In Print Since 1902...The Card Man's Bible?

Artifice Ruse and Subterfuge 

 

My interest in magic, especially card magic, goes back over 50 years. As a child, the only learning sources available to me were in the public library. The books were few, and the secrets I desired were not to be found, at least not in my library. 

It was a world without the internet.TV had 3 channels and the phones... well, our first was a "party line." You can look that up, but the party had nothing to do with having a good time.

As my interest in magic grew, I knew I had to find more sources than my local library. Using the Yellow Pages, I found some Magic Shops in Boston. Who knew?… for a price, the magician’s closely guarded secrets were available to anyone. Individual tricks were available and books on Card Magic, which was my primary interest.

My first serious "teacher" through books was Dai Vernon. He was truly the most influential close-up magician of the 20th century. He lived and breathed magic. Young magicians flocked to the Magic Castle to learn from the master.

Vernon often referenced The Expert at the Card Table as essential reading.Every magician I know has a copy. If you are interested, you can find it as a free source as it is in the public domain. I found it difficult and sometimes impossible to learn through the written words and illustrations. We can learn only by clear descriptive text and enough illustrations to make everything crystal clear. I tried following along with the text and illustrations, step by step... repeatedly, often hitting a dead end. I heard no magicians share my frustrations. Was this a case of the "Emperor's New Clothes"? Was it just me?

I am not saying that The Expert at the Card Table is of no value. Vernon was a living credit to the book.

The Expert at The Card Table has the highest accolades from the top men in the magic world. Although I was unsuccessful in translating the descriptions and illustrations into my personal arsenal of sleights and "tricks" was not to say that it can't be done. 

Allan Ackerman took on a project of presenting the entire book on a DVD series. Allan performs it all, expertly. Even the infamous "One Hand Shift."

Allan is certainly one of the foremost experts of sleight-of-hand card magic spanning the 20th and 21st century. His contributions to the magic community are many, including books, DVDs, and lecture notes. 

I freely admit I am not the most intelligent amongst men. My personal limitations certainly played a part in my inability to learn from this book. Also consider what attracts our interests in magic books? For most, we are interested in the "tricks, " and there are tricks in this book. They present the book in two sections. The first focuses on gambling. Use it as you choose, as a protection from being cheated at the poker table or as a source of information to steal other people's money at the poker table.

The second section focuses on magic tricks with cards, which I hope is of more interest to most of us.

As most magicians know, many superb effects exist in print, waiting for discovery by an observant and creative individual.I think of Dai Vernon's famous effect, "Out of Sight, Out of Mind." The inspiration for Vernon's classic came from The Expert at the Card Table, under the title, "A Mind Reading Trick". 

One of the often mentioned critiques of the book is the dated writing/text... but one young magician turned that around and used it to advantage in a entertaining presentation. See Ricky Jay's performance using to advantage the outdated language almost directly from the book. See The Exclusive Coterie.

I urge you to explore this work yourself. It costs you nothing... the best minds in magic will tell you to study carefully and read between the lines.

Your mileage may vary.

Boston Close Up Magician                                                                                                            Joe Ferranti                                                                                                www.ferrantimagic.com                                                                                                                   339-927-4710

The Magic Entertainment of Massachusett's Magician Joe Ferranti

 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 New Type of Close-Up Magic

                                                           

                     Magical Musings of Boston Magician                                    Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710

“Things change”... and in time honored tradition, old men complain that everything was better, back in the day. Well, I was physically a lot better, back in the day, but alas, I can not stop time, and I have no intention to complain about how things have changed. 

Nicolas Ribs

I just saw a French magician (Nicolas Ribs) on AGT, summer 2022…if you saw it, I expect you would agree it was magical and entertaining. I have no idea how it was accomplished.

Will Tsai

It reminded me of a past performance by Will Tsai, known as The Rose Act. Howie Mandel said of Will’s performance, “This is the best close-up magic I have ever seen in my life!”

Magicians are often a jealous group, and many took to social media criticizing Will Tsai. Let me just say that what Will performed required skill and a little something extra. Nearly all magicians use “a little something extra”... from time to time.

 

I believe their objections were that, as close-up magic goes, it could not be presented in classic close-up style. Meaning that spectators could not have been seated at the table to witness the magic. This objection is unwarranted, in my opinion.

Traditionally, Close-Up Magic is unique because it is presented  mere inches from the eyes of the spectators, and that’s the way it was, until the advent of TV. Cameras could share the close-up experience to large audiences. What a pleasure it was to see some of the greatest Close-Up Magicians on TV. There was no other way I would have seen Jimmy Grippo, Frank Garcia…no need for a list.

The next step was projecting close-up magic on large screens which enabled stage magicians the ability to share their skills as close-up magicians live, during their stage shows.

I remember David Copperfield performing the $100 Bill Switch in a stage performance, the use of a large screen allowed an entire theater to see the illusion close-up. On another occasion, David went into the audience and performed the Floating Rose. Again, camera and screen enabled all in attendance to witness a memorable performance.

So,what has changed? Simply, the gentlemen I first mentioned were able to perform their close-up illusions on a large stage. The difference being the inability to have a small audience witness the magic up close.

This does not seem to be a problem for the layman…think of Howie’s reaction to Will Tsai. The restrictions of viewing meant nothing to Howie.

The problem exists with “magicians”. As I said earlier, we tend to be a jealous group, knocking the achievements of others. Most often the ones who are most popular and receiving media attention. Think back to David Blaine. His first television special launched him to the top of the industry. And just as quickly he received the barbs from the so-called “cognoscente.”

But, David didn’t rest, he moved forward to bigger challenges and earned a place in magic history alongside the greatest.

So, keep an eye out for the new “Close-Up” magicians, and remember it’s not what they do on their first performance…it’s the follow up. (Well done David Blaine.)

Joe Ferranti

Massachusetts Close-Up Magician

Wedding Magician Massachusetts

Boston Massachusetts Wedding Magician

339-927-4710

                                                           www.ferrantimagic.com

One of the Sweetest reactions to my magic.

 I've only been performing for 12 years, and 10 years exclusively as an Adult Magic entertainer. My first two years I dabbled with kids' magic.

When people hear you don't perform for children, many assume you are a "snob." This is not the case; all audiences deserve the best entertainment available. To present anything less is a disservice to your clients, magic and other magicians.

I had some great shows with kids and some were not so good. Being an entertainer has its challenges, but entertaining children compounds the challenges. It is not unusual to be booked for a five-year-old birthday, but the audience may comprise 7-year-olds, 8, 9, 10, 11...? 

The intellectual and emotional capacity of a 4-year-old differs vastly from an 11-year-old child. I must assume that there are magicians who can entertain the spectrum of ages. I've not seen it as I do not have the opportunity to see magicians perform at children's birthday parties.

I have found my comfort zone performing for adults, which encompasses the ages of 17 to 99. (My personal definition for adult audiences.) I use the same material for this vast age range. Every performance varies slightly, as my shows are audience interactive, but I digress.

The point is, I don't advertise or seek work with children, but to think I will never have to have entertainment for children would be foolish.

If you haven't watched the 13 second video, please do so. In my 12 years of performing, I've had every reaction you might imagine.

Last weekend at a wedding, I performed for a couple of children, and the reaction was probably the cutest I've ever had.

Boston Wedding Magician

Joe Ferranti

After Dinner Magic at a Wedding at The Marriot, Quincy Ma.

Boston Magician Joe Ferranti's Magic Musings

" Do That Again."... hmmm? 

Magicians get together to share and hopefully learn from each other. We discuss everything about magic. I remember several times when friends were talking about what to do when a spectator asks, "do that again."

The consensus was this was a compliment. If you are a working magician, you know this is a problem. In many tricks, a repeat is usually a "lesson."

A repeat performance is likely to give away the secret, and without the secret, we have no magic. The most common solution to this request is to repeat the trick with a different method.

Think of the "Ambitious Card." Its strength lies in its repetition, and if the methods continually cancel out any assumed solutions your audience may consider, the result can be an extraordinarily strong magic effect.

But I am not talking about this type of repetition. Let's say the ending of the trick involves finding a signed card in your wallet. The card in the wallet is the "punchline." You can't repeat this trick. (to the same audience.) Think of the spectator who brings you to his friends and says, "Do the trick where the card ends up in your wallet!" You see, the problem.

Perhaps you know a method to have a card end up in a spectator's wallet. (A slightly different trick, but a good follow up,and a complete surprise.)

When possible, I like to watch other magicians perform. Recently, observing a magician perform a trick, the spectator said those words, "Do that again." I heard a tone in her voice, the pitch rising, her eyes moving to the side, looking up. Suggesting she was assessing what she saw, and concluding in her mind, "I think I know how that was done. If you do it again, I can figure it out."

There is so much going wrong here, I don't know where to begin.

But, let's cut to the chase. She didn't wait for the magician to answer her request. She ended with, "Oh, never mind." (Ouch!)

Joe Ferranti

Boston Massachusetts Close-Up Magician

339-927-4710

The exclusive Birthday Card Trick of Joe Ferranti,

Boston Massachusetts' Finest Adult Magician.

From Tricks to Performing

 Boston Comedy Magician 

Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710 ferrantimagic.com

From Tricks to Performing

As we begin, we learn a magic trick because it fascinates us. Little do we know our family may not find the same fascination. However, if you are a parent or a grandparent you are familiar with “applauding” everything our children do. On the other hand, if you do not belong to the school of, “You can become anything you want.” You may reserve your applause not wanting to see your child face disappointment.

The good news, with magic is there are many levels of performing which can be satisfying to most hobbyists to professionals. Many of our respected magicians have other jobs and still find time to perform.

Professional Magicians with other jobs

 If you are a magician, a few that come to mind are John Guastaferro , John Bannon and Marc DeSousa. These gentlemen aren’t exactly hobbyists, but you get the point.

The rest of us fall somewhere in between.

Realistically, we will not attain the stature of those I named, and there is a simple reason and I do not think I have to mention it.
Still, there are opportunities to perform for all who wish to, there is only one rule…”First, do no harm.” (Fact…this is not a part of the Hippocratic oath, go ahead, look it up…I’ll wait.)
Here is my advice, be the best you can be, within your skill set. (BTW, we practice for life, so our skills are not static.)

Putting Together Your Show

Second, put together a show, this means you need a beginning, a middle and an end. There are many sources to learn how to do this. Don’t expect to learn this for free or by trial and error, but here's some good advice for free.

There are many sources to learn how to structure your act. If you belong to a club, seek the advice of someone who is working. Be careful not to ask everyone in your club, I’ve found that everyone likes to give advice, even those who have never actually performed.

Some magicians gladly share their shows they have structured…feel free to use that as a starting point. Do I have to mention that you should integrate your personality into the show!

Finally, do not copy any one’s act. Yes, it happens, even on the highest levels. With so many professional magicians willing to share their creations you will eventually develop your own style and have a show that is unique to you.

Good Luck

Joe Ferranti

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