Friday, December 31, 2010

RIZER IS COMING!

The latest in Paul Harris Presents is Rizer, an unbelievable effect where a deck of cards is drawn on your arm and a chosen card visually rises out of the inked deck on your skin!

This looks so good that you're not going to believe your eyes!

Rizer will be shipping out next week.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Wayne Houchin Lecture to bring in the New Year!


We are thrilled to announce that the very creative and inspiring magician Wayne Houchin will be lecturing here at Tannen's on Wednesday, January 19th, 2011. The lecture will start at 7:00p, doors will open at 6:45p, buy your tickets now!

"The more you pay attention to what he's doing, the more you can't help but think you are watching something extraordinary in the making." - Synthesis Magazine

This is quite the start of what promises to be an outstanding 2011 Tannen's lecture schedule!



Thursday, December 23, 2010

New Renovations!


We're VERY excited about our new paint job here at the store. The walls are a deep burgundy and the ceiling is the color of the night sky. It's still a work in progress, new lighting is on its way and we're going to detail stars along the ceiling and a gold leaf pattern inlaid along the walls.
If you have not visited Tannen's lately you will be in for a treat. The store is now more magical than ever - colorwise that is. The Tannen's guys have been hard at work putting a new face on their ever so stocked showroom. The beautiful newly painted digs will make you feel transplanted in a truly magical way.
-George Wells (customer)
Come by and check it out yourself, we're sure that you'll find the store more comforting and magical!

Here's a video just in case you can't visit:

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Tannen's Lecture Series Presents Andrew Mayne!


You don't want to miss this! On Tuesday, December 14th at 7:00, the creative mind of Andrew Mayne will be coming to Tannen's to lecture. Tickets are $20, the earlier you buy a ticket the better seat you'll have!

"Andrew Mayne is one of my most treasured resources for creative collaboration. He's an exceptionally gifted creator, performer, teacher and producer. His professional approach to all things astonishing makes Andrew a true joy to work with"
-Paul Harris

"Andrew Mayne is a new breed of magical thinkers that will influence the world of theatrical illusions for years to come."
-Paul Osborne

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Polaris Memorial Service



Carl Mellish otherwise known as Polaris, a fantastic New York City magician and great friend to Tannen's Magic, sadly passed away last week. Polaris was a kind and gentle soul, we will miss him very much. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones. The funeral service will be held this Sunday, November 21st, at 10:30 AM, please contact us at the store if you'd like the address for the service.

For information regarding donations contact Mark Stitz at stmarkus999@aol.com or Thomas Solomon at info@thomassolomon.com.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Tannen's Magicians thanked for Houdini Performances


Tannen's store magicians were thanked by the Jewish Museum for their performances at the new Houdini: Art and Magic exhibit.

Adam Blumenthal, Rich Kameda, Jared Molten, Ben Nemzer and Michael Patrick all performed at the exhibit and were mentioned on the exhibit's homepage next to names like David Blaine and Steve Cohen!

Don't miss Adam's and Rich's performances this Thursday night at the museum from 6pm to 8pm.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Time to Play Dead

From the twisted minds' of Todd Robbins and Teller, Play Dead, is entering its final week of previews before opening to the New York City public on Friday night.

The show is quite a fright fest, by using magic and theatrics Todd will scare you right out of your seat. Join Todd on this diabolical journey as he invites Death out to play.

Buy your tickets here and enjoy your life... excuse me, enjoy the show. Performances are scheduled every Tuesday through Sunday at the Players Theater in Greenwich Village.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Former Tannen's Campers Recognized and Applauded!

Two former Tannen's Magic Campers were recognized for outstanding contributions in their field this past week.

Michael Grasso, who was just seen on America's Got Talent, made the cover of November's MAGIC Magazine. The article, by Rory Johnston, highlighted the AGT experience and how performers prepare for the show. It's a very interesting read and definitely worth checking out.

Resident New York City comedian and current magic camp counselor, Harrison Greenbaum, was recently presented with the Andy Kaufman award. The award was created by Andy Kaufman's father and, "honors Andy Kaufman's creative spirit while simultaneously shining a spotlight on promising performers with the potential to impact the evolving culture of comedy."


Congratulations to Harrison and Michael!

Sankey's back..... Jay Sankey's Hardcore coming soon to your front door....

Friday, October 29, 2010

"Make Believe" at the IFC!


New Yorkers! Here is a great weekend activity for you and your families. Make Believe, a documentary about teen competitors in the World Magic Seminar (WMS) is premiering at the IFC in Greenwich Village on Sunday, November 7th, 2010 at 3:30PM.

The film, which has won critical acclaim at festivals around the country, is being shown as part of DOC NYC, a new documentary festival in Manhattan.

For those who have been to the WMS or any other magic convention, this film looks to be tons of fun! Some of our favorite magicians like Lance Burton, Jeff McBride and many others are showcased and interviewed. We even spotted some Tannen's Magic campers in the preview!

Tickets are $16 each, get them before they sell out!



Friday, October 22, 2010

Theory 11 presents Transit

We're very excited about the latest effect from our friends at Theory 11!

Transit is absolutely visual. People won't believe it as a rubber band penetrates from finger to finger across your hand. The video looks great, come by the store and see a live demo from one of our magicians!

Watch the video here.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Awesome lecture by Mark Mason!



Mark Mason came and lectured for us here at Tannen's this past Wednesday night. The lecture went great! The crowd really enjoyed Mark's routines and his handling on some of magics classic ideas.

We were very impressed with Mark's SOLO, a killer card sandwich routine. We also loved seeing him perform CoinFlux, a matrix routine you can do with one hand!

Thanks again Mark for the awesome lecture!

Remember, we are continuing our lecture series Anthony Jacquin's first ever lecture in the United States. That lecture will be held on Tuesday, November 9th at 7:00PM. Don't miss your chance to see this!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Hypnotist Anthony Jacquin's First US Lecture!

We at Tannen's Magic are so excited to bring you Anthony Jacquin's first lecture ever in the United States of America.

The lecture will be held at our store on November 9th, 2010 at 7:00PM.

Get your tickets NOW because these seats will sell out fast!

Jacquin's impromptu hypnosis techniques will help to make your magic and mentalism as strong as possible. You do not want to miss this lecture.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Appearing WHAT?!


Now you can make the most extraordinary items instantly appear anytime during your show!

We are proud to announce that we're carrying Wayne Rodgers' very high-quality and quite hilarious appearing items. These include the...

and the Missing Spade, a comedy routine where a shovel appears from nowhere!

Check out our website for more information and don't miss your chance to instantly make your show a gut-wrenching ball of fun!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Now Available Torn 2 Pieces by Shawn Farquhar

We are proud to bring you the latest creation by Shawn Farquhar as seen on the hit TV show Ellen!



Torn 2 Pieces, available now!

Torn to Pieces is the killer effect Shawn Farquhar has kept secret for over fifteen years! It's the cash cow Shawn turns to time-after-time, whether he needs a client to book him again and again, or wants to make a lasting impression. This is Shawn's version of Old Faithful, (some of us have an effect with a pet name that you can count on to pay it forward every time - if you don't, or even if you do - now you have another one!).

Effect: Basically a real photograph signed by the spectator is torn into four pieces. The photo is really torn. Then in an instant all four pieces join together but in the wrong order leaving the spectator with a mismatched photo with their signature! That's right their signature is on the odd "almost restored" photo. You get a sample of the photograph, Adobe Photoshop template, jpeg of two additional photos already prepared and a detailed instructional DVD that explains how you can start doing this trick.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Mark Mason Lecture Announced!

Mark Mason is coming to Lecture here at Tannen's Magic. Reserve your ticket now for this awesome lecture!
Although Marks lectures cover effects in many fields, cards, coins, ropes, mentalism, close up, strollingand stand up the key is always on entertainment. You will quickly become aware Mark has all the skills, but we are sure you will agree his number one skill are his PEOPLE SKILLS.

Mark has performed his lectures over 200 times at different magic clubs and societies across the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and the rest of the world. This number alone speaks volumes for his abilty

With Mark having so much material to offer his fellow magicians, he is asked to return to many clubs and conventions on numerous occasions where he always delivers a fun and exciting evening.

Highlights from Mark’s current Lecture:

Stuck up Monte - Marks opening commer cial effect the best 3 card monte you will ever see.

Comedy Card In Shoe - you will laugh out loud at Marks brilliant ambitious card rou tine, climaxing with the signed card in his shoe.

Coin Flux - A brilliant non sleight of hand 3 coin matrix, the method is sheer genius.

Hindu Rope Surprise - Comedy cut and re stored rope with a genuine climax. Marks scissors gag is worth the price of the lecture.

Attitude Force - Voted the best item from Mark’s lecture, a no classic, classic force that you will love and use within 15 minutes.

The Put and Take Move - You will be rub bing your eyes when you see the put and take move.

PLUS LOTS, LOTS MORE!


Tuesday, September 21, 2010

America's Got Talent Auditions in NYC!


Over the past four years the hit television show, America's Got Talent, has allowed magicians from all over the country to share their unique skills and creativity.

In the past, New York City's own, Elliot Zimet, a former Tannen's Magic Camper and current Tannen's customer made it to the semi-finals. Now is your chance to join the ranks of America's Got Talent finalists and show the rest of the country the great magic that thrives here in New York City.

The show has gotten in touch with us and requested that we send them the names of quality performers for their appointment only auditions.

The auditions are scheduled to be held this Thursday, September 30th, 2010.

If you're interested this is what we need:

1. Name of act and contact name.
2. Video link of your performance (YouTube or Vimeo).
3. Contact Number.
4. E-mail Address.
5. Interesting biographical information about your act.
6. Preferred audition time (between 9:00a and 6:00p).
7. In subject line of e-mail please put "NYC AGT Audition."

This is for serious inquiries only, please e-mail us that information to info@tannens.com.

Best of luck!

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Shane Gillen Lays the Cards Down for Kelsey Grammer














Shane Gillen, 22, is an Irish entertainer with his expertise lying in card and mind magic. Shane is in New York City this summer to perform his street magic.

He visited us at the shop last week stocking up on some supplies and said that he was going to perform magic for the actor Kelsey Grammer, famous from TV sitcoms such as Cheers and Frasier, at his home. Well he did!

Shane specializes in close-up table-to-table magic, and has dabbled in stage work. He is progressively getting more-and-
more into the mind control mentalism area. He has
done magic for some very prestigious clients - most recently performing magic both backstage at the Meteor Ireland Music Awards and at the afterparty, as well as in the VIP section and backstage at Lady Gaga's show in The O2 in London.


Monday, August 23, 2010

Eric Jones Lecture: Thursday, September 16th, 2010

Eric Jones Lecture

"It's Not As Hard As It Looks"

Thursday, September 16th, 2010 at 7:00 PM, $20.00.

Tannen's Magic
45 West 34th Street, Suite 608
(between 5th & 6th Avenues)
New York, NY 10001


Eric Jones will be providing a sleight-intensive training session covering some of his pet effects and techniques for coin and card conjuring with ranging difficulty. These effects are directly out of his working repertoire and will provide hands on training to all who attend.

Some of the items in the workshop will include:
• SpeedFly: A Visual Coins Across routine (3 Fly) that uses only 3 coins. NO gimmicks, gaffs or extra coins. Features Eric's Impromptu Rattle Gimmick, a utility sleight that you will be able to immediately implement in your own routines.
• Out With Three: A quirky 3 coin production that you'll have to see to believe.
• KKK (Three Klan Vanish): A Vanish of three ungimmicked coins that solves several problems for the serious student of coin magic.
• The Oxy Clean Challenge: A production and vanish sequence that is done under test conditions. The audience is invited to completely SURROUND the seated performer and be amazed as he produces and COMPLETELY vanishes three coins. A thing of beauty.
• El Cambio Nada: A chest level color change of a card that will floor both laymen and magician alike.
The Art of Using The Shoulder As A Servante: An old ruse brought into the 21st Century with new techniques and applications. Turn your spectator into an impromptu holdout.
And MUCH, MUCH MORE…

Eric's teaching style will make learning both fun and easy. You'll quickly be using techniques you may have disregarded as too difficult after attending this workshop. No one will be left behind. No questions will go unanswered. At the end of this workshop, you'll know that "It's NOT As Hard As It Looks".

Here’s what others are saying about Eric Jones’ new DVD Mirage Et Trois:

"Eric Jones is one of the best of the "new breed" of coin workers. On this DVD you will find out why. This sequence of effects is visual, baffling and most of all magical. Your audiences will love it."
- Marc DeSouza

"Eric Jones is a bright and fast rising star in close-up magic as you will see in this new DVD. His magic is intelligent, smooth and packs a big punch!”
- Bill Wells


Get tickets here!

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Play Dead: Directed and Co-Written by Teller, Begins Previews Off-Broadway in October

Teller (of Penn & Teller) and Todd Robbins invite Death out to play in Play Dead, a new spirit-shaking Off-Broadway show that explores themes of death, darkness and deception. As the guide for the evening, Todd Robbins draws audiences into an unknown haunted world full of frightful surprises and diabolical laughter. Although very much a theatrical work, it is hardly a typical "play," but rather a dramatic, unnerving thriller - here and now in an "abandoned" theater, illuminated by a single ghostlight - in which audiences test their nerves and face their fears as they are surrounded by ethereal sights, sounds and even touches of the returning dead - all achieved by wry, suspenseful storytelling and uncanny stage illusions.

Players Theatre
115 MacDougal Street
New York, NY 10012

Show Opens:
October 21, 2010
Open Run

Ticket Price: $39.50-$59.50

Tickets can be purchased by calling 212-475-1449.


Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Conrad Colon: Somerset County 4-H Fair

Tannen's Magic camper, Conrad Colon performs all next week at the Somerset County 4-H Fair at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, New Jersey. The fair runs Wednesday, August 11- Friday, August 13, 2010. Everyday he will be the MC for the 4H Magician's Guild during their show in the prep tent from 2:00pm until 2:30pm, and from 3:00pm until 4:00pm he will be doing close-up magic in the Art's tent. On Friday the 13 Conrad will present his show in the Clover Theater from 11:00am-12:00pm. Come to the show, enjoy the fun, and experience the wonder.

Conrad had his first experience with magic at the age of three when his Godfather, showed him a card trick. He soon caught the magic bug and began to perfect the simple trick. His father gave him his "First Magic Set” as a gift and he mastered every trick in the set by the age of 4. His appetite for magic grew even more after attending several magic shows sponsored by the Hillsborough High School Magic Club. From that moment on, Conrad was hooked, and devoted his time to learning everything he could about the art. In June 2008, Conrad performed in the Al Hillman Excellence in Magic competition, in which he received first place. Since then Conrad was become an awarding magician in both close-up and stage magic. Conrad’s unique style or performing encompasses many different forms of magic, ranging from close-up and mentalism, to grand illusions.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

New Look Bicycle Cards: 809 Mandolin Back



















Bicycle Cards: 809 Mandolin Back
by United States Playing Card Company

Standard Bicycle playing card deck with a Brand new look from United States Playing Card Company!

Design: Paul Harris directed the development of the new 809 Bicycle back with USPCC. Paul worked with three world class artists (including Garrett Thomas) to create a soothing traditional looking back that's instantly trusted as part of the Bicycle family. And yes, this classic looking deck even features the trademarked Bicycle Ace of Spades, Joker and the traditional box.

Quality: Richard Turner worked directly with USPCC manufacturing to ensure the new Bicycle 809 Mandolin has a superior cut and quality. These are exquisitely crafted decks! Once you feel these cards you will never want to put them down.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

get to know reed spool

reed spool prefers his name in the lower case. it looks better. he is currently attending umass lowell class of '014, majoring in computer science. reed is a magician, artist, amateur programmer, and all around cool kid.

reed started magic at the age of 14, when a mysterious masked man at a halloween party showed him a coin trick. reed proceded to spend way too much time practicing. things got serious in '07, when he took the first of his two consecutive first place awards at Tannen's Magic Camp's annual competition. now-a-days, reed enjoys performing whenever possible in a variety of venues. to date, reed has performed with a disproportionate amount of belly dancers.

reed was born on april 2, 1990 and raised in andover, massachusetts. since then he has been, at an inconsistant pace, growing older, larger, and wiser. in the spring of '08, reed failed to graduate high school. in the fall, reed joined AmeriCorps*NCCC, a 10 month national service program for 18-24 year olds. at the end of a crazy year of service, he completed his GED, and moved back home for a year. at the moment, reed is excited to start studying at umass lowell in the fall.

myth has it that reed has no love but for his thimbles: greeny, whitey, greeny, whitey, greeny, whitey, greeny, and whitey.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Banachek Lecture



















Thursday, August 12th, 2010 at 7:00 PM
at Tannen's Magic
45 West 34th Street, Suite 608
(between 5th & 6th Avenues)
New York City

Tickets $25.00 on sale now and going quickly. Buy them here.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Borders of The Mind: Joshua Kane

Mentalist Joshua Kane is coming to Westport with "Borders of the Mind: The Psychic Show for the Whole Family" on Thursday, July 15th, at 8 p.m. at the Saugatuck Elementary School auditorium in Westport, CT. There is no admission charge; the performance is one of 58 free shows presented by the Friends of the Levitt Pavilion this summer.

With warmth and charm, mentalist Joshua Kane leads audiences through a dazzling demonstration of the powers of the mind.

Like Professor X of legend, Kane identifies those in the audience with special abilities who will successfully project their own thoughts and tap the powers of their intuition.An amazing, interactive performance where the entire audience experiences simultaneous telepathy and witnesses dazzling feats of lie detection and what must be psychic phenomena. People of all ages leap to participate in the Strange Happenings at the Borders of the Mind.

Can he read your mind? or is it mastery of reading body language that allows Kane to distinguish liars from truth-tellers? Or perhaps it’s the same craft for which witches were burnt at the stake. with the popularity of current television shows such as The Mentalist and Lie To Me, Kane's performance could not be more timely.

A classically trained actor, Kane has studied with Stella Adler, Bobby Lewis, the National Shakespeare Conservatory & Marcel Marceau. A member of Actors Equity Association, Kane has toured internationally with a series of one-man shows and played limited runs at off-Broadway’s historic Lambs Theatre and the Neighborhood Playhouse. In his unique one-man shows, Kane brilliantly blends the power and dramatic sweep of solo theatre with the ancient art of storytelling, creating compelling and provocative performances.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Magic Newscast: Tannen's Magic Camp

David Sandy and Lance Rich of magicnewswire.com report on one of the long standing traditions in the world of American magic, Tannen's annual Magic Camp!

In this episode we are joined by Tannen's Magic Momma, Terri Cook, several of the camp's attendees, Camp Director Dennis Cook, Darren Romeo, Hiawatha, Vinny Giordano and David Oliver.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Teen's sleight of hand earns him coveted scholarship to magic camp

by Jacqui Janetzko
Correspondent at Ocala.com

Magician Anthony Jones, 16, shows some of his card tricks near the Ocala Square on Friday, June 25, 2010. Jones is attending the Tannen's Magic Camp from July 10 to 17 in Penn., on a rare full tuition scholarship awarded by the Society of American Magicians. "He drinks, sleeps, walks and talks magic," said his aunt, Katie Dudley. "I feel we will see him in Vegas. He'll be one of the 'biggies'".

He's always in motion, and you'll want to watch his hands very carefully.

Anthony Jones, 16, flicks his wrist, hurriedly pushes up his sleeves, and constantly twitches his fingers in anticipation. But if you happen to blink, you may miss the trick.

Jones is a close-up magician, also known as an illusionist, whose favorite part of any trick is hearing the delighted gasps of the crowd.

“Oh my gosh! How do you do that?” said an astonished Kacy Stebbins, an employee at En.Ve Salon and Spa.

Jones stops by his favorite salon several times a week to practice tricks. The salon provides him with a captive audience of customers - and gushing female staffers.

“It's something we've never seen before and it makes our day go by faster,” said Christina Baker, a hairdresser who crafts Jones' bleached faux-mohawk. “You have to watch this kid.”

Jones became interested in magic at age 6 after seeing a performance by magician Rick Thomas in Las Vegas. He started watching videos and dabbling with hidden coins under shells.

Now he specializes in tricks with cards, money, rings and rubber bands. Most tricks take only a day or two to master, but a recently-learned card trick took almost six months.

He said he prefers giving impromptu performances at restaurants or shopping centers, using a fork or napkin, so he doesn't have to carry around as much stuff.

“I'll use pretty much anything I can pick up,” he said.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Vir., Jones has lived in Ocala for the past three years with his biggest fan and supporter, his aunt Kathie Dudley.

“He is so advanced and the way he manipulates cards is impressive. I can't even shuffle,” she said. “We go to the mall and I turn around and he has a crowd. He drinks, sleeps, walks and talks magic.”

Jones is so captivating he was one of three applicants selected, from the 25 who applied, for a scholarship from the Society of American Magicians to attend the Tannen's Magic Camp in Pennslyvania from July 10-17.

■ ■ ■

Warren Kaps, a trustee and past society president, said Jones' application stood out because of numerous recommendations from local magicians and the Tampa Bay Magic Club.

“We don't want somebody who is into magic this week, stamps next week, baseball the next. We want someone to get good experience,” Kaps said.

He said the scholarship, worth $1,195, and which comes with a $250 travel stipend, is part of the society's Magic Endowment Fund, which was created 19 years ago to advance magic among children.

The society itself is 108-years-old, and Kaps said he didn't recall any other resident from Marion County receiving the scholarship.

“They only look for the most promising young people. This was the first person we felt was young enough and worthy enough for the position,” said Mark Byrne, president of the Tampa Bay Magic Club.

“He goes out and does his magic on a daily basis. He's not afraid to perform in front of people and is always testing new stuff,” he said.

Byrne said the club is more than 60 years old and currently has over 140 members. He said the camp will provide the proper exposure to start Jones' career.

“He'll get a tremendous amount of networking out of it, with magicians across the country. If you shine there, those people tend to remember you. He's a really good looking kid, and people want to watch other people with skills, personality, and [who] look good on stage,” he said.



■ ■ ■

Camp Director Terri Cook said the magic camp, in its' 36th year, teaches up to 110 students between the ages of 7 and 20.

“We are the only camp of its kind. We have classes in the morning, lectures and workshop in the afternoon and performances at night. It is so intense you could almost call us a school, but you can't because its overnight. There are no sports, just magic, magic, magic,” said Cook.

She said the camp teaches students how to pick a routine and be comfortable in front of an audience, and also features a special class that explains how to perform at kids shows for certain age levels, how to keep in control of the children, and how to talk to the parents.

“A third of the staff are professional magicians making their income on magic, and the teachers even explain what they use in their acts,” she said. “Most of the kids that come, repeat. Because they realize there are another hundred kids who get what they are into. Students from 15 years ago still stay in contact with those they met at camp,”

Cook said famous performers from all over the country sometimes stop by, such as David Copperfield, Criss Angel and David Blaine.

“Performers will call to participate because it's a gift to perform in front of the energy of these kids,” she said.

Cook would not confirm or deny any celebrity acts for this year.

■ ■ ■

Cook said the camp encourages finishing school or getting a degree, as most students will not become professional magicians.

“In college, it's a gift to be able to work a couple of hours a week [doing magic] instead of a full-time job. Lawyers will even use it during a trial to relax the jury or have a moment with the judge. It's a great little tool and could make the difference on a resume or getting into college,” she said.

Byrne said he expects great things from Jones, with or without attending the camp.

“He puts in a lot of practice and specializes in close-up magic, which requires lots of manual dexterity. Close-up magic is one of the more difficult ones, because it is right in front of their noses.

“He's constantly blowing me away, I don't even try to figure it out anymore. I say, ‘That looks good, thanks,' I don't let on that I don't know,” he said.

Dudley proudly agrees.

“He is going to go far with this. I feel we will see him in Vegas. He'll be one of the ‘biggies.' ”

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Manhattan Magic is Back!

The longest-running magic show in Times Square.

MANHATTAN MAGIC is back! The longest-running magic show in Times Square is now at Times Square. Starring some of the best magicians, illusionists, jugglers, comedians, side show artists, and variety entertainers!

Cool enough for friends, but clean enough for the family, Manhattan Magic is a fresh, modern magic show that showcases incredible talent from around the world in an amazing, upscale theatrical environment. With different performers every week, Manhattan Magic is a premier venue for magic and variety performers in New York. It's a must-see event for anybody looking or a taste of the unordinary or extraordinary.

The show begins at 7 PM, but don’t wait until the last minute or you will miss out on our pre-show strolling magic beginning at 6:30 PM, when one of our professional close-up magicians will blow your mind while you are grabbing a drink in our gorgeous lobby and bar area.

During the show, which runs 1.5 hours, you can enjoy jaw-dropping comedy, impossible magic, and astounding acts that you have never seen before. So what are you waiting for? Come experience the most magical show in New York City!

Friday, July 2nd, 7PM Times Square Arts Center (42nd Street & 8th Ave)

Show up at 6:30 for pre-show close up magic
$10 at the door and 2 item minimum (kids menu available)

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Jeff Grow's Creating Illusion at undergroundzero Festival













New York based magician Jeff Grow is back with his show "Creating Illusion" as part of the undergroundzero Festival. The show begins on Saturday, July 17th here in New York City.

Recipient of the 2009 Innovative Theatre Awards:
Outstanding Solo Performer & Outstanding Performance Art Production.

Seeing is believing - but perception can be manipulated for beauty or deception. Magician Jeff Grow takes you on a journey where elegant sleight of hand and insight into human behavior collide to dismantle everyday experience and tempts us to question: Why do we choose to believe the unbelievable?

Grow is an appealing technician who brings a boyish charm to a group willing to be fooled. Grow is adept at slowing down his motions, conning us into thinking we will see how he does the trick as he explains it. There are audible "ahs" when we don't, and again he's got us in the palm of his hand. Aside from the smooth illusions, I most enjoyed Grow's explanations ofhow a con works, painting familiar New York street scenes and populating them with cons he has met and been conned by. This is the best of his patter, and it proves sharp and illuminating.” -NY Theatre.com

The undergroundzero festival is an experimental theater festival/laboratory/flying repertory conceived by Paul Bargetto and produced by East River Commedia. Founded in 2007, the undergroundzero festival gives producing artists a platform where risk-taking and innovation are both encouraged and expected. Artists are invited to bring a production of their choosing to join a flying repertory dedicated to radical play and experimentation. It may be a new work or a past production that deserves another life – whatever best serves the individual or collective artists growth and agenda. This year the undergroundzero festival presents over twenty New York City and European experimental theatre companies and artists at the legendary downtown performance venue Performance Space 122, July 6-25.

Saturday - July 17 @ 5pm
Sunday - July 18 @ 7pmPerformance

Space 122
150 1st Avenue (@ 9th Street)
New York City

Tickets: $20 general admission. Click here!

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Sylvain Chomet's "The Illusionist"

Django Films is the flagship animation studio of Sylvain Chomet, the French born writer and director of the academy award nominated Les Triplettes de Belleville (The Triplets of Belleville/Belleville Rendez-Vous). Located in Edinburgh, Scotland, Django Films has produced L'Illusionniste / The Illusionist a 2D animated feature film which is based on an original script by French comic genius, Jacques TatiIt premiers this evening at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in Scotland.

As cheeky, boisterous and witty as it is delicately drawn and beauteous to behold, Sylvain Chomet’s second feature film is a winner on every level. Our weary hero is an over-the-hill magician, complete with less-than-friendly white rabbit. Always in search of a paying gig, the illusionist treks from Paris to the Western Isles to Edinburgh – acquiring, along the way, a young traveling companion who sincerely believes in his magical abilities. Rich with visual jokes, seductive 1950s period detail and breathtaking views of city and wilderness alike, this is the work of a master in his field – and one of the most gorgeous evocations of Scotland in cinema history. The film is 82 minutes in length.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Dove from iPad: Uchida Shinya












Uchida Shinya, a Japanese magician, started using the Apple iPad in his street magic show has become a huge online hit.

Shinya uses a mix of pre-programmed clips and props in his tricks which include producing a dove out the the tablet device. You see a picture of the bird on the screen then, after a tilt, it flies out and lands on his hand. How'd he do it?

Filmed outside a Apple store in Tokyo, he also creates smoke from the screen and then 'connects' with a friend who bends a fork via the power of the iPad.

A video of his his tricks - based around a theme of communication - has already been viewed over 1 million times online. But no matter how hard he tries, Shinya will have not be able to improve on the Steve Jobs trick of getting people to pay $500 for an iPad.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Tony Nominee's Circle of Magic

Wall Street Journal: June 2, 2010 

Tony Nominee's Circle of Magic

by Marshall Heyman

Sherie Rene Scott is nominated for a Tony for Performance by a Leading Actress in the musical "Everyday Rapture." (She is also nominated for having co-written the book with her friend Dick Scanlan.) "Everyday Rapture" semi-autobiographically chronicles Ms. Scott's rise from Broadway Baby to sort-of-recognizable star on the Great White Way. 

Also in the show, Ms. Scott describes meeting Ray Nordini on her first trip to New York when she was a teenager at the TKTS booth. The Great Nordini, as he liked to call himself, was a magician and took Ms. Scott to a strange magic shop in an office building in midtown. Ms. Scott hasn't been back there since the early '80s.

But on a recent day off from the show, she trekked with a reporter to Tannen's Magic Store, a little hole in the wall on the sixth floor of 45 W. 34th St. When she got there, Ms. Scott explained to the proprietor that the magician who had come to prep her for "Everyday Rapture" thought the Great Nordini must have taken her to Tannen's.

Read the rest of the article here.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Herculez Gomez: Kickin' it with Cards

Herculez Gomez

U.S. Men's National Soccer Team
Position: Forward
Date 0f Birth: April 6, 1982
Height: 5-10
Weight: 165
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada 
Club: Puebla F.C. (Mexico)
Hobbies: Magic

The U.S. Men's National Soccer Team takes on the Czech Republic tonight at 8 p.m. ET at Renstchler Field in Hartford, Connecticut.  Fans in the stadium and watching on ESPN will witness the performance that for some players may determine their fate for making the squad headed to World Cup in South Africa next month.

Herculez Gomez has fast feet but even faster hands. As the team relaxes on a train ride to Hartford follow those cards and check out one of his many card tricks.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Steve Cohen: How'd he do that? With twins?

This week on David Letterman was Close-Up Magic Week. Steve Cohen has a regular weekend gig doing his sleight-of-hand magic at the prestigious Waldorf-Astoria here in New York City. He gets a suite and everything. Wow! Talk about a magic trick! Mr. Cohen, the Millionaires' Magician and a former Tannen's Magic Camper, asks for a ring from Paul Shaffer...check out this "hat trick" of an effect...

Friday, May 14, 2010

David Letterman: Close-Up Magic Week

It's a week filled with illusions as The Late Show with David Letterman presents "Close-Up Magic Week," featuring some of the world's best sleight-of-hand magicians, Monday, May 17-Friday, May 21 (11:35 PM-12:37 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Magician Jason Randal, a frequent LATE SHOW guest and one of the world's best close-up magicians will be featured on Monday May 17th. Seven-time winner of the Hollywood Magic Castle "Magician of the Year", John Carney will perform on Tuesday. Johnny "Ace" Palmer, the first close-up magic artist to claim the title of "World Champion Magician" by the International Federation of Magic Societies, takes the stage of the Ed Sullivan Theater on Wednesday the 19th. Steve Cohen, "The Millionaire's Magician" will be featured on Thursday and Michael Ammar wraps up the week on Friday May 21st!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Jason Escape: Bound To Amaze

Jason Escape (Jason Gardner) visited the shop yesterday and hung with the staff along with his friend NYC magician Magic Brian. Jason is getting married in a few weeks. Congratulations!

Getting tied in endless amounts of rope and chain, escaping from tiny locked boxes, and suspending himself upside-down while high in the air in a straightjacket are but a few of the many talents of Jason Escape. Everything he does is designed to make you laugh, if not freak you right out. His live performances never fail to render his audiences truly awestruck.

Growing up right outside of NYC afforded Jason the opportunity to see many of the great modern magicians, such as David Copperfield, Doug Henning and Penn & Teller. Jason's grandfather would take him to see these awesome magicians, and after would present him with a simple magic trick to learn. Jason studied and practiced constantly. Magic and escape required not only manual dexterity but a challenge to his mind as well. Jason spent his days bound by rope to chairs, making objects vanish, and even reading his cat's mind.

Now as an adult, his passion has never waned; it's even matured and grown. He shares his art and has brought smiles, laughter, thrills and amazement to audiences all over the world.

Jason Escape is currently a performer part of the street theater program at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Magic and Storytelling: Asi Wind

PRI's The World a one-hour, weekday radio news magazine offering a mix of news, features, interviews, and music from around the globe has just released this new interview. 

Magicians sometimes compare their art to that of storytellers. But The World’s Alex Gallafent tells us that for some foreign-born magicians, their language barriers can sometimes affect their performances. Download MP3.

Magician Asi Wind (pictured) has created an interactive trick: Download MP3. He wants you to think of a number and then email him here.

Asi Wind is from New York by way of Israel. He is a magician who has honed his craft all over the world. In Israel, Asi holds the title as Best Magician of the Year 1998/1999 and has sent waves through the world of magic since arriving in the United States. Recently Asi was featured on the TV show "Celebracadabra" airing on VH1, and is working on a new TV project that, for now, remains a secret.

In his appearances on television and in his live shows, Asi combines comedy, magic, dramatic moments and electrifying miracles. You are never quite sure what might happen with this unpredictable performer. One moment, he might foresee how many push-ups a member of the audience can do live on stage, and at another he might be reading your friends mind over your cell-phone.

Between live appearances, writing for several news papers and performing at trade shows and corporate events, Asi manages to also appear at countless private parties.

Besides performing, Asi invents original magic, and lectures to magicians around the world.

Of course, for him its all just the beginning.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Denny Corby: Floating Lightbulb

Denny Corby's award winning magic, creative humor, and charming personality adds an extra kick to his performances that keeps his audiences amazed. Denny’s specialty is close up magic, which is done right under your eyes with items like money, coins, rope, and cards.


See Denny Corby's Floating Lightbulb on stage from Tannen's Magic Camp last summer below.



Thursday, April 15, 2010

The Unseen











THE UNSEEN is back for one special performance!

BIGGER AND BETTER!

Headlining the Gotham Comedy Club on June 25th!

Do not miss your chance to see the show audiences have been raving about! A blend of magic, mindreading & comedy guaranteed to have you shaking your head in disbelief and clutching your chest in laughter. Ken Salaz and Oz Pearlman team up to present an experience that truly has to be seen to be believed…

THE UNSEEN is unlike anything New Yorkers have ever witnessed. Enter into a world of unexplained phenomenon, alternate reality, and shocking revelations of future events. Prepare to confront the primal unraveling of your conceptual world.

These two performers each bring decades of experience entertaining people throughout the globe. While their styles contrast, their abilities mesh together seamlessly. By harnessing their combined talents, they ignite on stage, captivating and mesmerizing their audiences. This is an experience you will not be able to shake off. Witness the revelation of THE UNSEEN.

GOTHAM COMEDY CLUB
208 W 23rd St (between 7th and 8th Ave)
New York, NY 10011 View Map
Tel: 212.367.9000 for tickets and reservations
Website: http://www.gothamcomedyclub.com

VIP tickets: $35*
Please arrive at 8:45 PM for premium seating and a private close-up performance. Also includes access to an afterparty at the lounge.

General Admission: $20*
Please arrive at 9:15 PM for seating.

*Plus two beverage minimum. Food available.


Thursday, April 8, 2010

Magic in the Park at Joe's Pub










Magic in the Park is a magical journey and entertainment showcase that pays homage to the late Dr. Abraham B. Hurwitz, New York City’s “Official Magician”. Continuing in the tradition of his legendary “Peter Pan the Magic Man” shows, Magic in the Park features magic and mental acts, juggling, ventriloquism, puppetry, music, and much more.

Hurwitz was a Yeshiva University education professor who was so deft and admired at his magic act that he was named New York City's "official magician" by Mayor Fiorello La Guardia. 

Dr. Hurwitz was a city recreation director when Mayor Fiorello La Guardia gave him the official magician title during the Depression. For 18 years, he took his magic show to schools and recreation centers and put on annual magic shows in parks in every borough. For years after he left the department he continued his magic shows as a volunteer. Among his proteges was his daughter, Shari Lewis, the world famous ventriloquist and developer of Lamb Chop.

Abe Hurwitz was born in Lithuania in 1906. He graduated from City College of New York, got his master's degree from Columbia University and his Ph.D. in educational guidance from New York University. He began mixing magic with teaching as a guidance counselor at the Brooklyn Hebrew Orphanage. He retired from Yeshiva in 1974. He died September 29, 1981.

The New York Times, in 1981, wrote that Hurwitz “entertained more than a million young people” at free performances in New York City’s schools, parks, recreation centers and playgrounds.

Performing in these family-friendly, 70 minute shows are:

May 2 –
Emcee “Cajun Cellist” Sean Grissom
Funny Guy, Magician and Plate Spinner Robert Baxt
Magician David Boyd (Tannen's Magic Camper)
The Magicomedian and "Dean of American Magicians" George Schindler
Abe’s grand-daughter, Emmy Award winner Mallory Lewis with Lamb Chop (Headliner)

May 16 –
Emcee “Cajun Cellist” Sean Grissom
The Magicomedian and "Dean of American Magicians" George Schindler
Society of Young Magician’s Jen Kramer
Ventriloquism extraordinaire Carla Rhodes
Atlanta Magician of the Year Debbie Leifer

May 23 -
Emcee “Cajun Cellist” Sean Grissom
Society of Young Magician’s Reuben Moreland (Tannen's Magic Camper)
The Magicomedian and "Dean of American Magicians" George Schindler
Juggler Jen Slaw
LA’s Macabre Magician Rob Zabrecky


Schedules and performers subject to change


MAGIC IN THE PARK
JOE’S PUB AT THE PUBLIC THEATER - MAY 2, 16, & 23, 2010 @ NOON
425 Lafayette Street between East 4th and Astor Place, New York, NY

Tickets are $20 per person, and can be purchased 24 hours a day online at www.joespub.com or by calling 212-967-7555. For table reservations, call 212-539-8778