merry christmas

merry christmas everybody

Music...So VERY important

A few days ago I purchased an iTouch. What a wonderful gadget. It sure beats the heck out of the other mp3 players I've tried in the past. Music/videos/pictures aside, there are so many other cool applications that you can use it for. Any time I need access to my home computer, I just connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi network and load up my very own home screen app...instantly I've got access to all files on my home computer. The main reason for this purchase was so that I did not have to burn a new CD for every performance. If you're like me, you don't have an assistant at every show, so you need to set up your music in advance so that everything runs in time. I edit all my songs to the exact length of my routines and practise to make sure that everything falls in place, in time with the music. Using Sony's Acid Jazz Studio, I can create silent periods for when I don't need music. I also have complete editing control over all other songs. MUSIC is so important that I almost never go without it. Even if I am doing close-up work, I like to have suitable background music to set the mood. If you want to make your show very professional, hire a pro voice to say intros, closers, 5 minute warnings, etc... If you are looking for a more inexpensive route, go with Magic Enhancers. They provide a wonderful service of producing a CD customized to your needs (they even have voice mail clips). That's all for now, check back next week when I discuss choosing the correct type of music.
Magically yours; Richy Roy

Tis' the Season

The Christmas season is here, which means I'm busier than ever! Seasonal magic opens doors to many opportunities to experiment with new and unique ideas. Sometimes it may be as simple as changing the colors on a few props and writing new patter. Other times, it could be an entirely new concept! I like to keep a list of the utility items I have (square circle, phantom tube, hank ball, etc.) and create a list of things to do with Christmas. This usually kicks off the brainstorming for new ideas. Coming up with new ideas may be difficult, so approach them from all directions. What would a child like to see? How about an adult? What would Santa do? Don't just keep these ideas in your head, write 'em down! I need to write them on PAPER...this seems to get the ink flowing. For this year's magic show, I added an effect where I turn the child into a magician and with the help from me and Santa, we all wish the audience a merry Christmas. From the picture you can see that silks are a great way to add color to any magic show. Small, inexpensive, and looks great on stage. In the mail bag today, I've acquired a Magic Doodle Pen and a few books (Foundations and Stars of Magic). Time for some heavy reading, I'll let you know what I think about these books in my next Blog. Also, I am working on a TV show through Access 7, hopefully we start shoots in Jan. I'll keep you posted.
Magically yours; Richy Roy