Just Alan

Description

I have known Just Alan, the delightful resident magician of Woodstock, New York, for many years. Alan and his family have a shop in Woodstock where you will find marvelous objects from around the world, a fabulous cappuccino, and Alan's ever growing magic department and cafe where he performs. Alan is a very special person and I feel very fortunate to count him as a friend. He is the perfect balance between tireless worker and artistic dreamer. I love his magic and I love him. I've had the pleasure of seeing Alan's spellbinding performance of the classic Sands of India many times. At Mystery School, the week before the SAM convention, I told him that I didn't think he would ever win the contest -- after all, where was the rock music much less the doves and the flash? But Alan didn't care if he won or lost. This was a chance to share his magic with others. When he did win, I was happily surprised to see that something intensely beautiful had achieved recognition. It almost restored my faith in magic contests. Well, congratulations again on your victory. It's very unusual to see a single effect take first prize. What inspired you to buck tradition? I went to the convention to meet people and to share my vision. Since I hadn't expected to win, I didn't think about tradition. I wanted to invite the audience to transcend the moment and join me on my journey. I've found the endorsement of my work especially gratifying. Having watched your work as it has developed over the years, I know how much effort went into those nine minutes and 48 seconds. Your props are so beautiful and you maintain your character so well, it really does feel like we're in India with you. Can you tell us how you came up with this idea? Slowly, over a long time, with lots of practice and helpful input from lots of people. There weren't any shortcuts. So you're not an overnight success? Hardly. For me, the Sands of India represents a lifetime of experience. I traveled in India more than 25 years ago. I lived with and learned much from the people I met and saw there. I've thought about the crowds, the trains, the country's natural beauty and the spirit of her people ever since. I love the character, the slides, the running voice-over that describes the illusion as you silently perform it -- it all makes for a strong effect. When did you begin to choreograph the Sands of India? The idea began to gel in my mind about four years ago, so the final presentation represents four years of work and nurturing, as the seed of the idea took root and grew. Tell us who were some of the people who influenced you? It's a long list, but Jeff McBride and all the creative people at Mystery School who critique each other's work were a big part of my success. In fact, I clearly recall that you were present the very first time I performed it in public. Yes, I remember it too. It touched me in a very emotional way. Talk to me for a moment about magic. For me, magic is about transcending yourself and allowing the members of your audience to transcend themselves as well. Magic is about opening your eyes to new possibilities. It's about your heart as well as your mind.

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