Is Reality TV Out of Control? America's Got Talent 2023.

 

Boston's Finest Close-Up Magician. 339-927-4710

Being a magician, I often enjoy the magic segments on AGT. Beginning season 18 I wrote a four-part blog about the magicians appearing in the summer of 2023.

I closely observed each magician and wrote a quick summarization of each act. Including links to their performances. My intention was to write a "fluff" piece. I wanted to say something positive about each of the magicians. My blog was posted on Facebook. I didn't expect any pats on the back for my writing. However, I didn't expect the negative feedback about the show. (Not at me personally.)

The Rules of AGT in a Nutshell, Please.

AGT has their rules and I'm sure attorneys write them. So, yes...it is not an amateur competition representing only people of the 50 states. In fact, many contestants have previously competed in other countries before coming to AGT.

I shared my opinion that I believe that AGT may be the best variety show of all time. I go back to Ed Sullivan, the variety Show I enjoyed when I was a kid.

Ed Sullivan, The Premiere Variety Show

Ed Sullivan presented acts from around the world each Sunday evening. There were singers, comedians, ventriloquists, acrobats, every type of circus act. Plate spinners, dancers, and Broadway stars. He introduced Elvis, The Beatles, and countless other music groups. Ed Sullivan had something for everyone.

Times change, perhaps we are at the apex of the "Reality Show" format. If my recollection is correct, "American Idol." was the first reality singer's show. There was a mix of great singers and those who couldn't carry a tune if they handed it to them in a bag. The "bad auditions" were the initial hook...add Simon Cowell in the mix and you had "must-see" TV.

Introducing AGT

AGT followed a similar pattern in the early years. Today they spend less time on the "bad acts". Often they edit several acts that don't make the cut in a short "medley." They spend less time on auditions that receive 4 buzzers and the argumentative contestants who don't want to leave.

I believe there is obviously "more than meets the eye" on AGT. In my mind, it can change lives for the better. You do not have to win to benefit from an appearance. Allow me to leave you with a story from an acquaintance on Facebook. His experience is best stated in his own words. Let me introduce Mark Lewis.

"A few months ago, I went down to Los Angeles to perform on America's Got Talent after being persuaded by one of the producers to do so. An interesting experience but very time-consuming since I had to take a long plane flight from Toronto there and back.

The good news is that I got a standing ovation and four yeses from the judges!  The bad news is that for some reason it is not going to be seen on television so you will have to take my word for it. 

In fact, I am beginning to wonder if I was really down there at all and perhaps I am hallucinating that I participated at all. I am getting old after all and the memory plays tricks on you when that happens.

Seeing is Believing.

I do have a witness to the alleged occasion. I can't remember much about it but she informs me that Simon Cowell compared me to a tortoise who turned into an angel. I have no idea what he meant but it seems that it started an argument between him and Howie Mandel as to the difference between a turtle and a tortoise.

Anyway, although I am not entirely sure if I was really on or whether it was a hallucination brought on by an aged deterioration of the brain, I thought I might as well brag about it anyway.

Mark Lewis Did Not Appear on Season 18 of AGT.

Incidentally, if I really did appear I performed the Svengali deck. I forgot to ask the potential millions of people watching to buy one so perhaps it is just as well it is not going to be shown after all.  There is only one more episode of this season's show left before the live performances and that is scheduled for next Tuesday. They were supposed to inform me a week before if I was going to be on but it hasn't happened so I assume it isn't going to.

Anyway, at least I told you all about it so that it wasn't a complete waste of time."

This struck me as odd and wrong...how could you get 4 yes votes and not move on to the next round? It must be in the "legal mumbo jumbo." If anyone knows where the rules inform you four yeses can mean "No"! let me know and drop a line to Mark as well.

Magic for Adults,

Joe Ferranti 339-927-4710                                                                                                              www.ferrantimagic.com

  Mutual Respect...It's not always screaming reactions. This is his way of saying, "I enjoyed the magic."

Are These the Best Magicians? AGT Magic Line-Up 2023! part 4

 

Finally, The Last Article Covering the 2023 Magic Auditions, AGT

This is my final blog on magicians' auditions on season 18 of AGT. August 8th featured the last magic contestant.

Kevin Li took the stage with his act prepared for his audition. There was a chair with a corkboard on it, with pictures of the judges, Terry and himself. Briefly, he began speaking of "core memories", and introduced a small camera, as photos "help capture these memories." I advise you to watch the performance here. The audience gave their usual wild approval and four yeses came from the judges.

Of course, I checked out Kevin's background. Kevin appeared twice on Penn and Teller's "Fool Us”. His second performance was a "fooler." He is a working professional magician, which is most often the case in AGT.

In my first AGT blog, the acts came in no particular order. So now I return to week 6.

Not to be forgotten, and he Won't...Artem Shchukin, but first a little back history of my own

In 2005, I attended the SAM Convention in Boston, Massachusetts. I mention this not to tell you how much fun it was because, of course, it was. But to inform you, once you have attended a Magic convention, you will probably have seen enough "Card Manipulation" acts to last a lifetime.

My favorite Card Manipulator of all time will always be Cardini. I mentioned him in a previous blog. Cardini created a lovable character who we see caught in a web of uncontrolled productions of playing cards. He had all the skills, but the performance was a brief story of a somewhat "Tipsy" British gentleman.

We, in the business of magic, often consider "motivation". This may complicate things unnecessarily, but more often than not, it serves us well. In the arena of card manipulations and productions and vanishes, the question is, why do we do what we do? In Cardini's performance, the story he creates is the perfect motivation.

Artem Shchukin's Performance Brings Card Manipulation New Life.

When Artem took the stage, the audience went wild...I don't know why. Maybe it was his unassuming image, his smile. Who knows?  He just said, "Wow...wow."

His routine began with the music from The Adam's Family, which he perfectly coordinated with his unique style of card manipulation. Four yeses, of course. I can't wait to see what he does next, although I have an idea.

See his full performance here.

What's Next For Artem

As always, I checked out Artem’s credentials, and as is often the case, AGT is not his first rodeo. See more here.

 Artem has a full repertoire in his tank. His audition is only the tip of the iceberg of this multi talented magician. I expect he will proceed easily in the next round. Color me impressed!

Coming Up.

To those who have reached this point, completing this lengthy project posed a challenge in maintaining a positive outlook. Feedback on Facebook criticized AGT as the worst show on television. More importantly, I have been told of disappointing and unprofessional treatment of a performer. Everyone deserves respect and courteous treatment. More on this soon.

Joe Ferranti

Boston's Favorite Adult Birthday Magician

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.

 

AGT... The Best Variety Show Ever?

America’s Got Talent Returns 2023 with Amazing Magic! part two.

My personal view of AGT is that it is one of the best variety shows to ever grace our tv screens. Mind you, I go back as a viewer of the Ed Sullivan Show. 

The most often complaint I hear from the general public of AGT is that “all the acts aren’t from “America”. Competing with that complaint is “These are professional performers.” and yes there are. Let’s put this to rest…it’s all O.K. and covered in the official rules.

Combine the available talent and the fact that AGT is the finest technically produced production in television history.

Mandy Muden:

 No stranger to performing, see Mandy Muden Wikipedia.

Mandy is one funny lady, she should be. She has mega miles on her performing career. She immediately commanded the stage with the attention of the audience as well as the judges. Her combination of magic and comedy was perfect in my view. (There is a "school of magicians" who are not keen on combining comedy and magic. No time for this article...just saying.) Having previously been on BGT, Simon did a good job pretending he had not seen her before. She is unforgettable and hilarious.

Here's Mandy's performance. Of course, the audience gave her a standing ovation, and Howie shared their sentiment.

Anna DeGuzman

"A breath of fresh air" was my first thought as I watched this 24-year-old young lady. Heid Klum used that exact phrase.... coincidence? or magic?

Anna displayed a little nervousness, maybe just excitement, not criticism as I believe I would have a heart attack on that stage. She kindly asked permission to approach the judges' table. Where she removed a deck of cards and landed her first "joke" a little poke and a wink towards Simon. All in good taste and appreciated by all the judges, including Simon.

She began by displaying a little "Cardistry." Which many consider as "spice" and we know you've got to use just the right amount. Anna is a true chef using the exact amount of spice for her performance.

Anna has an innocence and charm that will win over any audience as she easily did on AGT. As her performance continued, any nervousness faded away as she found her footing, and astonished everyone in the theater, and apparently herself as well. See her performance here.

As always, I did a little research on Anna and found she had appeared on Penn and Teller Fool US and in 2022 was a contestant on Australia's Got Talent. One of the "tricks" every magician needs to learn is how to make every performance appear new to all of our audiences. Anna's got that in spades.

To Advertise or Magish, Magic Mike's Dilemma?

Magic Mike Jacobsen

Magic Mike's performance displayed his well-honed presentation skills along with his reinvention of an age-old classic in magic. For the magicians reading I don't have to tell you about The Invisible Deck. Mike's addition makes this impossible trick, even more impossible. In his introduction, he told the judges that he hoped his appearance on AGT would provide him the opportunity to leave his day job in advertising and pursue magic full-time. Simon said, "No more advertising jobs for you, this is what I think you were born to do."

Here's Magic Mike's AGT performance.

I don't think Magic Mike has to worry too much about his day job in advertising as it appears he is already well on his way to putting it in the rear-view mirror. He's obviously quite talented and is another magician who will/would do well without AGT. As I mentioned with Trigg Watson, what's wrong with a million dollars and a Vegas residency?

See you soon with my third article on AGT Magicians 2023.

Joe Ferranti

Boston Close-Up Magician.

                                                  www.ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710

 

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

 

Sensational Yet Haunting Revelation of a Family-Friendly Magician !

Family Friendly Magician Massachusetts 339-927-4710

www.ferrantimagic.com

I've spent at least ten years promoting myself as a "Magician for Adult Events." However, I discovered early on that I was not keen on performing for children. (Not that there's anything wrong with it!) I do not have an interest in "balloon twisting" or playing the "Look, Don't See" game. Yeah, that's a thing. (Beyond Look, Don't See: Furthering the Art of Children's Magic) In retrospect, it wasn't children's magic in general. Instead, it was a small span of age, from 4 years old to 8, approximately.

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

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.”