Prez Says...Contests

I was listening to the IBM podcast where they were taking about contests and the benefits of entering. I’ve spoken about some of my failures in the ring’s close-up contest, but I wanted to talk a bit about my first “contest.” When I was in my early teens, the local IBM ring invited the young magicians to perform at the meeting. I don’t remember anything about the other performers, but I performed a routine with the “Forgetful Freddie” prop.

I received some compliments on my routine as I drew a face on the balloon. After all the performances, they held a “raffle” for a book (I can’t even recall which one) and I won. Later one of the members told me that the “raffle” was really a way to award the best performance, but they didn’t want to hurt the other performers. Assuming that was true, I guess that was my first contest.

Our annual close-up contest is in June and I encourage you to compete. We typically have a good turn out and its friendly environment. Your act should be between 8-10 (with a 10% time penalty for under/over). Last year we added Magic Inc gift certificates for the winners in addition to a first place plaque. So, what are you waiting for, start practicing!

I hope you’ve been enjoying the mini bios. Stay tuned for a fascinating story about Ring 43’s youth contest in the 1950’s and who won.