Island Magic Updates If you have any magic news to report Contact Mike Ching at mikec1800@aol.com

Updated July 27, 2010
CURTIS KAM, BRAD KERWIN, KRISTI TOGUCHI &
BOBBY ACOBA dine at the
Mililani ZIPPYS with (not seen) MR. & MRS GLEN BAILEY, GREG HIRASHIKI and MIKE CHING

...KRISTI TOGUCHI in town from Las Vegas this July,
Brought in by primary instructor BRAD KERWIN to Teach Magic to 40+
students in the PUNAHOU SCHOOL Summer Magic Class. "Kristi
instructs deportment in Stage Magic, is an inspiration to female
students, and provides balance to the smaller classic effects Brad
teaches", notes Curtis Kam... Kristi had dinner with some local
Magicians July 16 before heading back to Vegas on the 18th...
...DENNIS LOOMIS (close friend of the late DOUG HENNING,
and inventor of the Loomis Dollhouse), among the latest inquiring about
Hawaii's Legendary JIMMMY YOSHIDA...
...CURTIS KAM heading off to San Francisco at the end of the
month to attend the GOLDEN GATE GATHERING, in Kams' words "...A
small convention for serious Close-Up guys who like to drink and smoke..
(Last year, so the story goes, one of the Buck Twins, (Editors note: we
don't know who this is) dropped a drink on MIKE GALLO from four
stories up. ...Fun times, ...eventually..."
...Curtis also mentions the next
Theatrical showing by KAULANA (Bennett Chang) on October 29,30 &
31. "INTRIGUE" is the name of the show. Kaulana also appeared
to MC and perform in a Talent showcase at WINDWARD MALL Saturday
July 24...
...The July 7 combined meeting of the SAM/IBM featured a
lecture on "HOW TO BE A GREAT MC" and "SENSATIONAL STAGE
MAGIC" from STEVE KISSELL... The following night, July 8, LATKO
gave a performance with explanations, and a lecture on "COMEDY
MAGIC"...
...MARY ANN CHANGG, KEKOA ERICKSON, and LATKO ran
into JIM BOYD, a vacationing magician from Scotland and creator of
the "HOPPING HALVES" effect...
...YONA CHOCK got a story with photos printed in the HONOLULU
STAR-ADVERTISER on the IBM's Free Magic Classes offered monthly,
here is a link to the article: Click here for article >>
...BRAD KERWIN announces 3 weeks of MAGIC CAMP,
for ages Kindergarten
& up. Magic shows every Friday, guest
lecturers and magic-related activities. For info & Schedule,
contact Brad at 224-0305...
"MURRAY" lunches with KMT regular,
AARON VERMEER during a recent stopover
...DANA DANIELS and MURRAY both in and out of town doing
Cruises and "WARREN & ANNABELLES" appearances... "CRAIG
THE ILLUSIONIST" DANSIE reappears at the latest JULY showing of KOOLAU
MAGIC THEATER ...
BROKEN WANDS...
...Very sorry to hear
of the passing of GREG GABAYLO's Mother, YOLANDA, earlier
this year. Greg gave tribute to her by singing a MICHAEL JACKSON
signature song (My Life
is in Your Hands") at her service on June 4,
and shared the video with friends: see video here>>
...ALAN WATSON also reports on the recent passing of Mentalist GLEN
FALKENSTEIN, husband of FRANCIS WILLARD.
Once a Superstar Mentalist, Falkenstein recently suffered from
Alzheimers disease and passed on just a few days after entering a
nursing facility...Also
recently passed on, TONY
CORINDA (Born Thomas
William Simpson) best noted for having written the book"Thirteen Steps to Mentalism". Tony Corinda died on Thursday 1st July in Norfolk...
OTHER HAWAII ENTERTAINMENT NEWS:
JOHNY DEPP ARRIVES FOR "PIRATES" 4, and NEW, NEW "FIVE-O (THEME).....
...Star JOHNNY DEPP
has officially reported for duty this month as CAPT. JACK SPARROW. The
latest installment of "PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN", (Subtitled "ON
STRANGER TIDES") is now shooting on Kauai and soon, Oahu...
...CBS has ramped up an all-out Promo campaign behind the
re-imagined "HAWAII
FIVE-O" series which debuts in September on the original date
the Classic series was launched. The Show will run Mondays at 9pm. The
series from the 60s famously promoted Hawaii tourism and featured many
local personalities, actors, stunt people and technicians. DIAMOND HEAD
STUDIOS was actually created for the series and used in
movies since
then...
...While promos to now have featured a "techno"-influenced version of
the original theme, the producers have just announced an even Newer version
of the theme (premiered at Comic-Con 2010)
that is very close in sound to the original and re-features the
previously muted horn section famous from the first series (many of the
original musicians were brought back to reprise the theme)...
... See the latest incarnation in this Studio session interview
released just days ago. See link here >> ;
(Yours truly likes it better than the techno version, and many seem to
agree that the original was very difficult to improve on.) What's YOUR
take?) See you on premiere night!
STEP
UP THE GAME?...
...TERRY FATOR, probably
the biggest Las Vegas
Ventriloquist since EDGAR BERGEN, (and
generally agreed to be a nice guy by those in the industry) recently
made comments that stirred up the Ventriloquial Community. Fator
commented to the effect that the public had a negative impression of
Ventriloquism
because there were "so many bad Ventriloquists out there". He
called Ventriloquists "Horrible" for stealing each others' material, and
for poor performance technique, giving the impression that the industry
was hackneyed and derivative of itself. When STEVE AXTELL made
Fator aware that many performers were offended by the interview, Terry
responded that he indeed meant to inspire controversy by
challenging todays' Vents to "Step up their game". Here is his actual
response:
Date: Sun, 11 Jul 2010
"Thanks Steve.
My intention with those comments is a call for vents to
step up their game. There is a reason people have such a negative
stereotype of vents, and it's up to all of us to help change that
perception. I absolutely do not apologize for the comments, and if
anyone feels offended then by all means, please prove me wrong! That's
all I ask.
Come on everyone! Prove me wrong!
You are more then welcome to post this response on your site if you
wish.
Terry"
This could be an argument relatable to any variety art. Do you agree
with this top 'Vegas draw? See the actual page, with Fators' audio
interview here >>
____________________________________________________________
Updated June 22, 2010JUST PASSIN THRU...
...Magic Motivational Guru (and "ZINGMASTER" for the BARNUM
& BAILEY "MAGIC" CIRCUS), BRAD ROSS was in town early
June for R&R, he chronicled many of his local adventures on FACEBOOK,...Magic
Castle "COMEDY MAGICIAN OF THE YEAR" DANA DANIELS in
briefly June 12 before heading off on a Cruise Ship run...
COMBINED IBM / SAM APPEARANCE & LECTURE JUNE 24.........
...RON ISHIMARU makes us aware that EYTAN AYALON of the
ISRAEL MAGIC SOCIETY will be in Hawaii June 22 through 24. Magic Clubs Honolulu SAM
& IBM will combine meetings to meet him this month on THURSDAY,
JUNE 24th at the KALIHI-PALAMA LIBRARY at 7PM, where Ayalon will
present honorary Awards from his society to Ishimaru, as well as BRYAN
YOSHIMOTO and JIMMY YOSHIDA. He will also perform a number
of effects with full Modus Operandi (Complete explanations), a free
lecture for those attending.
Eytan is a decorated member of several organizations: TERRITORIAL
VICE PRESIDENT of the ISRAEL IBM, GOM President,
President of THE INVISIBLE LODGE (Freemasons who are Magicians),
President of Honor of the Belgian and French Magic Club, Bearer of the DR. JULES
DHOTEL MEDAL (founder of FISM?), & recipient of the ROBERT
HOUDIN MEDAL, as well as DEGREE OF MASTER MAGICIAN of A.F.A.P.
(France) and NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MAGIC OF BELGIUM, and the MZ
GOLD MEDAL OF MAGIC from Germany.
LOCAL MAGIC MIX...
..."DOC" DAVID BROWN performed
for the AIEA PUBLIC
LIBRARY June 17. His KOOLAU MAGIC THEATRE online again for this Friday, June 25th at
7, and Saturday, June 26th at 4pm ...
KELVIN CHUN also doing Library Shows, Wednesday June 23, 6pm @ WAIPAHU PUBLIC LIBRARY, and Friday July 2, 10:30am @
SALT LAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY. Chun leaves Juiy 5 to be a Dealer and
Lecturer at a number of Magic
Conventions...
...There is a brief bit of "magic" in the HAWAII THEATER
benefit production of "THE BOYS IN AUTUMN" starring Hawaiis' top
Newscaster JOE MOORE
and longtime pal (from Army Radio days) PAT SAJAK of "WHEEL OF FORTUNE".
Classic MARK TWAIN characters TOM SAWYER (Sajak), and HUCKLEBERRY FINN
(Moore) meet in their twilight years and catch up on their lives. MIKE
CHING called at the last minute to supply materials and tips for a
quick theatrical "Sleight-of-hand" bit that Sajaks' character performs.
Show opens Thursday, June 24th ...
...RICHARD BAUTISTA mentions he has been involved in several
events: Participating in Project Graduations (Face paint
and
Balloons) at WET & WILD HAWAII for MOANALUA HS, CASTLE HS,
KALANI HS, as
well as the LE JARDIN ACADEMY. A June 19 REGAL THEATERS MOVIE
PROMOTION 12:30-2:30pm
@ Regal
Theatres / Pearl Highlands…(FREE Balloons and Face Painting
for the general
public). Bautista also notes, there have been additional
balloon
jams in the West side, as well as the regular twisting events...____________________________________________________________
Updated June 7, 2010
BOOK-'EM (2010)...
...The New "ReBoot" of HAWAII FIVE-O has been picked up by CBS
for the fall lineup. The
Original series featured several appearances
by FRED BALL, and an acting role by ALAN OKAWA as a
Gangster type. Okawa's hands were also used in Close-up shots where a
character switched valuable jewelry for fakes... The new opening
sequence uses the Classic FIVE-O theme with a techno upgrade. See the
new Opening them/sequence on YOUTUBE here>>
(What do you
think? Personally it's hard not to miss the horns and hips in the
classic opening. It's hard to be objective though, "HAWAII FIVE-O"
by MORTON STEVENS
has been called "The Greatest TV Theme of All
Time")...
...Sorry
to hear of the passing of the original "LUIGI", parrot partner
to DANA DANIELS. The announcement was made on Daniels' FACEBOOK
page the last week of May. (in a phone chat, Daniels mentioned 2
parrots actually perform as Luigi, but that this one will be missed as
he was part of the family for 26 years). Luigi was laid to rest in the
Daniels family backyard, and an Apple Tree marks the site as Apples were
his favorite snack...
NEW "MAGIC SHOP" OPEN AT KMT...
.. .ARTHUR STOUT and RANDY REED assist the KOOLAU MAGIC THEATRE with
Balloon Twisting, Close-up Magic performing, Technical/Sound direction,
and now, running the new MAGIC SHOP in the back of the room, that
opens at the conclusion of every show...
Mahalo to MONTY for sending a great
picture of JIMMY YOSHIDA
and lots of local Magicians in front of the SAM Banner that bears
his name.
...HARVEY OUCHI begins a Basic Beginners' Magic Class June 14 at the McKinley
School for Adults, 6:30 to 8pm. Ouchi
provides all the materials and tuition is only $3.00. For Registration
info, call the Adult School registration office at
594-0540...
...CHUCK & JOANIE LEHR were mainstays of the Island SAM/IBM
clubs in the 70s and 80's before moving on to Texas. CAROL JONES (through KELVIN
CHUN) lets us know they could use your good wishes, especially if
you are an old friend. We now know Joanie had cancer issues in the past
and has relapsed lately. Husband Chuck says it would be great to get
cards and letters from Hawaii Magic & Clown friends. (in the past they worked many projects with
JIMMY KANE and JIMMY YOSHIDA, often working as magic
clowns with "Tengu" Yoshida at the Airport Holiday Inn).
Joan is in the Hospital currently, and flowers are not allowed buy
good wishes mean a lot. Email yours through Carol Jones: Merlina17@aol.com
Or send cards directly to their home:
Joan Lehr (C/O Chuck Lehr)
4324 Woodbluff Drive
Mesquite, TX 75150
...ZUKE took in the KAPIOLANI COMMUNITY COLLEGE Graduation
Celebration and says "TAKESHI" GOUVEIA did a fine show with
Illusions, Dancers and Bands... His part of the production between the
dancers ran "about an hour" notes Jimmy...
HONOLULU MAGIC
NEWSLINE...
...KELVIN CHUN appearing at 2 Libraries this Summer. See the
Article at the soon-to-be HONOLULU STAR-ADVERTISER site:
...Like DAVID COPPERFIELD, "LATKO" is looking to be the next great Magician
starting his career in Hawaii. The FISM-competing Illusionist from
Argentina is back in Hawaii after performances of his motorcycle act at
home, and his award winning FISM close-up "Chess Cups &
Balls" routine in Bilbao, Spain. This past week, he performed at the
"Pride
Festival" at Kapiolani
Park. He opened with a new manipulation act "to
the beat of the "Bongos" to great response. MARY ANN CHANGG (955-2188)
writes to say she is now managing Latkos' appearances...
...Latko is shooting his first DVD on "Card Manipulation," for release in November.On June 18, he
performs at the HOME AND GARDEN EXPO at the Blaisdell Exhibition
Hall
at 7:00pm and
again on Sunday, at 2:00pm. with new illusions and both shows MAY be different. On Thursday, July 8th ,
he will be teaching and lecturing on "COMEDIC MAGIC ROUTINES" at
the CLOWNS OF ALOHA meeting at
Kalihi - Palama Library.
Non-members should contact President RICHARD SHAEDON at 222-0064,
if
interested. (No admission at the door, so call and make
arrangements with Richard beforehand for entrance).
...STEVE KISSELL (Previously written here as "Roy
Kissell", sorry) is going to be in lecturing at the S.A.M.
meeting Wednesday , July 7.
____________________________________________________________
Updated May 19, 2010
JUNIOR MAGICIANS
SHINE AT "NEW BABY EXPO '10"...
...GLEN
BAILEY hosted Hawaiis' SYM Junior magicians at the NEW BABY EXPO
2010 this past weekend, 2 pm
at the BLAISDELL EXHIBITION HALL. Bailey first did a turn with
kids from the audience to gather a crowd, the introduced the
performers. 9 year old RYDER YOUNG opened in tuxedo jacket with
routined silk manipulations: Silks from Newspaper, Color changing,
continuous productions and silk fountain. KYLE FUJIOKA, also 9,
performed one of the latest versions of color changing CD's. EVERETT
AZUMI RAMIREZ did a silk vanish & reproduction, followed by
Professors' Nightmare. TAYLOR KOMATSU (12 yrs) entertained with
choreography and magic as she moved through Ghost tube silk productions,
a Crystal Cylinder streamer production, dream bag flower box
revelations and silk fountain. Finally TYLER YAFUSO did a snappy
version of paper-over-the-head with a seated child from the audience.
...The sets were well rehearsed without any major flaws. Tricks moved
nicely from one to the next and performers all looked good in their
chosen costumes. RON ISHIMARU ran sound and coached backstage,
assisted by Tyler Yafuso... Kudos to all involved, For local magicians,
shows like this are always fun to watch. Lets see MORE
live shows soon from all our local clubs
VEGAS MAGIC (UNDERGROUND)...
...A lot going on as Sin City slowly rolls out of the dark, onto what
may be better economic times. ...The big news is LANCE BURTON leaving
the MONTE CARLO, but headed where? Speculation abounds... The
latest MAGIC MAGAZINE story gives no clue, though it may not be
wise to count Burton out of the Vegas entertainment world when the Monte
Carlo show closes on Sept. 4, 2010.....
...The last half year has seen a big push for a re-vamping and more
importantly a Re-MARKETING the struggling CRISS ANGEL / CIRQ DU SOLEIL show
"CRISS ANGEL - BELIEVE". The show had such a horrific reputation
for dissing traditional Magicians that any joke at it's expense has been
fodder for a laugh at Magic
Conventions, and several conjurers who've seen the show have
actually walked out and demanded money back. Word on the street is that
the show is scrambling to fix itself, changes in numbers, different
effects and even a DOUG HENNING impression by Angel are rumors that keep popping up.
Street flyers promising deep discounts to the show swirled through the
last WORLD MAGIC SEMINAR, though few took the deal. Still, the
effort may be gaining ground as recent Showroom reports have put BELIEVE
in the top 10 draws on a more consistent basis...
...SIEGFRIED & ROY may be retired but their Legacy lives
on. Rumors continue to resurface that there may be a show "Inspired" by
the legendary Magic Duo. Lookalikes? Maybe Original Illusions and
effects performed by S&R directed doubles? Unknown, but the stories
are becoming very frequent and consistent. The two may own Las Vegas
again. Those who've seen them in their prime wouldn't put it past
them...
"LATKO" PERFORMS at K.M.T. & "ENTERTAIN ME"...
...2009 FISM performer LATKO performed at the
Koolau Magic Show Friday, April 23 @ 7:00 pm & Saturday April 24,
at 4:00 pm. (Koolau Magic Theatre celebrates it's one
year anniversary with two shows this month). LATKO also
taped several spots on the "ENTERTAIN ME" TV'er this past Monday
April 26, (several spots that will be spread out over several shows)
air dates are not known, but should be seen into early Summer of '10...
...The Creative Argentinean Performer is a friend of KELVIN
CHUN, and attended a recent SAM & IBM meetings here
during his Island Vacation. HARVEY OUCHI & CRAIG DANSEI got a
chance to performed with him on Waikikis' Street worker strip, and
Ouchi says he has some great routines for close up and parlor.
...Kelvin thanks MARY ANN CHANGG for assisting him & taking
him to events, GLENN FUJIMOTO for taking him to MARK ALLEN
MAURICIOS' Hale Koa Show & more, KEITH KABASAWA for
discounted tickets to MAGIC OF POLYNESIA, BOB FESTA for much help
& Aloha spirit, the KAHALA MAGIC GROUP for being
accommodating with their magic sessions, and the magic group at
Kaimuki's COFFEE TALK as well, also DOC DAVID BROWN (& CREW)
for a wonderful boating tour...
GOOGLE him for his Motorcycle act, or his cup and balls on YouTUBE
at:
Latko Cups: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b_gYwHrUI8
Motorcyle Act: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvlZpfieVr8&feature=related
...Real FORTUNE COOKIES # 5:
"The difference between
falling and failing is whether or not you choose to get up."...
CIRQUE
DU SOLEIL TO CREATE "MICHAEL JACKSON" CONCERT EXPERIENCE...
...In other entertainment news, Cirque du Soleil has announced plans to
create a spectacle experience based around a heightened concert
experience of the late MICHAEL JACKSON. Cirque' and Jacksons'
family both own 50% of the show, and Jackson was said to be a huge fan
of the Canadian-based Theatrical organization. A North American tour
would begin next year, followed by a major Las Vegas Showroom premiering it as a
"Technological Extravaganza" in 2012... A catalog of 60 unreleased
Jackson songs may be tapped & "Mashed up" for the show so that MJ
fans can experience the songs in a new way. See the story here >>
"808MAGIC" AND MORE LOCAL NEWZ...
.
...MICHAEL VILLORIA (of MAGIC OF POLYNESIA) writes
to announce his 808Magic Internet/Graphic company now does printing as
well, and offers a special for Magicians producing Promotional
Material. Color copies start at 23 cts. per (digital printing), and
going as low as .15cts a copy in volume. Villoria sets graphics for and
presses Posters, Flyers, Business Cards and more. Reach him at (808) 688-1221 or by
Website: http://www.808magic.com
...RICHARD BAUTISTA performed Magic and Balloons at several
EASTER Charity events (sorry for the late mention)...
...A number of MAGIC CLASSES will be available this summer. Honolulu Magi such as BRAD
KERWIN, CURTIS KAM, KEN NOYLE, JASON FLEMING, MICHAEL WONG, RON
ISHIMARU and HARVEY OUCHI have been known to teach in
previous years at Island Community Colleges and at the Punahou Schools. MIKE
CHING starts a 5 week class beginning Weds June 16. (forgive the
shameless plug) link>>
Ching also guest-performing at this months' KOOLAU MAGIC THEATRE
shows Friday, May 28
and May 29 in the
new Saturday Matinee. Regular performers include DOC DAVID "DAVIDIO"
BROWN, HARVEY "MR. O" OUCHI and AARON VERMEER...
...TOTALLY EDITORIALIZING... Overheard at the last IBM Meeting
the suggestion that IBM/SAM co host a joint club show. (Do I
have my facts straight?) Good idea! Nothing generates excitement and
interest in Magic like a club show!... GLEN BAILEY again
hosting/producing a showcase of Isle Junior Magicians at the NEW BABY
EXPO, Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall. Showtime is 2 pm on
Sunday May 16. These Juniors have been under the Tuition of
JIMMY "ZUKE" ZUKEMURA and friends from his Magic Shop. Mahalo to
all who keep these young people going with their time, knowledge and
sponsorship...
...RICHARD HUCKO writes..."..My buddy Jo and I have a
download featured on Joshua Jay's Website: http://www.vanishingincmagic.com
or
via the direct link>>
...The
move was originally on our Subtle Concepts DVD, and since then we
expanded on the move creating more applications and variations on
it..." Go local Magic Dudes!
...Our own FRED "PROFESSOR FUN" BALL in the "PRINCESS
KAIULAN" BioPic which opened Friday May 14. Fred was an extra
playing (we believe) 2 different characters in period costumes. The
film caused some controversy early on when producers flirted with the
title "Barbarian Princess" to sensationalize the film and find a
greater audience. In the end good sense prevailed. The Advertisers'
WANDA ADAMS apparently found watching the film a moving experience,
and says that the British Producer (married to a Hawaiian wife)
traveled to the Islands repeatedly to research the story, and the result
is an impressive and honest treatment of Hawaiian History. See the
story here>>
FOR NEXT TIME...
"What are YOUR interests OUTSIDE of Magic?"
We'd like to know for future stories. For example: ALAN ARITA
has taken up Standup Paddle Boarding, making his way around the ALA
MOANA BEACH lagoon 3 times a week...DAVID BROWN is a Sailing
Aficionado... Also, Got a new venue, restaurant gig or Magic hangout?
Please drop a line, we will try to list all known ongoing performances
on the "Magic In Hawaii"
page
____________________________________________________________
Updated April 8, 2010
TOP NEWS: SHOCKER:
"LANCE BURTON, MASTER MAGICIAN" TO CLOSE...
...Stunning news less than a week ago from ROBIN
LEACHS website announces that Vegas' current top Magician LANCE BURTON
will end his run at the MONTE CARLO a full 5 years earlier than
planned. (It wasn't long ago that Burton signed a new contract to take
him through 2015 at the venue, though speculation has been open that
Burton had earlier considered ending the run. Recently, Lance endured a
foot injury that caused him to cancel several weeks of appearances.)
...At present, Sources site differences with management over requested
budget cuts to the show. Burton is said to be in "delicate
negotiations" to exit his 13 year run, but will continue through the end
of the Summer season. See more at: http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2010/apr/03/report-lance-burton-leaving-monte-carlo-over-reque/
"MARCH MAGIC"...
...SANTOS
"THE KIDD" one of the latest Magicians to air on the Sat 9pm "ENTERTAIN ME"
program on KHONTV2... "DOC" DAVID BROWN also recently taped 2
segments for the show for recent airings March 27 and April 3. His "Poultry
in Motion" (Ouch!) Chicken act may have been custom made for a show
that wants Super-Different stuff... AARON VERMEER taped the show
on Monday March 22 as well. Look for his Straight Jacket escape
shortly...
...CURTIS KAM the latest to guest on the KOOLAU MAGIC THEATRE.
Friday, March 26 , the show was a sellout with DAVID BROWN and
AARON VERMEER also on the Bill. See the MIDWEEK
article here: http://www.midweek.com/content/zones/windward_news_article/theatre_marks_a_year_of_magic_at_koolau/
Curtis was all over March, headlining the latest (edition #5 March
2010) OLELO "HAWAII MAGIC" Showcase, performing table magic for a
group of young people... Check local listings for air dates, or go to
the OLELO schedule page at http://www.olelo.org/programming/NowPlaying.htm
& scroll down for alphabetical show schedule...
... Speaking of which... LARRY & DARLENE YAMASHITA make
us aware of a very cool "Table Magic" (take that literally) televised
sequence from Chinese TV's 2010
CCTV SPRING FESTIVAL GALA here's LIU QUIAN... Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=hwVy_2eOfsE#t=78
...In VEGAS MAGIC NEWS, "KIMOS' LAS VEGAS" in MIDWEEK
MAGAZINE reports that DIRK ARTHURs' show has closed...
ISLE ILLUSIONIST "HACKED" IN BIZARRE PHONE SCAM...
...BENNET "KAULANA" CHANG on the front page of the STAR
BULLETIN March 2010, Changs' Cel phone was "Hacked" just by
answering a long-distance number. His phone statement then began to
reflect unauthorized charges totalling $5,000.00. This is a new type of
fraud that can happen to anybody. (Fortunately, Kaulanas' carrier
SPRINT was familiar with the scam and dropped the hijacked charges.)
The source of the call appears to have come from outside the US...
The Honolulu Police CyberCrimes unit says to be wary of any
number you do not know, especially out-of-State Numbers,
"especially those beginning with the area codes 800,
888, 866 and 900" ... See the story @ http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20100327_hackers_invade_cell_phone.html
TOGUCHI IN ANNUAL BIG ISLAND MAGIC SHOW...
...MEIR YEDIDS' "MAGIC
TIMES" site reports that KRISTI TOGUCHI returned from
Las Vegas to
perform at the ALOHA THEATER as part of the BIG ISLAND MAGIC
CLUBS annual benefit show. Returning performers included: ARNIE "ARNELO THE GREAT" RABIN, BARRY "THE GREAT
BARUSKY" GITELSEN, Al "ALBERT THE GREAT" GULICK, and KIM SWEENEY.
See the
Full write-up; "MAGIC SPECTACULAR WOWS THEM IN KAINALIU", from
the BIG ISLAND WEEKLY: http://www.bigislandweekly.com/articles/2010/03/31/read/a_and_e/arts05.txt
CHUN LECTURES AT F.C.M. FOLLOWING IBM SAN DIEGO...
...KELVIN CHUN will be doing 2 lectures - Magic & Balloon
Art at the FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN MAGICIANS (FCM) 2010
Convention July 12 thru 16 at the INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY in Marion,
Indiana. Site: http://fcm.org/ usa/convention.
php (This convention immediately follows the IBM Convention in San
DIego).
Chun (who's family is mostly Buddhist) has reported on the FCM several
times in the past, and says he enjoys it because the people are nice,
the focus is on family arts and the tone is upbeat. He mentions FCM
waives the registration fee
to Hawaii residents (save $195!).
This years' Featured magician is KENRICK "ICE" MCDONALD.
(convention follows the San Diego - IBM convention.) Housing is
only $21/night at the university's dormitory with a Meal plan of 15
meals for $94 (all buffet). Attendees also get access to University of
Wesleyan swimming pool and fitness center.
..The Convention features all of the following Family Entertainment
Arts: Magic, Ventriloquism, Storytelling, Clowning, Puppetry, Face
Painting. Drama, Juggling & Balloon Artistry...
WANNA BE A PIRATE?...
..."PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN, -ON STRANGER TIDES" set to shoot
this summer is holding "Open" (public) casting for Pirate types on Saturday, April 24, at
the WAIKIKI COMMUNITY CENTER. The Men-Only call will be
auditioned in groups.
Wanted are "Authentic Scavenger Pirate types" with extreme
looks (what one film old-timer calls "Freakshow Casting").
Those with
Irregular looks such as very short, very tall, emaciated, uneven
features, missing teeth or limbs, lazy eye ect. are encouraged to
attend. British Soldier types: Caucasion, Spanish and other ethnicities
are sought as well... (Ages 18 into 50's). See article for
particulars: http://www.okmagazine.com/2010/03/pirates-of-the-caribbean-4-casting-call/
(JAY LENO has
made much of late that a "PIRATES" female-only call in Los
Angeles sought "Women with Natural bustlines only", and that those with
implants should not audition).
Actor IAN MCSHANE
is now known to be set to play the real-life Pirate EDWARD TEACH,
better known as the infamous "BLACKBEARD" whom producer JERRY
BRUCKHEIMER describes as "The nastiest Pirate ever".) with PENELOPE CRUZ cast
as his daughter (and love interest to JOHNNY DEPP's CAPT. JACK SPARROW). GEOFFREY RUSH
returns as Sparrow's nemesis CAPT. BARBAROSSA, while the KIERRA
KNIGHTLY / ORLANDO BLOOM story arc is apparently played out...
May 23 ANIMAL
BENEFIT SEEKS ENTERTAINERS...
...The ANIMAL CARE FOUNDATION, ("ACF", An animal Rescue &
Shelter group) are planning a May 23 Benefit for all ages with food
& Entertainment "PAWS FOR PASTA". They are seeking family
entertainers like Magicians, Face Painters & Balloon twisters for
the event. (If Media is present, this could be a photo-op, or at least a
credit for your website). See them on FACEBOOK at:
www.facebook/theacfhawaii or on their site at www.acfanimals.org The group contact
can be reached at rwasshousky@hotmail.com
MALUSIONIST- "YOUR SOURCE FOR
THE WORST SECRETS IN MAGIC"...
...The great Illusions and personalities of Magic are systematically
destroyed by one demented Conjurers blog! Send your Know-it-All
Laymen friends here. How long will it take before they realize
these "explanations" are barefaced sarcastic scams? (Well it's one way
to keep the Masked Magician spinning in his grave). Key on any topic or
person to see it totally disrespected. Some examples:
Copperfields Jet Plane Vanish:
A private jet surrounded by a ring of
spectators. A screen is erected, on which can be seen the jet's shadow.
After a few magic words,
the jet is
gone!
Secret
When the screen (on which the shadow of the jet has been painted) is
erected, the "spectators" break ranks and run to the jet where, using
handy tools, they quickly disassemble it and
hide it beneath their clothing before returning to their positions.
For more Fractured "Insider" info, check out "MALUSIONIST - YOUR
SOURCE FOR THE WORST SECRETS IN MAGIC" at: http://www.mallusionist.com/
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Updated March 14, 2010
...Isle actor STAN EGI (a former member of JIMMY YOSHIDAS' "Wild Bunch" teenage Magic Gang from the '70s) noted in WAYNE HARADAS' Sunday column as having a role in the CBS crime drama "Numb3rs" season finale which aired Friday March 12 at 9 pm. Egi plays a character named Ralph Morris,
a neighborhood watch leader, in a role which was not written for an
Asian. He got the role purely on his acting skills. Stan has also
appeared in video shorts on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE, and in movies such as the MICHAEL KEATON comedy "GUNG HO", and the SEAN CONNERY crime film "RISING SUN"...
...Mahalos from the Magic Community to HARVEY ("MR. O") OUCHI for again setting up a birthday dinner for JIMMY YOSHIDA, Slated for Tuesday March 9, at TONY ROMAS in Pearl Highland center. Attendees included (in random order) PAM TOGUCHI, MARIA ( Jimmy's caregiver), JIMMY YOSHIDA (of course), GLEN BAILEY, and wife Loren (Loren made the beautiful cake for Jimmy), DOC DAVID BROWN, BOB FESTA, CRAIG DANSIE, UNCLE ROY and wife, ROY KISSELL & family, GREG GABAYLO and wife MARILYN and family, RON ISHIMARU, KELVIN CHUN, MIKE CHING and AKIKO, GLEN FUJIMOTO and wife BARBARA, RICHARD GOO, JAMES LEE and friend AFI, TOTOI, HARVEY "MR. O" OUCHI, and DENNIS KAWAMOTO.
...RICHARD BAUTISTA of Balloon Twisters Hawaii performs at two Holiday Events this month: The MILILANI KEIKI FEST March 12 at Mililani Recreation Center # 7, and the Moana Surfrider/Princess Kaiulani EASTER CELEBRATION PARTY March 27...
...ROY KISSELL was in town for a lecture on Comedy Magic, held at the KALIHI LIBRARY Hall 7pm, Thursday March 11...
...KRISTI TOGUCHI, Jimmys Granddaughter now assisting CHARLOTTE PENDRAGON in a new version of the PENDRAGON act, which opened Tuesday March 2 for THE AMAZING JONATHAN
in LAS VEGAS... Those who saw the new act say Charlotte is now the
"front personality" and Kristi performs Charlottes previous role with
the exception of the Sub Trunk Illusion. What's Kristi up to? Check
out her website @ http://www.magicofkristi.com/ or her FACEBOOK page...
(...On a somber note: Claude Yarbrough, better known as JONATHAN PENDRAGON
pleaded no contest to a firearms charge and was sentenced to a year in
County Jail. At time of sentencing, he apologized to wife CHARLOTTE
for any pain he may have caused
her .more......
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Updated February 23, 2010AHOY MATEYS! "THE BLACK PEARL" SAILS INTO HAWAII...
...Probably the biggest local Entertainment news this year: Hawaii has been selected as key location for filming "PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 4, - ON STRANGER TIDES". The announcement, made by GOVERNOR LINGLE
3 weeks ago, means over 80 million dollars to the local economy in
services provided (and likely tourism as filming begins this Summer).
"THE BLACK PEARL" from the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series.
ADVERTISER file photo
...Pickup, EFX and Post work will continue non-stop thereafter with a
premiere date of Summer 2011. It has been hinted in Hawaii Media that
Post-Production facilities are being redied in Hawaii as well.
...Are the Islands on the verge of becoming a full-on Film Center
with our spectacular locations and year-round mild weather? Will local
actors and extras find themselves work on this installment?
... Most of the location shoots will be on OAHU and KAUAI. It was announced "THE BLACK PEARL" itself (Originally built in 2005 as the SUMMER, will dock in the BARBERS POINT
area (private, no visitors) for fitting and dressing to once again
portray the infamous Central Ship battled over by rival Pirate Captains
Barbarosa (GEOFFREY RUSH), and Jack Sparrow (JOHNNY DEPP)...
See the ADVERTISER Article HERE:
* * *
...CURTIS KAM TO PERFORM AT "WORLD MAGIC"..
Curtis Kam
...Hawaii's own CURTIS KAM to be featured on the CLOSE-UP SHOW at this years 33rd Annual WMS / WORLD MAGIC SEMINAR at the ORLEANS in LAS VEGAS.. Other notable dignitaries on the same show include: JOSHUA JAY, SHAUN FARQHUAR, "BIZZARRO!", HOWARD HAMBURG and MICKEY SILVER. That show will be MC'd by the Legendary Closeup artist known as HIAWATHA... See these and other WMS performers here:
* * *
ALAN ARITA REPORTS FROM LAS VEGAS...
...SUZETTE & ALAN ARITA Just back from the FACE PAINTING & BODY ART Convention at the FLAMINGO Hotel in Las
Vegas (February 8 to 13, 2010).
...After hours were spent attending several Shows,
- Terry Fator (ventriloguist, singer, comedian, "America's Got Talent" winner) at the
Mirage.
- MENTAL starring mentalist Luke Jermay at O' SHEAS.
- Mac King (comedy magician) at Harrah's.
- Nathan Burton (comedy magician and "America's Got Talent" finalist) at
the Flamingo.
All shows were good, and notably Terry Fator, who is now a hot
Vegas property, and sells out in advance (they booked his show before
they left Hawaii)
...Arita shares some helpful money saving tips. Lookout for specials and coupons in
free magazines and handouts at hotels, taxis etc. Some Examples, "MAC KING COMEDY MAGIC SHOW": Get two Free tickets with a two drink Minimum. "NATHAN BURTON", Buy one ticket and get one Free. "MENTAL" with LUKE JERMAY has a $10.Off Coupon.
...Another tip is that Vegas is still Cold, and to bring packets of
tea, hot chocolate, soups and instant Oatmeal for snacks (Not all
hotels furnish Coffee/Hot water makers in the room. The Aritas found a
$10 Cup water-heater in the Nearby WALGRENS and it worked just fine. At some hotels you may be able to request a Coffee maker from the housekeeping dept.)
* * *
VENTRILOQUISM RETURNS?
...After nearly 40 years of "no respect" (since the end of the EDGAR BERGEN / CHARLIE MCARTHY era), the art of Ventriloquism appears to be making a comeback.
(L) Classic EDGAR BERGEN with Mortimer Snerd & Charlie MCarthy.
(R) Las Vegas update; TERRY FATOR 2010 with Beatle-esque partner
...One of the most popular Comedians on Cable is Vent JEFF DUNHAM with sidekicks ACHMED (the Dead Terrorist), WALTER (a Gaseous, Grumpy Geezer), the JALAPENO (On a Steeck!), and PEANUT
(we don't know what he is). Dunham regularly plays Vegas and tours the
country. He briefly had his own series, which appears to be in
reworking...
Cable Vent Star JEFF DUNHAM with "Peanut" and Walter
...Singer/Ventriloquist TERRY FATOR now plays the former DANNY GANS
Showroom at the MIRAGE after Gans untimely death last year. Fator is
also a Celebrity impressionist and its said his show commands a premium
price, often selling out. Reservations suggested.
(L) RONN LUCAS with Scorch, Chuck Roast and Buffalo Billy and (R) A volunteer dummy from the audience
*(NOTE: The "Mighty Mouth" gimmick is a copyrighted creation of Ronn Lucas)
...RONN LUCAS (who led the Standing Ovation at the SAM Magic Week Showcase "MAGIC & COMEDY BLAST!"
in '99), also played Vegas Afternoons for several years, and currently
travels cross country doing Corporate events and Theatre Dates...
JUNIOR KEKUEWA JR. & friend
...Locally, JUNIOR KEKAUEWA JR. in his new Showcase at the QUEEN KAPIOLANI does a Ventriloquism portion of his show, similar to the late FREDDIE MORRIS & MOKU KAHANA... Finally, FRED BALL performed his takeapart mop maiden act "DONNA DRAIN" on the recently debuted "ENTERTAIN ME!" TV showcase airing Saturdays at 9pmon KHONTV2...____________________________________________________________Updated February 12, 2010"ENTERTAIN ME!" TV'er SHOWCASES HAWAII ACTS (GOOD AND BAD)...
...It's often said that entertainers "need a place to be bad" to get
experience and hone their craft. Now, local TV offers that venue..in a
BIG way!
...FRED "PROFESSOR FUN" BALL, CHRIS DA CLOWN, and GREG GABAYLO are among the acts seen on the maiden voyage of a new Island TV series. "ENTERTAIN ME" (Sponsored by KIA) is the brainchild of JIM BRYAN, original Co-Producer of ANDY BUMATAI'S "NIGHTTIME" talk show. The show is said to have a 52 week (1 yr.) commitment.
Aloha Kia Presents "ENTERTAIN ME" premiered 9 p.m. Jan. 23 on KHON. Those looking to audition should call 528-1073. From what we've heard, acts are asked to prepare 4-6 minutes of their best material.
At present, the show has many weeks "in the Can" and is actively seeking variety and odd, "Wildly Different" acts. SANTOS "The Kid" KIDD and STEVE WILLIAMS are
among other magicians who've taped segments. The show is actively
seeking The Good, the Bad, and sometimes, The just plain Weird...
Japanese "RockaBilly" band BARI BARI riffs onstage at
HAWAIIAN BRIANS in a taping for "ENTERTAIN ME!"
-photo by IRWIN
Taping is done select Monday Evenings (see their Website for schedule below) at HAWAIIAN BRYANS (billiards & entertainment complex) on Kapiolani Ave. starting around 7 pm. ChrisDaClown is currently a semi-regular on the show doing comedy filler material and backstage "ClownCAM" interviews.
.."...ME" could become a moving catalog
for those in the public & private sector seeking new acts and
entertainment. Music,Magic & Variety artists of all types are
sought that are (in the producers' words) "Great to Entertainingly Bad".
(Don't try to do copies of well known performers routines' though,
Producer Bryan is a seasoned pro from the mainland who's been around
the block and sees a lot of what's out there!)
...See the STAR BULLETIN Article here:
...See the OFFICIAL WEB SITE with Promo Reel here:
* * *
...GLEN BAILEY and BOB FESTA among those headed to the 2010 WMS (WORLD MAGIC SEMINAR) at the ORLEANS in Vegas, Feb. 28- Mar. 3 ... ALAN ARITA & wife SUZETTE among several localites currently attending a Clown/Facepainting Seminar there...AARON VERMEER doing Illusions for the February Edition of KOOLAU MAGIC THEATRE...
* * *
...JODY & KATHLEEN BARAN + Cast & Crew featured in the latest edition of MAGIC MAGAZINE hitting subscribers this week. The fast-paced Illusion show at the KA'ANAPALI BEACH HOTEL just landed a new 5-Year Contract and has been seen by many vacationing Big Names in Magic... See the website here: ____________________________________________________________
Updated January 25, 2010
HAWAII MAGIC...
...CRAIG THE ILLUSIONIST featured on the latest edition of CH52-OLELO's "HAWAII MAGIC" 30
min. program doing a Jumbo Card Monte, Rope effect, Cups & Balls,
and Linking Rings. The show was produced and introduced by JIM KAWASHIMA. Previous programs have showcased other Isle Magicians...

MORE MIDWEEK MAGIC...
...Speaking of which, The JANUARY 20th Hawaii MIDWEEK Magazine has DAVID BROWN reviewing the Movie "THE IMAGINARIUM OF DR. PARNASSUS" (3 Stars) http://www.midweek.com/content/columns/hotticket_article/the_imaginarium_of_dr._parnassus/ ..., and a picture and article about JAMES LEE performing at the next KOOLAU MAGIC
THEATER show. See image & Article at: http://www.midweek.com/content/zones/windward_news_article/lee_doves_join_friday_magic_show/ (Brown mentions he also has a mid-range model ZIGZAG Illusion for sale in the $400 range. Aspiring Illusionists should contact David through the TEMPLE VALLEY DENTAL GROUP at 239-6711...
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Updated January 11, 2010
.....NEW! RICHARD HUCKO, JO AU, and KC USHIJIMA have crafted a "Cool Moves DVD" (graphics assistance from KEKOA) now selling online and at ZUKES' Magic Shop. Included are pet sleights, ace productions, color-changes, and XCM (Extreme Card Manipulation). Liner notes by CURTIS KAM, HARRY LORAYNE & more. Check site and teaser vid at: http://sc.000space.com/
...Speaking of which, have YOU done something cool Magic-wise lately? Consider TEACHING the Monthly 1-hour IBM MAGIC CLASS!
(Maybe an intro-level class of a type of Magic you're good at, or fond
of.) Why? Well NEWS articles about local performers don't just
happen. You have to be promotionally-minded if you wish to become
known to the public. Doing something cool, contemporary (Performing at
a well-known Event or for Charity), or out of the ordinary makes YOU interesting to local media. For example, Class Coordinator YONA CHOCK has successfully parlayed producing the class into several news articles and TV spots about her activities.

"Newspaper Magic" would be a good idea for a meeting topic
...Learning to create concise "pitches" via Press releases (Easier
than ever thanks to email) should be part of your education as a known
magician. Your press release should be brief, concise and give an instantly understandable idea of why
you are interesting or topical. You should also suggest a few story
"angles" (business of magic, local plumber/pilot/student also does
magic, you wrote a book, won a contest, invented a trick ect.) The
fact that you are a scheduled teacher gives the public potential
contact with you, and makes your appearance contemporary.
...Feature articles give you credibility and can be linked to/saved and
exploited for later PR use on, say, web sites or promo materials. (His
peers often said of HARRY HOUDINI,
"When he goes to the bathroom he calls the newspapers!" Yes a great
magician, but for his fame, it was agreed he was an even better master
of promotion). Contact Yona to be scheduled as an upcoming
instructor...
DIDJA NOTICE?...
...More "Family-Friendly" centers seem to be popping up where variety entertainers can ply their trade, the latest is "RASCALSFAMILY FUN CENTER" , a new Games-Party-Arcade which opened the Friday before Christmas right next to the Dole Cannery REGAL THEATRE 18-Plex.
It includes a "Pirate" themed UV-painted party room which seats about
40+ and is expandable, a "Princess" themed room for up to 60, as well
as Laser Tag, Mini Bowling, a CandyLand area for smaller tots and more. For menus, activities & more, see them at http://rascalsffc.com/ or call 539-2222...
"RASCALS" New Ultraviolet "Pirate Treasure" mini-golf room at DOLE CANNERY next to
the Theatres. The entertainment franchise features arcade games, refreshments & themed party rooms.
...Small family party rooms seem to be the trend to attract the parents and small fry crowd. REGAL 18 THEATER at Dole also added a small party room where the Gelato concession used to be...
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