Richard Speaks

November 16, 2005

Still More Questions

Filed under: General — Richard Osterlind @ 2:34 pm

Since we filled up another thread, I am starting this 3rd. one for still more questions!

Richard

81 Comments »

It’s time to fill up this thread too. (heh heh heh)

Seriously (fat chance!) I worked a diabetes expo today. Mostly preachin’ the virtues of good diabetes management, but also readin’ a mind here and there. Just a piece of paper and a pencil, and the things I’ve learned from Richard here, on the Cafe, and on his DVDs. Most of all, remembering how he said to remember what the effect is supposed to be and portraying *that*.

And I had a pharmaceutical rep almost faint. (She later said I was just like Criss Angel. I pointed at my eyes and said “No eye make-up.”)

We got a number of people to commit to seeing their certified diabetes educators, their endocrinologists, and their doctors - and to get their A1C below 7% (safe range). They paid attention to the guy who seemed to read minds.

Thanks, Richard. I think we saved a few lives today.

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — November 16, 2005 @ 8:32 pm
In the PCT book, you mention an old effect called “Telecolor cards”. It really made me think about what you mention here and I actually posted a question at the Caf� about it. But I didn’t get any answer, so I guess I’ll ask here too.

I can already pretty much figure out at least one effect for myself just based on that comment, but I really want to read the original routine.

As I wrote on the Caf�, I immediately thought that this could be made to an “impromptu” BLIND oil and water effect. E.g. separating bills with the word “DEAD” from bills with the word “ALIVE” under a table.

I tried it out like this:

Two spectators on the opposide side of the table. They got five small billets each. They wrote their names on “their” slips. One of the spectators mixed the billets face down and verified that the only thing that differed was the writing. More mixing under the table. He now handed me (still under the table) one slip at a time. I crumbled it and sorted them into two piles on the table. One pile in front of each spectator. Then they opened the billets themselves. Everything could be examined.

Needless to say - they were stunned.

Has this been described before somewhere?
I just made this up while I waited for someone to point me to the Telecolor cards original routine.

(Is THIS what telecolor cards is about?)

Comment by GusVanNostrum — November 17, 2005 @ 4:14 am
Chet,

Your doing good work, Chet. I just responded to your post on the Cafe. Your concern shows your integrity and I believe you were on very “high ground” here!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — November 17, 2005 @ 7:45 am
Gus,

I missed your question on the Cafe, but I will go looking for it. From your description here, I am not sure if we are talking about the same “modus operandi”.

The technicolor cards were a common item in magic stores years ago. Since I don’t keep up with such things I am not sure if they still are. Send me an email at osterlind999@earthlink.net and we can discuss it further.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — November 17, 2005 @ 7:48 am
Mr. Osterlind

I have been performing for friends, family for a long enough time, but not many organised performances or serious things. How would you suggest taking my magic to the next level, go fomr being the guy who does magic to an actual performer. To stop just showing tricks on demand for peoples amusement and start doing serious performances, with apropriate routines, and presentations. How do i take my magic to the next level.

Comment by Vlad — November 20, 2005 @ 3:33 pm
Vlad,

I actually wrote a book about that called “The Business of Magic.” A good agent or manager is almost a must if you intend to do it right. But before that, if you are just interested in practicing before a group, then I suggest doing a few shows for free. Local Church groups and senior centers are ideal sources.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — November 20, 2005 @ 5:06 pm
I just recently purchased the swami gimmick that you prefer, and it seems to what to fly right off my thumbnail. I feel pressure on the gimmick against my nail. Any suggestions about preventing this from occuring. I feel as if I could blind someone with the gimmick if I’m not careful. I’m serious this thing wants to fly off. Cheers

seth

Comment by SKeal — November 23, 2005 @ 4:00 pm
Seth,

It is all in the fitting. The gimmicks are very pliable. First get the shape so that it slides right under your nail and would almost fall off. Then bend down the 2 wings just a little at a time until the gimmick fits snugly. Once you get the first one, the rest will be easier.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — November 23, 2005 @ 5:02 pm
Speaking of Mind Mysteries Too, I’d like to mention my appreciation for Jim Sisti on these (as well as earlier) DVDs. Jim does a great job of representing us - as magicians AND as students - when it comes to “drawing out” Richard into clarifying and providing background information. Time and again, I’ve written down a question and found Jim asking that specific question a minute or two later.

We all know what a great job Jim does behind the scenes with our orders, but something needed to be said about this almost subliminal work of his. It’s much appreciated, and I think it contributes significantly to the success of the teaching portions of the DVDs.

(Now Jim will want a raise!)

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — November 27, 2005 @ 3:08 pm
Greetings mates,

Did a corporate xmas party last night, and everything that could go wrong - did. I was doing the watch routine and asked the lady to write her time down on the line next to the “x”. She wrote a time down and then scratched it out and wrote a different time above the scribbled out one. When I went to do the peak, because the time was higher up than the original line (I couldn’t for the life of me, make it out - it was pretty sloppy too). The pressure was on, and knowing that I couldn’t make the effect work - I began to say that I was going to try and guess her written time- but after a little bit of acting, concluded by saying that I just wasn’t getting anything- my mind was blank. Of course I felt like a fool and felt discouraged. My question for you Richard is: when the writing is illegible, how do you handle things? I’m happy to say that I ended the night with the good old reliable Magazine Test (behind their back with the drawn circle) and absolutely blew them away! Tough crowd!!!

Brian T.

Comment by Brian T. — November 27, 2005 @ 9:47 pm
Brian,

Yes, it does sound like the kind of crowd that gives us nightmares!

I really stress to write the time RIGHT ON THE LINE and make sure the rest of the card is filled up as I demonstrate on the videos. When you’re on stage you can’t take any more chances than necessary. I think in the case you sited, I might have just said what you did, that is, “I just can’t seem to get anything from you” and then just picked someone else! I know it is not great, but I would rather have a delay here and save the routine.

Now, what does sometimes happen is that the writing is sloppy and I am not sure of one of the numbers. Let’s say you are unsure if it is a 1 or a 7. I just ask by saying something like, “Is there the number 1 in your time?” Again, I know it seems a bit direct, but it works as and it doesn’t even play like a mistake. If there is a 1 you say, “I thought so!” If not you say,”Man, I don’t think I can do this!” That builds up the suspense and adds to the ending.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 8, 2005 @ 7:29 pm
Hey Richard!

I was just hoping to get you’re recommendation on a good coin bending effect. I am looking for a signed, very fair, very strong coin bend that happens in the hands & requires no switches. And the more impromptu, the better! Do you know of any resources out there?

Thanks!

Comment by Del — December 8, 2005 @ 7:30 pm
Hi Richard,
Thanks for the advice with the watch routine -I’ll remember that for next time when I can’t read the time correctly.

Regards,
Brian T.

Comment by Brian T. — December 9, 2005 @ 10:49 pm
It’s funny that you mentioned the part about the 1 and the 7 in the watch routine. That actually happened the other day. It was in front of some friends so it wasn’t a huge deal, but they serioulsy wrote their 1 like the french. Thanks for adding that. I have my first performance on stage in front of a fairly large audience the day after Xmas, I plan on doing the magazine test and the watch routine, plus some other mental effects. If you have any pointers other than what you have given on the DVD’s I would be greatful. Otherwise thanks for all of the great material, and I hope I won’t disapoint you. I’ll tell you guys how it went.
Cheers

Seth

Comment by Seth — December 12, 2005 @ 4:31 pm
Del,

About the coin bending…

I know of a great method…

but….

Richard

PS sorry!

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 12, 2005 @ 8:53 pm
Seth,

Good luck with the big show! I will be thinking about you. Let us know how it goes.

I really tried to be pretty thorough about the descriptions on the videos. I can’t think of anything off hand that I can add, but if you have any questions, let me know!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 12, 2005 @ 8:55 pm
Richard:

What is on your Christmas list and have you been good this year?

Brandon

Comment by Brandon — December 13, 2005 @ 4:58 pm
I was reviewing some of my routine with a older friend of mine who is a magician. Now I’m 28 years old and he is about 30 years older than I am and he had a few comments about the mentalist effects that I have come to love, especially the Break through Card System. His comments about the effects I will paraphrase. He said that there is almost no transformation that occurs with these effects and I had a difficult time understanding what he meant. I think the best way that he could describe it was that there seemed to be no “rea;” beginning middle or end to these effects. I challenged him on that notion because all t=of the BTCS have beginning middle and end. But I also think what he was saying was that the effects lacked that kinda of smoke or poof that people were used to that made it magical. He thought that the tricks left the spectator with nothing because the effects were too impossible.
I felt very strange about my friends comments and I felt that he was from a school of magic that was very alakazaam! I felt like he was telling me that I had to make loud noises to keep people interested. I looked back at some of my old magic books and came across a thought in the Ametuer magician’s handbook which explains that there is a difference between keeping one’s attention and keeping one’s interest.
I was just wondering Richard, what you think about his comments, especially because they are your effects. Believe me I defended these effects, much moreso than I can write here, but am I wrong in thinking that he is kind of lost in a Vaudevillian type of magic whereas comtemporary magic doesn’t necissarily have the alakazaam feel. I thought I’d ask you because you have been on both the magic side and the mentalist side and I thought you may have some thought on this subject. Sorry to be so long winded, but I was kinda of thrown aback as if the tricks that I were doing were not mindboggling enough, which I always thought that they were. Thanks alot

Seth

Comment by Seth — December 13, 2005 @ 5:18 pm
Seth:

Did you present it as a “magic” effect or a “mind reading” effect?

Perhaps you only showed him the tricks and didn’t give the introduction, disclaimer, etc?

I find that when I set the effects up as a “test condition” or pure thought reading that it has a totally different effect than if I vanish a sponge ball, etc. In other words it ceases to be magic, as some people think of it, and becomes something more cerebral.

I’m just thinking outloud here, but perhaps your friend would benefit from an introduction to your routines?

Brandon

Comment by Brandon — December 13, 2005 @ 6:03 pm
Brandon,

I have really been good this year! What is on my Christmas list has nothing to do with magic!!!

Richard

Comment by Anonymous — December 13, 2005 @ 10:43 pm
Brandon and Seth,

Concerning the comments about your older magic friend:

I do not know this person and he is probably a very nice guy, HOWEVER ….

There are lots of people who spend most of their lives in magic and still NEVER GET IT! Their view of what magic should be is what they see the guys doing at the local club meeting once a month and they have probably never lived one day where they made their entire living from doing magic professionally. I am not putting down amateurs in any way, but when they start offering advice about what actually plays in the professional world, they are usually as far off the mark as is humanly possible. This is nothing new with contemporary magic. This has always been the case with those who never have to put their knowledge to the real test of making their bread and butter from it. I also don’t think it has anything to do with any particular school of magic vs. another, but simply what really interests ordinary people in the real world.

I am very aware of the theatrical part of magic. If I wasn’t, I couldn’t have made my entire living off the art for over 30 years. I can promise you that the material I have offered on my videos and books is completely audience tested and is of the highest caliber. It does not matter if it is magic or mentalism, what makes the material strong is not how much “poof” is has, but rather how magical or IMPOSSIBLE it is. To say that magic can be too impossible is like saying a painting is too beautiful! How absurd! As for a beginning, middle and end to the effects, let me say that I am astounded to hear of someone say they are lacking when I put so much thought into those very things.

Again, he is probably a very nice man, but why not do these routines for a few non-magicians and see the reactions you get. Magicians always make the worse audiences and critics!

Ok, off the soap box now!

Richard

Comment by Anonymous — December 13, 2005 @ 10:55 pm
“Magicians always make the worse audiences and critics!”

AFTER spouses, is what you meant, no?

(My current mantra repeats: DO think like a magician, but a GOOD magician.)

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — December 13, 2005 @ 11:35 pm
Chet,

It depends on the spouce!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 14, 2005 @ 10:27 am
A mutual acquaintence of yours & mine (and Jim’s and Sven’s) recently posted that “mentalism is a sinking boat” because of miniature electronics which we can use (or audiences will think we are using) to simulate mental powers. While I think I know your feelings on this matter, I’d like to know for sure. I think ETMMM shows that the most basic methods work when performed properly, and I don’t see “Final Answer” or “StenoESP” growing outdated. But we will have to adapt, to present effects in ways to “prove” we’re not using trickery.

Or am I travelling down the wrong road with this?

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — December 19, 2005 @ 10:38 pm
Oh for cryin’ out loud. I received two error messages which suggested I repost. So I repost and get THREE copies of my post published. This is a plot, a conspiracy, to drive me even MORE insane!

Just because I’m not paranoid doesn’t mean that Dairy Queen isn’t planning on putting roaches in my sundaes.

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — December 19, 2005 @ 10:39 pm
Chet,

I do think that the modern electronics make audiences suspicious that they may be part of it. By keeping with basic articles such as simple pencils, pads, etc. I think you can easily cancel out such thoughts. I even make it a point to mention this and make a joke about those who accuse me of using electronic pens and other such nonsense!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 19, 2005 @ 11:00 pm
Because this is a relatively open thread, I just wanted to say Merry Christmas and wish a happy and prosperous new year to everyone in the Osterlind and Sisti families. Thanks for being a part of making this a great year for me, as I have learned more than I would have considered possible from your instruction.

Thank you, Richard, for your generous gift of time on the web in answering our questions… especially when it’s a question you’ve answered elsewhere earlier. I hope 2006 is your biggest year ever.

Comment by Brian Crouch — December 22, 2005 @ 1:33 am
Brian, (and to all the rest of my friends)

MERRY CHRISTMAS to you all! May you and your families have the best holiday every!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 23, 2005 @ 7:40 pm
Well as I reported earlier this month I was going to have my first live mentalist act on the 26th of Dec. Well here is my report, I’ll try and keep it short. First I should say that this was not a paying gig and it was just an opportunity that came up and I jumped on it for the experience. The crowd that I performed for was about 60 people at a popular comedy club in the city. The audience was mostly friends so it was a pretty easy audience, but that also adds an aire of nerves. To all that have not performed in front of an audience besides your living room or a friends house, stage is totally different. As you can see Richard is a total pro, I was a nervous bumbling chatterbox. I know that any magic text or even Corinda’s 13 Steps pound it into us that patter cannot be given to you and you have to practice that just as much as the effect itself. This was a huge lesson learned. Serioulsly people practice talking to someone or yourself when you practice these effects. My nerves had such a hold of me that I really bumbled around. I realize that through experience my comfort level will increase thus helping with my performance.
As far as pulling off the effects I had one snag with the watch routine, the watch didn’t match the predicted number. I was using new kind of watch that I wasn’t as familiar with than my previous watch. I was also over confident with the watch routine because I’ve done it so many times, that I didn’t practice as much as I should have before the performance. When the watch didn’t match, I simply said that not all watches are in sync and the test doesn’t always work 100% of the time. The watch was about an hour off of the selected time.
I quickly moved on and killed with the magazine test. I couldn’t have asked for a better response from my assistant. She gasped with disbelief. I did as you said Richard, about the 2 moments in an effect, I first showed the assistant the prediction, got the reaction, then revealed to the audience. It was really a great moment, thank you so much Richard for your knowledge.
As far as doing a mentalist act, I noticed that the audience was quiet and respectful, I genuinely felt that people were very interested besides my nervous scattered patter. I only compare this to the heckling that other performers received that night, one being a magician. People really liked the show and were truly amazed.
I recommend to those out there that practice relentlessly to try and get some sort of gig at a local open mic so that you can try your stuff in front of an audience in a stage type setting, it really teaches you so much about yourself. It also increases your nerve and confidence. It really gave me an itch for the stage and I plan on hitting some more open mic venues in town.
Again Richard thank you so much and I can’t thank you enough for your knowledge. Your inventions are making waves all over the world, and they may not be performed as masterfully as you can perform them, but they still bring a tremendous amount of mystery to audiences. Thank you. cheers

seth

Comment by Seth — December 29, 2005 @ 11:51 pm
Seth,

It sounds like overall, you did a decent job for your first gig! We always tend to be harder on ourselves then everyone else and I’m sure you didn’t appear nearly as nervous as you thought.

But this was a great experience for you. Yes, you need to keep on doing shows and, as you do, your confidence will grow! Let me ask you Seth, what is there in life that you can step into and do a perfect job the first time? The more you do, the better you will get. If I sometimes seem confident about my material, it is only from having done it for over 35 years! You can bet you boots that when I first started out I was sunstantially less confident!

Again, congratuations on the show! Keep on working and you will always see progress. I still do to this day!

Have a Great New Year!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — December 30, 2005 @ 11:11 pm
Congratulations, Seth! You’ve undoubtedly learned more in one stage experience, than you would have through months of non-performance studying! It sounds like you’ve really learned that practice really IS as important as our teachers keep telling us.

Richard points out that he’s confident about his material because he’s “done it for over 35 years!” Yet I’m sure you agree that HIS experience almost “rubs off” on us, because he’s road tested these routines that we’re doing. My initial nervousness, for example, tends to melt as I perform and discover that these effects really HAVE had the bugs worked out of them.

Here’s to a successful 2006 for you!

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — January 1, 2006 @ 12:29 am
Help! Richard! Jim! Anyone! Why are my posts triplicating?

Comment by good ol' Chet — January 1, 2006 @ 12:30 am
Chet,

It must be because they are so important!!!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 1, 2006 @ 9:08 am
Thanks Richard and Chet. It has been a real pleasure and learning experience being able to participate on this blog and learn such great effects. Hope this year brings more knowledge and experience to us all. Sounds like Tiny tim, sorry.

cheers

seth

Comment by Seth — January 3, 2006 @ 12:10 am
Hey Richard I saw that ellusionist was not selling your videos anymore, I remember them having a pretty good review for Mind Mysteries 1-4. I know it’s really non of my business, but I was just curious.

seth

Comment by SKeal — January 3, 2006 @ 5:21 pm
Seth,

I have no idea what other companies carry my videos. L&L Publishing supplies them to Murphy Magic who, in turn, supplies dealers worldwide. I can tell you that Mind Mysteries is one of the best selling video series in history. Volume one of Mind Mysteries has broken all kinds of records and we continue to supply our customers with both the original and the new Mind Mysteries Too videos. Perhaps the company you mentioned, just ran out.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 3, 2006 @ 7:03 pm
Hi Richard,

I’m part of an improvisational comedy group (www.portlandcomedy.com) that does a fair number of outside shows for companies, churches, and schools. Our umbrella organization retains the television rights to all of our shows, so our contract prohibits videotaping our performances. We usually bend the rules and let the company tape everything after our intro, which is one of the things that makes our format unique. When you do corporate events, do you allow the event planner or host corporation to tape your performance? Do you have any language in your contract that limits their ability to tape, or restricts what they can do with the tape after your performance?

Thanks!

Curt Frye

Comment by Curt Frye — January 4, 2006 @ 2:55 am
Curt,

Yes, we do have such language in our contracts. It is also a “given” in show business that it is illegal to video a performance without the consent of the performer and producers. We have given permission at times if we are allowed to view the video before it is distributed and if we are given the right to use the video for our own use.

On the whole, I would just rather not grant permission. Anything can happen in a live performance and the last thing in the world you need is for someone to capture for eternity that “one in a million” blunder that has never happened before! This is my own personal opinon and is not meant to be taken for advice. If what you are doing works for you, then go with it!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 4, 2006 @ 7:51 am
Seth (aka SKeal..don’t wanna leave anyone out) - I just checked the Mentalism section over at Ellusionist’s site, and Mind Mysteries and ETMMM were definitely listed. A person there let me know that the MM video set is perhaps their best-selling item in Mentalism (no one’s really sat down and done the bean counting) and one of their better-selling items throughout their catalog, so there are times when it’s been out of stock. This is remarkable because their inventory includes the excellent Psi Series by Banacheck and frequently carries Banachek’s books. For MM to outsell those outstanding products speaks well of the reputations of both the DVDs and of Richard.

I hasten to mention that there seems to be no rivalry between Richard and Banachek, not even a “friendly rivalry.” Am constantly amazed at the praise each gentleman heaps on the other.

*jeep!
–Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — January 4, 2006 @ 10:34 am
Thanks for the reply on my videotaping question, Richard. I am not yet a professional mentalist, but it is in the five-year plan that started four days ago.

All the best in the new year.

Curt

Comment by Curt Frye — January 5, 2006 @ 8:42 am
Alright I came across an extra hundred dollars and I’m stuck trying to make a decision. I am interested in purchasing either the new mind mysteries, or getting the easy to master series. I’m very interested in the easy to master series because I think that I should learn some of the fundamentals of mentalism (i.e) Anneman, Koran, ect..) But I am also extremely interested in the new series because of the amazing effects that I think that it holds. I was just wondering what you Richard, or anyone else might recommend. I would appreciate it greatly. The money is going to Richard either way so…okay. Thanks for the help everyone.
cheers
seth

Comment by seth — January 5, 2006 @ 1:47 pm
Seth,

First, I would hope that you have Corinda’s 13 Steps and Annemann’s Practical Mental Effects. ETMMM was a way of demonstrating what these effects might look like and to show they are still very commercial. Still, the information contained in those books is of the upmost importance and it is almost assumed that you have them already. ETMMM would be my recommendation if you are looking to learn basics, but I would get the books before the videos if you don’t have them yet.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 5, 2006 @ 3:19 pm
Yes I have both of those books. I am personally not too good at visualizing the handling of the effects in the books, I learn better by vision, which is why your videos are exeptionally helpful. I refer back to those to books often, but use methods that I have learned from your MM1-4 in performing some of the effects. Since you brought up Corinda, I have always wanted to do the green fire routine that is in the 13 steps, but he lists these old chemicals that are probably hard to get a hold of these days. If you know which effect I’m talking about (it also incorporates a book test) do you have any recommendations on what to use for the green fire?
Thanks again and I’ll definatley be getting the ETMMM videos.

cheers
seth

Comment by seth — January 5, 2006 @ 4:39 pm
Seth,

Since you have the books, then I think the ETMMM would be best. I tried not to inject too much of my own personality into doing these. Rather, I just wanted to show how the effects look.

I vaguely remember what you are talking about, but would have to look it up. Getting ready here for 2 shows (in 2 different parts of the country) so maybe someone else can field your question.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 10, 2006 @ 1:47 pm
Seth, if you’d let us know which page of *13 Steps* that is on, I may have a couple of alternatives for you. I’ve rummaged through the “spirit medium” section, and haven’t run across any green flame, but it surely sounds familiar.

*jeep!
–Gran’pa Chet

Comment by good ol' Chet — January 12, 2006 @ 7:37 am
I did a stage performance at a open mic venue last night and a few of my friends were there and they had some constructive criticism for me at the end of the bit. First, the comments were about the watch routine. They thought that it would be better if when showing the spectator how to write the time that I should use the slate because it’s bigger and more visual. They thought that it would be better to not focus so much on them, but bring the audience into it more. To be honest I thought I did a good job on the presentation, but I guess I need to be more aware of the audience out there and not just the folks helping me on stage. Just wondering if anyone had any ideas about this situation. I had another question, but I can’t think of it right now.
Plus I’ll find that Corinda page too. Thanks

cheers
seth

Comment by Seth — January 12, 2006 @ 9:33 am
“them” meaning the perrson on stage sorry

Comment by Seth — January 12, 2006 @ 1:19 pm
Seth

I do the Watch routine in all my shows, and do it the original way, as in the video.
Others may disagree, but my advice is not to “start the routine” before you must.
As soon as you pull out a slate, your audience will watch each and every move you do.
If you use a slate to show the spectator how to write, you probably would miss a lot in the presentation, and not at least the motivation for writing where she ought to.

The routine is technically the easiest piece in the world to do, it is more or less all presentation (- and that means that it is not THAT easy)
However, use the options for what they are worth. Give them your pattern.
Joke and flirt with your audience, and when you say “- You guys have been watching me like hawks….”, you know that you are inn for the kill.

I am certain about that Richard and the others can fill me in on this, but at least these are my thoughts.

Sven

Comment by Sven — January 12, 2006 @ 3:20 pm
I agree with you Sven 100% Sven. I love the watch routine and do it often in close up, on stage for me it’s a little different, which is why I’m trying to go to this open mic thing to improve my stage skills. The guys that gave me the critque again arn’t magicians or anything that was just what they thought. I know the routine is solid, and I think using the slate to show the writing not only defeats the purpose of preparing the card, but also draws an air of “magic” into the act. I feel like it is almost saying “nothing up my sleeves’.
I’m not quite sure what you mean when you say “start the routine”. But you are absolutley right about the flirting with the crowd comment. Presentation is the hardest part, but I enjoy working on it. Thanks Sven.

seth

Comment by Seth — January 12, 2006 @ 3:59 pm
Seth,

By “starting the routine”, I ment that as long as you don’t pull out any devices, props, or…slates, your spectators don’t suspect that you “do something”.
They won’t consider the innocent handling of the card (the original way) as doing anything.
I believe that they wil sit up and watch what you are doing from the point where you pull out the slate, - not before that.
At that point much of your dirty work is done.

I hope this clearyfies it.

Sven

Comment by Sven — January 12, 2006 @ 4:18 pm
Richard, do you have any literature or views to recommend about why one would use a swami gimmick trick on stage while at the same time use a slate for other effects. This recently crossed my mind because I’m starting to do more stage stuff and I kind of feel weird doing a swami gimmick effect on stage. When I say stage too, I mean they are really not close. Thanks
Seth

Comment by seth — January 17, 2006 @ 11:20 pm
Seth,

Sorry I have been away for awhile and did not get right back to you. Sven stated my comments exactly. I don’t know the circumstances of anyone giving you that advice, but I do it always just as on the videos and have no problem. Let me also mention that the bit about showing the “skeptic” the writing on the card each time is VITAL and adds to the entertainment. Did you do that? Also, why wouldn’t the helper get the same meaning when you show him what to do with the card? How would he slate help because can’t they clearly see the card?

As far as mixing the swami with the slate, again I just do it. If you have to analyze it, how about for the slate effect you want the audience to see it whereas, for the swami, you are doing it for just that person. When they react, the audience gets the idea and, frankly, that in itself is good showmanship. Doing things in different ways keeps everything interesting and keeps the audience guessing where you are going next.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 18, 2006 @ 6:24 pm
I definately agree with all of what you and Sven have said, they were just commenting on how it would be better if the audience saw everything, but my rebuttle was similar to both of your comments. I think I simply told him that it is for that person on stage. I did not show the skeptic the card either, seriously the audience is at least 30 ft away from the stage. It is the kind of venue where people are around a bar and don’t want to get to close to the stage, it’s lonely up there. Plus there are amp moniters all on the front of the stage so getting on and off would pose a serious problem too.
Also wanted to tell you that I just received the ETMMM videos and I think that it is great, it is truly answering so many questions I had while reading Anneman’s book. Seeing the billet switch actually happen is alot better than trying to figure out the pics in the book. Again thank you so much for having this site, the videos, and the great material. cheers

seth

Comment by Seth — January 19, 2006 @ 8:06 pm
Also, do you use any of the material off of ETMMM still? I think the effects are just outstanding. The ESP effect with the nickles is so simple, but totally mindboggling. The forcing the number to the spectator with the small envelope is also, just so simple, but so stunning, thanks again.
Also the green fire question I had about the effect in the 13 steps is on page 201 I believe.

Thanks
seth

Comment by Seth — January 20, 2006 @ 12:25 pm
Seth,

Thanks so much for your nice comments about ETMMM. Most of that material I performed during my formative years as a mentalist, but I always hold it in reserve and do use the effects from time to time.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 20, 2006 @ 11:23 pm
I thought that the spirit slate effect that you performed in ETMMM was very interesting, but I was wondering if you would recommend using the IMP pad as the preshow work device or would you use a center tear to get the info. I’m was thinking the Imp pad because it’s a sure fire way for them to not change their minds, but it also takes away some of the mystery because it has been written down. Just wondering what you think the best method is? If anyone else has any ideas also , I’d love to hear them. Thanks

seth

Comment by Seth — January 23, 2006 @ 11:58 am
Seth,

Sure you could use the imp pad. As a matter of fact, let me give you an idea with it.

Write the inside message with brown chalk. When you get the person on stage and number the slates, have them bring out the paper they wrote the name on. Make sure you get that person to confirm it has never left their hands. Then place the paper on the top of the slates and burn it! After it is gone, blow away the ashes and show the name in “burnt chalk” on the inside!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — January 27, 2006 @ 4:18 pm
Thanks for the great idea. I really love the spookiness of this effect, it played very well on your video, I’m not that into the living and dead stuff, but it certainly has an interesting affect on spectators. Thanks again.

seth

Comment by Seth — January 30, 2006 @ 2:01 pm
Just wanted to share soemthing to everyone that I just noticed while practiveing with a deck of ESP cards. I wanted to see if there was one card that stuck out more than any other card when doing a flash force. I noticed that if you riffled the cards from the bottom to the top (I think the opposite direction that Richard does it in the first mind mysteries set). Also I forgot to mention that the cards are set up in the standard 1-5 stack. So if you riffle the cards and you will see that wavy lines almost seem to be the most prominent image to stick out. It almost looks like a svengali deck, that’s how much it seems to stick out.

I think this could be a nice little opener to use before you do any of the many ESP card effects. Just thought I’d share what I noticed. Again if everyone already knows this, then I apologize.

cheers

seth

Comment by Seth — February 1, 2006 @ 4:22 pm
Thanks for the idea, Seth. Will give it a try.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 1, 2006 @ 11:09 pm
Hi Richard,

Do you have any tips for keeping your suits and dress shirts looking good when you fly to a gig?

Curt

Comment by Curt Frye — February 4, 2006 @ 6:16 am
Curt,

Yes I do! My tailor told me years ago to put each shirt and suit in its own plastic wrapping. The reason clothes wrinkle is because of cloth rubbing against cloth.

Just so you will know, I always use a garment bag for my clothes instead of a suitcase. That’s my personal opinion having used both. One fold in the stuff is a lot better than 2.

HOWEVER … another tried and true method, if using a suitcase, is to turn your suit jacket inside out and then fold it. If you do use a suitcase, I suggest a dry cleaner who can have your shirts folded and bagged.

With all of the above said, I still usually have to touch up things a bit with an iron!

Hope that helps.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 5, 2006 @ 10:23 am
THANK YOU!! BLESS YOU!!! Thirty years of constant travel (which has really accelerated the past year) and I never once heard of this idea. I’ll be flying to St Louis on Feb 15 and will use this wonderful idea!!

*jeep!
–Chet (Who has run directly from an airport and looked like a scarecrow at lectures.)

Comment by good ol' Chet — February 6, 2006 @ 12:05 am
Thanks, Richard. That’s good, practical information.

Curt

Comment by Curt — February 6, 2006 @ 8:53 am
Chet,

Let me know how you make out!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 6, 2006 @ 9:24 pm
To Mr Osterlind

On the Magic Cafe you have on numerous times suggested on using a nail to enlarge the opening of a Sam Dala Nail Writer. However whenever I try, this the opening never seems to get larger. (Mabey the split in the lead holder has being sealed shut with paint?) I was wondering if you had any more suggestions on opening the holder.

Thanks for your help.
Philip

Comment by Philip Macpherson — February 9, 2006 @ 9:36 pm
Richard:

I was reviewing the Mind Mysteries Too dvds this week and I was struck by something that I had completely missed the first time I watched them. It was your explanation of the paddle move. I couldn’t really notice anything drastically different from the way you described how-to and how-not-to perform the move and I subconciously dismissed it. However, this time around, it really stuck with me and I have been practicing (Oh, how difficult it is to change a learned engram when you’ve been doing it for a decade or more) the “Osterlind” paddle move. It is much more effective and deceptive! I would encourage the readers of this board to go back and watch how it is done and try it. It is a thing…of terrifying beauty.

That all being said, will your new Mind Mysteries workbook discuss this corrected paddle move?

Brandon

Comment by Brandon — February 10, 2006 @ 7:31 pm
Philip,

Actually, what you need is something that has a taper to it. If you can’t find that, sort of roll the nail around to enlarge the opening. You might even try a small philips head screwdriver, like the ones that come in a page of 6) to do the job.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 11, 2006 @ 10:56 am
Brandon,

Yes, I sure will when I get to it. We are releasing the first guidebook, Mind Mysteries Guidebook - The Act on Monday, Februrary 13th. I had originally intended to do all 7 volumes in 1 book, but the first one alone is 70 pages! It would have taken me forever to do all 7 and I would not have been able to go into the detail I have with this first one. Finally, not all people have all 7 volumes of Mind Mysteries. I wanted to make them available seperately so that you can pick and choose.

Thanks and I’m glad you like the work on the paddle move!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 11, 2006 @ 11:00 am
Richard:

Regarding Bank Night, you mentioned a few months back that when performing at the Salt Palace Convention Center in SLC, Utah you opted to perform In The Fold and a spoon bend in place of Bank Night due to the fact that Utah doesn’t sell scratch-and-win tickets. Certainly a big part of the charm and impact of the effect is the line about giving away $31,000 and that you feel lucky about one of the tickets. Do you think there is a suitable alternative to the scratch-and-win for those of us who reside in a state, like Utah, that doesn’t have a lottery program?

Brandon

Comment by Brandon — February 14, 2006 @ 10:48 am
Brandon,

I’ve not given it much thought, but there must be something you could give away. Just for the record, I have given away lottery tickets from neighboring states when I had to. If someone does win, you can bet they will take the effort (usually just sending it in) to claim it. If it is a big payoff, they will get the money!

Outside of that, I will have to give it some thought.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 14, 2006 @ 7:19 pm
Richard:

You bring up a great point. From SLC I’m only two hours from a border convenience store that would sell scratch tickets.

Thanks!
Brandon

Comment by Brandon — February 15, 2006 @ 10:59 am
Brandon,

Then that’s what I would use! Buy a bunch while you’re at it. They don’t spoil!

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — February 16, 2006 @ 7:21 pm
Happy Birthday, Richard!

Brandon

Comment by Brandon — March 6, 2006 @ 4:11 pm
Thank you Brandon! Sorry this is so late, but I have been celebrating all these days!!!!!

Comment by Richard Osterlind — March 11, 2006 @ 10:40 pm
Hey Richard is there a better Magic shop in NYC than Tannens? Just curious because last time I went I wasn’t impressed, I’m goign there this weekend so I thought I’d ask you because I know you have friends there. Thanks hope all is well.

seth

Comment by Seth — March 15, 2006 @ 11:01 am
Seth,

It’s been a long time since I’ve been down there. My daughter lives there and she stopped in about 2 months ago and, like you, wasn’t really impressed. She said it was nothing like the one we used to visit years ago.

I don’t know of any other good ones. It’s kind of a shame considering it is NEW YORK and magic is so popular.

Richard

Comment by Richard Osterlind — March 15, 2006 @ 10:22 pm
Am at a different hotel now; let’s see if I can post through THIS gateway.

Have been wanting to post, since Februrary, that I found the advice on how to keep one’s shirts from wrinkling in the suitcase, to be accurate and very helpful. Especially this time around, when I’ve been in a different city every night for the past four nights.

*jeep!
-Gran’pa Chet

Comment by Gran'pa Chet — April 12, 2006 @ 7:22 am
Just a quick question. I have kind of been putting off the Radar deck routine for a while now because of a pretty lame excuse. I’m wondering exactly the best way to actually practice the routine. It seems kind of difficult to practice a routine for 4 people alone. I mean I realize that i could just practice it on anyone, but I was just wondering if you had any suggestions on the best way to practice this routine?
On a side note, I did a small show for a few friends the other night and there was someone new coming to watch. This fellow was a real skeptic and thought all magic was rigged and that it was all bull and sleight of hand. Well he is right in one sense accept he doesn’t know it, but anyway…With this response I decided to open with a BTCS effect because it didn’t involve anything that he might see. When the effect was over he said ” That wasn’t a magic trick that was something else”, I had this gut believing that I was in touch with spirits and god and all this stuff it was quite funny. I used a bunch of what I learned from you and wanted to thank you again. After that show I really just wanted to tell a fellow magician what a reaction that I recieved. For the most part I don’t recieve big reactions from people, the people I perform for usually internalize everything, but this group rally fed off one another.
Actually now that I wrote that I realized that I can’t say that people are internalizing, it’s my perfomance that is not bringing it out of them…maybe. Anyway I just wanted to thank you again for all of you help and look forward to learning much more. Especially attacking the Radar Deck. Cheers

seth

Comment by Seth — April 19, 2006 @ 9:47 pm
I have all seven of the MM DVDs and Volume 3 of ETMMM. Today, I did a magic show at a nursing home that went very well. After the show, the staff wanted to see some more stuff, so I went right into the mentalism that I have learned from the DVDs. I received some of the best reactions that I ever have. I felt like that I was in a room full of “Johns” from the MM Series.

Comment by Michael Wilkinson — May 12, 2006 @ 1:14 am
Michael Wilkinson said:
I felt like that I was in a room full of �Johns� from the MM Series.

The horror! The horror!!!

Comment by Brandon — May 12, 2006 @ 4:10 pm

RSS feed for comments on this post.

November 16, 2005

Still More Questions

81 Comments »

Leave a comment

Resources