History was made September 2-6, 1982 in a filming studio in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, as the life and magic of Dai Vernon was permanently recorded for future generations. Inspired by Bill Larsen, the project was undertaken by Videonics, owned and operated by Hans Zahn. The co-hosts of the filming project were Michael Ammar, Gary Ouellet and Steve Freeman.
L & L Publishing has now taken this original footage, digitally re-mastered it and released it on 8 downloads. Not only can we learn by actually seeing and hearing the Professor at work, but our great grandchildren and their great grandchildren will be taught that most elusive of crafts by the grandest master of them all.
Some of the important points to be considered are:
* The format is that of a jam session, with Vernon discussing his tricks, moves and routines, and generally holding court. * All the moves, techniques, routines, tips and handlings discussed are actually performed by Vernon or one of the co-hosts, along with a complete explanation. * Roughly half of the subjects covered relate to the published record; half the material was new and disclosed for the first time (at the time of the video shoot). * Many times, Vernon teaches important new techniques on the Vernon classics, including improvements, or previously undisclosed handlings, even as regards the famous Stars of Magic effects. * Some world famous routines, such as the Coins in Champagne Glass or the Fred Kaps Coins and Silk (invented by Vernon and taught to Kaps) are publicly revealed. * Important revelations about the Erdnase techniques, which Vernon has spent a lifetime studying, form a major part of the material.
The idea behind these videos was to capture Vernon live so future magicians can experience him.
No magician should miss these videos. Dai Vernon was the Dean of modern magic and he shares great things on these tapes.
Volume 16 Gary Ouellet Intro Cutting Silhouettes The Harlequin Act How Vernon Met Frances Rockefeller King Magician Spies on Vernon J. K. L. M. Dr. Daley's Notebook The Book, "Our Magic" Cardini The Frogman Cardini's Talking Act Cardini's Tails Al Baker The History of Silhouettes Colorado Springs World's Fair Vernon Cuts a Silhouette Twenty Dollar Gold Piece
Volume 17 Gary Ouellet Intro King of Koins The Gimmick Emil Jarrow Jarrow Plays London Closing of his Act Partner in his Act Warren Keane Malini Block of Ice Fred Keating Canary Story Paul Rosini Herbert Brooks The Manner In Which Tricks are Presented Larry Grey Follows Hobos High School Dance Lance Burton at the Body Shop Garrick Spencer / Academy of Magic Allen Kennedy Center Deal Teaching John Scarne the Center Deal Vernon Takes Ted to See Allen Kennedy Mrs. Vernon Meets Mexican Joe The Greek Gambler The Hold-Up Story Jack Benny Joke Dr. Ross Meeting Dan Cummings at Restaurant Takes the Touch of a Billiard Player Frank Tobey / Vernon Sees Faro Shuffle for the First Time One Arm MacDonald - The Diamond Ring $100 Ace Trick Davis the Miracle Man
