The Newest Trick in the MacBook

Last night, I got to participate in a live streamed show put on by the Toronto Magic Company. Since the two hosts of the show happen to be in my 10-person social circle, I was able to sneak over and appear in the show live:

The show is based on their live open-mic magic show, “The Newest Trick in the Book” which was held weekly in Toronto for several years. It offers people a chance to see virtual performances from various magicians ranging from enthusiastic hobbyists to full time professionals. This episode included performances from Denis Kim, Jacque Swan, David Sutherland, Gordon Precious, Wonderphil (Phil Pivnick) and Ryan Brown.

You can watch the full stream above for free!

Free Giveaway: Socially Distanced Magic

For the past several years, the highlight of just about each and every week has always been performing magic in front of a live audience and that’s been taken away. As we work to find creative ways to get together, particularly online, I’ve been getting used to performing for people virtually.

The last few months have been difficult for everyone and some people are feeling the stress from distancing more sharply than others. So with that in mind to give people a chance to connect with friends and family they can’t meet in person, get distracted and have fun, we’re doing a free giveaway. Every week from now until the end of October we’re giving away a free virtual magic show.

The Prize

A forty-five minute interactive magic show on Zoom for up to six households. This is a new format, close-up on camera with brand new material, totally different from the live shows I’ve done in the past.

One name will be selected at random at the end of each week on Sunday night from all of the entries received. (Meaning you do not need to enter again every week and the earlier you enter, the more chances you have to win.)

---

Enter the contest:

The Fascinating Fine Print:

Limit of one entry per household. Scheduling subject to availability. Not recommended for children younger than twelve. Viewers who are not wearing pants need to be seated at a desk or table. You’ve spent too much time reading the fine print. Nobody reads the fine print. What’s wrong with you? Stop now before someone notices.

---

For more information about a virtual magic performance for friends, family and workgroups, please feel free to contact us.

COVID19 Update

Photo by Tyler Sol Williams

For the moment it looks like we are taking a break from in person live entertainment. But that doesn’t mean the magic has to stop. For everyone who is isolating and social distancing at home, we have put together a virtual magic program using the free video chat software ZOOM to bring the magic to you.

Unlike most live-streamed entertainment, this is a personalized interactive experience just for you and the family and friends you want to invite. No leaving comments or muting your microphone. You get to be part of the magic all the way through.

---

Or if you’d just like something to watch and enjoy, here is a full performance of my show, Magic & Martini, filmed with a live audience at Suite 114 in Toronto in November of 2018. We will leave the video up to enjoy as long as social distancing guidelines are in effect.

Produced by Chris Mayhew. Special thanks to Carisa Hendrix (aka Lucy Darling) for giving us the idea!

Photos from Dine for Dignity Fundraiser Gala

Last night I was performing as part of ESS Support Services’ Dine for Dignity Gala. I got to appear alongside singer Michael Vanhevel and former Blue Jays Radio Broadcaster Jerry Howarth. Thank you to everyone who attended to help make the evening such a success. We were able to raise money for a great cause and there was definitely magic in the air.

James Alan, Alison Coke (CEO), Jerry Howarth

The Art of Magic

This week I will be appearing on The Art of Magic, a special magic variety night put on by the Toronto Magic Company. We take over the Super Wonder Gallery (College & Bathurst) and have a blast, bringing together diverse magical talents.

From the TMC:

“The Art of Magic is more than just a show. It’s an entire evening filled with beautiful art and mind blowing illusions that’s taking Toronto by storm!

The fun begins at 730pm inside the Super Wonder Gallery. Enjoy delicious drinks and paintings from some of Toronto’s best local artists while close up magicians dazzle you with sleight of hand.

Then at 8pm SHARP the show begins, and for the next hour and a half you’ll witness professional magicians from around the world performing magic so incredible that you’ll be gasping in disbelief!

In order to ensure every seat in the house is a good one, only 65 tickets are available for this intimate theatre experience. Make sure you order yours before they disappear forever!”

Due to increased demand we are repeating the same show for two nights, Wednesday and Thursday, at 8:00 PM. I’ve been informed that there are a handful of tickets left.

Also appearing are Ryan Brown, an award winning sleight of hand manipulator, and Michael Craig Francis, a multiple Guinness World Record holder.

Ryan Brown

Michael Craig Francis

 

Photos from Magic at the Marienbad

Last week, I appeared in London at the Marienbad Restaurant in a special monthly show. Also on the show was the great Canadian comic, Glenn Ottaway (now retired, but who occasionally pokes his head out to have some fun and make people laugh.)

Thanks to everyone who attended. Here are some photos of the event courtesy of the Amazing Corbin.