Stage or Act Performing Magicians?

[MattTarrant]

Hey All,

I have a question for the actual working magicians on this site.

I dont particulary want advice from a non-professional as I would consider myself at least semi-pro.

Earlier this year I performed at the Adelaide Fringe the act itself had more of a street effect kinda feel to it though.

We had more of a section of general area set aside for us where we were able to perform semi-surrounded.

We performed different effects over the evening ranging from close up card magic Invisible Palm, Monte's, Loop Work etc close up magic such as Bruised, The Cloak, Digital Distortion and also performed a few stunts such as Bed of Nails & Fire Breathing/Swallowing.

My question is basically related to how do you take the 'next step.'

Who has done it? Who is looking at doing it?

Im not one to plan things and expect them to occur straight away, I want this to take time.

I would love to do a semi-solo act with an 'Assistant' and perform old magic with new twists, and new magic with old twists and perform them as the person I am.

Whats needed not only physically but mentally to take this next step from a Street Magician, to a Performer.

Any help would be much appreciated,
Much love,
Matty.

Btw, if any of the Artists have got to this stage in their performing career I would love to hear the steps they took to achieve all that they have.

 

[dejavu05]

Anyone can really have insight on this question, you don't have to limit it this question to just those that are "non-professional". I know many of the magicians out there though will just say to keep practicing and performing. I have asked magicians this question also. When you get money from magic, re-invest it in magic again and get new material. Hand out business cards, send out flyers, put up posters, etc. Do something to get your name out if you are good enough and get a show together. Ask a theatre to host you and see if you can perform there. There are many ways that you can achieve what you want and strive for your goals, it is up to you though to follow through with them and remember why you perform magic (hopefully because you love it). Hopefully that helps.

 

[MattTarrant]

I guess I want to hear from people who have been at this stage before,

And how they got themselves mentally prepared more than anything.

I already have created a name for myself, im well known throughout the city I guess I want just some inspiration to help in taking the next step and hearing others stories will help with this.

Thanks for the help though dejavu05 it means alot!

 

[Brad Henderson]

If you can afford it, attend a Bob Fitch performance workshop. You will learn more about performing in one week than most magicians learn in a lifetime.

Brad Henderson

 

[RichmanMatthew]

Could you please clarify as to who "we" is?

 

[darosa.justin]

Could you please clarify as to who "we" is?

Could you please clarify as to where the hell that came from?

Anyway, Matt.

My suggestion would be to go around the city, and have a regular 'MATT MAGIC SHOW' (you know what I mean...). This doesn't have to be big at all, it can be very small.

For example, you could go to the malls and speak to the managers etc. offering maybe 10 minute little magic shows every weekend or something. You don't have to get paid for it- it can be good experience for you! Not only will you get used to performing stage-ish to a crowd, but you could also offer magic services for your audience.

Maybe handout business cards, flyers, etc after each show?

Also, if you do carry out with this, make sure your name is advertised in the show. Big banners with your name, etc. would help a lot.

Just my .02

 

[Brad Henderson]

If you can afford it, attend a Bob Fitch performance workshop. You will learn more about performing in one week than most magicians learn in a lifetime.

Brad Henderson

 

[dejavu05]

I guess I want to hear from people who have been at this stage before,

And how they got themselves mentally prepared more than anything.

I already have created a name for myself, im well known throughout the city I guess I want just some inspiration to help in taking the next step and hearing others stories will help with this.

Thanks for the help though dejavu05 it means alot!

No problem Blink (to the thanks part of your comment). I know what your asking us to answer but it is a pretty hard question to answer. Honestly, if you are doing the best you can and people know you then you should have no problem booking a show at a theater of something like that. Also it will take time and it won't just happen like magic (ha ha, that was punny (ha ha punny, like funny!)). After those two comments, I am done with this comment.