shoot a news segment to follow the broadcast of the David Blaine TV special. Scott Wells was featured in this segment but you can also see several other local magicians in the audience plus a cool card trick performed by David Rangel.
Tabraze Sheikh Predicts Winner of Presidential Election
Some of you remember Tavraze Sheikh and his wife who belonged to our local club for a while. Well, they moved back to Canada where he has made the headlines by predicting the outcome of our Presidential race. Good luck, Tabraze and congratulations on getting some good press, too!
Some of you remember Tavraze Sheikh and his wife who belonged to our local club for a while. Well, they moved back to Canada where he has made the headlines by predicting the outcome of our Presidential race. Good luck, Tabraze and congratulations on getting some good press, too!
Carter Blackburn on "Great Day Houston"
Carter appeared with Debra Duncan on Channel 11 and Great Day Houston where he performed and promoted his show with Ted Schwank at the Houston Improv at 2:00 p.m. Saturday November 5th.
Carter appeared with Debra Duncan on Channel 11 and Great Day Houston where he performed and promoted his show with Ted Schwank at the Houston Improv at 2:00 p.m. Saturday November 5th.
November 7th - Houston Magicians' Flea Market
The regularly scheduled meeting for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 on Monday November 7, 2017 will be our annual auction. Since the I.B.M. Ring #39 did not host its annual magic flea market this year due to problems with the hosting facility, the groups have combined to do away with the usual "Live Auction" and just have a gigantic magic flea market.
Sellers will pay $10 for each table to display your sales items. You can pay for the tables when you arrive. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. so you can load in your magic treasures. There will be no charge for buyers. Everyone is invited!
The regularly scheduled meeting for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 on Monday November 7, 2017 will be our annual auction. Since the I.B.M. Ring #39 did not host its annual magic flea market this year due to problems with the hosting facility, the groups have combined to do away with the usual "Live Auction" and just have a gigantic magic flea market.
Sellers will pay $10 for each table to display your sales items. You can pay for the tables when you arrive. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. so you can load in your magic treasures. There will be no charge for buyers. Everyone is invited!
Making A Living As A Magician In Houston
David Rangel talks about being a professional magician in Houston. Plus there is a link to his TED Talk, too. Congratulations, David!
David Rangel talks about being a professional magician in Houston. Plus there is a link to his TED Talk, too. Congratulations, David!
The Curt Miller Magic and Comedy Show
LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX
DAILY, JULY 24 – AUGUST 4, 2016
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 8th great year with many new surprises for 2016!
Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained! The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 80,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people divided in half and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly Vegas-style magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 24 through August 4, 2016
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
CALL: 409-683-4186
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://MagicComedyShow.com
VISIT: Moody Gardens, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX
DAILY, JULY 24 – AUGUST 4, 2016
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the 8th great year with many new surprises for 2016!
Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained! The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 80,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. You'll see people divided in half and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly Vegas-style magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 24 through August 4, 2016
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16
CALL: 409-683-4186
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://MagicComedyShow.com
VISIT: Moody Gardens, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
Curtis Kam - "The Wizard of Waikiki" Lectured for Houston Area Magicians
As part of our annual Memorial Day BBQ activities, we kicked off the two day event with a FREE lecture by Hawaiian magician, Curtis Kam. Working without bunnies, boxes, or busty blondes, master manipulator Curtis Kam creates deep astonishment and pure magic for discriminating audiences all over the civilized world. He serves up the expertly crafted mysteries and gourmet food for thought craved by modern imaginations. Gone are the tired Las Vegas clichés, the parade of shining “empty” boxes, the vacant, staring animals. Instead, enter a lost world of genuine wonder where ordinary objects do extraordinary things, complete strangers know what you are thinking, and sensible adults do stupid things with a large rat trap.
As part of our annual Memorial Day BBQ activities, we kicked off the two day event with a FREE lecture by Hawaiian magician, Curtis Kam. Working without bunnies, boxes, or busty blondes, master manipulator Curtis Kam creates deep astonishment and pure magic for discriminating audiences all over the civilized world. He serves up the expertly crafted mysteries and gourmet food for thought craved by modern imaginations. Gone are the tired Las Vegas clichés, the parade of shining “empty” boxes, the vacant, staring animals. Instead, enter a lost world of genuine wonder where ordinary objects do extraordinary things, complete strangers know what you are thinking, and sensible adults do stupid things with a large rat trap.
How Magic Island Brought Magic to Houston
The Magic Island was featured on a recent edition of "Houston Matters" on Houston Public Media, KUHF-FM radio channel 88.7. This seven minute podcast was recorded at the recent Magicians' Installation Banquet and features Scott Hollingsworth, Chad Chesmark, Kyle Ryan, Trixie Bond, Dick Olson, and Sam Gainer. They also talk with Ben Jackson about his show at "La Colombe d'Or" which is performed in an intimate environment.
The Magic Island was featured on a recent edition of "Houston Matters" on Houston Public Media, KUHF-FM radio channel 88.7. This seven minute podcast was recorded at the recent Magicians' Installation Banquet and features Scott Hollingsworth, Chad Chesmark, Kyle Ryan, Trixie Bond, Dick Olson, and Sam Gainer. They also talk with Ben Jackson about his show at "La Colombe d'Or" which is performed in an intimate environment.
Direct From His Hit TV Series, MICHAEL CARBONARO Comes to Houston
Michael Carbonaro performed in Houston at the Cullen Performance Hall on Friday April 8, 2-16. congratulations to David Rangel and Jimmy Ledbetter who won FREE tickets to the show. Their names were randomly drawn from those who "shared" the Facebook post to their site.
Michael Carbonaro has performed over five hundred comically perplexing and improbable feats of magic on his hit TV series, The Carbonaro Effect on truTV. Now, Michael Carbonaro is taking his show on the road and, for a limited time, you can feel the effect of Michael Carbonaro… Live!
Connect with Michael on Twitter & Instagram @m_carbonaro for exciting updates.
Michael Carbonaro performed in Houston at the Cullen Performance Hall on Friday April 8, 2-16. congratulations to David Rangel and Jimmy Ledbetter who won FREE tickets to the show. Their names were randomly drawn from those who "shared" the Facebook post to their site.
Michael Carbonaro has performed over five hundred comically perplexing and improbable feats of magic on his hit TV series, The Carbonaro Effect on truTV. Now, Michael Carbonaro is taking his show on the road and, for a limited time, you can feel the effect of Michael Carbonaro… Live!
Connect with Michael on Twitter & Instagram @m_carbonaro for exciting updates.
March 2016 Newsletter
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201603_eversion.pdf
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201603_eversion.pdf
Magician of the Year - Jamie Salinas
Congratulations to Jamie Salinas who was presented with the prestigious "2015 Magician of the Year" trophy at the annual Installation of Officers banquet held on February 21, 2016. This meritorious honor is awarded to the one who has exemplified being the most active and helpful magician in our community.
Congratulations to Jamie Salinas who was presented with the prestigious "2015 Magician of the Year" trophy at the annual Installation of Officers banquet held on February 21, 2016. This meritorious honor is awarded to the one who has exemplified being the most active and helpful magician in our community.
Click on the image above to order your tickets TODAY!
Annual Magicians' 2016 Banquet - Installation of Officers
This year's annual banquet promises to bring you even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Our Master of Ceremonies will present the magic of Dennis Castro, Caesar Trujillo and Rob Berry. And out very special "out of town" guest celebrity magician will be Brian Brushwood, creator and host of "Scam School". We will also be featuring many of the local magicians who will be strolling around during the cocktail hour.
When: Sunday February 21, 2016
Time: Doors open at 4:00 p.m. and dinner begins at 5:30. Showtime on stage at 7:00 p.m.
Where: SPJST Lodge 88 Hall, 1435 Beall, Houston, TX 77008 (in the Heights) CLICK HERE for directions
Cost: ALL tickers (young and old alike) will be $20.00 or $25.90 at the door...if they are still available)
All tickets include dinner, close-up magic and a gala stage magic show.
You want to make sure you make your reservations early because last year we had to turn away people at the door because we were SOLD OUT! Go to http://magicbanquet.wellattended.com to order your tickets TODAY! Remember, this is open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
This year's annual banquet promises to bring you even more surprises and mystery than you've experienced before! Our Master of Ceremonies will present the magic of Dennis Castro, Caesar Trujillo and Rob Berry. And out very special "out of town" guest celebrity magician will be Brian Brushwood, creator and host of "Scam School". We will also be featuring many of the local magicians who will be strolling around during the cocktail hour.
When: Sunday February 21, 2016
Time: Doors open at 4:00 p.m. and dinner begins at 5:30. Showtime on stage at 7:00 p.m.
Where: SPJST Lodge 88 Hall, 1435 Beall, Houston, TX 77008 (in the Heights) CLICK HERE for directions
Cost: ALL tickers (young and old alike) will be $20.00 or $25.90 at the door...if they are still available)
All tickets include dinner, close-up magic and a gala stage magic show.
You want to make sure you make your reservations early because last year we had to turn away people at the door because we were SOLD OUT! Go to http://magicbanquet.wellattended.com to order your tickets TODAY! Remember, this is open to the public so please invite you friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and people you meet in the street. This will be the place to see magic up close and on stage like you've never seen it!
February 2016 Newsletter
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201602_newsletter.pdf
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201602_newsletter.pdf
January 2016 Newsletter
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201601_newsletter.pdf
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201601_newsletter.pdf
2015
December 2015 Newsletter
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201512_newsletter.pdf
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://alliancehouston.org/haom/201512_newsletter.pdf
A Magical Christmas 2015 with Curt Miller
December 17 through 27, 2015! Includes Dinner, Show, AND The Festival of Lights!
This Holiday Season, the Magic returns to Moody Gardens! Master Illusionist Curt Miller and his friends return this December in an exclusive new production: “A Magical Christmas 2015” Dinner & Show! This new family tradition is a wonder-filled extravaganza of amazing sights and sensational sounds. Thrill to spectacular feats of magic performed by Curt Miller, one of America’s premier magicians! You won’t believe your eyes as you witness larger-than-life illusions.
Click on the image above for more details.
December 17 through 27, 2015! Includes Dinner, Show, AND The Festival of Lights!
This Holiday Season, the Magic returns to Moody Gardens! Master Illusionist Curt Miller and his friends return this December in an exclusive new production: “A Magical Christmas 2015” Dinner & Show! This new family tradition is a wonder-filled extravaganza of amazing sights and sensational sounds. Thrill to spectacular feats of magic performed by Curt Miller, one of America’s premier magicians! You won’t believe your eyes as you witness larger-than-life illusions.
Click on the image above for more details.
THE CURT MILLER MAGIC AND COMEDY SHOW LIVE AT MOODY GARDENS HOTEL IN GALVESTON, TX DAILY, JULY 27 – AUGUST 2, 2015
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the seventh great year with many new surprises for 2015! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained! The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 60,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions.
You'll see people divided in half and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly Vegas-style magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 27 through August 2, 2015
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16 CALL: 409-683-4186
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://MagicComedyShow.com
VISIT: Moody Gardens, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
GALVESTON (TX) – Magic! Comedy! “Vegas-Style” Grand Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returns to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the seventh great year with many new surprises for 2015! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained! The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 60,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions.
You'll see people divided in half and disappearing right before your eyes. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show! Don't miss your chance to see a family-friendly Vegas-style magic show right here in Galveston!
A limited number of seats are available, so order your tickets today at www.MagicComedyShow.com (before they disappear)!
Daily, July 27 through August 2, 2015
2 Shows per day: 1:00 PM, 7:30 PM
Adults: $23, Kids (3-12): $16 CALL: 409-683-4186
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://MagicComedyShow.com
VISIT: Moody Gardens, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, TX 77554
Click to watch video of Ben on the Deborah Duncan show.
Magician Ben Jackson Dazzles Deborah Duncan
See Ben Jackson incorporate music and magic at the Raveneaux Country Club in Spring, TX on Friday November 20 and Sunday November 22. Click Here for more information on this event. Two of his three shows are already sold out. Don't delay, get your tickets today for the last opening seats.
See Ben Jackson incorporate music and magic at the Raveneaux Country Club in Spring, TX on Friday November 20 and Sunday November 22. Click Here for more information on this event. Two of his three shows are already sold out. Don't delay, get your tickets today for the last opening seats.
Annual Magic Auction - Deals Galore!
On Sunday November 8, 2015, nearly 40 local magicians converged on the IATSE Hall for Houston's annual magic auction. It may not be the largest, but it is the longest running magic auction in the State. This year there were certainly more sellers than buyers which meant that there were a lot of great deals in a "buyer's market". Many of the 110 Live Auction items did not reach their minimum bid requirements, and even when dropped, they went down to as low as $2.00. There were only two Live Auction items that went for $100 and none of the larger, well-made illusions sold for their incredibly low $500 opening bids. Clearly two thirds of the items were "no bids". And the Silent Auction items mostly went for $1.00 to $10.00.
The final numbers are not yet in, but it is expected to be much lower than previous years and probably around $1,500 total. But this was not discouraging because everyone had a great time of fellowship and we enjoyed the snacks and drinks and the beautiful weather.
On Sunday November 8, 2015, nearly 40 local magicians converged on the IATSE Hall for Houston's annual magic auction. It may not be the largest, but it is the longest running magic auction in the State. This year there were certainly more sellers than buyers which meant that there were a lot of great deals in a "buyer's market". Many of the 110 Live Auction items did not reach their minimum bid requirements, and even when dropped, they went down to as low as $2.00. There were only two Live Auction items that went for $100 and none of the larger, well-made illusions sold for their incredibly low $500 opening bids. Clearly two thirds of the items were "no bids". And the Silent Auction items mostly went for $1.00 to $10.00.
The final numbers are not yet in, but it is expected to be much lower than previous years and probably around $1,500 total. But this was not discouraging because everyone had a great time of fellowship and we enjoyed the snacks and drinks and the beautiful weather.
July 2015 Newsletter
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://af-houston.org/haom/201507_iNews.pdf
Here is the PDF of the recent newsletter for the H.A.O.M. and S.A.M. Assembly #19 and I.B.M. Ring #39. Thanks again to Bob Smith for his hard work in putting together this monthly newsletter. Click on the graphic here or this link to view the newsletter: http://af-houston.org/haom/201507_iNews.pdf
May 2015 Newsletter
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the Nathan Kranzo Lecture on June 28th which will NOT be part of the HAOM Lecture Series.
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the Nathan Kranzo Lecture on June 28th which will NOT be part of the HAOM Lecture Series.
Annual Memorial Day Magicians' Banquet - FREE for All!
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 25th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the 3 Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited. RSVP REQUIRED
This was another fantastic event that was attended by nearly 100 guests. Plenty of food and lots of magic. Shave Wilson did a wonderful job as the featured entertainer for our group with lots of laughs and plenty of audience participation. Good job to all who made this a memorable Memorial Day event!
What: Annual Memorial Day Magic Picnic and BBQ
Where: The French Alliance Hall. 427 Lovett Blvd., Houston, TX 77006
When: Monday, May 25th. Doors open at 1:00 pm, Food served at 2:00, Magic begins at 3:15, everything over by 5:30 pm
How Much: FREE
Who: YOU! Members of the 3 Houston area magician's clubs and their families are invited. RSVP REQUIRED
This was another fantastic event that was attended by nearly 100 guests. Plenty of food and lots of magic. Shave Wilson did a wonderful job as the featured entertainer for our group with lots of laughs and plenty of audience participation. Good job to all who made this a memorable Memorial Day event!
Magician Robby Bennett Brings A Renewed Sense Of Wonder To His Audiences
Robby Bennett is the subject an great press piece in the Houston Press. Click Here to read the story and view the images. Be sure to catch his show on Saturday, June 6th at the Frenetic Theatre in Houston.
Robby Bennett is the subject an great press piece in the Houston Press. Click Here to read the story and view the images. Be sure to catch his show on Saturday, June 6th at the Frenetic Theatre in Houston.
Walter "Zaney" Blaney Receives Lifetime Achievement Fellowship Award
At the recent awards banquet in Hollywood, CA for the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA), Walter "Zaney" Blaney was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Fellowship award. The presentation was made to Walter by his close, personal friends, Mark Wilson and Nani Darnell.
" An AMA Fellowship is one of the highest recognitions a person can receive in the world of magic. These awards, as well as our showroom awards, are truly meaningful and special. The AMA has amassed a rich history of honoring luminaries in our field. We’ve established a tradition that is known and revered around the world, and one that has spread goodwill to every corner of the planet." - Erica Larsen, President AMA
Congratulations, Walter! It is a well-deserved and long overdue award for one of local magicians who made good!
At the recent awards banquet in Hollywood, CA for the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA), Walter "Zaney" Blaney was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Fellowship award. The presentation was made to Walter by his close, personal friends, Mark Wilson and Nani Darnell.
" An AMA Fellowship is one of the highest recognitions a person can receive in the world of magic. These awards, as well as our showroom awards, are truly meaningful and special. The AMA has amassed a rich history of honoring luminaries in our field. We’ve established a tradition that is known and revered around the world, and one that has spread goodwill to every corner of the planet." - Erica Larsen, President AMA
Congratulations, Walter! It is a well-deserved and long overdue award for one of local magicians who made good!
Live Magic Expo
They came to Houston in April! And they brought the world's best magic creators with them! LIVE MAGIC EXPO was fantastic with nearly 300 people in attendance. People came from across the state and around the region to meet, buy new magic, see a dealer show and socialize. This was the first time they came to Houston but it was quite a coup to have it here.
Brilliant magic creators performed their latest creations as well as giving short lectures all day including:
They came to Houston in April! And they brought the world's best magic creators with them! LIVE MAGIC EXPO was fantastic with nearly 300 people in attendance. People came from across the state and around the region to meet, buy new magic, see a dealer show and socialize. This was the first time they came to Houston but it was quite a coup to have it here.
Brilliant magic creators performed their latest creations as well as giving short lectures all day including:
- H&R Magic Books
- Mark Mason
- Paul Richards
- Brent Braun
- Chris Smith
- Michael Weber
March 2015 Newsletter
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the correction to the HAOM minutes as follows:
April 6 - HAOM/SAM meeting (NOTE: "Poker Tricks" will be the theme for the theme and everyone is encouraged to perform your favorite poker effect)
April 27 - IBM Meeting (NOTE: New Location - Ronald McDonald House)
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the correction to the HAOM minutes as follows:
April 6 - HAOM/SAM meeting (NOTE: "Poker Tricks" will be the theme for the theme and everyone is encouraged to perform your favorite poker effect)
April 27 - IBM Meeting (NOTE: New Location - Ronald McDonald House)
February 2015 Newsletter
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the correction to the HAOM minutes as follows:
March 2 HAOM/SAM meeting
PROGRAM CHANGE
Save the "Poker Tricks" for the April meeting!
Monday March 2nd meeting will feature a lecture by Magician Eric Jones.
The lecture is free to paid memebers *a small fee of $20 for non-members.
For details about Eric Jonses' Magic is Real Tour
and details about the Houston performance see Houstonmagic.com/lectures
I.A.T.S.E. Local 51 Union Hall
3030 N. Freeway (exit Calvalcade)
Please click on the graphic to open the PDF file for the newsletter. Also, please note the correction to the HAOM minutes as follows:
March 2 HAOM/SAM meeting
PROGRAM CHANGE
Save the "Poker Tricks" for the April meeting!
Monday March 2nd meeting will feature a lecture by Magician Eric Jones.
The lecture is free to paid memebers *a small fee of $20 for non-members.
For details about Eric Jonses' Magic is Real Tour
and details about the Houston performance see Houstonmagic.com/lectures
I.A.T.S.E. Local 51 Union Hall
3030 N. Freeway (exit Calvalcade)
January 2015 Newsletter for I.B.M. Ring #39 & S.A.M. Assembly #19 and H.A.O.M.
Click Here to view the PDF file of this month's newsletter
Click Here to view the PDF file of this month's newsletter
Doug Kornegay, Dean of S.A.M. Assembly #19, Succumbs
In Memory of Douglas Raymond Kornegay January 21, 1933 - March 2, 2015
Douglas Raymond Kornegay, born January 21, 1933, spent a career in the theater performing magic with wife Donnie, and later behind the scenes with IATSE Houston Local 51. His work in technical theatre, included a long stint as Backstage Manager of the Houston Music Hall.
Douglas' enthusiasm for magic began at the age of 7, when he received a magic set for his birthday. He soon became a regular fixture at Howard's Magic Shop in downtown Houston; and by the age of 15 could boast over 500 public appearances.
As a teenager, Douglas won a world championship Yo-Yo title at the 1949 Toronto Exposition. He later became a representative for the Duncan Yo-Yo Company, traveling throughout Mexico, Central and South America promoting the brand.
While serving in the Special Services branch of the United States Army, Douglas entertained the troops, touring the U.S. and Japan. And upon his discharge, along with wife Donnie, played theater circuits throughout the United States and Canada. Douglas appeared on The Steve Allen Show, Dave Garroway's Today, Super Circus and other network television shows.
For more than 50 years, Douglas has been an active member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Society of American Magicians and the Texas Association of Magicians. He has been awarded the distinction of Dean of Society of American Magicians, Assembly 19; Order of Merlin – Excalibur; Order of Willard; and served as the President of the Texas Association of Magicians. His performance at the 1966 TAOM convention in Houston, Texas, was awarded "Best of Convention."
Douglas' forays into variety entertainment included performing in circuses, owning a small traveling carnival, consulting for films, and promotions for shopping mall openings. He owned the Oak Village Movie Theater in Spring Branch in the 1970s.
In more recent years, Douglas could be found working back stage in many of Houston's theaters – the Music Hall, Jones Hall, the Coliseum, the Convention Centers, Miller Outdoor Theater, and the Wortham, among others. He's been an active member of Local 51 for more than 30 years.
Douglas is survived by wife and performing partner Donnie; daughter Diana Davison, husband Michael Davison and grandson Dylan Davison; and daughter DeLora Cardone and husband Thomas Cardone.
In Memory of Douglas Raymond Kornegay January 21, 1933 - March 2, 2015
Douglas Raymond Kornegay, born January 21, 1933, spent a career in the theater performing magic with wife Donnie, and later behind the scenes with IATSE Houston Local 51. His work in technical theatre, included a long stint as Backstage Manager of the Houston Music Hall.
Douglas' enthusiasm for magic began at the age of 7, when he received a magic set for his birthday. He soon became a regular fixture at Howard's Magic Shop in downtown Houston; and by the age of 15 could boast over 500 public appearances.
As a teenager, Douglas won a world championship Yo-Yo title at the 1949 Toronto Exposition. He later became a representative for the Duncan Yo-Yo Company, traveling throughout Mexico, Central and South America promoting the brand.
While serving in the Special Services branch of the United States Army, Douglas entertained the troops, touring the U.S. and Japan. And upon his discharge, along with wife Donnie, played theater circuits throughout the United States and Canada. Douglas appeared on The Steve Allen Show, Dave Garroway's Today, Super Circus and other network television shows.
For more than 50 years, Douglas has been an active member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Society of American Magicians and the Texas Association of Magicians. He has been awarded the distinction of Dean of Society of American Magicians, Assembly 19; Order of Merlin – Excalibur; Order of Willard; and served as the President of the Texas Association of Magicians. His performance at the 1966 TAOM convention in Houston, Texas, was awarded "Best of Convention."
Douglas' forays into variety entertainment included performing in circuses, owning a small traveling carnival, consulting for films, and promotions for shopping mall openings. He owned the Oak Village Movie Theater in Spring Branch in the 1970s.
In more recent years, Douglas could be found working back stage in many of Houston's theaters – the Music Hall, Jones Hall, the Coliseum, the Convention Centers, Miller Outdoor Theater, and the Wortham, among others. He's been an active member of Local 51 for more than 30 years.
Douglas is survived by wife and performing partner Donnie; daughter Diana Davison, husband Michael Davison and grandson Dylan Davison; and daughter DeLora Cardone and husband Thomas Cardone.
David Rangel, Martin Cox, David Stone,
Jose Rosette, Jamie Salinas and
(kneeling) Scott Wells, Master of
Ceremonies
2015 Installation of Officers Magic Banquet
What a wonderful, exciting and professional show we had this year. Over 400 people attended the sold-out banquet that featured over 20 local strolling magicians, a fine dinner and a gala stage show.
For anyone who has photos or stories to post in the social media, be sure to use the hashtag #MagicHouston
What a wonderful, exciting and professional show we had this year. Over 400 people attended the sold-out banquet that featured over 20 local strolling magicians, a fine dinner and a gala stage show.
For anyone who has photos or stories to post in the social media, be sure to use the hashtag #MagicHouston
Houston's 2014 "Magician of the Year"
Congratulations to David Hinkin who was presented with Houston's "Magician of the Year" award at the annual Installation of Officers Banquet on February 15, 2015. Congratulations, David, on the honor that is well deserved. You have represented the Houston Magic Community very well over the past year with your dedication to the magical arts and for bringing joy to everyone who saw you perform. You served with diplomacy and dignity as an officer of the I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39 and the Houston Association of Magicians. You entertained children and adults alike throughout the year including many performances for charitable events at hospitals and care centers.
Congratulations to David Hinkin who was presented with Houston's "Magician of the Year" award at the annual Installation of Officers Banquet on February 15, 2015. Congratulations, David, on the honor that is well deserved. You have represented the Houston Magic Community very well over the past year with your dedication to the magical arts and for bringing joy to everyone who saw you perform. You served with diplomacy and dignity as an officer of the I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39 and the Houston Association of Magicians. You entertained children and adults alike throughout the year including many performances for charitable events at hospitals and care centers.
H.A.O.M./I.B.M./S.A.M. Installation of Officers Banquet
Sunday, February 15, 2015: The 2015 Installation Banquet was EPIC! It was unlike any other that will be long remembered. Performers featured this year included:
David Stone - France
Martin Cox - United Kingdom
Plus T.A.O.M. Award Winners:
David Rangel
Jamie Salinas
Jose Rosette
And your Master of Ceremonies
Scott Wells
It was a sold out event with 430 people in attendance. Nearly 20 of our local members provided intimate, close-up magic before the meal.
Sunday, February 15, 2015: The 2015 Installation Banquet was EPIC! It was unlike any other that will be long remembered. Performers featured this year included:
David Stone - France
Martin Cox - United Kingdom
Plus T.A.O.M. Award Winners:
David Rangel
Jamie Salinas
Jose Rosette
And your Master of Ceremonies
Scott Wells
It was a sold out event with 430 people in attendance. Nearly 20 of our local members provided intimate, close-up magic before the meal.
2014
H.A.O.M. / S.A.M. Assembly #19 / I.B.M. Ring #39 Newsletter
To view the September 2014 Newsletter/Post Card, please click the image.
To view the September 2014 Newsletter/Post Card, please click the image.
Moody Gardens Presents A Magical
Christmas 2014 - Dinner & Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller & Friends
Galveston, Texas – The Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center is excited to announce the return of A Magical Christmas 2014 - Dinner and Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends. Curt and his talented friends are back this December to introduce a new production, featuring NEW Magic, Music and Fun. Witness people appearing and disappearing right before your eyes! Enjoy many of your favorite Christmas songs wonderfully performed by amazing singers and dancers.
Over the past two years at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Curt Miller’s Christmas show has been seen by over 15,000 people, receiving rave reviews and standing ovations. This year Curt has enhanced the show with spectacular new illusions complimented with a new score of heartwarming holiday music and imaginative choreography.
A Magical Christmas 2014 runs December 18 – 27. Doors open at 6:30 pm for guests to enjoy a sumptuous holiday buffet dinner prepared by renowned Executive Chef Robbin Murphy. The 70-minute spectacular show starts at 8 pm.
Each ticket to A Magical Christmas 2014 includes one admission to the show, a holiday buffet dinner, admission to the Festival of Lights – the Gulf Coast’s largest holiday lighting event, complimentary parking, all taxes and gratuities. Ticket prices start at $55 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-12 and $15 for infants up to 2. Rates for groups of 20 or more are $45 for Adults, $29 for children, and $15 for infants up to 2. For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Hotel packages are offered at the Moody Gardens Hotel. A couples package (2 adults) is available Sunday – Thursday for $209 and Friday - Saturday for $259. A family package is also available (2 adults and 2 children) for $279 Sunday – Thursday and Friday - Saturday for $329. Packages include overnight accommodations in the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel, tickets to A Magical Christmas 2014, tickets to the Festival of Lights and complimentary parking. For reservations call 888-388-8484.
A Magical Christmas 2014 is made possible through the support of local hotel and motel tax dollars from the city of Galveston generated to encourage tourism and to further promote arts and entertainment on the island. Come see why families all over Texas are making A Magical Christmas Dinner and Show an annual holiday tradition. Bring the whole family, friends and co-workers and prepare for a terrific evening of holiday song, dance and…Magic!
For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Galveston, Texas – The Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center is excited to announce the return of A Magical Christmas 2014 - Dinner and Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends. Curt and his talented friends are back this December to introduce a new production, featuring NEW Magic, Music and Fun. Witness people appearing and disappearing right before your eyes! Enjoy many of your favorite Christmas songs wonderfully performed by amazing singers and dancers.
Over the past two years at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Curt Miller’s Christmas show has been seen by over 15,000 people, receiving rave reviews and standing ovations. This year Curt has enhanced the show with spectacular new illusions complimented with a new score of heartwarming holiday music and imaginative choreography.
A Magical Christmas 2014 runs December 18 – 27. Doors open at 6:30 pm for guests to enjoy a sumptuous holiday buffet dinner prepared by renowned Executive Chef Robbin Murphy. The 70-minute spectacular show starts at 8 pm.
Each ticket to A Magical Christmas 2014 includes one admission to the show, a holiday buffet dinner, admission to the Festival of Lights – the Gulf Coast’s largest holiday lighting event, complimentary parking, all taxes and gratuities. Ticket prices start at $55 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-12 and $15 for infants up to 2. Rates for groups of 20 or more are $45 for Adults, $29 for children, and $15 for infants up to 2. For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Hotel packages are offered at the Moody Gardens Hotel. A couples package (2 adults) is available Sunday – Thursday for $209 and Friday - Saturday for $259. A family package is also available (2 adults and 2 children) for $279 Sunday – Thursday and Friday - Saturday for $329. Packages include overnight accommodations in the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel, tickets to A Magical Christmas 2014, tickets to the Festival of Lights and complimentary parking. For reservations call 888-388-8484.
A Magical Christmas 2014 is made possible through the support of local hotel and motel tax dollars from the city of Galveston generated to encourage tourism and to further promote arts and entertainment on the island. Come see why families all over Texas are making A Magical Christmas Dinner and Show an annual holiday tradition. Bring the whole family, friends and co-workers and prepare for a terrific evening of holiday song, dance and…Magic!
For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Houston Magic Auction Sales Announced
The 2014 Houston Magic Auction had $2,006.50 of sales that passed hands. Items included lots of books including collector's editions (thanks to Mike T.) like complete sets of Pallbearers, Magick, The Invocation, Tarbell, and more. The live auction included many illusions including two suspensions, a Hindu Basket, Balloon to Dove as well as Gloves to Dove, Airborne Suspension, Topsy Turvey Bottles, livestock vanishes and productions, and much, much more. Plus we had a half dozen tables laden with silent auction items like tricks, books, DVD's, videos, props and more.
Thanks goes to Doug & Donnie Kornegay, Dick and Lindsay Olson, Alice Williams, Jeff Lanes, David Hinkin, Scott Wells, Judy Hollingsworth and many more I have forgotten who made this the success it was. And a special thanks goes out to Wayne Hunstad who shot, edited and produced the video you see here. It was quite efficient with doors that opened at 12:00, the live auction started at 1:15 and ended promptly at 3:00. Everyone had checked out by 3:30 and the hall was swept and clean and everyone gone by 4:00.
Don't miss out next year for the next annual Houston Magic Auction.
The 2014 Houston Magic Auction had $2,006.50 of sales that passed hands. Items included lots of books including collector's editions (thanks to Mike T.) like complete sets of Pallbearers, Magick, The Invocation, Tarbell, and more. The live auction included many illusions including two suspensions, a Hindu Basket, Balloon to Dove as well as Gloves to Dove, Airborne Suspension, Topsy Turvey Bottles, livestock vanishes and productions, and much, much more. Plus we had a half dozen tables laden with silent auction items like tricks, books, DVD's, videos, props and more.
Thanks goes to Doug & Donnie Kornegay, Dick and Lindsay Olson, Alice Williams, Jeff Lanes, David Hinkin, Scott Wells, Judy Hollingsworth and many more I have forgotten who made this the success it was. And a special thanks goes out to Wayne Hunstad who shot, edited and produced the video you see here. It was quite efficient with doors that opened at 12:00, the live auction started at 1:15 and ended promptly at 3:00. Everyone had checked out by 3:30 and the hall was swept and clean and everyone gone by 4:00.
Don't miss out next year for the next annual Houston Magic Auction.
Houston Magic Auction Another Success!
H.A.O.M. / S.A.M. Assembly #19 / I.B.M. Ring #39 Newsletter
To view the July 2014 Newsletter/Post Card, please click the image.
To view the July 2014 Newsletter/Post Card, please click the image.
David Rangel Takes Home First Place in Close-Up at 2014 T.A.O.M. Convention
Congratulations goes to our own David Rangel who competed and won the Senior Competition for Close-Up at the T.A.O.M. convention in Ft. Worth over the Labor Day weekend.
David performed his award winning act at the August meeting of I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39 where he solicited and received comments, suggestions and advice before he went into the contest. Another good reason to belong to and to attend the local meetings!
You can read all about David's win on the "YourHoustonNews.com" website by Clicking Here.
Congratulations goes to our own David Rangel who competed and won the Senior Competition for Close-Up at the T.A.O.M. convention in Ft. Worth over the Labor Day weekend.
David performed his award winning act at the August meeting of I.B.M. Scott Hollingsworth Ring #39 where he solicited and received comments, suggestions and advice before he went into the contest. Another good reason to belong to and to attend the local meetings!
You can read all about David's win on the "YourHoustonNews.com" website by Clicking Here.
Click image to visit the website.
CURT MILLER MAGIC & COMEDY SHOW AT MOODY GARDENS - JULY 26 – AUGUST 1
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returned to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the sixth great year, July 26 – August 1, with many new surprises for 2014! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 50,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. Attendees saw people sawed in half and vanished right before their eyes.
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returned to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the sixth great year, July 26 – August 1, with many new surprises for 2014! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blends dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will leave your whole family amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has dazzled over 50,000 people at Moody Gardens, changing the show each year with new illusions. Attendees saw people sawed in half and vanished right before their eyes.
I.B.M. Ring #39 Annual Flea Market - Monday July 28th
There were nine tables of sellers at this year's annual Flea Market with LOTS of great bargains to be had. Another 20 or so people gathered, bought and talked throughout the evening at this event. Don't be left out next year. Be sure to attend. Bring your new or used magic to offer to others.
There were nine tables of sellers at this year's annual Flea Market with LOTS of great bargains to be had. Another 20 or so people gathered, bought and talked throughout the evening at this event. Don't be left out next year. Be sure to attend. Bring your new or used magic to offer to others.
June 2014 Newsletter
I.B.M. Ring #39 Members On The Air
Local CW Network affiliate channel 39, recently visited an I.B.M. Ring #39 meeting and recorded a segment for the "Subculture" segment on their NewsFix program. You will see in this news article tricks performed by many of the members plus interviews with Dick Olson, Jamie Salinas and Scott Hollingsworth though, for some reason, they chose not to identify the members with names on the screen.
This was a nice segment and great publicity for the local I.B.M. Ring. Congratulations, guys, to all who participated.
Local CW Network affiliate channel 39, recently visited an I.B.M. Ring #39 meeting and recorded a segment for the "Subculture" segment on their NewsFix program. You will see in this news article tricks performed by many of the members plus interviews with Dick Olson, Jamie Salinas and Scott Hollingsworth though, for some reason, they chose not to identify the members with names on the screen.
This was a nice segment and great publicity for the local I.B.M. Ring. Congratulations, guys, to all who participated.
Annual Magicians' Memorial Day Party - May 26
Over 60 local area magicians attended the annual Memorial Day Party. This year the featured entertainment was be by Marcus Eddie.
"Marcus Eddie creates magical, memorable moments. He's received multiple awards for his performances, using original illusions to activate your imagination. His show is fast-paced, exciting and allows YOU to experience magic."
Over 60 local area magicians attended the annual Memorial Day Party. This year the featured entertainment was be by Marcus Eddie.
"Marcus Eddie creates magical, memorable moments. He's received multiple awards for his performances, using original illusions to activate your imagination. His show is fast-paced, exciting and allows YOU to experience magic."
Scott Wells Participated in Online Q&A for Full Circle Magic
Full Circle Magic conducted a live Q&A chat with Scott Wells on Saturday May 3, 2014. Jeff Stone was the moderator and for over an hour and a half, Scott covered a lot of territory concerning working as a corporate magician, how to get work, advice, tips and lots of suggestions. You can view the video on Full Circle Magic's Website.
Full Circle Magic conducted a live Q&A chat with Scott Wells on Saturday May 3, 2014. Jeff Stone was the moderator and for over an hour and a half, Scott covered a lot of territory concerning working as a corporate magician, how to get work, advice, tips and lots of suggestions. You can view the video on Full Circle Magic's Website.
Houston Children's Festival Slated for March 29-30
The Houston Children’s Festival was held on March 29th & 30th from 10:30 a,m. till 6:00 p.m. both days. It has been passed and approved for this to be a club function to help as this is the fund raiser for Child Advocates. The Houston’s Children’s Festival is the largest children’s festival in the nation! Local club members earned points with H.A.O.M. that go towards your Wizard Circle induction and also towards Magician of the Year award.
Local magicians were encouraged to come out and strut their stuff with close up magic, There were tables for performing close-magic. This year there was also a small stage for those who wished to perform a little show for the tots.
Phil Kampf coordinated the schedule for all the performers who worked this year.
Local magicians were encouraged to come out and strut their stuff with close up magic, There were tables for performing close-magic. This year there was also a small stage for those who wished to perform a little show for the tots.
Phil Kampf coordinated the schedule for all the performers who worked this year.
2014 Installation of Officers' Banquet on Feb. 23rd
Over 200 people gathered on Sunday February 23, 2013 for the H.A.O.M., I.B.M. Ring #39 & S.A.M. Assembly #19 annual joint banquet at the SPJST Lodge 88 Hall, 1435 Beall, Houston, TX 77008 (in the Heights). The public enjoyed some great close-up and stage magic, enjoyed the food and fellowship and in general had a great time.
This year's Guest Host and Master of Ceremonies was Cody Fisher, from Austin, TX. Others on the stage bill included: Trixie Bond, Bruce Manners, Johan McElroy, Rick Hebert and Ted Schwank and Carter Blackburn. Of course there was close-up, strolling magicians before the meal was served: Scott Wells, Scott Hollingsworth, Dick Olson, Ben Jackson, Jaden Rhodes, John Star, Gene Protas and many more!
The winner of the 2013 "Magician of the Year" was awarded to Richard Olson. Congratulations, Dick!
This year's Guest Host and Master of Ceremonies was Cody Fisher, from Austin, TX. Others on the stage bill included: Trixie Bond, Bruce Manners, Johan McElroy, Rick Hebert and Ted Schwank and Carter Blackburn. Of course there was close-up, strolling magicians before the meal was served: Scott Wells, Scott Hollingsworth, Dick Olson, Ben Jackson, Jaden Rhodes, John Star, Gene Protas and many more!
The winner of the 2013 "Magician of the Year" was awarded to Richard Olson. Congratulations, Dick!
2013
Curt Miller to Present "A Magical Christmas 2: Home for the Holidays"
December 19-28, 2013
Moody
Gardens Presents A Magical Christmas 2: Home
For The Holidays Dinner & Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller
& Friends
Through a child’s eyes, the holidays are filled with wonder and amazement; with great food and the joyful celebration of family traditions. Moody Gardens invites you to relive that magic and excitement with the new production of A Magical Christmas 2: Home for the Holidays Dinner & Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends at the Moody Gardens Convention Center.
A Magical Christmas 2 is a visual performance that combines dazzling magic, family comedy, inspiring music and beautiful dance to celebrate the childlike wonderment of Christmas. Watch as people appear and disappear before your eyes. Enjoy your favorite Christmas melodies and experience traditional Christmas narratives enhanced with the spectacular creativity of Curt Miller.
A Magical Christmas 2 runs December 19 – 28. Doors open at 6:30 pm for guests to enjoy a sumptuous holiday buffet dinner prepared by renowned Executive Chef Urs Schmid. The one-hour spectacular starts at 8 pm.
Each ticket to A Magical Christmas 2 includes one admission to the show, a holiday buffet dinner, admission to the Festival of Lights – the Gulf Coast’s largest holiday lighting event, complimentary parking, all taxes and gratuities. Ticket prices start at $55 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-12 and $15 for infants up to 2. Rates for groups of 20 or more are $45 for Adults, $29 for children, and $15 for infants up to 2. For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Hotel packages are available from $209 per night for couples. Prices start at $259 per night for a family of four. Packages include overnight accommodations in the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel, tickets to A Magical Christmas 2, tickets to the Festival of Lights and complimentary parking. For reservations call 888-388-8484.
A Magical Christmas 2 is made possible through the support of local hotel and motel tax dollars from the city of Galveston generated to encourage tourism and to further promote arts and entertainment on the island.
Through a child’s eyes, the holidays are filled with wonder and amazement; with great food and the joyful celebration of family traditions. Moody Gardens invites you to relive that magic and excitement with the new production of A Magical Christmas 2: Home for the Holidays Dinner & Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends at the Moody Gardens Convention Center.
A Magical Christmas 2 is a visual performance that combines dazzling magic, family comedy, inspiring music and beautiful dance to celebrate the childlike wonderment of Christmas. Watch as people appear and disappear before your eyes. Enjoy your favorite Christmas melodies and experience traditional Christmas narratives enhanced with the spectacular creativity of Curt Miller.
A Magical Christmas 2 runs December 19 – 28. Doors open at 6:30 pm for guests to enjoy a sumptuous holiday buffet dinner prepared by renowned Executive Chef Urs Schmid. The one-hour spectacular starts at 8 pm.
Each ticket to A Magical Christmas 2 includes one admission to the show, a holiday buffet dinner, admission to the Festival of Lights – the Gulf Coast’s largest holiday lighting event, complimentary parking, all taxes and gratuities. Ticket prices start at $55 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-12 and $15 for infants up to 2. Rates for groups of 20 or more are $45 for Adults, $29 for children, and $15 for infants up to 2. For details, visit MoodyChristmasShow.com or call 409-683-4186.
Hotel packages are available from $209 per night for couples. Prices start at $259 per night for a family of four. Packages include overnight accommodations in the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel, tickets to A Magical Christmas 2, tickets to the Festival of Lights and complimentary parking. For reservations call 888-388-8484.
A Magical Christmas 2 is made possible through the support of local hotel and motel tax dollars from the city of Galveston generated to encourage tourism and to further promote arts and entertainment on the island.
Scott Hollingsworth Featured on The Magic Word
Scott Hollingsworth was the Entertainment Director for Houston's former Magic Island. In that position he has seen the acts of nearly everyone from the celebrated to the unknown like Lance Burton and Johnny Thompson all the way down to Scott Wells. For those who would listen and take his advice, he offered invaluable direction tips, ideas and suggestions that tightened up even the most professional acts. He still offers his service as a magic coach in these days of post-Magic Island. You can find out more on his website.
But Scott was also a pioneer in the field of restaurant magic. His 1974 lecture notes, "Cashing In On Close Up" served as the best source on marketing yourself to restaurants. Thirst notes have long been out of print until now. They have been redone, updated and reprinted and available through Scott's website. But before you think this is a pitch to buy his stuff, let me say that I am getting nothing out of it. I am just passing on some information to anyone who might be interested.
And in that vein, this week's Magic & Martinis' Thursday on The Magic Word features Scott's third mini-lecture on restaurant magic that he gave to the H.A.O.M. meeting on November 4, 2013. Although the podcast is available through iTunes, you can download the MP3 file directly from the website along with viewing a video of Scott performing one of his signature tricks, plus read the text and view some pictures. And as a bonus from Scotto, you can download three PDF's including two trick instructions.
All this is available now at: http://themagicwordpodcast.com/scottwellsmagic/scott-hollingsworth
But Scott was also a pioneer in the field of restaurant magic. His 1974 lecture notes, "Cashing In On Close Up" served as the best source on marketing yourself to restaurants. Thirst notes have long been out of print until now. They have been redone, updated and reprinted and available through Scott's website. But before you think this is a pitch to buy his stuff, let me say that I am getting nothing out of it. I am just passing on some information to anyone who might be interested.
And in that vein, this week's Magic & Martinis' Thursday on The Magic Word features Scott's third mini-lecture on restaurant magic that he gave to the H.A.O.M. meeting on November 4, 2013. Although the podcast is available through iTunes, you can download the MP3 file directly from the website along with viewing a video of Scott performing one of his signature tricks, plus read the text and view some pictures. And as a bonus from Scotto, you can download three PDF's including two trick instructions.
All this is available now at: http://themagicwordpodcast.com/scottwellsmagic/scott-hollingsworth
Roy Zaltsman's Previewed a Trick on Mon. Oct. 28th That Was Taught in His Lecture in Houston on Tues. Oct. 29th
The Great Magic Auction - Sunday October 27, 2013
Wow! What a turnout of buyers and sellers at this year's annual auction! There were over 40 people at this year's auction and nearly 90% of everything was sold for great prices (depending if you were a buyer or seller). There were TWO AUCTIONS that ran at the same time.
1. The Verbal Auction for larger items, props, special effects and collectibles (i.e. books, posters, etc.). The verbal auction ended when all items were sold or returned to owners.
2. The Silent Auction for small items such as small props, books, cards & coin effects, etc. The silent auction tables closed at random times.
The doors opened the auction at 12:00 p.m. and the live auction began at 1:15. We took one short break in the action but it was over by 3:30 and everyone was out and the building was cleaned up by 5:00 p.m. It is not yet known how much was sold this year, but it will be reported when that number is released.
1. The Verbal Auction for larger items, props, special effects and collectibles (i.e. books, posters, etc.). The verbal auction ended when all items were sold or returned to owners.
2. The Silent Auction for small items such as small props, books, cards & coin effects, etc. The silent auction tables closed at random times.
The doors opened the auction at 12:00 p.m. and the live auction began at 1:15. We took one short break in the action but it was over by 3:30 and everyone was out and the building was cleaned up by 5:00 p.m. It is not yet known how much was sold this year, but it will be reported when that number is released.
Hallo-Wino Costume Party at Circle S Vineyards - Saturday October 26th
This is the second most popular event we host here at the winery.
Scott Wells is not only the Past President of the Texas Association of Magicians but is one of the most highly sought after performers by major corporations for their events. He even performed for President George W. Bush. How did we get him to come to the winery? Pretty simple; he has great taste in wine.
Scott strolled throughout the winery during our party and performed sleight-f-hand for about 30 people at this intimate, annual gathering Many were dressed in costume that added to the gaiety of the evening plus prizes were awarded to the best, most original costumes..
Light appetizers were provided. There was NO CHARGE for this event; however, everyone was asked to take home two bottles of their favorite Circle S wine.
Scott Wells is not only the Past President of the Texas Association of Magicians but is one of the most highly sought after performers by major corporations for their events. He even performed for President George W. Bush. How did we get him to come to the winery? Pretty simple; he has great taste in wine.
Scott strolled throughout the winery during our party and performed sleight-f-hand for about 30 people at this intimate, annual gathering Many were dressed in costume that added to the gaiety of the evening plus prizes were awarded to the best, most original costumes..
Light appetizers were provided. There was NO CHARGE for this event; however, everyone was asked to take home two bottles of their favorite Circle S wine.
David Rangel on Scam School and TED-x Houston
David Rangel recently appeared on Brian Brushwood's "Scam Scool" where he taught a very nice, commercial card trick. You can watch and learn it, too, by Clicking Here.
David also spoke at the TEDx Event Saturday, October 12th. Check out This Website for more details.
Congratulations, David, for doing the Houston Magic Community proud!
David also spoke at the TEDx Event Saturday, October 12th. Check out This Website for more details.
Congratulations, David, for doing the Houston Magic Community proud!
Free Screening of the Movie: "Now You See Me" Plus Magic Show!
On Saturday, September 7th at the Bayou Theater in the Bayou Building at the University of Houston's Clear Lake Campus, there was a FREE screening of "Now You See Me" followed by a performance of live Magic featuring award winning Magician, Jamie Salinas! The evening was attended by over 400 people who enjoyed the movie and the magic show.
Champions of Magic - One Night Only - August 24th
August 23th was a night of Magic, Comedy and Illusions with over 300 people in attendance and two standing ovations at the Lee College Performing Arts Center.
Jamie Salinas is an award winner in the art of sleight of hand magic. He has performed for both American and foreign presidents. He will amaze and amuse you in this family friendly show.
Michael and Jessica Blanco are North American World Champion Illusionists. They are also nationally ranked ballroom dancers. They have combined both talents of presenting grand illusions and ballroom dancing to create "The Rhythm of Magic".
Jamie Salinas is an award winner in the art of sleight of hand magic. He has performed for both American and foreign presidents. He will amaze and amuse you in this family friendly show.
Michael and Jessica Blanco are North American World Champion Illusionists. They are also nationally ranked ballroom dancers. They have combined both talents of presenting grand illusions and ballroom dancing to create "The Rhythm of Magic".
David Rangel - American Conjurer - August 17th at Hilton Americas
David Rangel's one man show The American Conjuror came to The Hilton Americas conference rooms 336 A & B, Saturday, August 17. The art and the sleight of hand of the raconteur.
MAGICIAN - CONJUROR - STORYTELLER.
He has performed all across the globe. He is the host of an awarding winning radio show in Houston, Texas, “Lost Fidelity.” Mixing a blend of the roots of rock and roll with today’s artists, featuring interviews from artists such as Matt & Kim to original Beatles drummer Pete Best. (Voted Houston Press Best Radio Program in 2009). He is also founder and co-host of the 816 Podcast, offering an inside on the world of magic. He has taught his “Tricks of The Trade” at Montgomery College for the summer youth program and a course on the History of Magic at Yes Prep College.
Experienced in performing for corporate functions, trade shows, weddings, restaurants and private parties. David Rangel has refined his sleight of hand mixed with his unique storytelling through the years.
Opening his show for David that evening was Alex Rangel, public speaker with a passion for the Art Of Magic. His work has been published in numerous magazines. His talents have taken him around the world.
MAGICIAN - CONJUROR - STORYTELLER.
He has performed all across the globe. He is the host of an awarding winning radio show in Houston, Texas, “Lost Fidelity.” Mixing a blend of the roots of rock and roll with today’s artists, featuring interviews from artists such as Matt & Kim to original Beatles drummer Pete Best. (Voted Houston Press Best Radio Program in 2009). He is also founder and co-host of the 816 Podcast, offering an inside on the world of magic. He has taught his “Tricks of The Trade” at Montgomery College for the summer youth program and a course on the History of Magic at Yes Prep College.
Experienced in performing for corporate functions, trade shows, weddings, restaurants and private parties. David Rangel has refined his sleight of hand mixed with his unique storytelling through the years.
Opening his show for David that evening was Alex Rangel, public speaker with a passion for the Art Of Magic. His work has been published in numerous magazines. His talents have taken him around the world.
FREE show featuring Banachek
Here was an opportunity that doesn’t come along very often, if ever. A Japanese television network was in Houston on Tuesday August 13th to shoot a live performance by Banachek for later broadcast. This was an intimate evening with only about 30-40 people in the audience. This performance was provided at no cost to those attending.
Hopefully we will be able to post a link to the broadcast once it becomes available.
Hopefully we will be able to post a link to the broadcast once it becomes available.
Harry Maurer Presented Rare Public Performance
For more information, click this photo
Since most of Harry Maurer's shows are on cruise ships, casinos and clubs in different areas of the world, it was rare for local audiences he get a chance to see him perform "public" shows right here in Houston!
So you should be aware that Harry presented FIVE shows at the Houston Family Arts Center (located on Jones and Grant Road in Northwest Houston) -- August 2nd - 4th.
These were fun shows and well attended. Watch for the next opportunity to see Harry LIVE...if there is one! For more information, visit: www.hmmagic.com
So you should be aware that Harry presented FIVE shows at the Houston Family Arts Center (located on Jones and Grant Road in Northwest Houston) -- August 2nd - 4th.
These were fun shows and well attended. Watch for the next opportunity to see Harry LIVE...if there is one! For more information, visit: www.hmmagic.com
Magic is Good Medicine
Stephen Shain coordinates the efforts of local magicians to perform magic for sick and convalescent youth and adults. This one minute video below was recorded in the summer of 2013 by Memorial Hermann Hospital for their in-house, close-circuit broadcast station. It is a short synopsis that shows how magic can help brighten the day for children.
Magic Flea Market Open to All Magicians - July 22nd
Come one, come all. The I.B.M. Ring #39 famous and fabulous annual Magic Flea Market washeld on Monday July 22, 2013 at the Bayou Manor (4141 South Braeswood). July is always when we schedule our annual Magic Flea Market in place of our usual meeting night.
There were eight tables full of cool stuff that sold to a group of about 30 people who snapped up great deals on new and gently used magic like books, stage props, videos, and more. Don't miss this popular event next year.
There were eight tables full of cool stuff that sold to a group of about 30 people who snapped up great deals on new and gently used magic like books, stage props, videos, and more. Don't miss this popular event next year.
Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show at Moody Gardens June 28 - July 6
GALVESTON
(TX) – Magic! Comedy! Vegas-Style Illusions!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returned to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the fifth great year, June 28 – July 6, with many new surprises for 2013!
Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blended dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will left families amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has performed throughout Las Vegas and across North America for over 25 years. In his show, people were levitated and vanished right before the eyes of the audience.
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returned to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the fifth great year, June 28 – July 6, with many new surprises for 2013!
Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blended dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that will left families amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has performed throughout Las Vegas and across North America for over 25 years. In his show, people were levitated and vanished right before the eyes of the audience.
Weekly Roundup of Houston Magic Happenings on the I.B.M. Web Portal
Every week for the first five months of 2013, Scott Wells posted updates on the I.B.M. Web Portal on what was happening on the Houston magic scene. Even though this column was posted on the I.B.M. web portal that goes out to the world, there was more of a "lean" towards the local Ring #39 activities so everyone can read how much is happening here. Regrettably the column ceased due to lack of interest or readership. There was no feedback and when prompted for ANYONE in the world to at least acknowledge that they were reading the column, no one responded. So, the results were not worth the effort and the column disappeared.
But you can still go back and read the blog in the archives which will live on in cyberspace.
But you can still go back and read the blog in the archives which will live on in cyberspace.
Ben Jackson Takes Another Prize Home to Houston
Houston's own, Ben Jackson, continues to win awards and accolades around the world of magic. He has won many trophies (including best close-up by I.B.M., S.A.M., T.A.O.M. and others) and finished high in the rankings at many other conventions (like at F.I.S.M.). You might even remember me posting one of his early wins at The Magic Castle's "Strolling Olympics" in my March 17, 2008 Blog here on this I.B.M. web portal. So it was not a real surprise to see Ben reaching the final three contestants on NBC's Today Show last Monday March 25th, nearly five years later to the date.
During most of this month of March, NBC's Today Show has featured David Copperfield as a guest for "Magic Mondays". Perhaps this "tip of the top hat to Magic" was to ride the wave of publicity surrounding the release of the new movie "Burt Wonderstone". But whatever the reason, it has certainly drawn some attention to our art/craft. And as part of "Magic Mondays", they were leading up to finding "The Next Great Magician" as judged by Mr. Copperfield. With hundreds of videos that were submitted, it boiled down to Kayla Drescher of Boston, Mass., Jeff Prace of Buffalo Grove, Ill., and Ben Jackson of Houston, Texas who performed on Monday's show.
You can see their performances, David's critiques, and the outcome by Clicking Here to view the video.
I believe that the winner got tickets to see David Copperfield's show in Las Vegas plus receive a personal tour of his private museum. And although the first prize could only be awarded to one person, I feel that they all were winners by getting great publicity on a nationally televised network. Way to go, Ben!
And as if that isn't enough, Ben Jackson recently spoke at a Technology Entertainment Design (T.E.D.) conference in Houston. His 18-minute presentation gave the audience a magician's perspective on the relationship between simplicity vs. complexity. He talked about how he got started in magic, parallels between magic and music, magic's hidden artistry, and how magic isn't necessarily about "tricks". You can Click Here to watch Ben's excellent presentation on YouTube. This young man is on the rise.
During most of this month of March, NBC's Today Show has featured David Copperfield as a guest for "Magic Mondays". Perhaps this "tip of the top hat to Magic" was to ride the wave of publicity surrounding the release of the new movie "Burt Wonderstone". But whatever the reason, it has certainly drawn some attention to our art/craft. And as part of "Magic Mondays", they were leading up to finding "The Next Great Magician" as judged by Mr. Copperfield. With hundreds of videos that were submitted, it boiled down to Kayla Drescher of Boston, Mass., Jeff Prace of Buffalo Grove, Ill., and Ben Jackson of Houston, Texas who performed on Monday's show.
You can see their performances, David's critiques, and the outcome by Clicking Here to view the video.
I believe that the winner got tickets to see David Copperfield's show in Las Vegas plus receive a personal tour of his private museum. And although the first prize could only be awarded to one person, I feel that they all were winners by getting great publicity on a nationally televised network. Way to go, Ben!
And as if that isn't enough, Ben Jackson recently spoke at a Technology Entertainment Design (T.E.D.) conference in Houston. His 18-minute presentation gave the audience a magician's perspective on the relationship between simplicity vs. complexity. He talked about how he got started in magic, parallels between magic and music, magic's hidden artistry, and how magic isn't necessarily about "tricks". You can Click Here to watch Ben's excellent presentation on YouTube. This young man is on the rise.
Free - Advance Screenings for "Now You See Me"
Local magicians enjoyed a free advanced screenings of Summit’s newest film, NOW YOU SEE ME. It received mixed reviews. RottenTomatoes.com gave it a 50% average rating while the audience meter gave it 74% approval. RottenTomatoes.com said: "Now You See Me's thinly sketched characters and scattered plot rely on directorial sleight of hand to distract audiences -- and director Louis Leterrier lacks sufficient cinematic prestidigitation to pull it off in the final act." More at: http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/now_you_see_me/
NOW YOU SEE ME Starring JESSE EISENBERG, MARK RUFFALO, WOODY HARRELSON, MÉLANIE LAURENT, ISLA FISHER, DAVE FRANCO, COMMON, JOSÉ GARCIA, WITH MICHAEL CAINE AND MORGAN FREEMAN
NOW YOU SEE ME pits an elite FBI squad in a game of cat and mouse against "The Four Horsemen", a super-team of the world's greatest illusionists. "The Four Horsemen" pull off a series of daring heists against corrupt business leaders during their performances, showering the stolen profits on their audiences while staying one step ahead of the law.
Opens in theaters nationwide May 31, 2013.
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNfiXZzmhjw
Site: http://nowyouseememovie.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NowYouSeeMeMovie
NOW YOU SEE ME Starring JESSE EISENBERG, MARK RUFFALO, WOODY HARRELSON, MÉLANIE LAURENT, ISLA FISHER, DAVE FRANCO, COMMON, JOSÉ GARCIA, WITH MICHAEL CAINE AND MORGAN FREEMAN
NOW YOU SEE ME pits an elite FBI squad in a game of cat and mouse against "The Four Horsemen", a super-team of the world's greatest illusionists. "The Four Horsemen" pull off a series of daring heists against corrupt business leaders during their performances, showering the stolen profits on their audiences while staying one step ahead of the law.
Opens in theaters nationwide May 31, 2013.
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNfiXZzmhjw
Site: http://nowyouseememovie.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NowYouSeeMeMovie
Dynamic Duo for the First Time: Fred Becker & John Shryock on One Night Only
A pair of world-famous magicians shared the bill on Saturday April 27th at Top Talent Productions' wonderful evening of magic at the Hilton Americas Hotel in downtown Houston. Due to inclement weather, parking problems and conflicting events, the crowd of 50 was rather intimate. But they gave a fantastic show and each received a standing ovation. "This was the best magic show I've seen in years." - Dick Olson
For more information on upcoming shows, go to www.TopTalentProductions.com or call 832-724-3045.
For more information on upcoming shows, go to www.TopTalentProductions.com or call 832-724-3045.
"A Night of Fun and Fellowship" - Jared Hall Presented Free Show
Jared Hall, a Christian Illusionist, appeared on Friday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Grace Center of the First Baptist Church in Pasadena. This was a free event and was billed as "A Night of Fun and Fellowship".
Cruise Ship Magician & Star of TV Specials - John Shryock Lecture
John Shryock lectured for our group on Tuesday April 30th. His lecture was outstanding and well attended. You can hear more from and about John in a podcast recorded with Scott Wells and Ben Jackson on The Magic Word by Clicking Here.
Williams Traveling Magic Truck Visited Houston Monday April 15
Williams Magic Shop is a recent victim in the dissolution of brick-and-mortar magic shops. Their shop in Tucson, AZ officially went going out of business as they packed their boxes over the weekend of March 23rd. And although they have said goodbye to the brick-and-mortar shop. Emory Williams is far from giving up selling magic He has a fantastic trailer full of over 1,000 magic tricks, books, props and mysterious treasures. Emory will traveled through Houston and stopped over to open his "Aladdin's Treasure Trove of Mystery."
Emory Williams was in Houston on Monday April 15th with his rolling magic shop on wheels. He had it parked in the the usual spot in the parking lot of the shopping center near the Pappa’s BBQ restaurant located at 4430 I-45 North (at Crosstimbers). Local magicians found a world of treasures there.
Emory Williams was in Houston on Monday April 15th with his rolling magic shop on wheels. He had it parked in the the usual spot in the parking lot of the shopping center near the Pappa’s BBQ restaurant located at 4430 I-45 North (at Crosstimbers). Local magicians found a world of treasures there.
Houston Children's Festival Held on April 5-6
The Houston Children’s Festival was on April 6th & 7th from 10:30 a,m. till 6:00 p.m. both days. It has been passed and approved for this to be a club function to help as this is the fund raiser for Child Advocates. The Houston’s Children’s Festival is the largest children’s festival in the nation! Local club members earned points with H.A.O.M. that go towards your Wizard Circle induction and also towards Magician of the Year award.
Many local magicians came out and strutted their stuff with close up magic, There were tables plus some strolled. The donated time our members gave was greatly appreciated.
On a related note; Phil Kampf and Lindsey Olson performed on Saturday April 6th with some of the big Illusions. And on Sunday, Phil was assisted by Charlotte.
Many local magicians came out and strutted their stuff with close up magic, There were tables plus some strolled. The donated time our members gave was greatly appreciated.
On a related note; Phil Kampf and Lindsey Olson performed on Saturday April 6th with some of the big Illusions. And on Sunday, Phil was assisted by Charlotte.
Mark Melchor - Magic for Whole Planet
Save The Date! Bring the kids, It's going to be fun & exciting. Local Houston Magician Mark Melchor will be performing his Wonders of Magic Show Live benefiting the Whole Planet Foundation. It will be at the Whole Foods Market (Montrose), 701 Waugh Drive, Houston, Texas 77019
TICKETS $8 THE DAY OF THE EVENT. LIMITED SEATING, AND ONLY 4 CHANCES TO SEE IT.
Shows will be scheduled as follows:
March 16th: 1st Show @ 4:30 pm, 2nd Show @ 6:30 pm
March 23rd: 1st Show @ 4:30 pm, 2nd Show @ 6:30 pm
COME CHECK IT OUT, BE AMAZED AND BRING THE KIDS. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE.
TICKETS $8 THE DAY OF THE EVENT. LIMITED SEATING, AND ONLY 4 CHANCES TO SEE IT.
Shows will be scheduled as follows:
March 16th: 1st Show @ 4:30 pm, 2nd Show @ 6:30 pm
March 23rd: 1st Show @ 4:30 pm, 2nd Show @ 6:30 pm
COME CHECK IT OUT, BE AMAZED AND BRING THE KIDS. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE.
David Ginn Workshop
Sunday, March 10th (from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.) - David Ginn presented his Kidbiz Live workshop at SAGEMONT CHURCH in Houston, sponsored by the same friends who host the JOEY to the WORLD convention. This was the full comedy/magic workshop he has presented over 100 times across the USA and Canada. Due to surgery and later sickness, David had to cancel the Houston stop two years ago. Now he finally got to present it with LOTS of NEW MAGIC and FUN! Doors opened at 1:30 p.m.. Admission was $35 for only ONE FAMILY MEMBER - others were FREE! That's right: Only one family member paid the $35 fee; spouses, kids, assistants attended FREE! This was a very special one time event!
"Buskapalooza" Inauguration on the Sugar Land Town Square
Anthony DiNardo, Jeff Soderstrom, Rob Greenlee, Caesar Trujillo and Dennis Castro took magic to the streets in Sugar Land on Saturday night, March 2nd. Yes, the cold snap put a big dent in the day but they found groups to perform for here and there. They began at 5:30 p.m. then took a short break before heading back out. After the sun set the crowd was a bit more robust and everyone had a chance to perform. The next time they do it again they will push back the start time from 5:30 to instead begin at 7:00 p.m. and try to time it during warmer weather.
Still Zaney After All These Years
If you are not aware of it or have not yet "Liked" it, there is a Facebook page that includes Info, Photos and Video from the upcoming documentary on Magic Legend Walter "Zaney" Blaney. Timothy Drake is working on a video documentary of Walter "Zaney" Blaney's life. And of course, Walter is working on his own autobiography. Tim is moving along quite nicely with his end of the project and Walter is working on his book in his own time. But when you next talk with Walter, be sure to encourage him to keep moving along with his book. I know it will be a blockbuster. He is filled with lots of stories and creative genius.
You can visit and "Like" the Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/StillZaney
You can visit and "Like" the Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/StillZaney
Traveling Magic Shop "On The Road Again"
Williams Magic Company was on the road again in 2013. Emory Williams came through Houston on Sunday January 20th and Tuesday January 22nd with his rolling magic shop on wheels. Emory Williams is the owner of Williams Magic (www.williamsmagic.com) in Tucson, Arizona. Unfortunately, his brick-and-mortar shop has closed, so we might expect to see him come through a bit more often. He has thousands of products to choose from in his mobile magic shop. Even if you don’t buy anything, you should come by to see this mobile magic shop! This event is always free and open to all magicians. If you would like to see a video clip of the inside of this incredible, portable magic shop, then watch the YouTube video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1uSVynJBNs&feature=related
He always carries many new items as well as thousands of stock inventory items and books as usual. This is a full and complete magic shop and we were fortunate to have him stop in Houston.
He always carries many new items as well as thousands of stock inventory items and books as usual. This is a full and complete magic shop and we were fortunate to have him stop in Houston.
2013 Installation of Officer's Annual Banquet Was A Success!
Click to see a close-up of these beautiful trophies.
The annual Installation of Officers brought in the new group of officers for the 2013-14 season for all three clubs: the H.A.O.M., S.A.M., and the I.B.M. Congratulations and good luck, gentlemen in your respective capacities for the new year.
Hearty congratulations also goes to Lynn “Red” Skelton who was presented the Bob Blau award. This is a trophy that is presented to the magician in Ring #39 who has distinguished themselves for outstanding service to the Ring and the Houston magic community in general. Red was faithfully served as the Secretary for the Bob Blau I.B.M. Ring #39 for many years while also preparing and publishing the Magic Newsletter. This thankless job was rewarded by his acceptance of the prestigious award.
The big trophy of the evening is always the Magician of the Year. As reported last week, this is not a subjective designation of an individual by popular vote or appointment by the President or Board of Directors. This is a hard-fought battle by all the members to gain enough points to win the award. Points are gained by how active the magician is in the club and the greater community. Not only the Houston magic community but also the broader, even world-wide community and how they are promoting the Houston magic group.
This year’s trophy went to Scott Wells, and was my third time in accepting the award. It has been my pleasure to work hard to receive this award and I appreciate all the work that others have done, too, to promote magic in and around Houston.
The evening began with over a dozen magicians strolling through the audience of over 250. This special evening is always enjoyed and appreciated by the Houston public. And everyone who attends always attends the following year and brings along their friends, too. Following the catered dinner of turkey and roast beef, we had the official business portion of the evening, the installation of officers.
Then it was time for the stage show. This year we reached outside Houston to have a very special Master of Ceremonies, incoming International President of the S.A.M., Dal Sanders, who traveled from Dallas to join us. On the evening’s bill included local magician, Phil Kampf and his lovely assistant, Lindsay Olson (daughter of Ring #39 President Dick Olson), who presented a nice dove routine.
Next was local, multiple award winning magician, Ben Jackson who played the grand piano as the curtains parted then proceeded to wow the audience with some astonishing card tricks from the stage. Next up from north Texas was David Hira who delighted the audience with comedy and mystery including an escape from his own jacket! Next was local juggler, Roly, who provided the variety in the magic show. Concluding the evening was Phil Kampf and Lindsay Olson who returned to present the Wakling Sawing illusion. Comments from the general public were, as expected, all with high praise for a wonderful evening and show.
I mentioned that we had over 250 people in attendance. One special guest we had was David Stone who flew into Houston during a four day opening in his Florida lecture schedule to join us. David did not perform a single trick but was here just because he enjoys our local magic community.
If you happen to be anywhere near the Houston area in mid-February next year, then be sure to stop by and enjoy our banquet. You never know who might show up!
Hearty congratulations also goes to Lynn “Red” Skelton who was presented the Bob Blau award. This is a trophy that is presented to the magician in Ring #39 who has distinguished themselves for outstanding service to the Ring and the Houston magic community in general. Red was faithfully served as the Secretary for the Bob Blau I.B.M. Ring #39 for many years while also preparing and publishing the Magic Newsletter. This thankless job was rewarded by his acceptance of the prestigious award.
The big trophy of the evening is always the Magician of the Year. As reported last week, this is not a subjective designation of an individual by popular vote or appointment by the President or Board of Directors. This is a hard-fought battle by all the members to gain enough points to win the award. Points are gained by how active the magician is in the club and the greater community. Not only the Houston magic community but also the broader, even world-wide community and how they are promoting the Houston magic group.
This year’s trophy went to Scott Wells, and was my third time in accepting the award. It has been my pleasure to work hard to receive this award and I appreciate all the work that others have done, too, to promote magic in and around Houston.
The evening began with over a dozen magicians strolling through the audience of over 250. This special evening is always enjoyed and appreciated by the Houston public. And everyone who attends always attends the following year and brings along their friends, too. Following the catered dinner of turkey and roast beef, we had the official business portion of the evening, the installation of officers.
Then it was time for the stage show. This year we reached outside Houston to have a very special Master of Ceremonies, incoming International President of the S.A.M., Dal Sanders, who traveled from Dallas to join us. On the evening’s bill included local magician, Phil Kampf and his lovely assistant, Lindsay Olson (daughter of Ring #39 President Dick Olson), who presented a nice dove routine.
Next was local, multiple award winning magician, Ben Jackson who played the grand piano as the curtains parted then proceeded to wow the audience with some astonishing card tricks from the stage. Next up from north Texas was David Hira who delighted the audience with comedy and mystery including an escape from his own jacket! Next was local juggler, Roly, who provided the variety in the magic show. Concluding the evening was Phil Kampf and Lindsay Olson who returned to present the Wakling Sawing illusion. Comments from the general public were, as expected, all with high praise for a wonderful evening and show.
I mentioned that we had over 250 people in attendance. One special guest we had was David Stone who flew into Houston during a four day opening in his Florida lecture schedule to join us. David did not perform a single trick but was here just because he enjoys our local magic community.
If you happen to be anywhere near the Houston area in mid-February next year, then be sure to stop by and enjoy our banquet. You never know who might show up!
2012
Curt Miller Presents...A Magical Christmas!
Is there no better joy than remembering the wonder and magic of the Christmases of your childhood? Curt Miller presented several evenings during the holiday season at Moody Gardens' "A Magical Christmas: Dinner and Show starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends," that combined dazzling magic, family comedy, inspiring music, and beautiful dance that celebrated the timelessness and wonderment of Christmas.
Each ticket included
Each ticket included
- A Magical Christmas starring Master Illusionist Curt Miller and Friends
- Chef Urs's Holiday Buffet Dinner
- Admission to The Moody Gardens Festival of Lights
- All Taxes and Gratuities
- Complementary and Convenient Self Parking
Annual Magic Auction
This year's annual auction was not disappointing despite the low attendance (around 20 people) and low sales (less than $1,000). Some great deals were had and everyone in attendance had a great time. The weather was perfect and the bidding was hot and heavy. Don't miss out on attending next year to see what great deals might return to the auction block!
Becky Blaney in The Linking Ring
Congratulations to our own Becky Blaney on the great cover and inside story in the November 2012 issue of The Linking Ring (the monthly journal for the International Brotherhood of Magicians). Great story and pictures of her, her father, Walter "Zaney" Blaney, and even an early picture of her mother, Joyce. And this wasn't her first rodeo either. Becky was on the cover of The Linking Ring some time ago. Congratulations again, Becky! We are Houston Proud!.
The "Official" Houdini Seance in Fort Worth
Did Houdini return? You be the judge. You can read about the seance on the Wild About Houdini blog by John Cox and you can listen to the actual seance (plus see pictures from the evening) on The Magic Word.
The Official Sid Radner Houdini Seance was held in Fort Worth on Halloween 2012. Previously always held as a private event, this was the first time tickets were offered to the public in many decades. It was a near sellout at 200 attendees. Attendees saw rare Houdini original artifacts and enjoyed a spectacular evening filled with film clips, escape acts, and maybe even saw something that proved Houdini did return during the seance.
The event was held in the beautiful Masonic Center. The seance was conducted by Scott Wells. The evening was being hosted by Arthur Moses and Derek Kennedy in cooperation with Bill Radner, son of the late Sidney Radner. Read More in the article from the Ft. Worth Star Telegram by Clicking Here.
This was a terrific Houdini event. Be sure to read the blog and listen to the podcasts.
The Official Sid Radner Houdini Seance was held in Fort Worth on Halloween 2012. Previously always held as a private event, this was the first time tickets were offered to the public in many decades. It was a near sellout at 200 attendees. Attendees saw rare Houdini original artifacts and enjoyed a spectacular evening filled with film clips, escape acts, and maybe even saw something that proved Houdini did return during the seance.
The event was held in the beautiful Masonic Center. The seance was conducted by Scott Wells. The evening was being hosted by Arthur Moses and Derek Kennedy in cooperation with Bill Radner, son of the late Sidney Radner. Read More in the article from the Ft. Worth Star Telegram by Clicking Here.
This was a terrific Houdini event. Be sure to read the blog and listen to the podcasts.
The Magic Studio Presents...
Dateline Houston, TX, Friday October 5, 2012 - Help Lanny Kibbey raise money for curtains, lighting, staging and more for The Magic Studio. More information on the poster.
Texas Association of Magicians 2012
Wow, what a convention! With well over 500 registrants, Houston hosted the 66th annual TAOM convention in downtown Houston at the Hilton Americas Hotel. Lots of stellar magic and magicians featuring stage shows by Danny Cole, The Rhythm of Magic, Joe Givan & Carol Massie, Bob Smith, Chip Romero, Dani DaOrtiz, Tony Clark, Asi Wind, Losander and all hosted by David Hira, Oscar Munoz, Eric Mead. There were tons of lectures including Chad Long, Mark Mason, Dani DaOrtiz, Christian Engbloom, Michael Weber, Tony Clark, Losander, Joe Givan, Joshua Jay, Paul Wilson, and Jason England. Plus there were lots of other surprises and fantastic dealers. And don't forget that we watched incredible performances by contestants vying for the TAOM Trophies not to mention the $5,000 cash prize. The $5,000 in cash prize money went to Michael Dardent ($3,000), T.J. Kitchner $1,500) and Dani Garcia ($500).
If you would like to see some of the photos and listen to audio podcasts from the convention, then surf over to The Magic Word at http://scottwellsmagic.posterous.com/ and search for TAOM!
If you would like to see some of the photos and listen to audio podcasts from the convention, then surf over to The Magic Word at http://scottwellsmagic.posterous.com/ and search for TAOM!
T.A.O.M. In the News
The Houston Chronicle posted a nice article about the recent T.A.O.M. convention hosted by I.B.M. Ring #39 and the S.A.M. Assembly #19 in downtown Houston from August 31st through September 3rd. Read all about it and see a couple pictures of The Rhythm of Magic (Michael and Jessica), who were featured on the final night gala. Click on the link below to enjoy this article.
Texas Magician Convention Opens Downtown
There is also a nice video of The Rhythm of Magic perform the Modern Art illusion. Click on the link below to see their take on this fabulous illusion that they performed on the Sunday night show.
Watch Michael Blanco "saw" his wife in half
Texas Magician Convention Opens Downtown
There is also a nice video of The Rhythm of Magic perform the Modern Art illusion. Click on the link below to see their take on this fabulous illusion that they performed on the Sunday night show.
Watch Michael Blanco "saw" his wife in half
Magic Shows Are Among the Tricks of Magicians' Convention
Here is another nice article from the Houston Chronicle on the T.A.O.M. convention that helped to pack the house with public who love magic. Houston apparently loves magic!
Magic Shows Are Among the Tricks of Magicians' Convention
Magic Shows Are Among the Tricks of Magicians' Convention
T.A.O.M. 2012 News Segment from KIAH NEWSFiX
Pick a card...any card! Those words aren't uncommon when at a convention for the Texas Association of Magicians. Only there can you meet Losander, a master of levitation! Floating tables don't do it for you? Maybe you're more interested in a bulb that lights up on its own!
For most magicians, magic isn't just a hobby - it's a lifestyle! Magicians are always willing to help a fellow magician. While there weren't any rabbits being pulled from hats, there were plenty of disappearing coins and magic wands. Only with the Texas Association of Magicians, boggling our minds since 1944.
Click Here to view the video or click on the graphic above.
For most magicians, magic isn't just a hobby - it's a lifestyle! Magicians are always willing to help a fellow magician. While there weren't any rabbits being pulled from hats, there were plenty of disappearing coins and magic wands. Only with the Texas Association of Magicians, boggling our minds since 1944.
Click Here to view the video or click on the graphic above.
Curt Miller Returned to Moody Gardens for Summer Fun
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show returned to the beautiful Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston, Texas for the fourth great year, July 2 – July 10, with many new surprises for 2012! Magician & Illusionist Curt Miller blended dazzling magic, music, and great CLEAN comedy in a theatrical show that left everyone amazed, amused, and most of all, Entertained!
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has performed throughout Las Vegas and across North America for over 25 years.
The Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show has performed throughout Las Vegas and across North America for over 25 years.
Phil Kampf at the Improv
Phil Kampf and Lindsey Olson were the headliners at the 2:00 p.m. show June 30th Saturday Afternoon Magic and Comedy at the Improv. Zach and Rob performed a little strolling magic before the show that was hosted by Chuck Montgomery This was their complete show with the dove act, comedy magic and what Illusions will fit on that stage.
Jamie Salinas at Lee College
The reviews are in! "Yesterday my wife and I journeyed to Baytown to see Jaime's performance. He was great! his showmanship, personality and charisma are perfect and we highly recommend him to all." - John & Maria Simpson
On June 30th, Jamie Salinas gave a bit of family oriented entertainment as Lee College's Performing Arts Center called "Summer Magic" We look forward to seeing Jamie perform there again.
On June 30th, Jamie Salinas gave a bit of family oriented entertainment as Lee College's Performing Arts Center called "Summer Magic" We look forward to seeing Jamie perform there again.
2012 Awards Banquet
Congratulations to Gene Protas who was presented the “2011 Magician of the Year” Award at this year’s Annual Installation of Officers’ Banquet on Sunday February 19, 2012 at the SPJST Lodge 88 Hall (in the Heights). This is the annual time when officers of the three local magic clubs (Houston Association of Magicians, International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring #39, and Society of American Magicians Assembly #19) are inducted and annual awards are presented to certain individuals for outstanding effort in the community.
Close-up magicians included Scott Hollingsworth, Ben Jackson, John Star, and Michael Christian. The stage show featured Scott Wells as your perennial Master of Ceremonies, illusions by “Mesmerize Magic”, comedy entertainment by Robert B & Honey, interactive magic by Rick Hebert, family fun with Jamie Salinas and featuring the World’s Number One Thought Reader,Banachek.
We had over 250 people attend this year’s event and we look to have nearly twice that number next year. The Countdown has begun!
Close-up magicians included Scott Hollingsworth, Ben Jackson, John Star, and Michael Christian. The stage show featured Scott Wells as your perennial Master of Ceremonies, illusions by “Mesmerize Magic”, comedy entertainment by Robert B & Honey, interactive magic by Rick Hebert, family fun with Jamie Salinas and featuring the World’s Number One Thought Reader,Banachek.
We had over 250 people attend this year’s event and we look to have nearly twice that number next year. The Countdown has begun!
More Stories from 2012
- The Annual IBM Ring # 39 Flea Market was held on Monday, July 30, at Bayou Manor (4141 South Braeswood, Houston – our regular IBM meeting place). This event was (as usual) a lot of fun with lots of buyers and sellers. You can always find some great deals at the Flea Market, and it is a chance to sell a lot of magic supplies (or non-magic supplies) for cash!
- Phil Kampf and Company entertained on June 22nd at Aladdin’s, for their Anniversary Party Enchanted night with Magic & Illusions. The H.B.D.A. (Houston Belly Dancers Associations) had 14 dancers including some poi spinning. There was close-up magic by Zach Stockton, Rob Greenlee and Phil Kampf, Jamming music by DJ a full night of entertainment. Lindsey Olson and Phil performed the Wakeling Sawing as their grand finale!
- Over Father's Day weekend, Harry Maurer presented a very special series shows Harry presented five shows on the Garza Main Stage of the Houston Family Arts Center! Harry presented his full evening show to sold-out audiences with a delightful show filled with comedy, drama, danger, spectacle, surprise, puzzlement and wonder -- all to benefit the HFAC Actor's Academy! It was a fun weekend.
- It is with a heavy heart that we honor the passing of one of Houston's full time professional magicians. Cherie Kay Sanders (51) was well known throughout not only the local community but also the world magic arena. Her infectious laugh and engaging personality made her a friend to many a magician as well as a favorite to her audiences who loved her. Cherie was a force in the magic world where she made her way and held her own in a male dominated field. She may have begun as a "box jumper" but she quickly realized that the real spotlight was on the magician outside the box. So Cherie became that person who charmed her audiences with her skill, her dexterity and her words. In her later years Cherie successfully worked as a hypnotist. And in fact her last show was a hyp act for a late night (actually an early morning) high school graduation party. After complaining of a headache, she was found on her floor early on Saturday May 26th. She was "Life Flighted" to the hospital where she was reported to have low blood pressure, low pulse rate and no brain activity. They later pronounced her dead.
Cherie's good friend, Dal Sanders, worked with her in stage shows across the U.S. along with Brian Nordstrom. Dal sat down with Cherie at the 2008 for a video interview that has been filed with the Society of American Magicians archives for posterity. Fortunately that video was published on YouTube and you can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0vj1IX2-b0&feature=youtu.be You can listen to a short podcast between Dal and Scott Wells as Dal recounts his association with Cherie. You can listen to The Magic Word by clicking on the picture of Cherie here or by visiting: http://scottwellsmagic.posterous.com/dal-sanders-talks-about-cherie-kay-sanders
Over 100 people from across the city and around the state attended Cherie's Memorial/Party on Tuesday, June 5th at 1 P.M. at The Quail Valley Church in The Freedom Center (located at 2303 Murphy Road/ FM 1092. Missouri City, Texas 77459...a suburb of Houston). A "Smiles & Tears" Celebration of her life followed @ The Last Concert Cafe at 1403 Nance Street in downtown Houston that was attended by about 30 people. Aloha, my friend.
- The annual I.B.M. Ring 39 Memorial Day BBQ was held this year at The French Alliance. For many years this event has been at the home at the generosity of Dr. Rex Crago. Unfortunately, Dr. Crago's health did not permit him to host the event this year as he had planned. His health continues to improve and hopefully we will be able to celebrate Memorial Day with him again next year. Nearly 50 magicians convened to enjoy the traditional fare of hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, cakes, pie, cookies, beer, wine and soda. All were donated and prepared by members who should be recognized for their generosity. Thank you Frank Price and Gene & Betty Protas for the food and drink, Thanks also goes to Bob Smith who arranged the venue for us and to Doug & Donnie Kornegay and Jeff Lanes who assisted with the preparation and serving.
This year's entertainment was provided by Frank Price and Gary Plants. The close-up show was hosted by Bob Smith. Photos from the BBQ can be seen at the HoustonMagic Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HoustonMagic
- Magician/author James Swain was in town to sign his new book "Dark Magic". He was at Murder by the Book (2342 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77005 / 713-524-8597 / 888-424-2842) on Thursday, May 24. Here is the bio from the book store: James Swain Start: 6:30 pm James Swain will sign and discuss Dark Magic (Tor; $24.99). James Swain is the national best selling author of fourteen mystery novels, and has been published in the United States, France, Japan, Russia, Germany and Bulgaria. His books have been chosen as Mysteries of the Year by Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, and have received three Barry Award nominations, a Florida Book Award for Fiction, and France’s prestigious Prix Calibre .38 for Best American Crime Fiction. His Tony Valentine series was recently purchased by Langley Films (Cops, Brookyln’s Finest) with the author set to write the screenplay. Swain recently released three original novels as eBooks – Jackpot & Wild Card (part of the Tony Valentine series), and The Program (Jack Carpenter series). In the fall of 2011 he will be launching a new thriller series with Tor Books called Dark Magic. Along with writing novels, the author is considered one of the world’s foremost sleight-of-hand artists, and an authority on gambling cons and swindles.
- Top Talent Productions presented “World Class Sleight-of-Hand” on Cinco de Mayo which this year fell on Saturday. This was the first-ever, all close-up show featuring Scott Hollingsworth, Ben Jackson and Gary Plants. There were three sold-out shows including a late night, 10 p.m. show added to the evening. And there were three separate standing ovations for the performers. Top Talent Productions provides the finest in variety entertainment each month at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston located at 1600 Lamar, Houston, TX 77010.
- On Saturday April 21st. at Aladdin’s Restaurant and Hookah bar, Phil Kampf was joined with incredible belly dancers as he did a little stand up and close up throughout the night. If anyone is interested, Phil will be selling these posters (like the one here) if you want one. Different Sizes available.
- Congratulations to Gene Protas who was presented the “2011 Magician of the Year” Award at this year’s Annual Installation of Officers’ Banquet on Sunday February 19, 2012 at the SPJST Lodge 88 Hall (in the Heights). This is the annual time when officers of the three local magic clubs (Houston Association of Magicians, International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring #39, and Society of American Magicians Assembly #19) are inducted and annual awards are presented to certain individuals for outstanding effort in the community.
Close-up magicians included Scott Hollingsworth, Ben Jackson, John Star, and Michael Christian. The stage show featured Scott Wells as your perennial Master of Ceremonies, illusions by “Mesmerize Magic”, comedy entertainment by Robert B & Honey, interactive magic by Rick Hebert, family fun with Jamie Salinas and featuring the World’s Number One Thought Reader,Banachek.
We had over 250 people attend this year’s event and we look to have nearly twice that number next year. See you then!
- Emory Williams brought his Williams Magic Company on wheels to Houston on Sunday February 12 with his rolling magic shop on wheels. It was packed with a treasure trove of magical wares. He carried many new items as well as thousands of stock inventory items and books as usual. This is a full and complete magic shop and we were fortunate to have him stop in Houston. If you would like to see a video clip of the inside of this incredible, portable magic shop, then watch the YouTube video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1uSVynJBNs&feature=related If you would like to read more about this mobile shop, then Click Here to read the feature article that was published in M.U.M. magazine.
- Phil Kampf and Lindsey Olson headlined at the Houston Improv on Saturday January 28th. Zach Stockton performed some table hopping and Chuck Montgomery was the MC. Phil performed his dove act and some of the new illusions from his big show. This was a kid friendly show.
- The Annual Magicians’ Holiday Party was held again this year at the home of Betty & Gene Protas. Nearly 50 magicians, spouses and family members attended on Saturday January 28th where they shared fellowship, food, drink and magic. Jamie Salinas put together a line-up of magicians who each performed one trick. Jamie opened followed by Robert Berry, Rick Hebert, Gene Protas, Anthony Dinardo, Johan McElroy, and Scott Wells. Thank you Gene & Betty for another memorable evening.
- Harry Maurer gave his unique insights as a professional magician in exploring the colorful lives of historic magicians and discussed how they have changed the course of history in ways you would never have imagined! Harry presented a free lecture on January 25th at Lone Star College-CyFair. He talked about how magicians have used their unique talents to avert political uprisings, influence world leaders, write “Manuals of Deception” for the CIA, aid the U.S. Secret Service and England’s MI-5 with vital pre-war information, and how one magician used “Principles of Magic” to win one of the decisive battles of World War II ! It was an educational, insightful and fun lecture that we hope he will present again somewhere. To view some photos taken at the lecture, Click Here and to hear a brief interview with Harry, then Click Here. Or don’t forget that you can always enjoy more chats with top magicians by visiting The Magic Word at http://scottwellsmagic.posterous.com