SCAM

The South Carolina Association of Magician's (SCAM) convention in Columbia , South Carolina was a very enlightening experience for yours truly.

In other words... I loved every minute! Their selection of magicians for this years lectures and performances was an inspired combination of skill, story-telling, creativity, and theory.

David 'Silly Billy' Kaye, was right-on with his lecture about the nuiances of performing for children, and the specific requirements of each age group. He brought children from the audience on stage to aptly prove his points. I'm not a childrens magician, but the psychology behind his lecture was brilliant.

Rachel Wild and Tom Jones kicked off the lectures with a lesson in professionalism for everyone present. You couldn't take your eyes off the two as they taught exactly as you would expect two highly trained magicians, no.. entertainers.. to teach. Stunning...

Mick Ayers displayed why Disney has him locked in a contract that prevents him from performing almost anywhere other than at Disney.. Mickey Mouse and friends knew what they were doing! Micks storytelling was one of the true 'magical moments' of the entire convention. This guys good!

Columbia's own John Tudor, founder of SCAM ten years ago this year, was coaxed onstage to confirm what the attendee's already knew... that he is South Carolina's most beloved magician, a true scholar, and consummate performer.. Every magician present should have been forced to let John teach them a thing or two about a sorely overlooked aspect of magic - stage presence.

Robert Moreland gave his first public lecture, and slyly showed everyone present why he is a 'star in waiting..' A master of cards and coins, Robert is expected to become the next Michael Close, and his performance confirmed exactly that...

Dan Harlan constantly displayed his slightly bent sense of humor, as well as his repertoire of totally original magic. His performance in the stage show on Saturday night was simply brilliant. He gave everyone a lesson on how to take a simple trick - and turn it into twelve minutes of hilarious magic.

Dirk Losander was the star of the show with his lecture on Friday night. The 'master of levitation' amazed everyone with his sensitive and compelling revelations. Dirk proved to be an honest, down-to-earth guy with a genuinely friendly demeanor to match his larger-than-life magic. Impressive!

Never, ever, turn down a chance to attend this beautifully run convention !