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Jonathan P. Inner circle Belgium 1484 Posts |
Hello Mr James,
I would like to ask you a question that came (back) in my mind by reading some posts, elsewhere in the Forum. The question (maybe a silly question, or not complete)would be: "do you perform routines that you LOVE performing, or do you perform routines that you know they'll have a maximum impact on the audience?" I hope the answer could be "both!" But I know so much peopole (professionnal magicians, which I am not) telling me that close-up can be frustrating: "you can never perform the beautiful and clever close-up routines you learned, but you are stucked with some short and commercial effects." So, what would be you thoughts about the problem of enjoying yourself with what you do, and enjoying your audience at a maximum level? Thank you VERY much in advance! Jonathan. |
Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Jonathan,
There is no reason to sacrifice either; the challenge is to find a way to merge the two. In most cases that can be done with any routine, regardless of its complexity. For me the greatest joy of performing magic is the reactions it allows me to generate in my audiences. If I got nothing more than that, it would be more than sufficient reason to perform. At the same time, magic is a medium of expression, as all Arts can be. However "simple" the effect the message woven through the presentation can be as profound as ones skills allow us to frame, and as fully satisfying to share. Few of my effects are short. They don't need to be. If I properly engage my audience, ever mindful of why they are watching, they will permit me to show them almost anything and express nearly anything I may wish. I sometimes use the forum this gives me to share my feelings and beliefs but I always offer the audience the fuel they need to satisfy their need for wonder. In some ways it is like making love, if you focus on satisfying your partner, your partner will almost always focus on satisfying you. Together you create pleasure for both. Then, to the extent that you've succeeded, you both roll over and smoke a cigarette. Performing is a two way proposition: I give to my audience and they give to me; who could ask for more? Wesley James |
Jonathan P. Inner circle Belgium 1484 Posts |
I couldn't have asked for more... for sure!
Thanks a lot, Jonathan. |
Donnie Loyal user 224 Posts |
Wesley James Wrote: In some ways it is like making love, if you focus on satisfying your partner, your partner will almost always focus on satisfying you. Together you create pleasure for both. Then, to the extent that you've succeeded, you both roll over and smoke a cigarette. Performing is a two way proposition: I give to my audience and they give to me; who could ask for more?
I am shocked by the elegance, simplicity, and clarity of that statement. I only ask one question: Wesley, do I have your permission to have that quote woven onto a tapestry that will grace my living room and my heart forever? Truly insightful, and thank you for spending time with us. Sincerely, Don |
Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Donnie,
I strongly suggest that you check with your significant other before having that tapestry made. Failure to do so might contribute to an unsatisfying smoking experience, if you catch my drift. That consideration aside, you are free to use the quote for any non-commercial purpose you may wish. I'm glad it hit home for you. Wesley James |
Pete Biro 1933 - 2018 18558 Posts |
Darn... I don't smoke.
STAY TOONED... @ www.pete-biro.com
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Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Pete,
You might want to consider taking it up. It's too late for it to stunt your growth. Wesley James |
Chris S Veteran user 393 Posts |
That's what you think - that avatar of Pete is life-size
May your moral compass guide you true - South West is where the honourable man fare. Pity those who lose their way...
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Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Chris,
In that case, Pete has shrunk a lot since last we saw each other. Wesley James |
Pete Biro 1933 - 2018 18558 Posts |
I have NOT shrunk. However, I have started on a new diet. I hope to get back to my originala weight... 6 lbs, 9 ounces.
STAY TOONED... @ www.pete-biro.com
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Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Pete, when you get back to your original weight are you planning on returning to your original home?
Wesley James |
RandyWakeman V.I.P. Plainfield, ILLINOIS 1617 Posts |
I suspect Pete enjoys eating cookies far too much to revert to his former self.
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Simon Lovell V.I.P. 506 Posts |
I fall into the argument that the performer doesn't matter ... as a professional I can be ill, underfed and, in my case, under-beered and under-sexed but all that really matters is the audience. They don't care how I feel but they care about what I give to them - they care about my performance, the piece of my soul that I am giving to them.
Performance is easy to understand - you give everything to an audience. It is not, however, easy to do. Sometimes it is downright painful! Simon |
Wesley James V.I.P. Hazlet, New Jersey 372 Posts |
Simon,
Ah, but it can be such exquisite pain. And the salve of applause soothes, if only for the moment, even the deepest wounds. Wesley James |
Simon Lovell V.I.P. 506 Posts |
Brilliantly said Wesley - applause is the most addictive of mistresses!
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