3 Minute Read Magic, contrary to popular belief, is more than sleight of hand or sawing a woman in halves – it's an art that thrives on passion and authenticity. Keyword: art. Bert Allerton’s first rule for close-up magicians is simple yet profound: "Really love magic and not do magic because you love to show off."
Seems like common sense, right? Most people who get into magic enjoy the art. But let’s look deeper at what Allerton is really saying.
The Pitfall of Performing for Ego
There’s a big difference between performing magic because you love it and doing it for attention. Some magicians, especially beginners, fall into this trap. Their goal isn't to create wonder, but to impress others. We’ve all been guilty of this at one time or another – using magic to prove how "clever" or "skilled" we are. Or to desperately impress that special someone.
But this can often backfire. People can sense when a magician has an ulterior motive, or is more interested in their own skill than in entertaining. I believe magic should feel like a shared experience, not a showcase of superiority or manipulation.
Magic as an Act of Service
The best magicians understand that their role is not to dominate a conversation but to elevate an experience. When you love magic itself, not just the reactions it gets, you start seeing your performance as an act of service. You’re there to create moments of amazement, to bring joy, and to leave people with a sense of mystery and wonder.
Penn & Teller, for instance, are masters of this philosophy. While their magic is highly skilled, they never present themselves as omnipotent tricksters. Instead, they bring the audience along for the journey, making them feel included rather than fooled.
How to Cultivate a Genuine Love for Magic
If you find yourself more excited by the idea of "fooling" people than by the magic itself, consider taking a step back. Here are some ways that I’ve found, at least for myself, to cultivate a deeper love for the art:
Study the History of Magic – Learn about past masters like Nate Leipzig, Dai Vernon, Roy Benson, and Ricky Jay. Understanding their contributions can deepen your appreciation.
Focus on Storytelling – Magic is storytelling in action. Think about how your tricks create narratives and emotions, not just surprises. Eugene Burger is an incredible source on this subject.
Engage with Other Magicians – Being part of a magic community can help reignite your passion by sharing knowledge and excitement. However, choose them wisely. Look for online forums that foster a supportive and engaging community, and seek out local clubs that stay dynamic and refreshing with new activities.
Perform for Different Audiences – Experiment with different settings, such as performing for children, seniors, or small intimate groups. Kids light up with curiosity, exploring new possibilities. Seniors become engaged, sharing memories and enjoying the moment. Small groups get drawn in, connecting through the experience. The different reactions will help you see magic in new ways.
Watch Magic Without the Need to Analyze – Sometimes, magicians get so caught up in the “how” that they forget to appreciate the “wow.” Let yourself be amazed – I know, easier said than done!
Final Thoughts
Magic is at its best when it is performed with sincerity and love. If you approach it as a way to connect with people and create genuine moments of wonder, your performances will resonate much more deeply. Audiences can tell when a magician loves what they do, and that love is contagious.
Here’s a question worth pondering: Do you love magic, or do you love what magic does for you? Your answer might just shape the kind of magician you become (or grow into). Thank you for reading. / Buck Bowen Deuce Gala Magic