Collins Key Magician America's Got Talent

If you watch America's Got Talent, you certainly know the name and face of Collins Key! He took America by storm with his amazing auditions with mental magic. Unlike large, glamourous acts, Collins charms and defies logic with seemingly everyday, simple items. From predictions and influence to magic and sleight of hand, this kid is someone to keep on eye on! Isn't it refreshing to see a fun magic act by someone just being themselves? No Glitter, no hype.

After a couple days of brainstorming in the "secret lair"

I'm so proud to see him attack this pressure and television show engine like a pro. I can tell you first hand, as their creative consultant behind the scenes, that he has everything it takes to be the next superstar of magic. He has the hole package: hard work ethic you have to see to believe, supportive family, serious chops (that's magic talk for being a bad ass with your hands!), connection with fans and ridiculous charm and looks. Did I mention he's 6'4"?! In fact, he shut down the AGT twitter feed from so much female attraction. Very rarely does a contestant start of on a show as a completely unknown and generate this type of following so rapidly. Keep in mind he just turned 17. The host of AGT, Nick, said he's like the Justin Bieber of magic.

Check out his facebook on AGT

Collin's before it all took off. He aint a bad editor either!

If you do not watch AGT, here's some of the early auditions before he went to the finals. Trust me, there's a lot more in store with Collins. You've seen nothing yet.

Watch a dollar vanish to a popcorn bag:

Watch a chosen page from a book transport to an envelope:

A premonition appears in the most impossible place:

Using magic to get a date:

Collins smashes a $250,000 watch and alters time:

At AGT Finals. A YouTube Prediction:

At AGT Finals. Collins gets cards to switch in judges mouths:

And the show end with a new twist on some old tricks!

Check out Collin's Official Site

(UPDATE: As you very well may know, Collins made the top 6 finals day. We learn tonight the results!... The results are in and he made #5 in 2013! Not bad for a young, new magician!! We are going to see some great things from him in the future! You'll see;))

You can stalk him on twitter here: https://twitter.com/CollinsKey
You can follow me as well: https://twitter.com/richferguson

So funny - the emails and comments floating around... Listen, I'm proud of Collins Key for PUTTING HIMSELF OUT THERE on AGT at 16, now 17. I/he never said he was the most experienced magician... but he's the only one to make it far (and NO magician has ever made the finals) on the show and he has my respect and support for taking on the challenge and opportunity. So many people sit at home and complain about others who TRY. Get over yourselves, show some respect and wish others well. :) Life is short, support each other and you'll be rewarded.

Please SHARE this page and I'll be sure to add more of his AGT videos in one, nice concise spot.

As always, please consider bringing me in for your next exclusive private party or corporate event! Hiring "The Ice Breaker" to interact with your special guests makes your event unique, fun and memorable!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Masters of Illusion Magic Show

Masters of Illusion showcases some of the greatest magicians from around the globe on one stage! Masters of Illusion LIVE is a traveling broadway level stage production, while Masters of Illusion is a made for TV magic special. They are produced by the same talented minds included Gay Blackstone, David Martin and Al Shwartz.

Sneak peek at the stage set up on MOI!

Yours truly will be featured in the 2013-2014 magic special Masters of Illusion on the CW network. This primetime television show will be unprecedented with 13 full episodes of magic! It's created by Associated Television International. Sony Pictures will be handling international programing. Stay tuned!

Later after filming with spectators on stage

A variety of magic and performers including escapes, grand illusions, comedy, mind reading, animals, sleight of hand and much more will be showcased. Performers include greats such as Franz Harary, Rick Thomas, Andrew Goldenhersh, Jonathan Pendragon, Christopher Hart and Ed Alonzo. It's a star-filled line up not to miss.

Spencer Horsman and Rich Ferguson

Ed Alonzo, Rich Ferguson and Christopher Hart

What did I do on the show? A great collection of magicians did a couple tricks each for various episodes. My two effects were quite different from one another. One was a comedy mind reading trick that goes wrong again and again... then is finally saved by someone randomly picked from the audience by the spectator on stage. It must be a weird feeling to freely think of a word and choose someone random that tells you the word! This type of effect leaves people someone confused, so it will be interesting to see how it looks on TV! The second effects was a bizarre demonstration of coincidence vs. fate. A couple is asked onto the stage. A deck of cards are shuffled and placed onto her hand. I take one card and place it in my jacket pocket sticking out, facing me. He picks a card out-loud... it is the one in my pocket. Coincidence, luck, chance? I think not! He holds his chosen card. He turns his card over and the mate to the card turns over in her hand. Fate? Luck? Chance? Next, we tear one card while the other is being held by the lady and the tear goes to the other card... then he writes something secret and special on the card and it also appears on the back of her card... Fate. I do not know how they do this stuff!!! Oh, wait a second...

As always, please consider bringing me in for your next exclusive private party or corporate event! Hiring "The Ice Breaker" to interact with your special guests makes your event unique, fun and memorable!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

The Jeff Probst Show

I'm pretty excited for Jeff Probst and his new show "The Jeff Probst Show" because he's a heck of a guy and I believe it will be a positive type of show like Ellen (see me perform magic on Ellen) - as apposed to the unhealthy drama, shock, hate and gossip found all over television networks. I'd bet that this show will motivate and inspire it's viewers.

If you are wondering how to see his show live, you can get tickets to the Jeff Probst Show!  Jeff is very well known for being the host of Survivor, but this will certainly change his public image fast. I'm thrilled for him and this show.

This is from my academy awards where I joined Jeff

for dinner and enjoyed doing magic for him once again.

From what I know about Jeff, he'll dig for the real answers and will not hold back asking the tough questions. I also think he'll be positive and encourage the best for everyone. The vibe I'm getting is this show is all about discovering greatness in people. How cool is that? We need more people and shows like this. I look forward to amazing guests, stories and audience participation... congrats Jeff!

UPDATE:
I attended Jeff's first show taping and was blown away at the level of care given by the staff. They take great care of their audience and realize that the audience help make the show. In fact, I heard from the warm up comedian, who is Jeff's long time good friend, that Jeff insisted on a quality room for all the guests and had to fight a lot with the network to get it! There were games, snacks, photo-booth, massage chairs, music and entertainment. In addition, it's the only show in LA that allows you to take photos. Even though this is probably more to do with all of us helping the show be marketed, it's nice to see a show let go of some of the over-control associated with other productions. Oh, I almost forgot... I took over Jeff's spot and did some magic for the audience!

To the show itself.. Sure enough, my hunch was right. Jeff really digs for the connection between people, the WHY associated with choices and discovering greatness all around. He is very interested those people who don't just talk about ideas, but those who act on ideas and follow through with them. Each show ends with a segment that lets women ask questions to men about why men do the crazy things they do.. and another segment called Audience Ambush where he chooses one audience member and gives them a challenge and goal to accomplish in one week that typically fits the theme of the show. The main guests come on and it's a very comfortable and personable vibe as apposed to hype and marketing of books you see so often on other shows. Jeff gets right to the questions people at home are likely to ask. In fact, he randomly tosses out the mic to audience members and gets opinions throughout the show.

At the door Jeff enters the show from!

All in all, I'm super excited for this show and for Jeff. He wants to inspire and motivate people to reach for greatness. His tagline says it all. "Life's an adventure. Let's talk about it." Thanks for listening.

As always, please consider bringing me in for your next exclusive private party or corporate event! Hiring "The Ice Breaker" to interact with your special guests makes your event unique, fun and memorable!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Santa Barbara Magician Entertainer

If you are having a private event and want to make it extra fun, get sleight of hand magician Rich Ferguson. Here's a video highlighting the benefits of letting a skilled entertainer like "The Ice Breaker" loose at your event! From Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez and San Luis Obispo to nation wide, Rich Ferguson will be the hit of the party using wit, sleight of hand, mentalism and comedy. Although Rich works worldwide, certain Central Coast deals can be found on our show information page.



Make your party unique, exciting and memorable! It's takes a very specialized type of entertainer to be able to be dropped into any type of party, bring people together and add tons of excitement without being the center of attention. I'll help make your event a jaw dropping-success!

Get a Real Pro with Experience! From entertainment awards and best selling products to the most demanding corporate client, I have the experience, skill and confidence you're looking for.

Entertainer to the Stars - For the best entertainers on television to VIP events for celebrities, athletes and CEO's, you can trust that I'll make a positive and surprising impact that even the most skeptical guests will talk about for years.

My philosophy is simple. It's not about "magic tricks", but what I can do to make your event fun and memorable.

Anyone can do a magic trick, but YOU need someone to add true value to your event and that you can trust to make you and your event look good.

Please visit www.TheIceBreaker.com, watch endless performance clips and testimonials and see how easy it is to add me to your next event!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Magic Tricks Revealed Scam School

Everyone should know a good magic trick or two, right? Well, for most, there's no way they are going to "master" years of sleight of hand magic. The typical person is looking for a magic trick or "bar bet" that looks awesome but does not take much skill or time to set up. These two impromptu magic effects shared on an episode of Scam School are the ticket and are taken right from my best selling "dating magic" book Tricks to Pick Up Chicks available at Amazon.

The first effect explained is using an everyday toothpick! Show how two solid objects pass through each other! Even knowing the secret, it looks cool! The second magic trick revealed is a great betting trick using a playing card or business card. Cut a hole in a card and literally stretch the card large enough to fit a person through it! Enjoy messing with people's head and getting lots of free drinks!



As always, please consider bringing me in for your next exclusive private party or corporate event! Hiring "The Ice Breaker" to interact with your special guests makes your event unique, fun and memorable!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

The Kinetic King Americas Got Talent

If you've watched America's Got Talent, you've certainly seen some amazing, dangerous, wacky, strange and horrible acts! I'm not sure where I'd put the inventive and unique Kinetic King. AGT talent is putting him in the Variety Act category.

The Kinetic King on NBC's AGT

Tim Fort AKA Kinetic King and Rich Ferguson

To the untrained eye, kinetic gadgets are gnarly chain-reaction devices that collapse and explode in, like, really cool ways. When you look closer, not only can these gadgets collapse and explode in many ways, but they can play music tunes and have animation in them. I'm not sure how that art can ever be a full evening show, but it's pretty darn cool and Tim Fort seems like a heck of a guy as well.  Check The Kinetic King's website with a tagline of "Tim-Space Disontinuum".

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Avery and the Calico Hearts AGT

Although they are now off the show, many people fell in love with Avery and the Calico Hearts.

Avery, Brooklyn, Seth, Rich, Kassidy striking poses

One of the funniest thing to happen while hanging out with folks from America's Got Talent is from a particular after-party in Beverly Hills. Here, on the west coast, NBC's AGT show is filmed at 6pm and we watch it live/delayed. So by the time filming is over, we can all gather around and watch the acts on TV as seen by others on the west coast. 9pm came fast and I sat to watch the acts. One of the early acts this particular night was the three girls making up Avery and the Calico Hearts. As I watched their act ending, they entered the room late and stood in front of me. Now, normally this would not be a big deal, but the timing was so perfect that it caused a slight mental lapse! I was not at a studio or stage but at a private home so it makes it more magical when someone walks off stage and walks next to you. From having lots of friends on TV, being on TV and doing magic, it's an interesting perspective sometimes. I had a small taste of the confusion I give to people everyday so I guess it's all fair!

It was a real treat to meet them and wish them well. I  don't think this will be the last we'll see of them! With four magicians walking around that night, I'm sure the girls will never forget this after-party!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Mini Judges Americas Got Talent

If you caught America's Got Talent on August 16th, 2011, you might have been glued to the screen when three little kids that looked like the judges appeared during an illusion! Seth Grabel just finished his Wild Card performance where a Delorean appeared on stage - then the doors opened and three cute little "mini-me judges" crawled out. They stood there posing as Piers Morgan, Sharon Osbourne and Howie Mandel - the judges from America's Got Talent. When the host, Nick Cannon, of AGT asked the little girl her name, she simply replied, "Hello Darling..." in a perfect Sharon tone. It was perfect TV in the making. 

Now, I happen to be friends and was involved with a couple contestants this year and I can tell you that the comment from little four year old was pure awesomeness and not rehearsed as much of reality TV is these days. Two of the kids happen to be the children of an amazing creative consultant, Bart Rockett. This is what Bart has posted about the kids. "Mini Howie is played by Kadan Rockett - 5 who has a full head of hair and went through nearly 4 hours of makeup. His sister Brooklyn Rockett - 4 plays Mini Sharon & Charlie Hartman -5 plays Mini Piers. All are child actors represented by Sha'Lin Talent in Burbank, CA. You can see what Kadan & Brooklyn Rockett really look like by searching their names on youtube and seeing their videos! It's funny."


Here's a fun shot of the after party with some of the gang. 

It was a fast paced trip, but fun to be involved. I'm sad to see both my guys out of the running now. 


Want to bring some mind blowing entertainment to your next private event or corporate function? I'd love to see what I can do for you!  Please visit my official site for more details. 

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Scam School Rev3 Magic Moments

One of the my favorite shows, called Scam School, called upon my services as a creative consultant. Brian Brushwood, the host of the show, was a blast to work with and I was honored to be a magician guest on several segments. Brian is awesome! Check him out: http://shwood.squarespace.com/

Too much magic fun with host Brian Brushwood

As it turned out, we filmed my episodes in San Francisco - which is near the company "Revision 3" that runs Scam School along with numerous other highly popular shows. A lot of the Rev3 group showed up to watch and help with production. What a great group of creative folks! I even got to do a bunch of magic for the CEO of Rev3. I had a blast as usual. I had announced that I'd be in the area filming and several good friends even showed up to enjoy some magic. I was especially surprised to be able to hang out with my best friend from high school days, Ernie! That was a great treat to make this fast paced trip complete.

Brian at work doing intro's for the segments

With CEO of Rev3, Jim Louderback

Don't Scam the scammers!

Now, for those who have no idea what Scam School or Rev3 is, take a quick peek at what you are missing! Scam School with Brian Brushwood is your headquarters for learning magic, bar bets, scams and much more. In fact, to quote the host, "Scam School - the only show dedicated to social engineering at the bar and on the streets..."

Other Revision 3 shows include AvTalk, App Judgement, The Ben Heck Show, bytejacker, Dan3.0, Death Battle, Destructiod, digg dialogg, diggnation, Epic Meal Time, Film Riot, Film State, Foundation, Geek Beat TV, Hak5, HD Nation, lifehacker, Penn Point, Scientific Tuesdays, Soldier Knows Best, TechnoBuffalo, Tekzilla, Tom's Top 5, The Totally Rad Show, Unboxing Porn, The Young Turks - That should be enough to keep you busy for a while!

If you are interesting in learning a ton of Magic Tricks, Bar Bets and Scams, check out my #1 Book on Amazon - Tricks to Pick Up Chicks. Don't be fooled by the title, it's a play on words my fellow geeks. Yes, indeed, it teaches awesome "pick up" magic, but it's not a seduction book. It reveals some awesome tricks, lines, bets and scams to have fun with the ladies or friends alike!  Available now at Amazon.com.

Available at Amazon.com or DatingTricksRevealed.com

If you want to have me "crash" a party near you, booking information can be found at my official site, www.TheIceBreaker.com!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Willie Nelson Country Throwdown Tour

Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour is an awesome good time! Imagine 14 bands, signer-songwriters between acts, 3 stages, tons of great food, fun booths and demonstrations by Harley Davidson. Luckily for me, I was backstage enjoying playing pool, doing magic and entertainment for artists and staff, eating home-made country food and chilling with folks like Willie. Thanks to the Pozo Saloon for being so hospitable and detailed for all those fine VIP's. The night ended with an after-party on the Saloon deck with more signer-songwriters in an intimate show.

Here's just a partial list of the amazing talent being brought to you by this country tour: Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Jack Ingram, Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, Craig Campbell, Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real, Drake White, Adam Hood, Austin Lucas, Brent Cobb, Caitlyn Smith, Dani Flowers, Erin Enderlin just to name a "few".

For more information on the Pozo Saloon and concerts in that area, check out the Pozo Saloon website!
For more information on Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour, check out the official website!

For more information of having "The Ice Breaker" at an exclusive party or corporate event, go to my official website!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Rams Sam Bradford Air Time

Ram's Sam Bradford Air Time? I'm not talking about air time from NFL football player Sam Bradford's amazing throwing arm. Nope. I'm talking about a private Learjet trip with the man himself.

Sam Bradford and The Ice Breaker June 2011.

I was brought in to do a custom mind reading act for a corporation. Corporate travel sent a private Learjet again to pick me up in my hometown of San Luis Obispo, California. When leaving the event the next afternoon in Arkansas, my assigned assistant asked said Sam Bradford would like to hitch a ride to Oklahoma City on my way back to California. Sam was brought into the event as a guests celebrity speaker while I was brought in as a corporate entertainer. We did not really get much chance to see each other at this large event, so having this intimate opportunity was awesome.

We both arrived to the jet center by different drivers and were ready to take off within seconds. From take off from Arkansas to landing at the jet center in Oklahoma City was a blazing 30 minutes.  I got to chat with Sam about off season responsibilities, upcoming work and speaking programs and to dazzle him with some magic! He's a hell of a humble guy who really lives and breathes football. In fact, he has never seen a magician before! Imagine your first time seeing magic going 600mph sitting across from a mentalist and sleight of hand artist. His head had to hurt! All in all, I'm a new fan of Sam's. He's very likable, generous and humble. I can't tell that he's going to do more speaking programs in the future and I wish him the very best.

Since it's not too likely you and a bunch of friends will be sitting across from me in a private Learjet anytime soon, you can bring me to your next exclusive party or corporate event! I'll take real good care of your guests... or completely freak them out. Whichever comes first.

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Ellen Degeneres Showcases Magician

The Ellen Degeneres Show is about as good as it get for television for a sleight of hand magician! My appearance as a special guest was a blast to say the least. A previous post talked about the time leading up to the show. Now that the show has aired, enjoy this clip!

I started off with an effect made custom for Ellen. Next, we played with time travel doing a series of events with her freely chosen card. That magic trick starts off with her card jumping out of the pack. Lastly, I return at the end of the show to do a prediction effect using her book. Ellen and everyone at her show are top notch, professional and fun! What a great show. It's like magic!

"You're a freak! Wow... Wow! That's craziness!" was my favorite part. As you can see, I try to make the magic about them versus just trying to trick someone or make them look foolish. Fun times indeed!

Here's a clip from the local news promoting the airing of Ellen the next day. The trick with Dave was fun!

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Preparing for Ellen Degeneres Show

Being a special magician guest on Ellen Degeneres was like magic! I'll quickly share the path leading up to my first appearance on her show. By the way, there will be many more!

When they called to see if I was interested in meeting to see if I would meet there standards, I jumped right on the opportunity. I mean, there was nothing to think about. I could care less what was on the calendar because it was going to be moved!  As it turns out, I was going to be in the LA area to attend the Magic Castle a few days later from that first call. I suggested that we meet that Friday. It worked out well. Upon arrival, it was apparent that her offices and studios were quit a bit larger than any other show I've been involved with. The Ellen Show takes up two entire airplane hangers! From the instant I walked in the door, I knew I would be working with people that would be fun, professional and committed. We had fun together instantly. The quick meeting turned into at least an hour of me performing for segment producers and staff. The gut feeling of IF I was going to be on the show transformed to HOW SOON can I be on the show to when will I be on AGAIN. They have seen a lot of magic, but my approach to entertainment fits dead on with what they like it seemed.

I left feeling fairly confident that they found their man but nothing is ever in stone until it's done! They were preparing to head to Orlando and I was going to "hear back" from them in a couple weeks. Two weeks went by and they called saying, "We'd love to have you on next week!"

I prepared a few new tricks for Ellen and packed up to catch my flight. The tricks were closely based on what we agreed I'd do. You'd be amazed on how little control I really have as far as doing any tricks I wanted! Anyhow, they flew me into LA, provided a driver to get me to the Universal Sheraton Hotel at Universal Studios and took care of every professional concern you could possibly have. Again, Ellen has a tight ship and top people working for her. It's no wonder they are so successful with their show. They flew me in a day early due to some juggling of schedules. See, they were heading back to Orlando to film Ellen's show back there and were filming double shows for the next couple days to cover the time during travel. So, I had to be ready for any possible changes. In the end, it all went according to plan. I enjoyed a nice day at Universal Studios, watched a movie and practiced some magic on fun people at the hotel.

Sign on the wall outside my own changing room

The day of the shot was interesting as well. A driver took me over to the studios where I was greeted by the segment producers again. Slade and Chris are the main guys I had been talking too and it sure makes life easy when you really like people! I had my own room waiting for me with drinks, food, DVD, TV, music and more. All sorts of celebrities were walking by because the Ellen Show was taping those extra episodes that day. La Toya Jackson and family, Christian Slater, Helen Hunt, Jennifer Hudson, Vin Diesel, Savannah Robinson, James Marsden to just name a few people walking around that day!

From the "Green Room", I watched rehearsals, dance competitions and an entire episode prior to our own rehearsal and show. So much goes into this show that it would make your head hurt.  When my rehearsal time came up, we mic'd up and headed out to the main Ellen Showroom. We easily went through the tricks and adjusted the patter, length and angles based on cameras and time limits. It's very tough to adjust a trick that you have been mentally focused on for days. I ran with the punches and got ready for makeup. Within thirty minutes I was back at the gate waiting to be announced to enter into the REAL show. After 7 hours of waiting around, the next 30 would be a blink.... and it was.  I waited just around the corner from the steps where guests appear with a segment producer and myself watching a TV feed of the other side. The gave me the cue to head out (but it was obvious because Ellen said "Welcome Rich Ferguson"). I felt so much love from her and her audience that I was immediately in my comfort zone. The entire energy of her company is to bring joy to the world and bring each other UP. No drama, no B.S.

Ellen laughing at my jokes

The first magic trick I did for Ellen was like an animated flip book we all made in junior high instead of listening to the teacher.  The second trick was an effect based around time travel using her signed card. In both cases, her face was priceless! She even looked off camera to her producers and gave a slight shrug as if saying, "What the hell do I do with that? What can I say besides Uh, wow!"  I will never forget the image of her looking at me like she did. That was magic! I was brought back to end the show with a third effect. This is a new mental effect I call Window which is off my newest magic DVD. I used her book to let her find a word. Then the work appeared on a prediction I had already handed her. This time she really lost it. I'm certain that clip will be shown all over as she just didn't know what to do. That was an awesome moment on TV. As the show ended, I got more hugs and love as we talked for a bit while cameras faded out. She already asked me back and said she was completely amazed. The best part of my trip there was having a little time to exchange gratitude with Ellen. As I exited, I was stopped by executives and producers who also shared that it was perfect and they want me back. It doesn't get much better than that!

I'll be sure to post some feedback, stories and video once it goes live. It was a marvelous experience to say the least. The show takes good care of those that take good care of them and it shows.

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

Power of 10 Event - Entertainment and Motivation

The entire gang from Power of 10 Event. If you have not heard of this, you WILL! Power of 10 Event presents motivation and messages for kids through an amazing show filled with all sorts of amazing people, athletes, speakers and motivational leaders. Check out http://www.Powerof10event.com

I've had the honor to connect with these wonderful leaders in changing lives and even got to perform magic at their first show for a few VIP's. Kids, families, schools and business partners were all thrilled by their presentation. I hope you get a chance to get your local school district to bring them.

Jeremy Bates, directly to my left.
As Creative Director of the Power of 10 Event, Jeremy's innovation and creativity spearhead this dream team of visionaries. Jeremy is the owner of Revolution Speak, which is founded on his personal principle of HOPE: Helping Other People Everyday.

Jim Rippey, checkered shirt.
Jim Rippey not only does the impossible, he redefines it. As a snowboarder, he invented at least one new trick, the Rippey Flip, and designed his own bestselling snowboard with Burton. Jim also was the first to complete a backflip on a snowmobile.

Team Tempest
A four man team dedicated to applying the power and force of a storm to their passion for freerunning. Tempest was set to pursue the dream of making a mark in the freerunning world, by adding style, creativity, and dedicated focus to the sport.

Blair Rusin, tank top.
Blair is an amazing artist, musician and ardent snowboarder who combines his love for life with his love of art. He was born in New York, studied art in Italy, and can usually be found in the air- over a slope of snow.

Last, but not least, the founder, Jim Richardson seen directly to my right.

From music, magic, dance, life stories, art and much more, there is something for everyone! Here's wishing Power of 10 Event much success.

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN

The Magic Castle Magicians and Entertainment

For years, I've been a member of the Magic Castle. In fact, after my decision to become a professional, full-time entertainer, I joined immediately. Ever since becoming a professional magician, people have asked about the Magic Castle. Let me explain it in layman's terms - as it is quite often thought of as simply a theater by those who have not attended this unique, invite only, mysterious old mansion.

(If you are looking to HIRE A MAGICIAN, you are welcome to contact me. If I can not take care of you personally for a private party or corporate event, I can refer or provide the best in each field of magic. Do not hesitate to call.)

The Magic Castle is located just behind the Chinese Mann Theater
one block from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Magic Castle in located in Hollywood, California. It's the home of the Academy of Magical Arts. Does that statement even make it more confusing? Here's the deal... The Magic Castle is a place to see amazing shows, discover the history of the magical arts, have dinner and drink 'til you can't... as there are six bars conveniently located throughout! But the "Castle", as pro's call it, is much more than a showplace. It is an invite only club in which public can witness magicians from around the world on any given night. Now, the Academy of Magical Arts is like the worldwide union for performing magicians and entertainers and it's offices are located inside the Magic Castle! Got it? It gets "trickier"...

Won Gold Medal for Interactive Magic.
Right: Gay Blackstone, wife of the late Harry Blackstone Jr.

Within the walls of the Castle, you'll find endless memorabilia, secret doors, moving parts, numerous showrooms, a fine restaurant, a guarded library and a museum. Shows range from pure sit down sleight of hand presentations to stand up comedy shows to nightly stage shows. It get's even "trickier"...

When planning on going to the Magic Castle, you might expect or have heard that a particular magician works there... The truth be told, on any given week, it's different performers from around the world. No entertainer actually works there permanently... but do not confuse this club as the comedy club where acts come and go. Nope. It's much harder to become a performing member and entertainer than it is to attend as a guest. It gets even "trickier"...

One of numerous intimate showrooms your discover.

To become a member is not easily defined. You have to audition or interview first. Believe it or not, most members are not magicians at all. There are thousands of members worldwide that range from people that collect magic, build magic, research magic, perform magic and those that just love it and want to be a member of the most unique club in the world. Each type of membership has it's perks and path to becoming an accepted member. Performing magicians have to perform in front of a committee that decides their fate while non-magicians have to apply and be interviewed to ensure they have the best intentions and understanding of the club. It's certainly a special place indeed... and the numerous, similar places that are compared to it are simply wonderful showrooms and do not have the behind the scenes and industry aspects. It gets even "trickier" yet!...

Along with the obvious features of the Castle, there is even a room devoted to Houdini. Here, you will find his original shackles and other amazing memorabilia. This room is open for very special reservation only dinners where you get to whiteness your own personal seance. Another very popular feature is Irma, the piano playing ghost. Oh, this is not just a self playing piano! Nope, you communicate with her and request any song you want. If you are really sharp and know the lyrics to songs, you can hold conversations. That's tricky! Told you.

Just behind me, you can see the water barrel Houdini would
be shackled and submerged in.

Currently, Neil Patrick Harris is a big part of the Magic Castle as well are numerous well known celebrities who love this unique art. The Castle is a source of the worlds best magicians and is often called upon for hiring magicians for private events. You can even host your own party at the club. Just call the Famous Hollywood Magic Castle for details.

The founder of The Magic Castle is an amazing force in entertainment. Milt Larsen transformed an old victorian mansion into the world famous club in 1961 while his brother Bill helped promote it. He also created the Mayfair Music Hall in Santa Monica, California, The Variety Arts Theatre in Los Angeles and Caesars Magical Empire at Caesars Palace Las Vegas. Milt is seen regularly at the club and still produces top magic shows such as "It's Magic!"

With Milt in front of the Magic Owl and "secret" entrance

To attend and bring guests, expect to make dinner reservations and adhere to a strict dress code. Learn more about it at MagicCastle.org  If you know me and want passes/invitations, just email me anytime. It makes an awesome date and is a wonderful place to take an important client. You have to be 21 and over to attend at night or you may attend for brunch on the weekends with kids. I'll quickly add that there are classes and special events to look out for as well. When you arrive, you'll notice the house and think to yourself, "That can't have too much in it"... when you enter, you'll be very disorientated since the entire building is like an iceberg as 2/3 is underground. Pretty tricky! When you first enter, you will have to say the "magic words" to the golden owl on the bookcase to have the bookcases open to let you into the main building ...That's tricky too!

We've taken endless clients, celebrities and friends!

Music and Actor buddies. Check out Damon Castillo Band.
Dress code? The Castle was not open yet! Don't worry.

HIRING A MAGIC CASTLE MAGICIAN: If I can't appear, I can highly recommend or provide top quality acts from different areas of the country for high end private and corporate events. If you want mind-blowing magic at a party or event, give me a call and I'll try my best to "appear"... but please only contact me if you are looking for mind-blowing, fun and interactive magic that your guests will rave about for years. I work all over the world and no party is too big or too small. Have a truly magical day.

Best, RICH Ferguson, AKA "The Ice Breaker"

Thanks for sharing the magic! E-mail Rich! Official Website Local: 805-234-7469 National: 877-RICH-FUN