Becoming a magician means more than just learning a few card tricks and playing magic at kids' birthday parties. A true magician makes a career out of making people wonder and more importantly being able to entertain the audience and improve his abilities and skills. If you want to know what it takes to become a magician, read on!
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Part 1 of 7: Simple Card Tricks
Step 1. Ask a volunteer to pick up a card
Shuffle a pack of cards and unfold like a fan in front of a spectator. Have a volunteer take a card and look at it without your knowledge.
Step 2. Return the cards to the pile
Cut the card from the top and align it so you can see the bottom card. Ask volunteers to place cards face down on top of the bottom pile.
Remember, make sure the audience knows that you can't see this card
Step 3. Pay attention to the card that is above the card the spectator chose
Card pieces point to you. Quickly look at the bottom card and remember. This is your "key card". Merge the two card pieces back together. You don't know which card to choose, but you know where it is under your keycard.
Step 4. Ask volunteers to cut the cards
To show that you're not tricking them, have a volunteer cut the cards. He can cut the card multiple times if he wants.
Step 5. Open the deck of cards
Turn the cards one by one face up on the table. When your keycard is visible, quickly remember the card afterwards-that is, the card you selected. Continue to open three or four more cards without slowing down the movement. Slide the card slightly so that the selected card remains visible.
- The audience may think you made a mistake. If you slow down or show a reaction, the audience won't be fooled.
- When you stop opening a card, hold down the top card as if you were about to turn it over.
Step 6. Open the selected card
Say to the spectator, "The next card is the card of your choice." Spread your hand on the top card in the pile, as if you were going to open it. Move your hand toward the open card on the table, and slowly turn it over in front of the spectator.
Part 2 of 7: Trick Tricks
Step 1. Prepare the trick
Before starting, choose a card from a regular deck of cards. Write the name of the card on a piece of paper, and fold it so that the writing is hidden. Place this card at the top of the pile.
With this we set a "power": a trick where it seems as if the spectator can choose, but we force him to choose the card we want. This trick, "Criss Cross Force", is one of the easy power tricks
Step 2. Have a volunteer cut the cards
Hand the volunteer a deck of cards and ask him to cut it (put the cut cards on the table). Keep half the piece in your hand.
Step 3. Arrange the card pieces in a cross shape
Place half of the deck of cards you are holding in the pile on the table so that it forms a cross. Say, "We'll mark where you cut the card."
Of course this is a lie; the card between the two card pieces "is not" where the spectator cuts the card. This card is actually the card on the top of the pile, which you have written on a piece of paper
Step 4. Distract the audience
Distract the viewer from the card by raising their head and making eye contact. Distract them for a few seconds while talking, so they don't realize what's going on.
For example, say, "Look, he can cut cards anywhere. Ten cards, twenty, free. But I can predict exactly where the cards he cut."
Step 5. Take the top piece of the card
Now go back to the deck of cards and say, "Let's see what cards you cut." Take a card from the top pile, and ask a volunteer to take the top card.
Step 6. Open your forecast
When the volunteer shows the card to the spectator, indicate that you have predicted which card he will cut. Open the paper and show the writing on it.
Have any indecisive spectators check your cards and make sure they are normal cards
Part 3 of 7: Simple Coin Tricks
Step 1. Take a coin
Coin tricks are commonly used in magic shows. In this trick you will be taught a basic coin trick technique: "French drop". This trick relies on tricking and careful hand movements to get rid of the coins: To start, take a large coin. You can try different types of coins and decide which one is easiest to use.
Step 2. Hold the coin in a C shape
Form a "C" with your hand and hold the edge of the coin between your fingers and thumb. Position your hands so that the coin is facing up, and your fingers are curled under it. Coins must be clearly visible to the audience.
The edge of the coin should be on your fingers and thumb
Step 3. Pretend to take the coin with the other hand
Grab and grab the coin with your other hand, hide the coin from the viewer's view.
Step 4. Let the coins fall
Instead of being picked up, let the coin fall into the deepest knuckles. Keep your hands curved to keep the coin from moving, stuck between your knuckles and palms. Meanwhile, pull out your empty hand, as if you were still holding a coin.
Step 5. Make the coins disappear
Raise the hand that should take the coin. Slowly open your fingers one by one, showing that your hand is empty.
Step 6. Make the coin reappear
Now raise your hand that is holding the coin and show the coin to the audience.
Practice holding the coin between your palm and innermost knuckles. In this position, you can move your hand with your fingers open so that it looks like it's empty before the coin is suddenly popped
Part 4 of 7: Learn Other Magic Tricks
Step 1. Learn some other basic magic tricks
There are many magic tricks for all levels of magicians. If you like simple hand speed sleight of hand like the one above, learn basic tricks like removing cards from behind the palms, bringing cards to the top of the pile, or rolling coins through the knuckles.
Although all magicians know about hand speed magic, not all of them specialize in melee magic. You could also specialize in club magic (moderate crowd), stage magic (large crowd), escape tricks, and mentalism
Step 2. Watch another magician show
Master magicians know what audiences want to see, so pay attention to what tricks and styles these modern magicians wear. See which magician catches your eye the most, and take a look at their style and the way they attract an audience. You can watch some of today's magicians or even watch videotapes of some famous magicians to see how they mastered this art. The following are the names of some magicians you may want to pay close attention to:
- David Copperfield
- Tommy Wonder
- Mark Wilson
- Doug Henning
- Lance Burton
- Penn & Teller
- Harry Houdini
- S. H. Sharpe
- Criss Angel
Step 3. Read lots of books on magic
Read any magician's biographies and you can see that most of them started their careers by going to the library and borrowing books about magic and reading them cover to cover. By reading you will have an understanding of the science required to become a magician, and realize that most of your time is not spent in front of the stage attracting the attention of the audience; You will be alone, learning how to master complex magic tricks.
- The Tarbell Course in Magic Volume 1 - 8
- Books of Wonder by Tommy Wonder
- Strong Magic by Ortiz
- Drawing Room Conjuring by Hoffman
- The Fitzkee Trilogy
- Mark Wilson Complete Course in Magic by Wilson
- The Amateur Magician's Handbook
Step 4. Buy a magic show DVD or watch it online
While you still have to learn from books to become a magician, you can also hone your skills through DVDs and videos on the internet. There are thousands of videos out there and make sure you get videos from top magicians and don't buy cheap videos that show tricks that are too easy. Online communities of amateur and professional magicians can help you find good references.
Part 5 of 7: Developing the Show
Step 1. Try to find a magician to guide you
Once you've mastered a few tricks, approach a professional magician in your area and ask if you can intern with him and give you some input. You may be surprised that they are willing to help you, considering that they themselves have also been beginners. It's just that you have to be open to receiving input and criticism to improve your abilities.
He probably won't reveal any secrets, but he can give you tips on doing your first show like a pro. If you can't find a professional magician, learn from your mistakes as much as you can. Over time, you'll be able to catch what your audience wants
Step 2. Don't copy
Once you've mastered the basics and are starting to set foot as a magician, you'll have to find your own style. You can't just rely on other people's tricks if you want to be successful. No one wants to see an old trick that has been performed time and time again. Of course you can use some (and many) well-known old tricks in your show (like the ball in a glass trick). Audiences may like some of the older numbers (like Miser's Dream), but avoid classic examples like getting the bunny out of the hat (try taking it out of the box).
- Try to come up with an idea for a trick like never before. For example, making the strings disappear from a guitar. Then, find a way to bring out the effect. Now, think of ways to make the trick convincing. Make your own equipment, if needed. You may need to duplicate the object you are working on. Once everything is ready, practice the trick.
- Develop a unique style of performance. Do not imitate the style of other magicians. You may be able to copy the style of an old (deceased) magician and add other variations, but never copy the style of a working magician. It's better to use a unique style to do old tricks, than to copy someone else's style to do new tricks.
Step 3. Develop some traits to become a good magician
If you want to become a great magician, having lots of amazing tricks is not enough, if you don't have the personal traits that allow you to absorb this skill. These are some of the traits you should develop:
- Commitment
- Discipline
- Be patient
- Ability to process information
- Communication skills
- Dress trendy
Step 4. Take drama classes, join the theater, and work with experienced directors
Magic is a theater and magicians are the stars. You may not have to go to drama school, but if you're shy or feel uncomfortable in public, maybe going to drama school will make you feel better.
Private drama classes are usually very expensive, but you can also learn a lot in a group
Step 5. Organize yourself
Before doing the show, make sure you've rehearsed it a few times. You may need to know the condition of the room where the show is being held. If you're performing at a friend's house, it may not be necessary. Just make sure there's no one behind you during the show. Equipment must be prepared carefully. Always check that all equipment is working properly.
Also try combining one trick with another to create a new effect. For example, after you've turned a ball into a tissue, make a coin pop out of the tissue; then make the coin pierce your hand
Step 6. Make your own magic kit
If you can't make your own kit, ask a friend to make one, or buy one at a magic shop or online. You might also consider having an assistant during the show (you've already told them some secret tricks, why not just include them in the show?).
Step 7. Wear a flashy costume
The standard costume for a magician is a black suit, with a red vest inside, and black pants that match the suit. Your suit should have lots of little pockets inside to store coins, cards, secret balls and more. The vest should also have lots of large pockets on the inside so you can make large items disappear, such as plates. Pants should always have two pockets, one on each side. The pockets should be long enough and made behind the folds of the pants.
- Also consider using the same basic design if you intend to design a new, more modern model. Make sure you dress a little more neatly than the person watching you.
- Keep in mind the importance of the element of comfort when designing a costume. If you feel itchy or stiff in the costume, everything is a mess even if you look amazing.
Step 8. Increase the flexibility of your arms, hands and fingers
Start practicing by manipulating coins. This trick is easy to master, but still challenging. You can find many website links in the tutorial section. Back to the coin trick. Remember how to hold a coin in your palm. Find a position on your palm where the coin stays stuck when you open/close your palm, or flip it over. Then learn to create illusions (like pretending to put an object in the other hand when it's actually in the other).
Once you've mastered coin manipulation, you can move on to balls, and finally, card manipulation
Step 9. Develop some artistic talent and a sense of humor
Try to tell stories with your magic tricks. Try to be funny (unless you prefer to be mysterious or serious). If your magic show is boring, no one will want to watch it. Remember to joke every once in a while according to the trick you're doing. You can use music during the performance to make the atmosphere more interesting.
Sound effects can make a big impact. However, don't put on a show with just music without talking because then everyone won't know what's going on
Step 10. Learn to read the audience
Mastering the audience is a major part of being a great magician. What kind of audience is in front of you? Are they enthusiastic enough to accept anything? Too critical and bored? A little drunk? You have to recognize your audience and adapt your tricks to the audience's mood.
- You may need some improv. You may feel that your opening trick doesn't suit the audience and you should change it at the last minute.
- If you're at a corporate event or together at another show, watch another show and watch the audience react. See if you can use their shows within your own as a bonus.
Part 6 of 7: Getting a Job
Step 1. Start making a show among friends and acquaintances
When you're just starting out in your career, don't expect to get a job for a 500-viewer corporate event. You should start with people you know, maybe your friends, family, acquaintances, or family of friends. Here's how: put on a show at a friend's or family's birthday party and someone at the birthday party will like your show, and say "Hey, it's a friend's birthday tomorrow…" and bam! You have got your first job.
- Be patient. It takes time to develop skills so you can get a job. Make sure you're well-prepared when you start performing and your chances of getting noticed will increase.
- Starting your show in front of a small audience that knows each other will make you more comfortable performing in front of strangers next time.
Step 2. Try making a show on the streets
Some magicians put on a show in the streets and try their tricks in front of just anyone. You only get paid generously from the crowd on the street, and you might as well face a critical audience. However, this way you can strengthen your mentality and prepare yourself to be able to face any kind of audience.
If you do this, make sure you don't use a location where other magicians are used to performing. People are usually quite sensitive to where they are and should avoid conflict
Step 3. Start small
To build a career, you can start taking on a "real" job: a kid's birthday party, a hospital event, church, an adult's birthday, or whatever job you can get your hands on. This way you can stick your fingernails in the world of magic and get a feel for what kind of audience you are really looking for and like. This can help you figure out what kind of magician you want to achieve-perhaps you decide that you prefer to perform in front of adults only or children only.
Be prepared to stay in this position. It may take years to rise from this position
Step 4. Market yourself
If you really want to build a reputation as a magician, you have to market yourself. This means you have to create professional-looking business cards, promote yourself on social media, and create a professional-looking website. That way people can know about you when they're looking for a magician for a particular event. Consider seeking professional help if you're already committed to marketing yourself.
- Distribute business cards as often as possible.
- Visit your local magic shop and ask if they need a magician or can you leave a business card there.
Step 5. Consider purchasing spectator accident insurance
This can compensate for accidents that occur when you perform in public. While of course your tricks should be safe and performed with care, insurance can protect you in the event of an unforeseen event, for example if a spectator is injured by a property fall.
Step 6. Connection
Once you've been around for a while, you'll start to attend magic shows and land bigger jobs. You may already have a connection with someone in magic from your previous job or from a professional magician you turned to for help. Continue to attend as many events as you can and promote yourself without upsetting others. The more contacts you get, the more likely you are to get a job.
If you make connection a priority, you may find yourself meeting with a manager or agent (see next step)
Step 7. Find a manager or agent
An agent or manager can be the key to a magician's success. If you really want to be a magician, you need a manager to find orders, promote you, and get regular jobs. You can also use an agent, but they usually charge 15-20% commission on the work they find you. You can still work alone, but people like them can help your career.
Step 8. Join the big players
If you've been working for years, marketing yourself, getting pre-orders, doing enough gigs, maybe you could be lucky enough to join the big cast and make magic your main job. Don't be disappointed if you can't; You can still be called a real magician even though you still need to do other jobs to make a living; magic is a matter of following your heart, not making a lot of money. However, if you "make" become a big player, you can put on a show on:
- Corporate events
- country club
- Fund night event
- High-end private events, such as wedding anniversaries, children's birthday parties, or holiday celebrations
Part 7 of 7: Living Life
Step 1. Don't tell your secrets to ordinary people
A true magician doesn't reveal his secrets, especially if there are other magicians who use the same trick. If you're talking to a fellow magician, you may occasionally be able to exchange secrets. But if you're approached by a bitch who insists that he knows your magic secret or begs you to teach you how to do it, you'd better stay away from this kind of person.
A true magician values his work. Revealing a secret is tantamount to betraying your commitment as a magician
Step 2. Master the "conversation"
Being a good magician means more than just wowing the audience with one magic trick followed by another. You have to know how to wow the audience when they see your show, and that takes time. If you want to wow your audience, you have to be able to get them hooked, curious, and even trick them when you're having trouble with a trick. In essence, you should be able to make a trivial conversation in a room full of strangers sound interesting and it's not as difficult as you might think.
Step 3. Join a magic club
If you want to become a successful magician and get to know magicians in your area and around the world, you should join a magic club so you can see what other magicians are doing and continue to hone your skills. There are some of the world's leading magic clubs such as The International Brotherhood of Magicians. In Indonesia you can join several associations such as the Bandung Magic Association, the Jogja Magic Community, and the Surabaya Magician Community. You can also join the online magic club, The Magic Classroom.
Step 4. Don't be out of date
If you want to be the best magician, you have to update your tricks. Find out what other magicians like you are doing and visit a local magic show. Talk to fellow magicians and find out what they're working on. Don't do the same trick for years until people start thinking you're an "old bunny out of a hat."
Tips
- Don't be embarrassed if your show messes up. If you can fix it without anyone knowing, do it. You can laugh with the audience as if this trick was designed to fail, then move on to the next trick without commenting on the trick that just failed.
- At the start of the show properly introduce yourself and try to be funny throughout the first trick. They'll love you when they laugh!
- Speak clearly. Try speaking while biting a pencil to practice pronunciation. You can use a microphone so that your voice can be heard clearly. Use a microphone that is attached to the collar as this gives you the freedom to use both hands.
- Dress professionally and wow people!
Warning
- Never remind the audience of what you are going to show (except as part of a show to trick the audience), or repeat the same trick, even if you are asked by the audience to do so. This is okay if you know of another way to make the trick so the audience won't be able to reveal your secret even if they watch it closely.
- Never do a trick that you haven't practiced perfectly. You must master a trick before performing it.
- Don't explain the secret of a trick (this means revealing the secret and harming other magicians) to anyone just to show your "amazing magic" skills, because the secret will spread quickly. If you're planning to write the book "The 100 Best Magic Tricks Uncovered", that's fine, because the book will only be purchased by magicians and people who are really interested in magic.
- Never argue with the audience. If someone makes a negative comment (for example, "I saw another coin behind my back!"), don't be swayed. Just ignore those comments and get on with the show. Try to be funny and only answer audience questions or comments (if necessary) after you're done with your trick.
