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Magic School FAQ |
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- Do I have to perform, or can I just watch and observe?
No, you do not have to perform at all. Many students find that attending classes is fun and informative; the atmosphere is friendly, creative, and noncompetitive.
- What skill level must I have mastered in order to attend?
None. We work with all levels of experience. Some of our students are beginners, looking to advance their technical skills; other students are full-time pros seeking new inspiration, refining their business plans, and taking their magic to the next level of excellence. For help in selecting a class, see Choosing a Class.
- Will it help me find my direction?
It will help you explore what kind of magic is best for you -- who you are -- what your character is. We talk about how your character might dress, move and speak. Jeff and Eugene also discuss the different stages of development a performer may go through and what to be doing at your current level. Many of our students are hobbyists with a sincere love of magic and come simply for the experience.
- I am only interested in close-up magic; what's in it for me?
Both Jeff and Eugene have extensive experience in diverse areas of close-up magic. Small groups and break-out sessions with a special focus on close-up magic are a daily part of the experience.
- The class sounds very interesting and I will probably go, but I'm wondering if I am at a stage where it will give me the most benefit. Should I go now or should I play with magic some more before going?
Go now. Not only is it informative and instructive but it is INSPIRING. It gives you energy, direction and focus in your magic. These classes are very limited in number and you may not get another chance.
- Any other subtleties that I'm not aware of?
Jeff, Eugene and Tobias are some of the kindest and most generous people in magic. This isn't a convention atmosphere - its done in a spirit of learning, giving and sharing. It is a very special program that has been honed and refined for many years, so it keeps getting better and better.
- What do you do each day at Master Class?
The early part of the day is spent on Works in Progress, where students perform and receive videotaped feedback on many aspects of the performer's art. In the late afternoon, there is close-up magic and movement theater. In the evening, there are special performances by the teachers and special guests, lectures and the now famous "Late-Night Magic Jam Session!"
- What does my family do while I am in class?
We have opening night festivities which are open to anyone traveling with you. In addition, there are many attactions in Vegas for people of all ages and interests -- and many of them are free! Many people decide to come early or stay a few extra days to catch some of the evening shows, as well. You can get more info on events in Las Vegas on our Visiting Las Vegas and Make it a Vacation! pages.
- Where is it held?
McBride's House of Mystery in Las Vegas, which is five miles from the airport. You will receive directions once your registration has been confirmed.
- Is it expensive?
No, not when you consider the price you would pay for private lessons, which usually go for a hundred dollars per hour, or more . For this many hours worth of private lessons, you would pay well over two thousand dollars.
- Where do I stay?
You can stay on the strip or find a place close to the House of Mystery. For more information on hotels, visit our Where to Stay page.
- How many times a year is the Master Class in session?
Classes are scheduled as Jeff and Eugene's schedules allow. To be notified of the upcoming classes, join the Join the Mailing List.
- How do I get there?
Fly or drive; flights to Las Vegas are inexpensive, especially if you order your tickets a few weeks in advance. You will be given more specific directions on when and how best to buy airline tickets once you register for a class.
- I'm a stage illusionist; do I bring my entire show to Master Class?
Just bring your costumes and a rehearsal or "work" video. This doesn't have to be a finished project, just something for the teachers to look at for our special "video-feedback."
- Can I bring my assistant?
Yes, magical partners are welcome to attend at a discounted price.
- I want to improve my competition act; have you worked with people like me before?
Yes! Many of our students are working on competition acts. Check the Winner's Circle for recent comptetition winners.
- How old do I have to be? Is there an age limit?
We work with students from 12 years to 70 years and up! Many of our students are beginners and others have spent an entire lifetime in magic. This is a unique learning environment for all levels and ages!
- I am a full-time professional magician. What is in it for me?
Not only do we offer practical theatrical magic direction to enhance your current presentations, we also offer a unique "Business of Magic and Marketing" lecture with Manager Tobias Beckwith. Mr. Beckwith has years of experience in the entertainment industry and he shares his insider's information with all of our professional students.
Special thanks to David Reed-Brown for some of the questions and answers.
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"To use a Star Wars analogy, it was like going to see two Jedi Masters. When I went, I had an idea of what I was EXPECTING to learn. When I left, I had not only what I expected to learn, but also what I NEEDED to learn." --Brad Roach
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