Description
Magic, when seen from a broader perspective, has a lot to offer. If we go beyond the narrow definition of magic, we will see it’s much more than pulling the proverbial rabbit out of a hat or turning one ball into two. Magic is a combination of science and various art forms. It refers to entertainment in which the performer does magical tricks using various methods which include music, facial expressions, gestures, verbal communication, choreography etc. The most common tricks are close up magic and stand-up/conjuring magic, which require skillful hand movements. Another kind of magic is illusion, which involves tricks with the aid of elaborate equipment, escape acts, in which magicians make apparently impossible escapes. Mentalism involves mind reading tricks and prediction of future events. Magicians like to make their performance interactive, involving the audience and calling one or two of them on stage to play tricks on them
Requirements
There is no ‘scheduled time table’ for magic. “We practice a trick until we reach a certain level of perfection. Then, we practice the same at intervals found suitable. We think about new ideas while doing our daily routine work. So, we are into magic all the time,” says Professor Shankar from Gili Gili Magic*.
There are many categories of magic like — close up magic, conjuring, sleight of hands, stage illusion, optical illusions, mentalism magic, fusion magic, etc. One should have knowledge of all these categories before launching oneself as a magician. It is always good to train with an established magician
Certain skills are necessary to be a part of this field.
Job Prospects
There are no income slabs for entry, middle or senior levels in the profession of magic. The pay scale of a magician depends on how well a show is presented, the skills of a magician, the knowledge of magic he/she has and, most importantly, how the audience accepts him/her. Moreover, if a magician customises a show creatively, most organising companies will be ready to pay a hefty amount for it. The income of a magician can be anywhere between Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 3 lakh a month
Pros & Cons
The best part is that it given enormous self-satisfaction. The person gets name, fame and money. But capital is required for shows and equipment. A lot of travelling is required to organise shows.
