Close-Up-Magic...No boxes, Big Impact!

Close-Up-Magic...No Boxes, Big Impact!

Close-Up-Magic has always been part of the magic scene. Many of us started with a card trick or a magic kit as a gift. Where to go from there was problematic, at least for me. My audience was family and friends. I wasn't very good, and the familiarity of my audience didn't help. Constant interruptions, grabbing my cards...not really their fault. (I wasn't very good.)

Stage Magic-Boxes Illusions-Sleight-of-Hand

This was also a pleasant memory from childhood. Magicians cutting ladies in two and putting them back together. Others producing endless fans of cards and cigarettes...it was a different time. Linking Solid Metal Rings, Multiplying Billiard Balls, and Candles. It all intrigued me, but the secrets were not available. My only source of knowledge came from a public library, which was very limited.

Leaving Magic Behind

Life takes takes many twists and turns. Varied interests pull us back and forth and magic was left behind. I still liked magic but I didn't return until I was a young man. In the mid-seventies, Doug Henning took Brodawy and the Magic World by Storm. He had a new look which was appealing to my sensibilities. He performed Large Illusions as well as Close-Up-Sleight-of-Hand Magic. He was an inspiration, to say the least.

A Rekindled Interest in Close-Up-Magic

As a young adult, it was easy to find new resources. Magic Shops in Boston, stocked with professional material and the latest books. Magic Clubs hosting lecturers and more. I spent countless hours practicing, but still the mystery of making it entertaining eluded me. I had yet to learn the importance of personal interaction with my audience. In a word, it was the ability to "connect" with individuals and groups of people. Much like a dance, it was cooperative between the performer and the audience.

A Mentor at Last...?

Having a mentor can make all the difference between mediocrity and being a polished performer. I never met someone to fill this role. However, with the advent of magic videos and DVDs, I was able to watch and study how the best in the field entertained with Close-Up-Magic.

Being Your Best Self

The development of a "character" was an extremely important piece of the puzzle. Even in the earliest periods of development, I had read this. Understanding it was something entirely different. Not being trained in theatre it was important to play a character that is close to who you are in life, just a better version.

A Journey to becoming a Craftsman

Some call it "The Art of Magic." There are certainly artists in every field, and I know who the artists are in magic. My hope is to be considered a talented craftsman. A serious dabbler in magic. I get better by performing as often as possible and choosing the best material in line with my skills. I am well compensated for my performance time, but my biggest reward can be seen in the faces of the people I entertain. You can see them in my photos and videos.

Boston Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

339-927-4710

 

Boston Card Magician Joe Ferranti

In the world of magic, where the impossible becomes possible, Boston Magician Joe Ferranti has an endless fascination with Card Magic. He recently said, “I have added magic with coins and other everyday objects to my repertoire. However, when I find myself at a large “Walk Around Magic Performance” where I have just a few minutes to spend with the attendees, I can do nothing to make a lasting impact on my audience more than performing some quick, Card miracles.

Card Tricks Vs. Card Miracles

As far as your average layman is concerned, all card tricks are the same. That is all most have observed. They have seen friends perform card tricks. You take a card, they look through the cards, and remove yours…success!

How about this…you merely think of a card, and it is exactly a card that has been in my pocket. Much of my work revolves around the spectator and their thoughts as opposed to “selecting or taking a card.” It is a profound difference that is not likely to be appreciated until observed personally.

Converting Opinions Group by Group

At most jobs, people are happy to engage in a little magic. What is not expected is the emotional reactions that happen after a quick trick. You can see it in my photos and videos. Every effect in my repertoire has been stripped to its core. Leaving only the hard-hitting impact of magic. Magic that will often happen by the actions of an unsuspecting spectator. They will not understand what or how the end result occurred. It's not magic, but it feels unnervingly too close. 

Technology and Magic.

In a world where technology often overshadows traditional arts, Joe Ferranti’s card magic is simply a well-executed illusion. His work is a testament to the enduring power of magic which relies on psychology and traditional sleight of hand. Join The Magic of Joe Ferranti for a brief time where anything is possible, and the only limit is your imagination.

Joe Ferranti

www.ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4719

Boston Magician

Nothing but the Best, in Magic Entertainment.

 

Boston Magician Joe Ferranti

As a part time Boston Magician with a semi-pro status, I do not have a high profile in the who's who in the magic industry. However, I do have a loyal base of repeat clients who appreciate my services. Unlike those seen on late night TV or talent shows like AGT, Penn and Teller, or Masters of Illusion, I have a more understated approach. It's not my goal to achieve that level of fame. At my age, I have more than enough to keep me busy.—it's simply not my style. I prefer to "stay in my lane." I fill a local niche which is satisfying during my retirement.

Speaking of age, Mark Lewis recently proved age is no barrier, earning a "Golden Buzzer" on CGT at 79. His classic magic resonated with judges and audiences alike, showcasing the timeless appeal of well-honed craft.

Boston, Massachusetts has seen changes in magic distribution—from brick-and-mortar shops like Hank Lee's and Diamond's Magic, now sadly closed, to the digital era dominated by online platforms like Penguin Magic, Vanishinginc., and Tannen's Magic. The internet has revolutionized access to magic secrets, from books and VHS tapes to today's instant downloads.

When it comes to magic, quality varies widely. I choose material from the best creators in the business, adding my own character and sleight of hand skills. This simple formula—quality material and personal flair—it takes time to refine, but it's worth it.

From England, creators like Ben Earl, James Brown, Gary Jones, Lee Smith, Shaun McCree, and Matthew Dowden inspire my walk-around and parlor shows. Similarly, from the USA, Jon Armstrong, John Guastaferro, and Johny Ace Palmer contribute to the excellence of my performances.

In my opinion, these creators are the pinnacle of their craft—both as innovators and performers. For those serious about magic, studying their work ensures you're learning from the best.