MAWEEGE
A giant cootie catcher scientifically measures
the compatibility of a husband & wife.
PreSale Begins: February 16, 2023, noon Atlanta, GA
Until then, I’m sharing this series of post to let you see the strengths of Maweege. Whether you perform Maweege or not, the contents of this series will make you a better magician.
The expression “pack for bear” is one of my favorite ones to apply to my work. To pack for bear in the original context means “to be prepared, mentally and/or physically, for extreme opposition.” You know, like a bear.
Or in the case of performing, what could be an unbearable challenge, like needing more time in your show because of an unexpected situation.
That’s why it’s good to pack the props for a routine or two beyond what you plan on doing.
Nine Traits Of Good “Take On A Bear” Routines
#1 It packs flat.
Performing is fun. Getting paid is fun. Schlepping around extra pounds and big props you only occasionally need? Not so much. You’ll be less likely to want to prepare if the bear weapons is big and heavy.
#2 It takes time to perform.
A 90 second routines won’t help you much if the routine you’re subbing for is seven minutes. Bears defense takes time.
#3 It works with the character & style of the rest of the show.
For me, that means the routine is funny and interactive, because that’s what the rest of my show is. Do likewise for your show.
#4 It is situationally bulletproof
There are many routines that are great that can be angle sensitive (like billiard balls) or lighting sensitive (thread work). Only good for defending against bears that come from directly in front of you in dim lighting. Pick routines that can work in virtually any setting.
#5 It does not require demanding sleight of hand.
The term demanding is relative. The same sleights that are demanding after ten weeks in magic will (hopefully!) not be demanding after ten years in magic. Whatever your current skill level, don’t make that pack for bear routine one that lives at the edge of your skill level.
Why? Bears smell fear.
#6 It does not have a demanding procedure.
I love the late great Simon Aronson’s Shuffle Bored. It’s a great piece of magic. It is also a bit procedural in its method. One mishap and the trick is sunk. Not a problem at all if it’s regularly performed, but possibly a problem if I’m taking it out as a last minute substitute and I haven’t performed it in months.
Again, bears smell fear.
#7 It is context independent.
Some routines in my show are strengthened by having the previous routine as a lead-in. I don’t want my bear defense routines to need the routine after them or before them to be 100% successful. As an emcee, I’ve had to drop in a routine with no more notice than I hear a whisper from the other side of the curtain saying, “Stretch.” My bear routines have to effortlessly drop in to those situations.
#8 It’s great to have a weapon to take on those special bears.
It’s 15 minutes before you walk on stage and the booker says to you, “Hey Magician! The couple up front are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. It would be great if you do something special for them.” So when two pandas are celebrating their anniversary, you’re ready.
#9 Finally, it is your “A” MATERIAL!
This is really the most important point and I’m putting it last to emphasize it. Just because you’re subbing in a routine does not mean it’s OK if the routine is subpar. Make that routine one you’ll soon have in your normal show soon because it’s just that great.
It plays big.
It’s funny.
It’s interactive.
It’s five+ minutes
It’s amazing.
That’s what you want when you pack for magic bear.
On February 16th we’ll be releasing MAWEEGE, a routine that defends against bears, elephants, and venus flytraps, but until it’s released …
Look at the routines you do that are not currently in your show and ask yourself, “Which ones can I prepare and upgrade to keep away the bears?”
Best,
Doc Dixon