• What: The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible
• When: Feb. 17 – 22
• Where: Proctors in Schenectady
• How much: Starts at $20
• Info: www.proctors.org
Magic.
The word itself conjures a wide spectrum of thoughts that range from witchcraft to alchemy, from carnival shows to your kid brother. In practice, magic is entertaining; and, in the hands of an expert, it is an art form.
But, when wielded by a master, even hardened skeptics become amazed.
“Magic, to me, is just a way to communicate to the audience like a singer uses words or music,” said Kevin James, one of seven master illusionists scheduled to appear at Proctors Feb. 17 to the 22 in “The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible.” “It’s really a joyous art form for me because it transcends all barriers. It doesn’t matter if you don’t speak English; you can still enjoy the show.”
Within the global circles of his peers, James is recognized as one of the best magicians today. The Magic Castle in Hollywood, a fraternal order consisting of more than 5,000 illusionists throughout the world, named James as Parlour Magician of the Year in 2003. In 2005, the International Magicians Society called him the “most original.”
The theme to James’ act incorporates science. He is known as The Inventor. The “Floating Rose” trick often performed by David Copperfield, that’s his. More impressive perhaps is his signature trick that adds a startling, modern twist to one of the most celebrated illusions in magic – sawing a man in half.
“For years, magicians have always tried to be abreast of the latest technologies before it was released to the general public,” he said. “You know, there’s hours and hours and hours that people don’t ever see. In my case, I invent my own type of magic.” The sawing act, which incorporates a chain saw, is an act he has performed in front of audiences for a decade. “Once you work out a routine, you have to get the technique to where it’s flawless. And, the next step is to hide your technique like it doesn’t exist… You can take the technology… [and] try to hide the technique so that it creates the impression of magic. So it looks like you’re not using technology, but you can be.”
“The Illusionists” was conceived and is produced by Simon Painter and has since performed in front of audiences across the globe. Seven entertaining magicians, involving comedy, theatrics and slight of hand, each represent several different countries, and different aspects of the art.
“You’re going to see seven different top magicians from all over the globe, performing their best material,” said James. “There are moments of the show when we interact with each other and have ensemble pieces. But, there are also moments where we show our own different style. Instead of watching one magician for two-hours and getting the same vibe through the whole show, here, if there is something you don’t like, a few minutes later there will be something you’ll absolutely love.
“It’s like a big smorgasbord,” said James.
