We got a letter today from one of the magicians who receives our coaching and advice. Glen has been a regular customer at the Merchant of Magic for quite a while and even came and helped out in the bricks and mortar shop to gain experience last Christmas. But Glen had a problem. He was asked to work at a venue which requires it’s performers to work for tips. That’s very rare in the UK, and Glen being a typical English gentleman, he found it very difficult to find a way to approach this. He wanted to know how magicians get tips in in the UK.
He sent the Merchant of Magic team this letter:
A big Thank you to all the guys at The Merchant of Magic.
As a working magician it is very refreshing to be able to receive expert advice about products and handling from people who really understand the profession.
I have certainly benefited from their real world advice.
One such incident occurred a few months ago, when Ben Williams recommended a brilliant card trick called Up the Ante. I used the card trick to great effect while working as guest magician at The Illusions Bar in Bristol. The guys in the bar generally work for tips, something I have always felt uncomfortable about. However, I was able to use the routine to invite those who enjoyed my act to engage in a game of chance. Believe me the audience were more than happy to show their appreciation after witnessing this amazing piece of magic.
Up the Ante one of those gambling card tricks that unfolds from a deck that has been genuinely shuffled by the spectator, with each phase becoming more and more impossible. It really is a fantastic routine, that enabled me to overcome my reluctance to accept tips and more importantly gave my audience an amazing closing effect.
Thanks again guys. Keep up the good work
Glen Neckles Professional Magician
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