Hi folks,


I came across a line that really spoke to me in Henry Hay's Amateur Magician's Handbook (p. 242 in my hardback). In his discussion of how to choose tricks that are "right for *you*," he says: "In the long run a necessarily rapid-fire trick will not satisfy a leisurely performer."


My natural pace is slow. I speak slowly, for instance, and do best when no one is rushing me. So I'm wondering if anyone can suggest tricks that are especially suitable for those of us who are tuned to a leisurely speed.


Thanks,

Bob

So many effects I do are with a 'Story patter'- With Story patter -the're usually done slowly. That way, it's NOT "I FOOLED YOU. HA HA".,

Hi Bob. I also like to take my time when performing. A lot of self-working tricks are process heavy which can be a liability if you are wanting fast-paced, snappy, visual magic. However, I've found that process heavy tricks are perfect for me, especially when you lean into the process of the trick and turn it into a strength. He who must not be named has some wonderful ideas on this. PM me and I'll share them with you.

Hi Russo and Gatsby,


Russo: I love magic with stories. Often I get interested in learning a trick precisely because a story to go with it occurs to me. Of course, some sleights *have* to be done quickly, or at least casually...?


Gatsby: I'll PM you. I like *visual* magic. As long as it isn't fast-paced and snappy.

Many silk effects are slow paced as it takes the material a while to drift/float into place. Even silk juggling can seem magical.

I leaned to perform Sympathetic Silks more than 60 years ago and still have the silks I purchases at the 'Five and Dime' for a 40 cents each.

Dissolving knot and 20th century can be performed with lot of artistry.

Linking Rings can be performed very slowly, especially to music.

I really like these suggestions, Ken. As it happens, I've been working with Ruth Rice Crone (not sure I have her names in the right order) on putting together some pamphlets, tricks, and silks to start with. The silks appeal to my love of color, and I like the idea of their drifting into place. I never thought I'd juggle, but silk juggling sounds like fun.


Once I've started to learn some of the tricks you mention, I'll write to you and ask about how to perform artistically.


Interesting that Linking Rings can be performed slowly... but, one thing at a time!

Bob

Years ago when working with disabled kids in connection with The Vanishing Wheelchair Foundation, I got a young woman into silk juggling as a form of therapy.
he had limited arm flexibility and often made jerky motions that disturbed other people.

The tossing of the silks in the traditional "across the center" aim became a practiced move, and any jerk was masked by all eyes following the floating silks.
Since the tossed silks descended slowly, she could catch them even imperfectly and continue without fear. Yup, confidence was the greatest result.

When she performed at the monthly public show she wore a special multicolored dress made by her grandmother for the occasion.

No one noticed her leg braces or that one arm was longer than the other, or very thick glasses or jerky motions.

All the audience remembers is an endless spiral of colored handkerchiefs dancing in the air in seemingly impossible puffs of appearance and graceful flutter never reaching the ground.

Not a magic effect, but very magical. It could certainly be a flourish in between silk effects.

Lovely story, Ken. I'll bet the young woman you worked with was exultant. I admire people like you and my daughter who work with people who have physical or intellectual disabilities.


Bob