Question:

How much should I practice?

Practice! Practice! Practice!

We must not promise what we ought not, lest
we be called on to perform what we cannot.
- Abraham Lincoln

How does one get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice. It's a silly joke but truer words have never been spoken. Every magician, sooner or later (usually sooner) makes the same mistake. They learn a trick and go out and try to do it without practicing it. The simple secret does not mean it is simple to do. It takes work. But every great magician in history practiced for one reason: he or she loved to practice!

Elements ~ Practice

PRACTICE is also extremely important, as whatever you practice at home will shine through when you're performing. Practice as though you're on stage performing. "Repetition beats your competition," means that if you're better at your magic techniques than your competition, you will execute them more skillfully, which means a better and more polished performance.

You don't have to practice too long, to get better. In fact, practicing a few times a day is better than "slugging" it out for 5-6 hours at one time. When you've got your act "down pat" you should
try and get as much stage practice as possible in front of a live audience. This way when you've got a really important show coming up, you won't feel as
nervous or as you would without any live practice.

Consider doing free shows for schools, hospitals, care homes, shelters ... anyplace where a bit of entertainment would be welcome, but can't always be afforded. Generally they will be very glad to have you, and in return you'll get experience working with a live audience.

Considering your MOVEMENTS and CHOREOGRAPHY is important to give your act a "smooth flow" and make it easier for your audience to watch. It also makes
it easier for you as well, as you'll know exactly what to do at each moment, thus cutting down on the "error factor." Use only movements that complement your act, whether a dancing magic routine or a silent top hat and tails routine. But whatever you do make it fit together. If you watch your favorite magician you will see that he/she follows their theme closely. This
is important in creating a POWERFUL ACT.

FEELINGS/EMOTIONS is tied closely with MOVEMENTS AND CHOREOGRAPHY. ONE'S movements create and project mental feelings/emotions, whether it be inspiring, spooky or exciting. So you can see that having the right mix of choreographed movements is important in tying everything into your theme, and projecting the impact that you want and to make your act POWERFUL.

Magic Frequently Asked Questions

What is mentalism?

How does the shell game work?

What do I need to do the Shell Game?

What are some good books on mentalism?

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What if someone demands to examine my cards or coins?

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What kind of rabbit is best for magic?

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Can I shoot my own audition videos?

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Should I Specialize?

How much should I practice?

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Are there any really old books about magic?

Are there any historical references to medieval magic?

What should my performance video tape contain?

Where in the NY area can I go to magic school?

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What are some good books for learning magic?

Can I perform with only card tricks?

Who is the patron saint of magicians?

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Where can I buy used props, or sell my old stuff?

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What is Linking Ring Magazine?

What is Escapology?

What do I do when I make a mistake?

Who is Magical Edd?

Is it okay to exploit stupid people?

How can I project a "feeling" that sets the mood for my audience?

What is the collective term for a group of magicians?

Should my act have a theme?

How can I develop a theme for my act?

Is it OK to repeat a trick if someone asks?

Can I use animals in my act?

Was the Tony Curtis film about Harry Houdini historically accurate?

How did Harry Houdini die?

What are the benefits of joining a magic society?

Why should I join a magic club?

What´s the Chinese (Mandarin) word for magician?

How can I keep my act exciting?

How do I locate contacts to find good jobs?

Where can I find good books and magic tricks?

Where did the term ´hocus-pocus´ originate?

Who were Los Reyes Magos?

Is it important to practice even the simple tricks?

How many tricks should I learn?

Do I have to plan out my performance in advance?

Do I have to check my equipment all the time?

What does ´hocus-pocus´ mean?

Where can I find good upscale stage magic equipment?

Where can I find magic classes?

Where can I learn more about physical theatre?

What is Magic Unlimited?

What is the Japanese word for magic?

What are the key elements of a great performance?

How can I improve my performance and keep my act alive?

Where can I buy used props and illusions?

What´s a great place to buy magic items?

Where can I buy magic items online?

How smart is the average audience?

Should I specialize or learn all sorts of magic?

Where can I get magical domain name for my website?

Where can I find new features for my act?

Is there a website where I can buy books, props and so on?

Where can I post a free website for my magic performances?

Where can I find an agent?

What kind of business card should I have?

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Do I need an audition tape?

Is it okay to shoot my own performance tapes?

Why should I have a website?

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Where can I find up-to-date information on marketing and promotion?

Where can I have my services listed FREE online?

Is it alright to use special effects in a performance tape?

Why should I do a performance tape?

How can I get TV air time for my performance video tape?





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