Around Chicago
with DON WIBERG
February 2009
It's February, the temperature is hovering in the teens but hey, it's Chicago and it's winter. What do you expect? Although it's cold, I had a chance to warm up the other night by going to see the Mike Super Show at the Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University. I have hyped the show last month in spite of never having seen Mike perform either in person on the NBC T.V. show, The Phenomenon! After seeing Mike perform, I can understand why he was voted as the most mystifying magician in the U.S. (read more)
He is full of energy and innovative ideas that really captivated the audience. Judging from the long lines of young and old waiting to get his autograph, he really was a smash hit. Check out his website, www.mikesuper.com and register to find out when and where he will be appearing next. When you do see him, tell him Don sent you.
Governors State University is named in honor of the governors of the State of Illinois. In addition to an amazing show by Super another amazing thing was the disappearing Rod Blagojevich portrait. Rod Blagojevich was impeached the day before the show and was removed from office. Did Mike Super make it dissappear? It didn't take long for his picture to be replaced by the new governor, Pat Quinn. Bronze reliefs of past governors adorn one wall in a public area. The two missing reliefs were the last two governors. George Ryan is serving time in a fedreal correction institution in Indiana while the recently deposed, Rod Blagojevich is facing an indictment that may also send him to a federal correctional center. It would probably take more than a magician to make all the state's troubles disappear but seeing the Mike Super show certainly took my mind off the mess.
DOCC HILFORD-FREE SEMINAR-FEBRUARY 12 TH
Join the crowd at Midwest Magic on February 12th for a FREE "Easy Learnings" Seminar and on Docc Hilford's Monster Mentalism Lecture on February 13th.
Problems with the Economy?
Some people say that the economy is tight right now. They claim it's impossible to make money performing. But THEY ARE WRONG! Certain performers ALWAYS thrive during financial downturns. People need escapes from daily burdens. That's why magicians and mentalists flourish! The can provide relatively inexpensive forms of entertainment. And like a fortune cookie, psychic entertainers can always reveal the possibility of a lucky future. Tim Felix reports, "...this year I know several magicians who are making more money now than they did last year! There is no bad economy for them." The same could be true for YOU!
In the seminar you'll learn two important secrets: How to Perform Quick and Accurate Readings
The Steady Weekly Gig
If you're interested in earning some money RIGHT NOW, you should attend. This seminar is FREE! If you own an authorized copy of Docc Hilford's "System 88" there's NO COST, just bring the book to the seminar. If you need a copy you can purchase it at the door for 48% OFF the retail price! The book is your FREE ticket.
Tim promises, "by attending this seminar, you'll get $40 in discount vouchers." You can't get a better deal than this. It virtually costs nothing to attend and you're guaranteed to make money the following day! HOW CAN YOU LOSE? By not attending!
LIMITED TO 20 SPACES - DON'T BE LEFT OUT!
DATE: February 12
TIME: 7 p.m.
PLACE: Midwest Magic-Franklin Park, Illinois
DOCC HILFORD LECTURE-FEBRUARY 13RD
The recent popularity of Docc Hilford's MONSTER MENTALISM DVDs has caused an immediate demand for his lectures and performances in Las Vegas, Canada, France, Turkey and the UK.
Docc will be on the road for several months, and he's including Midwest Magic! Because of bookings into 2012, Docc is ONLY lecturing in 2009. And this time he's letting the monsters loose! This will be your only chance to ATTEND HIS LECTURE, as he'll not repeat it!
Docc Hilford is going to give up the methods, subtleties and psychology of the actual tricks he performs in his theatre and night club shows seen around the world, as well as many of the tricks from MONSTER MENTALISM. The methods are based on simple ideas with very little skill is required. ANYONE CAN DO THESE TRICKS.
Docc Hilford is the crazed creator of the renowned Cassandra Deck, author of over 30 books and consultant for a dozen television shows. Docc is respected by the pros who want usable mentalism. His lecture teaches not only the methods, but more importantly, the psychological influences behind the effects. Some of the tricks in this lecture are from Docc's highly acclaimed instructional books and each has been valued at the price of the entire event. Others are from his celebrated Real Time MentalismTM collection. And many have never been published. All have been used by Docc in front of discerning audiences. And now YOU will be performing tricks like a MONSTER!
DATE: February 13
TIME: 7 p.m.
PRICE: $20
Call today for a reservation!
Midwest Magic
9706 Franklin Av.
Franklin Park, IL 60131
847-455-4288
http://www.midwestmagic.net/
MAGIC MASTERS OF CHICAGO PRESENTS THE JOHN STURK LECTURE
FEBRUARY 19, 2009 AT 8:00 P.M.
Social Hall of the United Methodist Church of Tinley Park
Contact Don Wiberg for details-Email magicdon36@comcast.net
The February meeting will feature John Sturk. John Sturk is an award-winning comedy magician. He currently lives and works in Chicago for FUN Incorporated, America's largest magic manufacturer. John draws upon his experience as a magical general practitioner for his lectures, as well as his experience as a true "street magician" - busking for the masses.
John's lecture contains a little something for everyone. There's material for kids' shows, table-hopping in restaurants, stand-up magic, and mentalism. John also tips his handlings for several classic effects, honed during his work as a busker - time and audience tested!
Members Free-Guests $10.00
The Jay Marshall Lecture Series presents...
the AMAZEMENT of NATHAN W. KRANZO
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2009
*** 2:00 P.M. ***
Who is Nathan Kranzo? A Comedian- A Magician
-A Mind Reader -An Entertainer...
Nathan has a reputation for creating unique and original magic, and is now one of the top magical entertainers in the country. He has performed and lectured all over the United States as well as Canada, Mexico, France, England, Holland, and Japan. In 2004, Nathan was a consultant for the series "The Virtual Magician" which aired in over 40 Countries. More recently, Nathan was a consultant for Penn and Teller's NBC special "Off the Deep End." At this exclusive Chicagoland lecture, Nathan will teach effects and ideas from his working repertoire including:
Cashing In...
Cash in your Casino Chips for real money instantly!
Features a bare hand production that will fool them all.
Spirit Force...
A card is freely selected by the spectator and returned to the deck.
Then the deck is placed face up on the table and an object like a knife
or fork slowly begins to move and points to the selected card.
This Al Baker inspired effect is very powerful.
Will The Kort Please Rise...
A stand up version of Milt Kort's classic coins through table routine.
Kranzo adds an extra element that looks like real magic.
Hot Sauce Production...
In a flash of fire you produce a package of hot sauce.
When you open the hot sauce, smoke rolls out. VISUAL!! A must for restaurant work.
Kranzo on The Rising Card...
Nathan will teach two VERY POWERFUL and practical techniques to perform the
classic Rising Card effect. This effect has long been recognized as one the strongest effects possible with a deck of cards. Nathan has performed dozens of versions over the years and will share with you his thoughts, finesse, and pet handlings for this effect.
Nathan's Handling of Al Baker's Haunted Pack...
The perfect closer! Nathan will teach an easy and practical method
that you can perform anytime anywhere.
Nathan will also teach his personal handling of the
classic coins across plot and much more!!!
Come to this Magic Inc. lecture, and be amazed!
All lectures take place at:
The Jay Marshall Theatre at Magic Inc
5082 N. Lincoln Ave. (at Carmen Ave.)
Chicago, IL 60625
All tickets: $25.00 Advance Reservations
$30.00 Same Day Lecture Sales
or by calling 773.334.2855.
PLACES TO SEE MAGIC IN THE CHICAGO AREA
EVERY THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY: O'Donovan's
Formerly Schulien's, the birthplace of Chicago Bar Magic, this friendly restaurant and bar is still home to tableside magic several nights per week by veterans Al James and Jimmy Krzak. More info.
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT: Supernatural Chicago
Now in its fifth straight year! Chicago's longest running theatrical magic presentation, performed at the landmark (and reputedly haunted) Excalibur nightclub by Neil Tobin, Necromancer. "He'll teach you about Chicago's paranormal history and get you involved in psychic experiments that put Jedi mind tricks to shame" (Red Eye/Chicago Tribune). Info and reservations.
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT: Long Grove Cafe
Enjoy the award-winning close-up magic of J.B. Brash tableside from 7-10pm. 235 Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove. 847.955.9600. Open run.
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT: Rookies Family Sports Pub
This friendly neighborhood spot is featuring the walkaround magic of Magic Sam from 7-9pm. 1751 Dixie Highway, Homewood. 708.922.9200. Open run.
EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT: The Rail Bar
See Jim Maddex perform walkaround magic comfortable upscale sports bar and grill on Fridays and Saturdays at 10pm. 4709 N. Damen, Chicago. 773.878.9400. Open run.
EVERY SATURDAY: Fox's Pub
If you're near Mokena, here's your chance to see Jim Maddex at 11247 W. 187th Street in Mokena, 7pm.
EVERY TUESDAY: Fox's Pub Orland
Looking for magic in Orland Park? You can find Jim Maddex at 9655 W. 143rd Street, 7pm.
WEDNESDAY, FEBURARY 4th: Magic Chicago
In this month's installment of the monthly magic showcase, Benjamin Barnes and Robert Charles are joined by Jeanette Andrews, Sean Masterson, James Sanden and Darryl German. 8pm. Information and reservations.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13th: Special Birthday Performance of Supernatural Chicago
Chicago's longest running theatrical magic performance starts its historic Year Six by treating its entire audience to free cupcakes! Information and reservations. BALLOON JAM Monthly from 6-9 pm Colonial Café, 2555 W Bunker Hill Dr, Algonquin, IL. http://www.balloonbob.com/
Conjuror's Corners 4th Monday, 7 pm at Fore Seasons Party Center & HARRY's MAGIC SHOP, 1350 Lake St, (one block east of Gary Ave) Roselle, IL 60172. 630-980-8882. For information contact Jeff Brandon 630-842-5309 brandonmagic@comcast.net or Mark Doestch 224-672-3381 http://indoorminipuff.com/ Dues $75 year
MAGIC MASTERS, THIRD THURSDAY 7:30 pm, Tinley Park United Methodist Church (Social Hall) 6875 W 173rd Pl, Tinley Park, IL. Contact Ed Fruh 708-532-8207, Don Wiberg 815-464-0414 mailto:dewueberg@aol.com. Or WEB: www.magicmasters.org
COMING IN MARCH....
March 7-- Roberto Giobbi, Saturday, Acclaimed performer and author of the seminal Card College book series, Roberto Giobbi is presenting a 3-hour seminar on the techniques, effects, presentations, and theories of the incomparable Dai Vernon, illustrated by little-seen film footage of classic Vernon creations performed by The Professor himself. Roosevelt University; 430 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 1:30pm, $60. Parking in Grant Park underground lot. Questions: solomon.david848@gmail.com. RSVP via Paypal to http://www.davidsolomon.net/. 847-433-0686
March 29 --Tim Sonefelt and Barry Mitchell, Sunday, If you're doing kid shows, this is your chance to attend a lecture by two of the top entertainers in the U.S. You'll learn audience-tested routines for family audiences, creative thinking exercises with audience involvement, practical tips that may be applied immediately, and receive a free DVD product if you pre-register at http://www.timandbarrysworkshop.com/ (a $45 value). 2-5pm, $30. Presented by the Merry Hearts Clowns. New Life Church, 3205 Cannonball Trail, Yorkville. Info and RSVP: call Debbie George at 630-204-5521.
APRIL 17, 2009-- Magic Masters 2009 Banquet. Hickory Hills, IL- Past President's Banquet will be Friday, April 17, 2009, starting at 6:30 with cocktails and table magic, followed by a great meal and show. The Magic Masters was founded in 1945 and their banquet is one of the largest banquests produced by an independent club in the world with an average of 600 guests returning year after year.
[Be sure to watch this space for ever changing news of what's happening Around Chicago.... besides the cold weather. Don is the International Secretary of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and long time member of the Executive Committee. Leave him a comment by clicking the link at the bottom. . . or send him an email: Don Wiberg]
