Eugene Burger - Growing in the Art of Magic MP3 Library

Long out of print, these audio segments are now available in MP3 format.

Contents:

Growing (12:23)

• Eugene explains the nature and purpose of the audio series.
• The question of growth.
• As magicians, when are we growing in our art of magic?
• Books.
• Growing and Listening.
• Growing and asking the right questions.
• Growing and caring.

The Way of the Magician (16:03)

• Tenkai: "Magic is not tricks; it is a way."
• The easy way and the difficult way.
• Are there unimportant moments in a performance or in life?
• Focusing our attention.
• The importance of detail.
• Why is timing a problem for so many?

Managing People Close-Up (24:16)

• The question most often asked at Eugene's seminars: How can we best deal with hecklers during performances?
• The heckler as a problem in relationship.
• The traditional approach and its problems.
• The spectator's desire for anonymity or attention.
• Interruptions, timing and preparation.
• David Devant and kindness.
• Willingness to bend.
• Close-up magic as living in the moment.

Before the Show (16:13)

• A discussion with Danny Orleans who asks Eugene to imagine he is on his way to a performance.
• Are there any special thoughts and preparations that occupy his mind?
• Nervousness and excitement.
• Dropping effects from our repertoires even though they may produce strong reactions.

After the Show (8:34)

• The discussion with Danny continues, but changes its focus.
• Eugene's imaginary performance is finished and he is now returning home.
• How does he elevate his show's failure or success?
• The importance of evaluation.
• Making changes in our show.

The Origin and Symbolism of Magic (10:55)

• A discussion with Jack Gould, dean of the Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago, on magic's origins in pre-history and the meaning of its symbolism for early men and women.
• The economic-political theory of magic's beginnings.
• Magic and religion.
• The transformation of magical symbolism.
• Can these ancient symbols speak to us?

The Future of Magic (11:18)

• A discussion about the future direction of magic.
• Does the future exist?
• "The adventures of the props in the performer's hands."
• Special effects and personality.
• Who is the magician?
• Is magic getting weirder?

Seeking a Magical Vision (26:50)

• Based upon a talk Eugene gave at Mystery School in 1992.
• If we finally see the futility of imitating other performers, how can we find our own personal magical vision?
• Tools for seeking our vision.
• "Waiting."
• Partial Visions.
• The place of dedication and sacrifice in our magical work.
• Hobbies.
• Trusting our vision or listening to others.
• Right associations.
• The power of magic words.
• Negative inner "songs."
• Emile Coué.
• Songs of Power.

Imagination, Solitude and Creativity (16:32)

• How can we become more creative with our magic?
• Imagination and finding creative answer to our magical problems.
• Who will answer the question?
• The art of cultivating the imagination.
• Will power, conscious effort and tension.
• Creativity and relaxation.

The Flow of Water (12:47)
Drawing on the teachings of Lao Tzu's famous Tao Te Ching, whose spirit has been a guiding force in Eugene's philosophy of magic, this tape produced in the 1970s is a short meditation on water as a symbol of flowing with life rather than fighting, pushing and struggling against it. The recording featured original music by John Leo on the acoustic guitar.