The Magic of Joe Ferranti has entertained numerous audiences for over a decade. He has gained a reputation as one of the best in Close Up/Comedy Magic in the Greater Boston area. Joe Ferranti presents two styles of Close-Up Magic. Strolling/Walk Around Magic and his very popular Intimate Parlor Show. We would love to have a conversation with you about your event. Please call 339-927-4710 for a no pressure consultation.
Thursday, February 29, 2024
Adult Birthday Magician Massachusetts
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Wild And Crazy Reactions? or the more subdued... "Amazing; Amazing.”
Joe Ferranti's quiet response to his performance.
All reactions to magic performances vary for as many reasons
as you might imagine. From screams, people running away, even tears…yeah
sometimes you tug just right on the heartstrings.
Reactions to Magic
From NFW! or simply two words “amazing…amazing.” As you can
hear from the gentleman above. There was no screaming that day at Michael’s
Harborside (1 Tournament Wharf, Newburyport, MA 01950) I
was performing at a quiet 80th birthday party, with a “reserved” audience.
Those aren’t my words; they are the words my client used to describe her family
and friends. “Old Yankee” was her exact wording. Not being quite sure I checked
it out.
What’s an “Old Yankee?”
“In the 19th century Yankee was most often used to refer to
a New Englander (in which case it may suggest Puritanism and
thrifty values), but today refers to anyone coming from a northern state, with
a specific focus still on New England.” I think the guests were somewhere in
the middle. I do know they were nice people, and a joy to work with. It keeps
my ego in check when everyone’s not reacting with their jaws on the floor.
Check out my YouTube Channel,
and you’ll see the many videos with screaming and other over the top reactions.
The feeling is gratifying, but I’ve learned to keep “grounded”. Magic does not
need another magician with a fat head. The biggest compliment I hear is about
“being humble.” That’s something I work on each day, and to have it noticed is
reward in itself.
Am
I the Right Magician for Your Event?
I always try to have a conversation with my clients. The more I know, the better prepared I will be. Not prepared in the sense of “magic preparation” I am always rehearsed. I mean prepared in the many little things that can add up to a big difference at your event.
When You Do Hire The Magic of Joe Ferranti…
No matter what the event, The Magic of Joe Ferranti (Boston
Massachusetts Magician) will do our very best to bring your guests an
experience that will have the crowd screaming and laughing. Short of that, I
hope you’ll settle for, “Amazing… the very least you’ll hear someone saying
“amazing”. BTW, look at the eyes…they speak for themselves. One of Boston’s
Best Close-Up Magicians.
www.ferrantimagic.com The Magic of Joe Ferranti
339-927-4710
One of Massachusetts' Best Magicians
Monday, January 15, 2024
“Is Mind Reading Real? Keeping the Madness under Control!”
Clairvoyance, telepathy, or the highly profitable channeler, is any of it real?
Ahh...No!
I've never seen any evidence, and more importantly, the experts agree.
Harry Houdini, whose name is synonymous with "magician" held a strong and skeptical view when it came to spiritualists and mediums.
He was critical of those who claimed to have supernatural abilities, especially spiritualists who purported to communicate with the deceased. Let me clarify, he wanted to expose those who took advantage of grieving people who would enrich their pockets by providing services to communicate with the dead.
Following the death of his mother in 1913, Houdini became interested in the possibility of communicating with the afterlife. Houdini witnesses various mediums in action. He became convinced that they were charlatans preying on the grief-stricken.
Medium to the "Stars."
Uri Geller |
The Amazing Rand Vs. Uri Geller
And the Winner is?
The Amazing Randi |
Joe Ferranti Boston Magician
and Part-Time Mind Reader...?
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
“Magician Verses Mind Reader…Who’s Winning In The 21st Century?”
"I'm not a mind reader, but... I'm a good guesser."
I think I stole that line from Ray Kosby. But it's perfect for the following trick.
Here's the effect... I spread a deck of cards before a spectator, and they think of one. I remove one card and place it in my vest pocket. Now I give them the Ray Kosby, "I'm not a mind-reader..." I ask the spectator to name the card they are only thinking of, Ta Da! It's the card in my pocket.
Of course, it's a card trick... a darn good one and my audiences feel the same way. However, it is not "mentalism"
Derren Brown, Master Mentalist and Illusionist.
My introduction to Derren Brown was through his card magic. His skills are second to none, but it was always evident that his leanings were towards a mentalist's approach.
Always a magician but open to mentalist approaches.
I've never performed as a mentalist, but I've noticed the impact it can have on spectators. Magicians and mentalists share many things in common.
Our focus is on presentations that have a lasting impact and create meaningful experiences. Here's where the lines get blurry. Some spectators react with shock, they scream, and they run away. This is a satisfying reward for being a magician. "Dead silence" is another legitimate expression that can be just as impactful to the audience. Unfortunately, it's not noticeable if you are working at an event and you want the person who hired you to know how much their guests enjoyed your work.
Invading Your Head Space.
The strongest magic may be "real magic." Of course, I would never pretend to be performing real magic, but I will come as close to giving that experience in an entertaining presentation.
Here's what I want to achieve...I ask a spectator, "Would you go back to when you were young, and think of someone who was important to you."
The end is simplicity itself...I tell them the name of the person they are thinking of!
They will remember that and tell people who weren't at the performance.
Please see the following video and notice the reaction. The "eyes" may indicate an internal dialogue of "What is going on?" Of course, this is not an exact science...but I take an interest in facial reactions, including the eyes.
Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710 www.ferrantimagic.com
Friday, August 4, 2023
Are These the Best Magicians? AGT Magic Line-Up 2023 Part 3
AGT Magic Auditions 2023 part three
Ryan Hayashi
I have been involved in magic for many years as a student. (Always a student) and a few as semi-pro performer.
I knew of Ryan Hayashi before he took the stage on AGT. He is a well-accomplished magician, respected in the magic community, with numerous magic awards and appearances around the world to his credit. He's also a lecturer and motivational speaker. Having fooled Penn and Teller, I anticipated the outcome of his performance.
Watch Ryan's Performance:
In fact, I didn't know what was to follow. Ryan entered the stage and Heidi asked him a few questions. Next, we cut to a scene on the stage. Ryan is seated at a table with Heidi and Terry. How they got there we don't know. He introduces the props he will be using, four cards, and four coins. As he is doing this, we can hear Simon's voice asking, "Are those playing Cards? Howie replies, "You hate cards", Simon replies to Howie, "So much, I can't tell you."
This isn't quiet talking at the table. Ryan can hear it as well. He briefly spoke, "Simon, don't worry. This is not a card trick." The camera cuts to Simon as he rolls his eyes. I didn't quite understand. Simon often assists in card magic and his reactions are often awe struck. Without context, there is no point in discussing it further, as it was heavily edited.
The Matrix
Ryan was performing his version of what magicians call "Matrix." Where 4 coins travel magically across a table, either under the cover of cards or sometimes bare-handed. The first transposition happens, and Terry and Heidi react positively to the magic. Next, we switch to an overhead shot to provide the audience with a clear view of the "magic" moment, and Simon asks Sofia, "What's happening?”
Earlier, they showed Ryan backstage, performing for a young magician. (Sangsoon Kim) Magicians will be familiar with the trick. Ryan asked Sangsoon to name any card, "Six of Clubs" was Sangsoon's response...Ryan immediately produced the six of clubs from the bottom of the deck. "How do you do that?" asked Sangsoon. "Some days you get lucky," replied Ryan. Cut scene to Ryan walking on the stage. This must have been purposeful editing because this was not Ryan's "Lucky Day." Three nos and one, yes, from Heidi.
If you are interested in Ryan's Penn and Teller performance, it's right here.
Sangsoon kim Fism Winner 2018
Watching this episode of AGT. I saw Ryan enjoying some pre-show time with Sangsoon. In the picture below, we see the moment Ryan received his third "No" I wonder what was going through his mind?
Sangsoon is from South Korea, where he is a magician. It seems his only other career has been military service.
He took the stage, his engaging personality winning over the judges and audience before he began. As the saying goes, He hit the ground running with an upbeat performance.
Magic with Sneakers
His act was novel in that it was a color-changing sneaker act, in the manner of a quick-change artist. However, it went further. The shoe boxes changed to matching colors. The highlight was when he jumped in the air and the sneakers he was wearing changed color in mid-air.
The audience and the judges gave a mutual standing ovation.
Note: In 2018, Sangsoon appeared on Penn and Teller. (Not a Fooler.) he also won the 2018 FISM Most originality Award Stage. FISM is the most prestigious magic award in the world.
I'll be back soon to either finish the auditions or proceed to the semi-finals.
Joe Ferranti's Magic Musings
ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710 Boston Corporate Magician.
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
Are These the Best Magicians? AGT Magic Line-Up 2023!
America's Got Talent Returns 2023 with Amazing Magic!
It's summer, and that means AGT is in high gear with impressive talents from every arena, of course, my favorites are the magicians.
Not so long ago, I never thought a magician would win America's Got Talent. They showcased some of the best in the field. Kevin James, an award-winning professional magician made it to the semi-finals on the second season. I thought that was as good as it would get for a magician. I am glad to be wrong because there has been a constant stream of magicians impressing the judges year after year. My feeling is the exposure of quality magic on TV in recent years has improved the public opinion of magic and magicians in general.
AGT Magician Wins Top Prize
Season nine produced the first magician winner, Matt Franco. Season 13 introduced Shin Lim to the world as he took the top prize. Not long after in season 16, Dustin Tavella was the third Magician to win it all.
There are more that made it to the finals, but I am looking at season 18 2023, and we have no winner at this time.
I am briefly making comments on the magicians I have seen. Also, my list is in no particular order. My intention is to be informative and observational. I have no intention of critiquing any of the contestants and wish them all success. I will write about the other magicians soon.
AGT Season 18: Looking at the Magicians.
Trigg Watson
Appearing in episode one was Trigg Watson. Originally from Australia, he currently resides in Los Angeles, Ca. He is a busy magician, having appeared on Penn and Teller Fool Us and Masters of Illusions. He's consulted for NETFLIX on a series, "Magic For Humans". He's worked in Vegas as well as cruise ships, suffice it to say his resume is impressive as was his audition on AGT.
He presented a tech-based act with what appeared to be A "poster-size" iPhone. I'd advise you to watch it, rather than try to convey his act in words. I will say, the audience went wild, and the judges gave him a standing ovation.
Trigg would do fine without appearing on AGT, but why not? A million dollars wouldn't hurt, and he could settle down with a Vegas residency.
Young Magicians Becoming Common on AGT
Ryland Petty
Ryland appeared on episode 5, he's only ten years old and resides in the U.K. I've watched Ryland for a few years, he started at age two, which is true...these things are often hype. He genuinely loves magic, and unlike most kids, Ryland is willing to do the work. Magicians are aware of "mem deck magic", well, Ryland has already memorized a stack, which most magicians never attempt. In 2022 Ryland made it to the semi-finals of Brittain's Got Talent
Ryland didn't stumble upon magic from receiving a "Magic Kit" for Christmas, which is where most of us get our introduction. Ryan's dad is Craig Petty a successful Magician, and creator inventor, who runs entertainment businesses, performs all styles of magic as well as teaches magic on his YouTube business The Netrix. Craig would not paint his life as "peaches and cream." if you want to read more about him you can do so here.
Back to Ryan's performance, knowing his routine inside and out, he performed confidently beyond his years. As with most magicians, Ryan had the audience cheering with enthusiasm and he had a standing ovation with the judges, except Sofia. Perhaps her dress was too tight to stand. Ryland on YouTube.
Ryland will choose his future in magic; he is very good and will only get better. I say "choose" as he is only ten and may choose another occupation in the future.
Mysterious Magician From Japan
Enishi
I was unable to find much about Enishi, except that he is "A Japanese Video Gamer".
Enishi entered the stage dressed in a colorful cape a mysterious mask and struck an arms-open pose center stage, where he remained silent. After an uncomfortable moment of silence, Sofia asked "How are you, what is your name...where are you from?" (crickets) Seeing this was going nowhere Simon said, let's see how this goes." See Enishi's Audition here.
After his mysterious beginning, it didn't take long to see Enishi's performance was upbeat and entertaining. He had the audience's and the judge's full attention. He ended with a standing ovation and two judges standing. It seems I misjudged Simon's reaction, when it came to voting Simon said, "I don't think it had the Wow factor." Enishi moves on with three yes votes.
See you soon with more "Magic" from AGT Season 18
Joe Ferranti
Boston Massachusetts Close-Up Magician
Thursday, July 20, 2023
Sensational Yet Haunting Revelation of a Family-Friendly Magician !
Family Friendly Magician Massachusetts 339-927-4710
Exclusively for Children:
On the other hand, there are entertainers who focus only on children's magic. Some of them are very good to excellent. Nevertheless, it would take a lot of hard work to compete with the specialists. So, why compete in a field where I knew I would be on the lowest rung on the ladder?
Events with Children in attendance:
I wasn't working very long when I understood that children would be in attendance at certain adult functions. Of course, I didn't ignore them. Imagine the reviews I would get if I spurned children, "I'm sorry, I only perform for adults! Move on, out of my way!"
I enjoy performing for children:
It is inevitable that you will be required to perform for children at weddings, or an adult birthday show, where they may be in attendnance. Often, no adjustments are needed, as they are old enough to understand the concepts of the entertainment. Somewhere in the age range of 8, 9, or 10, children get it and are capable of understanding an adult show. (Additionally, my adult shows are "clean" in content.)
If I am performing "Walk Around Magic" a little more attention to detail may be necessary. See the photos below as a description. Sponge ball magic is suitable for children or adults.
Most magicians perform the"Ambitious Card Routine." That's the one where a signed selection is continuously placed in the middle of the deck, only to return to the top, in increaingly impossible condititons. When children are involved I carry some blank face cards, and have the children sign them, draw a picture...whatever they choose. The concept is simplicty itself and the entertainment value is personal as the children appreciate the magic happening to a card they have made unique.
I am proud to say, I am a family friendly magician. I'll accept my award now.
Boston Magician
Joe Ferranti
Thursday, June 1, 2023
HireThe Perfect Boston Magician for Your Next Event
The magic of Joe Ferranti |
How to Hire The Perfect Boston Magician for Your Next Event
Are you planning an upcoming event in Boston and looking for some
entertainment that will leave your guests spellbound? Look no further than a
professional magician! But with so many magicians out there, how do you choose
the perfect one for your event? You can guarantee an amazing event with the
right magician. This article looks at what to consider when choosing a Boston
magician: experience, style, and reputation.
Whether you’re planning a
corporate event, a wedding, or a private party, we’ll help you find the perfect
magician to make your event unforgettable. The following can assist you in
hiring the perfect Boston magician for your next event.
Why Hire a Magician
for Your Event?
When planning an event, you want to make sure that your expectations are understood
by your performer. One way to do this is by hiring a professional magician. A
professional magician can customize magic for any occasion.
Whether you want a stage show or
close-up magic, a magician can work with you to create an experience that is
unique and tailored to your event. By hiring a magician, you can add an extra
layer of excitement and wonder to your event that will be sure to leave a
lasting impression on your guests.
What to Consider
When Hiring a Magician
Hiring a magician requires careful consideration of several factors to
ensure that you find the perfect fit for your event. Here are some key factors
to keep in mind when hiring a magician:
Experience
With all crafts, experience is key; magic is no exception. You want to
make sure you’re hiring a magician who has a proven track record of providing
high-quality performances. Look for a magician who has been performing for
several years. It would be impossible to have each magician perform at an
interview. What you can expect is to see multiple videos of real-life
performances. Pay attention to their audience engagement and the overall
quality of their performance. Also, see pictures and reviews. You will want verified
reviews, such as what you find on Google. (It is sad to say that some
magicians write their own reviews.) An experienced magician will know how
to engage with your guests and create a memorable experience.
Style
Magicians have different styles of performance, so it’s important to
choose one whose style aligns with your event. Choose a magician whose style
will match your event. For example, if you’re planning a corporate event, you
may want a magician who can perform close-up magic during a cocktail hour.
Reputation
A magician’s reputation is an important factor to consider when hiring
one for your event. Look for a magician with positive reviews and
testimonials from previous clients. If money is not an issue, you may choose to
hire someone with an international reputation. Search for their name, and you
will find their website and contact information. (If that is the case... stop
here and hire David Copperfield.)
Finding Potential
Magicians in Boston
Now that you know what to consider when hiring a magician, the next step
is to find potential magicians in Boston. Here are some ways to find magicians
in your area:
Online Search
You would expect that a search for “magicians in Boston” would provide you
with a list of the best candidates. Search engines don’t work this way; you
will first see the sponsored ads. They paid for these ads, and rightfully they
appear first. Check them out. You may find the perfect magician for your event.
Your next result will be magicians who live in Boston. Only a handful live in
Boston, and others submit false Boston addresses to fool Google... and it
works! All professional magicians near the city will travel to Boston for your
event. I suggest you widen your search and check out magicians serving the
entire state of Massachusetts. All professional magicians in the state will
gladly travel to Boston. We all work in Boston.
Referrals
Word of mouth supplies me with many bookings. Asking a friend or
colleague can lead you to someone who certainly should meet your requirements.
Evaluating Potential
Magicians
Once you have a list of potential magicians, it’s time to evaluate them
to determine if they’re the right fit for your event. Here are some things to
consider:
Questions to Ask Potential Magicians
When speaking with potential magicians, ask them the following questions:
- How long have you been performing magic?
- What kind of events do you specialize in?
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
- What is your performance style?
- What kind of magic do you perform?
- Are you willing to customize your performance to fit my event?
Contract and Payment
Terms
Once you’ve found the perfect magician for your event, it’s time to go
over all the details. Do you need a contract and payment terms? Here are some
things to consider:
Contract
If you have a written contract or just an understanding through
conversation and email. Outline the terms of their performance. This should
include the date, time, and location of the event, as well as the performance
fee and any other terms and conditions. This doesn’t need to be prepared by a
lawyer. What is important is for both parties to have a working agreement.
Payment Terms
Discuss the payment terms with the magician. Cash, check, PayPal, credit
card. Some magicians require a deposit upfront, while others may require
payment in full on the day of the event.
Preparing for the
Magician’s Performance
Now that you’ve hired the perfect magician for your event, it’s important
to prepare for their performance. Here are some things to consider:
Performance Space
Make sure that the performance space is suitable for the magician’s
performance. If they’re performing close-up magic, they may need a small table
to perform on. If they’re performing a stage show, make sure that there’s
enough space for them to set up their equipment.
Timing
Coordinate with the magician to ensure that their performance fits within
the schedule of your event. Make sure that they have enough time to set up and
perform without rushing.
Conclusion
Hiring a magician for your event can be a great way to provide your
guests with a unique and memorable experience. By considering their experience,
style, and reputation, you can find the perfect magician for your event. Evaluate
potential magicians, check their references, and finalize the contract.
Joe Ferranti
Boston Area Close-Up Magician
Ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710
Friday, May 5, 2023
Boston's Favorite Adult Birthday Magician....
Adult Birthday Magic
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Getting the Gigs with Paid Avertising or Search Engine Optimization.
Getting the Gigs…Part One
The first challenge is to inform potential
clients that you exist. (Having a website does not do this…well, not
automatically.)
I quickly learned that I needed to be seen where people search for magicians. Twelve years ago, that was Gig masters and Gig Salad. These are event services directories, they command the top spots on the internet, so my website is “David”, and they are “Goliath.”
Fact! Most internet searchers don’t go past
the first page, I am not sure if most go past the top two or three listings.
When you are beginning you need to belong to
one or more event service providers. (I don’t call them agents, as we have no
personal relationship.)
As a client, it looks pretty good, you don’t
pay a fee for your introduction to the talent. If you are The Magician, D.J.,
band, etc. You pay a fee, depending on which services you choose to use. Some “agencies”
charge a membership fee which ranges from $300 to $500 each year, but it doesn’t
end there. After you are booked you pay an additional fee for each gig you
secure. Other event services simply charge you for each event individually. The
cost to communicate with a client can be quite steep, especially considering
you have no idea of at least an approximation of their budget. This can be
literally like burning money.
Since I began, the number of event service providers has grown. If I belonged to all of them, it would cost me as much as my yearly income. I won’t mention them by name as they get too much attention without my help.
Until next time ...
Joe Ferranti Massachusetts’ Favorite Adult Birthday Magician
339-927-4710 joseph.ferranti06@comcast.net
Next blog continues with more, on Getting the Gigs.
Friday, January 27, 2023
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly of YouTube Education
My last blog focused on what is essential reading for magicians, or if that is becoming increasingly moot.
339-927-4710 |
Sunday, October 30, 2022
Magician’s Perspective…” Reading the Room”
ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710
I was recently hired for my Strolling Magic for a 30th anniversary celebration. I always discuss these events with my clients in advance. The more I know the better I can be prepared to deliver entertainment to fulfill their vision of that special day.
The expected attendance was near 75 people, upon arrival there was clearly less. The hosts knew I had a couple of “special effects” (tricks) for them.
However, the original plan was for me to begin my strolling magic with their guests and perform for them at a later time.
Anniversary Magician Boston Massachusetts |
My job is to do what I am asked to do, but in this situation, I gently advised a different approach. I suggested we open with the anniversary couple and arrange for their guests to watch as I performed the two tricks, I had prepared for them. They agreed, and not to add a complication for them, I arranged the guests in a semi-circle to watch the performance.
Why were the clients immediately flexible?
I only work with people who believe in me as a professional and have confidence in my abilities. Having nearly 50 videos on YouTube of me performing helps build that trust.
Occasionally, (rarely) in discussions with potential clients, I see they are not totally “sold” on me. I don’t know why, and it matters little. If a client is not 100% on board, I can do one of two things. I can assume the role of a salesperson and try to close the deal, or I can politely suggest they continue their search for someone they are more comfortable with. This works for me. I want my clients thinking, “This is going to be great!” as opposed to, “I hope this is good for my event.” Without going into psychology, I believe we get what we expect.
All ended perfectly, as if this was the original intention for the celebration. I had the attention of the entire group with the anniversary couple center stage and entertained with a mini show. Ending with applause for the couple and a standing ovation for me. Well, they were already standing.
Joe Ferranti
Close up Strolling and Parlor Magician
Boston and Massachusetts.
Thursday, April 7, 2022
A Gift to Your Guests...Magic at Your Wedding!
This is your day...A Day with memories that will last a lifetime. No matter your budget, you have likely spent more money than you anticipated. It is difficult to compromise on a celebration as important as "your Wedding Day." why do I suggest hiring a Close up/Strolling Magician for your special day, and why you won't regret it.
First, this is a gift to your guests...yes, you will hear from your guests how much they enjoyed the entertainment. In fact, I sometimes tell this to your guests. Magic entertainers are "new" to most people...in their enthusiasm, some feel the need to tip the Magician. Although this is a kind and generous offer, I am always aware that other groups are always watching you, due to the excitement of professional level Magic. (Most Lay people have never seen a professional magician before.) Back to my point, if other people see you taking money from guests, they may mistakenly think that you are working for tips. I certainly do not want anyone to feel an obligation of feel I am soliciting donations. Of course, I know that I am well compensated for my services. Here is how I handle this situation: "Thank you very much, however, the entertainment is a gift from Dick and Jane to their guests...blah, blah...In this manner, they understand that you are compensated for your work...and they also understand the Bride and Groom were thinking of them at the cocktail hour...and they graciously accept the gift.
Your Wedding is not a cookie cutter wedding. Most weddings follow a formula, if you've been to several, many will seem much alike, and they blend in as a monotone memory.
Your Wedding will stand out...I borrow a phrase or two, "Your Event will be taken to a new level."
I certainly think that is enough reason to invite me to your wedding. I will not disappoint you...that is a promise.
If you need more convincing, consider this blog from Magician Craig Petty, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-having-close-up-magician-your-wedding-best-thing-you-craig-petty
Best Wishes,
Joe Ferranti
Wedding Magician Boston Massachusetts
Friday, January 28, 2022
Magic Beginnings of a Boston Magician Part 2
Magic Beginnings part 2
The Magic of Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710
In 1973, NBC aired a new show called The Magician, starring Bill Bixby. The show only ran one season. I enjoyed the short cameos of professional magicians. One show had a very short clip of Dai Vernon performing his Cups and Balls routine. It began with a sequence of the vanish of three balls. I had a basic knowledge of sleight of hand and easily understood the vanish of the first two balls. What fooled me badly was the vanish of the third ball. This is what I saw. Dai placed the third ball in his hand. He merely closed his hand, and when he opened it, the ball was gone. Wow!, With my understanding of magic methods, this was not possible. Now I would attempt to find out how this was done.
I have lived the major part of my life without the internet, and such was the case back in the 1970s. By this time, I had discovered the Joke/Magic Shops in Boston. My wife at that time worked in Boston and would stop at Little Jack Horner's Joke and Magic Shop on Tremont Street and would pick me up books and various pocket tricks.
In 1975 Boston got its first Magic Shop. Hank Lee's Magic Shop. Just magic, no jokes, no backroom of "magazines", no smoke products or marijuana paraphernalia. Just magic, from pocket tricks to large illusions. Professional magic by professional magicians. A very special time, Magic Lectures, I.B.M. meetings.
Now I knew where to get the secrets I wanted. I tracked down a booklet on Dai Vernon's Cups and Balls routine for $5. (A bargain for the best Cups and Balls routine.) I learned it and performed it at every opportunity I could find, which was few. (More on this next time.)
Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti
The Very Best in Close-Up Magic
Walk Around and The Intimate Parlor Show