053: David Stone - Trust Yourself

David Stone joined me for a chat about life, magic and movies. Enjoy this emotional roller coaster ride from his performances in the restaurants of St. Topez to being the Guest of Honor at the 2012 F.F.F.F. (Fechter's Finger Flicking Frolic). David exposed his soul in this in-depth interview as we enjoyed a few glasses of Dalmore Scotch late into the wee hours of the morning in Houston. He talked about his notoriety in France and Asia, how he got there plus an insightful look at his mentors, friends and inspirational role models. David gave this interview near the end of his triumphant 20+ city lecture tour of the U.S. and just before his return to France. Aside from being a wonderful magician, he is an inspiration, a gentleman, and quite charismatic. Warning: some language is R rated.

David Stone - Trust Yourself

Scott Wells

Download

Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here then right click to save the file.

051: F.F.F.F. 2012 - Day Three

Another full day (and night) of non-stop, world class, innovative magic was in store for all the attendees on Friday. The day started with mild snow flurries but it did not deter a hearty band of golfers who regularly play in the frigid weather at the F.F.F.F. annual tournament. But my first chat on the podcast of the day was immediately before and after the Mathieu Bich lecture. Long time attendee Dick Cook, from Ohio, told me a couple funny stories from his attendance at the Columbus MagiFest.

I then caught up with the Man of the Hour, Guest of Honor, David Stone. I caught him when there was no one else around him in the otherwise jam-packed lobby between events. We got to chat about his experience at the F.F.F.F. as well as his take on creativity and what his long term plans are in magic and, well, maybe the movies.

The day quickly slipped past me and before I knew it, it was dinner time. I dined with Chris Capeheart and Ice McDonald who shared some stories and experiences with me. Then to round out the day, I sat down with Mark Leveridge, from England, after the final show. He talked about his bi-monthly publication, MagicSeen Magazine, the Magazine for Magicians and Mentalists. More information at http://www.magicseen.co.uk/ It was interesting to get his take on the English economy, conventions, and publications in the U.K. as they directly impact the English magic community.

Day 3 - 2012 F.F.F.F.

Scott Wells

Download

Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here then right click to save the file.

Sights from Day Three of F.F.F.F. 2012

Friday morning kicked off with my usual trip to Settler's Restaurant again with Dan Garrett, Soma, Johan Stahl, David Prouty, Joe Turner and others as part of the "Gene (Anderson) Pool". Dan Garrett announced that he had to run to the hospital for some emergency chest surgery but was much better this morning. But we all made it back in time for the second "Teach-a-Trick" session of the convention. This morning's seminar featured Rubber Band Magic and emceed by Mike Powers. Lots of great stufff all crammed into an hour or so of non-stop ideas.

After the workshop, the free beer and sodas were furnished as we dined on hot dogs and pizza. Then it was time for the afternoon lecture by Mathieu Bich. I have seen and heard him lecture before and I knew I didn't want to miss this one. He always has great ideas and commercial routines that are WAY out of the box. He did not disappoint as he presented a tremendous lecture.

The afternoon then gave way to the first formal show of the day. Joe Turner hosted Friday's Finger Flicking Frolic that featured mostly the performances by first timers who were performing for their Bachelor's Degree in Magic.

We then were "treated" to the first of two buffet dinners. "Dining" on the hotel food here each year proves that we come for the camaraderie and not the cuisine. I always enjoy breaking bread with brother magicains and getting some time to chat over the table and without cards in our hands for a few minutes.

After dinner, some took a quick nap while others jammed for a while in the lobby or sat at the tables to have an extra piece of carrot cake. At least I think it was carrot cake. At 8:00 it was showtime again this time featuring "World Wide Magic Moments" hosted by Meir Yedid.

There were many on the bill who were FISM winners and others who will be performing or competing at this year's event in Blackpool. Perhaps we may have even witnessed a performance by someone who will win the gold.

At the conclusion of the show, the evening was not even close to being over. That's the time they roll out the donuts and coffee in the hospitality suite and keep the jam session going until the crack of dawn.