The Best in Magic...Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

A little over three years ago I received an inquiry from a Recovery/Detox center. They were looking for a "Magic Show" for their clients as entertainment. It happens that the location is less than a mile from my home. Getting gigs in the town where you live is rare, so this was a pleasant surprise. We corresponded via email, so I responded with interest, gave a price, and waited. The response was unexpected. Yes, they wanted my show, and the fee was not a problem...but they asked if I could do a show once a month.

Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

I wrote back and told them I couldn't prepare a new show each month but would be happy to set a date for one show. I was informed that they had new clients each month and they would like a show every month. Of course, I was not opposed to that idea, so I suggested an introductory performance of my magic parlor show, and if it was well received, I'd be happy to come each month. As I expected, it was well received. After all, I am writing this three years later.

The "Stage" in Close-Up Magic is different.

The room where I perform is an all-purpose room, with about fifty chairs. I rearrange the chairs into a semi-circle for the best viewing and as close as possible to see the "magic." I remember my first performance, the clients walking in, not knowing what to expect...many people taking seats in the back row. (It reminded me of being in high school...nobody wants to sit in the front.) I encouraged people to fill in the front seats, these are the best for viewing...After all, it is "Close-Up Magic."

A few staff members are also present, in addition to the clients. Some have since used my entertainment at their events. Now I no longer have to encourage the audience to move to the front seats. The staff began telling the clients about the show before my performance. —they "sold" the show before I even began. The expectations are positive, all I have to do is deliver an entertaining one-hour of "Magic."

Stereotypes and Magicians

On the other hand, magicians deal with stereotypes, despite popular exposure to magic on TV, many feel that magic is for "kids". (Of course, it is, but it is also extremely entertaining for adults.) Magicians are further hampered by expectations that they will be embarrassed. Unfortunately, this is a practice used by far too many magicians. Somehow, they believe this makes them appear clever and witty.

Any reservations expressed by adults will immediately be overcome with a quick "trick" that "knocks them for six." All competent magicians open this way, as it immediately breaks down any barriers and we're off to the races with the simple task of performing "The Best in Magic Entertainment."

Joe Ferranti - Boston Magician 339-927-4710

Mind Reading in the 21st Century

 

Mind Reading or Magic

Mind Reading in the 21st Century... Expectations are high, and there’s also some healthy skepticism. As a mentalist, you had better deliver a strong, visceral experience. I’m not saying you have to claim supernatural powers, but your performance should leave your audience questioning what they’ve witnessed. You simply know things you couldn’t possibly know. In the same vein, good (or great) magic works the same way. Your audience must feel there is no way you could know what you do.  Good "great" magic works the same way. Your audience must feel there is NFW!

Although I don’t advertise myself as a mentalist or mind reader, as that’s not my primary focus, I do have a few pieces in my repertoire that create an experience where I seem to know things I can’t possibly know. Interestingly, the reactions to these “tricks” demonstrate why so many magicians transition from traditional magic to mentalism and mind reading. It’s almost like an automatic upgrade in terms of respect. After all, when people hear "magician," they often picture someone performing at a children's birthday party. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.) Let’s be honest, we’re all concerned about our status… at least a little bit.

In the above photo I am revealing the name of the young lady's grandfather.

Derren Brown-Mentalist-Illusionist

Many people know the name Derren Brown, especially those in the U.K. but his reputation goes well beyond his homeland. His reputation is truly worldwide.

Derren Brown is an English mentalist, illusionist, and writer. He is a self-described "psychological illusionist" whose acts are often designed to expose the methods of those who claim to possess supernatural powers, such as faith healers and mediums. Wikipedia

My first introduction to the work of Derek came from his videos, which were heavily magic, manipulation based...with a touch of psychological based "mentalism". His sleight of hand abilities were/are top notch. He could have been a successful magician, but his passion led him to become...Well, Derren Brown.

If any of you are readers of my blog, you know how I emphasize the inclusion of video on our websites. It's our greatest asset to show potential clients a demonstration of our skills. Videos will add credibility to our 5-Star reviews. Some reviews appear to be over the top...the proof is in our live performances.

I sometimes visit other magician's websites, it's good to see what others have to offer. Truly some well-done professional presentations...however, I recently visited a "mind reader's" website and was searching for a video which would demonstrate his credibility of mind reading skills. There was none. The only videos were some short clips of quick "eye candy" which laypeople find impressive, but they had no relevance to mind reading.

To wrap things up I'll leave you with a final thought...If you were a mind reader, why not leave a fragment of evidence.

 Joe Ferranti

Massachusetts Magician 339-927-4710

www.ferrantimagic.com

Curious about the Secrets of Magic? What you need to know.

Joe Ferranti-Close-up magician Massachusetts

My interest (curiosity) in magic goes back around 40+ years. There was no internet to access magic secrets. Those serious about the craft would visit magic shops. If there was one or more in your vicinity, you were fortunate.

Upon entering a magic shop, you would feel you have arrived at a magical wonderland. You would find shelves stacked with colorful apparatus and books. So many books, a virtual “magic library” that covered every form of magic, from close-up to stage magic. Magic with balls, candles, even cigarettes and cigars. Books with secrets of mentalism and the standard “card tricks,” everything you might find of interest, were available in a book.

 There was always one person or more there to help you find what interested you and also to demonstrate individual tricks that were available for sale. It was no small task to perform the many tricks that were stocked in the store.

 In front of the shelves were glass cases displaying special apparatus for the close-up performer. Cups and balls, specialty coins, wallets, cards, silks, the list is endless. If you’re a magician, your eyes will light up. Only one thing matches the stimulation of a magic shop.

 

The Magic Catalog

Tannen's Catalog of Magic

One of my fondest memories was the Magic Catalog, which represented the entire stock of the magic inventory. If you didn’t have a retail location near you, the Catalogue was your only way to find what you “think” you needed.

 Catalogs were beneficial in some ways, but also had drawbacks. The writers and illustrators crafted the description to conjure up dreams in our minds of the magic we could perform. It was enticing, to say the least, addictive at its worst. Sadly, the items we received didn’t always match our imaginations of what we read in the catalog.

 Every magician understands what a “junk drawer” is. It’s the place where we keep our magic props/tricks that didn’t quite live up to our imaginations. “Hype” is not a recent phenomenon. It walks a fine line between our expectations and our realizations.

Sometimes Deceptive Descriptions

Descriptions of magic effects can sometimes be misleading. It’s common to hear about what a “trick” doesn’t use. “No magnets, no rough and smooth, no thread”. You’ll understand the jargon if you are a magician. It seemed the only solution could be “real magic.” Which, of course, was never the case. When receiving the secret, disappointment would sometimes set in.

Without getting into the weeds on this topic, I spent many hours fantasizing as I perused a magic catalog. A little “Magic Pornography” if you will.

A Hard Lesson to Learn

 Let me not blame the retail establishment entirely. Often, the secrets of magic are disappointing. A lesson that is hard to learn for the perpetually curious. Also, magic can be difficult, requiring many hours of study and practice. Beginning magicians want easy tricks, which will provide immediate gratification. The real reward comes after many hours of serious study. Some tricks are easier than others, but no shortcuts for dedicated practitioners. Just as musicians spend countless hours practicing in order to play “music.” To perform “magic,” the Magician must make the same commitment.

Today's Magic Retail business

 Today, the magic retail business is for the most part conducted online. Brick and mortar shops have disappeared. Demos and performances are available via video.

 With the advent of social media, expectations of open communication held promise for honest discussions and understanding alternative views. If you’ve spent more than a minute on Facebook, you know how that turned out. As in social media, the results are the same in the magic industry.

To end on a positive note… Creativity is endless in magic. Sleight-of-hand techniques continue to advance. New effects and handlings of the classics never cease to amaze me. Magic is more popular than ever, and when audiences approve of the end result. Listen to the applause!

Joe Ferranti

www.ferrantimagic.com                                                                                                  339-927-4710

 

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.

The Magic of Joe Ferranti

Boston Massachusetts Magician 339-927-4710 www.ferrantimagic.com

"The Fastest Hands in the World."

 

Honestly, few claim it. Many magicians frame it in a question…”Are these the fastest hands in the world?”

There is actually a terminology for this. Are you ready? “JAQing Off.” This is an often used technique by politicians, but it can work for magicians as well. It’s actually a clever way to put a thought in someone’s head. As time passes, the mind may forget the question and believe the words as a statement of truth..

As a magician, no actual harm is done. If we don’t hype ourselves, we have to pay someone else to do it for us.

Why Magicians "Hype" Their Sleight of Hand Talents:

We need to promote our “talent” to attract attention, which hopefully produces bookings. By making bold/false claims about having the fastest hands, we generate an intrigue among potential clients. These statements act as promotional tools, enticing people to witness our performances and experience the seemingly impossible first hand.

Magicians often use trickery to create illusions of skill. The formula is simple. The Magician makes a preposterous claim and then fulfills the claim.

 This Magicians' Ludicrous Claim is Actually True:

I recall an exception. When Kostya Kimlat appeared on Penn and Teller Fool Us for the second time, he made a bold claim and then proceeded to demonstrate his claimed skill successfully.

Moreover, you can see him in the above link explain the trick in his own words. Surprisingly, it is hardly a trick. What he does requires great skill and pretty fast hands, although not faster than the eye.

Additionally, other magicians perform the same effect, although the method is different. It’s a trick! Confusing, isn’t it?

However, to really appreciate Kostya Kimlat, it is important to understand that it is not a “trick.”

Returning to The Fast Hands:

When I was a very young man back in the 20th century, there was a local magician who went on to great success.

One such magician was Steve Dacri:

Stephen “Steve” Robert Dacri (March 22, 1952 - February 11, 2011) was an American sleight-of-hand magician who worked nearly 30 years at his craft, earning him the moniker “The Fastest Hands in the World.”

Long before Steve, others have claimed the title of the “Fastest Hands in the World.” And I’m sure that, until the end of time, countless others will make the same claim.

Nevertheless, I’ll choose to remember Steve Dacri fondly as the man with “The Fastest Hands in the World.”

 

Best Wishes,

Joe Ferranti

“The man with fast enough Hands.”

Boston's Favorite Adult Birthday Magician....

Adult Birthday Magic

Not long ago, the only people looking for Birthday Magicians were parents interested in making their child's Birthday Special. It is still the major search for birthday Parties. 

Why not, it is perfect entertainment for a crowd of kids. See some videos of kids laughing and screaming!

I do pretty much the same thing, except my audience age is somewhere between 17 to 100 years old. (Yes, I've done exactly that, and every age in between.

Just a little caveat, make sure you search for Adult Birthday Magicians...check out Google or any search engine. There are many to choose from, you'll find me there amongst the crowd.

I'd love to be your choice, here's my latest google Review.

I booked Joe for my fiancé’s birthday, and he was fantastic!!! From the first call to inquire about his services, to saying goodbye after his performance, working with Joe was a pleasure and a smooth process. We agreed Joe would meet us at a bowling alley at 9pm after our birthday dinner at a nearby restaurant. Our dinner was running late, so I stepped out to call Joe and let him know. He told me it was no problem at all and not to rush, which eased my mind greatly. We showed up to the bowling alley at 9:30pm and met Joe and his wife waiting there for us, they were so warm and kind. Joe’s magic was incredible, and he was very funny and engaging with our guests. His wife was so sweet and filmed the whole thing. We all had such a great time and are still talking about it days later. He made my fiancé’s birthday so special. Joe is an amazing magician, and very easy, flexible, and adaptable to work with.

If you are hearing a "tooting" sound, that would be me, blowing my own horn.

Give me a call 339-927-4710, Let's make someone's Birthday, special.

Joe Ferranti

ferrnatimagic.com