How to Become a Magician
If you've always had the desire to pull a rabbit out of your hat, or to make people disappear without a trace, a career as a magician just might be your thing. There are no special schools that you need to attend, and chances are you will never learn how to turn anyone into a toad. Magic is all about illusion and agility, making people believe what you want them to see. If this sounds intriguing to you, read on to learn how to become a magician.
Great magicians like David Blaine, Criss Angel and even Harry Houdini all have one thing in common: they mastered the subtle art of illusion. They perform simple parlor tricks and even elaborate stunts to wow and even thrill spectators. This page will help you learn how to dazzle an audience and make them gasp the words, "How did you do that?"
Tips for Becoming a Magician
This video provides a brief overview on how to become a magician, emphasizing the importance of studying magic. You can do this by reading books, learning about magic online and going to local magic shops. Once you have a broad idea of magic, you can choose a specialization such as coin or card trick magic. Then, consider joining a club or organization such as the Society of American Magicians. These places are a great place for an aspiring magician to learn from other magicians, including certain points and tricks about specific tricks. As you begin to embark on your career, keep in mind the following tips: never do the same trick more than once, practice constantly, and never divulge how you perform a specific trick.
Step 1: Begin Your Studies
As with just about any subject you wish to master, you must do your homework. Becoming a good magician will require you to study the tricks and techniques of the trade. You'll want to start your journey at the local library or bookstore and read as many books about magic and illusion as you can get your hands on. The more you know, the easier it will be when it comes time to practice your first magic tricks.
- Read
- Watch videos
- Go and see as many live magicians as you can
Step 2: Practice Makes Perfect
- Many of the magic tricks you perform at first will seem very basic. For example, some of your early tricks will probably include things like:
- Making coins disappear and reappear
- Guessing cards or numbers
- These simpler tricks are an early lesson in illusion, and the more you practice them, the better you will become. This will make it easier to take on larger illusions. Practice them at any opportunity that presents itself, with family and friends or whoever shows and interest.
Step 3: Step Up the Drama
- Dramatics make all the difference when you're creating illusions. Your persona and presence will need to entertain the audience, and often distract them while you set up the next bedazzlement. Here are some tips you can put to work to make your acts more believable:
- Create an alter ego or stage name.
- Practice your tricks in front of the mirror.
- Consider taking acting and drama classes to help you develop character and a stage presence.
Step 4: Share Your Act
- After you have had ample time to learn some tricks, and you're ready to perform in front of an audience, consider doing so for charity at places like nurseries, day cares and even retirement homes. Not only will this give you a opportunity to see how well your material goes over, but you can bring smiles to people and inspire some future magicians as well.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of illusion is a great way to wow an audience. For years, people have been wondering how David Copperfield made the Statue of Liberty disappear, or how David Blaine can levitate on command. It takes an incredible amount of personality to perform believable magic tricks. You'll want to spend as much time as possible reading and studying magic and illusion, and then start putting what you're learning into practice. Take drama lessons if you're able to do so, and then get out there and perform.
