"This book is going to be a classic. Punx takes the simplest of effects and weaves an 'entertainment factor' about them that makes it a delight to read and easy to perform. His artistry blends magic and fantasy. A true example of making magic - magick!" - Masklyn ye Mage
Punx was the acknowledged master of 'Magic as Theater', actually the creator, where the performance takes center stage and method only serves the role to support and enable the performance. There are wonderful stories, excellent tips on tricks and handling, and deep insights into the Art of Performing Magic.
Punx (Ludwig Hanemann) was awarded the Hofzinser Ring for having created a new style of magic - magic as theater. Here Punx shows us the importance of the entertainment factor in a magical presentation. He weaves fascinating poetic stories around often neglected magic tricks. These are then elevated to masterpieces of showmanship.
In the final section, the reader is invited to a participate in Punx's thought processes as he develops a miracle: The Amulet. With similar miracles, the common trickster can become a master magician. It is not the trick, but the presentation that entertains. A good presentation has a long life in the mind of the spectator, while a trick is soon forgotten.
Do not call me just a magician or a conjuror;
storyteller would be just right ...
Come, sit at my feet and smile.
Forget there was a yesterday
and that tomorrow will come.
(Translated from the German by Bill Palmer.)
1st edition 1988, 2nd edition 2000 under the title "Once Upon a Time...", 1st digital edition 2013, 103 pages.
Table of Contents
- Translator's Preface to the E-Book
- Publisher's Preface
- Translator's Introduction
- When the Fairy Tale Encountered Truth
Part 1. Magical Fairy Tales
- The Story of the Heart of Glass
- The Story of the Pixie's Little Magic Cloak
- The Story of the Four Wishes
- A Legend from India
- The Story of the Chinese Compass
Part 2. Magical Adventures and Tall Tales
- Peace on Earth
- The Magic Fans
- The Haunted Key
- The Nightmare
- Adventure in the Madhouse
- Adventure at the Fish Market
- Capt'n Squinty
- The Colorblind Policeman
- The Duel With the Psychiatrist
- The Man With the Golden Arm
- Kismet
Part 3. Bonus
- The Amulet
- Epilogue
word count: 32043 which is equivalent to 128 standard pages of text