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

AI? Is it the Solution to a Powerful Website?

 AI is beyond my scope of understanding for my personal use. Perhaps I’m too old to learn the intricacies…? Things are changing faster than I can process. I maintain my website. I wear all the hats. It’s not that I want to, but honestly, I work part-time. Having my website professionally maintained would cost more than I earn. That is something I do understand.

AI Photo Software

I have and continue to use AI Photo Software on all my pictures on my website. Simply put, all my photos come from video footage. Video to still image is far from perfect, but I compromise as I cannot bring a photographer to all my gigs. My wife occasionally shoots videos for me. I edit a video for my client's memories. I use short segments for my promos and take still clips for my photos.

To Deceive or Enhance…?

Here is the "slippery slope." It's no secret, that it is possible to generate videos or photos to serve less than honorable purposes. (Joe Biden tells voters in New Hampshire not to vote??? Not true AI generated.)

Can Instagram detect AI-generated images?

Meta does not require you to label images that have been created or altered with AI. However, these images will still receive a label if our systems detect they were AI-generated or if they were altered using AI. Note: There may be penalties if you do not label content as required.

When you visit my Instagram page, every photo is enhanced. Actually, before AI, I used photo software to alter my pictures. Not for the purposes of deception. But to give a better user experience. Sometimes a simple crop will do the job.

Boston Massachusetts Best Magician...Master Magician...Best Bloody Illusionist?

O.K. The above is not entirely accurate. It's a little "hype" or fictional. I hope you get the point. In the photo below you can see my newest "altered" image. In the original, I was surrounded by two spectators. I cut them out, because...I can. Also, the background was "cluttered." Yes, I removed it and replaced it with one of many options in my AI software.

Joe Ferranti Boston Massachusetts Magician 339-927-4710

Adult Birthday Magician Massachusetts

Thirteen Years of Birthdays

Looking back over the past 13 years, I've performed for more birthday parties than I can count. In the beginning I performed Kids Birthdays as well. Honestly, it was difficult, not the magic, but entertainment for three-year-olds to teenagers and adults.

Most think it's a snobbish thing..."I don't perform Childrens magic."

Not at all, I was unable to control the perfect execution of entertainment for "All ages."

Disney has this perfected, as I enjoy watching their movies with my granddaughter. That's the "Disney Magic."

There are those who do it well. Perhaps I didn't work on it long enough. However, I didn't start my performing career until retired. At a somewhat advanced age, everything is a little more challenging.

So, my ambitions are restricted to providing "The Best in Magic Entertainment." for restricted groups to those in their teens to adults.

I wisely perform "clean material."  As an unknown performer my audiences don't want to hear my politics or "blue humor." I seek the common bond of Strong Magic and the joy of laughter.

It really is a good time, where everyone leaves feeling fine...just a little bit better than when they arrived.

Call Joe Ferranti at 339-927-4710 for a great time. Guaranteed!

Boston Massachusetts Magician

www.ferrantimagic.com

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

  

"Are you the Illusionist? If that's a Good Thing, yes!"

 

View from 41st Floor Devonshire Residences Boston

Boston Massachusetts Illusionist-ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710

Magic and Illusion at the Devonshire Residences Boston.

I’ve set my “maps” for The Devonshire Residences in Boston, MA, where I’ve been hired to perform strolling magic for a Halloween Party. Driving to Boston is always a hassle, and there’s no actual way to arrive just before a performance. Leaving early is the only choice, but many things can go wrong with traffic. Despite my efforts to make good time, I’m faced with an 18-minute delay indicated by the dreaded “red” on my phone. The estimated arrival keeps getting later, but fortunately, I did manage to arrive in plenty of time. The stress of driving to gigs is the only downside of the job.

Luckily, I saved time by utilizing their own garage, where they had a space reserved for me. Upon entering, I shared the elevator with a young woman also going up. We exchanged polite greetings, and she asked, “Are you the illusionist?” Surprised by the term, I responded, “I might just be a magician… are you coming to the party?” She confirmed her attendance before exiting her floor, leaving me to continue my ascent to the 41st floor.

It’s Not What You Do…It’s What they Think You do.

So, I start thinking…illusionist? Well… my repertoire is not just a bunch of tricks. In fact, it “hits pretty hard.” I make no claims of special powers, but I know some people get a little scared, scream, swear, you’ve likely seen the reactions if you watch magician’s promos on YouTube. Here’s mine. https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofjoeferrantibosto6476

We magicians need to promote ourselves, also known as blowing your own horn. It’s bragging, I was taught that was not a good characteristic. I don’t particularly like braggarts…so I walk a fine line. My performance character is humble, I let the material represent me, and the spectators’ reactions make my introduction to the next group easy.

Building Credibility With honesty.

As magicians, we constantly strive to build our credibility. There are many ways…the simplest is to lie. A small one might be referring to ourselves as a “master magician.” There are no strict requirements for using this status. It’s open to everybody. I haven’t used that one yet, but I’m kind of liking the “Illusionist.” Perhaps I’ll go with “Boston’s Foremost Close-Up illusionist!”

Next, the “Big Lie.” for example, As seen on Penn and Tellef Fool Us! That’s a lie because I’ve never appeared on P&T, in fact I’ve never been to their show. They are coming to Boston soon. Perhaps it’s time to catch their show.

Boston Close-Up Magician Joe Ferranti

 

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.

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

 

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

#bostonmagician #magicianboston #magicshowboston #bostonentertainment #bostonmagic #magictricks #illusionist #magicperformer #magicentertainment #magicparty #magicbirthdayparty #corporatemagic #magicforhire #magicwedding #magicianforparties #magicperformances #magictrickster #magicfun #magicexperience #magicentertainer

 

Getting the Gigs with Paid Avertising or Search Engine Optimization.

Getting the Gigs…Part One

Joe Ferranti professioanal magician Boston Massachusetts

I’ve been working as a “Semi Pro Magician” for a relatively short time…12 years. But the process of getting work is not remotely close to when I began.

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.

 

 

 

  

 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.

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. 

Speaking of the cocktail hour, it is often a little awkward with many people who have not met...the Close-Up Magician introduces many new friends to each other, and the new bond is shared through their enthusiasm. 

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

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

Joe Ferranti Boston Magician

My Boston Office?

When clients are looking for a magician, most often they go to Google and enter a search for what they are looking for. As a magician, there are two basic ways to attract clients. 

If you want to pay for an ad, it will get you instant results of top page exposure.

Most of us choose to use SEO to rank high on the results page. As a general rule, anything short of the first page is useless. It takes some knowledge and patience, but most of us can find a spot legitimately.

 Boston Magician Joe Ferranti struggles for Google results!

I work in the Boston area for most of my jobs, but actually where I work matters little. What does matter is what potential clients search for. One of the most coveted search rankings is Boston Magician. Go ahead, check it out. You can see its importance by the number of paid ads in this category.

I have worked carefully with SEO to break this barrier...with no success. The result is I get less recognition. Less recognition equals less work, less work equals less $$$, and that's just the way it is.

Boston Area Magician Discovers Secret!

I finally realized why I was missing the Google Three Pack...I don't know how it evaded me for so long. 

The top results for Boston Magician all "lived" in Boston. I live right outside the city, but useless for SERP. Having a Boston address was the missing piece of the puzzle.

Now, I won't mention any names, but on further investigation, I discovered a couple of magicians had more than one address. I've got a little secret for you. Some magicians make some serious money, but just a handful make enough to own two houses or a residence and an office in Boston. 

Google Frowns on Fake addresses...

Google has pretty clear-cut rules on Black Hat and White Hat practices using their service. Using a false address is clearly forbidden by Google and the penalty is pretty severe. I don't imagine Google has the time or inclination to investigate on its own. Surely there are far more serious infractions on their rules that attract their attention.

Best Wishes,

Magician serving Boston area...but don't live there...so I'll see you on page 2 of Google...what's that? You never go past the first page? Hmm, what does it cost to fabricate an address?  ;)

Joe Ferranti

Performing at The Summit Lounge

 Boston Magician Joe Ferranti

339-927-4710

Early in September, Samantha Taylor contacted me about performing my strolling magic at the Grow off. I knew little about the Grow Off, but understood what it was about. It sounded interesting and likely would be a good time. So I sent her a quote, and she got back to me. She asked if I would have any problem performing for their group. I told her I was young once and saw no reason I could not do a good job.

I realize why she must have asked me that question. People must have strong views on the legal use of cannabis. Perhaps,like politics, it must be a heated division. I have no personal problem, so I was happy to take the job.
The awards party was taking place at The Summit Lounge on Water St. in Worcester Ma.

The Summit Lounge

The event took place on September 25th. As I always do, I arrived about 30 minuted before show time.  Pulling on the door, I found it locked. There is a "buzzer" I needed to press to gain entrance. I felt like it was 1920, and I was entering a "speakeasy." Not exactly, it's a private club... but it's fun to pretend.

The young woman who opened the door said, "You must be the magician." I suppose my suit gave me away. Her name is Elysha and is the general manager. In order to enter, you need to become a member. Elysha explained the conditions. I signed, and am now a member of The Summit Lounge for life.

Samantha made her way out to greet me. After we exchanged pleasantries she told me the turnout was way below what they expected and wondered if I could perform a "show" in place of walk around? "Sure..." I replied. I have a well-received parlor show which will easily fill the bill.

This made her happy. She couldn't know that I come prepared to perform parlor or strolling magic. It seemed we were ready to proceed. Their food would arrive shortly and after they had eaten, I would go on followed by the awards ceremony. Should be smooth sailing...but the food is late, Samantha is on the phone, and there is little she can do to speed up the delivery.

To Samantha's credit, she didn't get angry, at least she didn't show it. She decided. I would go on ASAP get the show on the road. When the food arrived, she would give me a sign and I would wrap up the show with a finale piece and then step aside so their evening could proceed.

Kudos to Samantha. It was a brilliant decision. I started my show and quickly won over the spectators. A lot of laughs and powerful magic. I probably got 20-25 minutes into the show when Samantha gave me the sign.

I wrapped up the show with my seven card multiple location routine. Although it is not my finale routine I use in my show, it certainly has the strength to suit the situation. I said good night and received an abundance of applause and left the room to the crowd chanting... "Joe! Joe! Joe! Joe!"... this is an ending I receive often, or a very gratifying standing ovation.

I waved a "Thank You" to Samantha as I left the room. She was busy moving the event to the food portion of the evening. We didn't have time for a face-to-face goodbye.

I felt bad I didn't have time to perform my entire Cabaret act, but no one was at fault...it just feels awkward not to deliver my full performance.

I emailed Samantha the next morning, offering to make it up anyway she might like. She responded with a 5 Star review...

"Joe was fantastic! Our schedule was thrown off because of a catering mishap, and Joe stepped right up to fill the time like a true professional. We hired him to do roaming magic, but changed things last minute to do a mini theater show. Joe got everyone involved, and they had the best time. Thank you, Joe!"

Hey, I'm a life member... maybe I'll return and finish the show.

Joe Ferranti

Boston Magician Strolling Magic and The Intimate Parlor Show