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Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, Reza Borchardt, as we explore his magical journey from a passionate young enthusiast to a leading illusionist in Branson, Missouri. Reza takes us behind the curtain, sharing how his early exposure to magic through TV shows and the generous mentorship of magicians like Dave Hamner and Kirby Van Birch fueled his love for the craft. Discover the secrets behind his mind-blowing performances, where large illusions transform into spellbinding stories that captivate audiences, each show bringing something new and exciting through the power of storytelling and audience interaction.

Embark on a fascinating journey through Reza’s rise to success, revealing the innovative ways he turned his dream into a thriving career. From transforming old buses into tour vehicles to navigating the vibrant entertainment scene of Branson, Reza opens up about the challenges and triumphs of establishing a dedicated theater and performing hundreds of shows a year. Learn how the blend of music and magic, inspired by live concerts and collaborations with bands like Switchfoot, enhances his performances, creating a unique and exhilarating experience that continues to draw audiences in.

In the age of technology, Reza offers insights into the evolving landscape of magic, sharing how the digital era poses both challenges and opportunities for magicians. As he reflects on the intricate process of crafting new illusions and managing a talented team, Reza emphasizes the importance of innovation and feedback in keeping his shows fresh and engaging. Whether you’re a budding magician or a seasoned fan, this episode provides a captivating look at the synergy between tradition and modernity in magic, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those daring enough to explore them.

 Growing Success in Magic Show Tours

This chapter takes us through the fascinating journey of a magician who turned his passion into a professional career, highlighting the pivotal moments and strategies that paved his way to success. Starting with a personal story about learning tricks from a master illusionist in a parking lot, we explore the initial struggles and innovative methods employed to fund his dream of touring with a magic show. From transforming an old school bus into a tour vehicle to engaging in unique side hustles like selling candles door-to-door, the determination to achieve his vision is palpable. We also examine the challenges of marketing shows without established notoriety and the gradual growth in audience numbers through word-of-mouth. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the financial and logistical hurdles of running a grand illusion show, revealing the complexities of managing a crew and renting theaters while navigating the risks of potential financial losses.

How to Conquer Branson

This chapter takes us to the heart of Branson, Missouri, where the unique dynamics of establishing a theater are explored. Known for its diverse entertainment offerings, Branson attracts millions of visitors annually, providing a stage for both rising stars and top-tier performers. We uncover the challenges of setting up a successful show in this bustling yet intimate city, highlighting the importance of patience and perseverance. The journey from leasing theater spaces to owning a dedicated 1,000-seat venue is shared, alongside insights into the seasonal ebb and flow of show schedules. The balance between performing hundreds of shows a year and maintaining passion for the craft is examined, with strategies like audience participation playing a key role in keeping performances fresh. We also get a glimpse into the lifestyle of living near the theater, offering a blend of high-paced work with tranquil home life by the lake.

Continuous Improvement in Magic Performance 

This chapter explores the collaborative and creative process behind crafting a successful magic show. We discuss how a blend of personal innovation, industry collaboration, and feedback from laypeople contributes to the development of compelling magic tricks. I highlight the importance of external perspectives, explaining how industry friends and regular audience members provide invaluable insights that help shape the performance to better connect with viewers. I share anecdotes about specific tricks, like the Oreo and card tricks, emphasizing how initial concepts are transformed into original pieces through experimentation and refinement. By testing these tricks on fellow magicians and gauging their reactions, I gauge the effectiveness and potential of new ideas. This chapter underscores the dynamic and iterative nature of creating magic that captivates and entertains audiences.

Endless Chain

Dustin Tavella

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