Paul Gordon Evening - 13th April 2007

17 July 2007

There was a good turn out for this evening. This was not just an evening of card tricks. It was more. So much more. Paul's demonstration of the Art of Card Magic was full of practical tips for magicians of all levels.

The effects that Paul demonstrated were from his vast array of material that he uses as a working performer. He also, with great clarity explained how to do the moves. The Reverse Faro is now within the reach of everyone present at the meeting. The Straddle Faro, with which Paul creates and performs many of his miracles, is also now within everyone's reach. He also explained what to do when the mesh of cards did not work. He has removed the fear of failure, and substituted clever psychological handling of the audience.

The 16th Card Principle-there is a book, and rightly so, was explained and demonstrated. That's Odd, performed with jumbo cards was a masterpiece of card magic. The trick built and built as Paul allowed the spectator to say what should be done with a group of cards. It was pure theatre as the final card was shown, first as a comedy prediction, then finally as a revelation that defied explanation or any chance of reconstruction in the spectator's mind. This was card magic as it should be performed, with drama and passion. Also, That's Odd had other applications. As well as being excellent for Trade Shows, it could also be used in Kid?s Shows and could also be performed with business cards.

The Corner of Picadilly, a monte-type effect with four cards, evoked an atmosphere of the street corner hustler. There was absolutely no way you could outwit Paul as gave you the chance to follow the odd card.

Mars Life was a dazzling display of skill, again within the reach of everyone, that had a double kicker of a four like card display and a two card location. This effect, as did everything else demonstrated this evening, would create an impression in the spectator's mind that you were a card expert of the highest order, which of course Paul is.

Paul explained his preference for books on magic, as opposed to DVDs, which sparked off a discussion with Reg Howes. Perhaps on a club night, this could be discussed further, and also commented on in the SMC Newsletter?

The Paul Gordon Evening has been the highlight of the Sussex Magic Circle calendar. Paul Gordon is simply the best at what he does. Thank you for an inspirational evening of bafflement and entertainment.

Paul Leacy

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