Step away from the movie cliché

We need to step away from the movie cliché in magic. We've all seen the magicians in the movies, performing on a vast stage, saying something along the lines of: "And for my next trick". This is something that's a cliché for a reason. Too many magicians present their tricks in these ways. 

We need to start thinking about a way to integrate our routines. A way to present them by the flow of the story, instead of just throwing 10 tricks after each other and calling it a "show".  

When presenting a show, it doesn't have to be a life-changing concept, such as In and of itself, by Derrick Delgaudio. However, you must convey something meaningful with your magic. You've gained the opportunity to be on stage in front of many people, who've given you their undivided attention. Use this wisely and respectfully.

Why would you want to be shallow and show them trick after trick? Presenting the material without engaging storylines, cohesive narrative, or compelling presentations for the routines will result in a boring magic show, where the audience has seen enough after the second trick.

We often discuss the importance of carefully considering the presentation for the tricks, but you should also start thinking about the space between the tricks. The space in between is as important as the tricks themselves. You have the opportunity to create a show, so you'd better ensure it's a coherent whole, rather than a collection of random, loose tricks.

Please respect your audience and appreciate your craft. Please put something in front of them that you can be proud of to perform.

-Rico