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Magifest 2024

Name: Magifest magic convention
Start: 2021-09-16T09:30
End: 2021-09-18T23:59
Location: Renaissance, Columbus Downtown

25 - 27 January 2024

Columbus, Ohio, USA

Magifest 2024

Seeing the best performers in the world will inspire you, and drive you to take your own magic to the next level.

Learning brand new tricks, moves, and methods will motivate you to try new things.

Meeting—and hanging out with—your magical heroes and 1,000 like-minded individuals is an experience you’ll never forget.

This is why we run Magifest. To inspire and motivate us all. And this is why you need to come.

Who better to give you inspiration than the incredible lineup of performers we’ve put together for 2024. Starting, of course, with our Guest of Honor, Richard Turner.

He was a student of Dai Vernon, and he performed on some of the world’s biggest stages and on the most sought after television programs. His career journey has been unlike anyone else in magic history. Richard Turner is retiring from public performing, and this, he tells us, will be his farewell performance. We are so honored to have him on our stage.

And that’s just the start, you can see the performers we’ve announced so far, and we know they will not only all entertain you, but importantly, they will inspire you to take your magic to the next level.

This year, take note of our two new initiatives: VIP tickets and Basecamp for newcomers.

2024 Performers & Speakers

Richard Turner

Richard Turner is undoubtedly one of the best card handlers the world has ever seen, and if you’ve never seen him work live, we can’t wait to see your reactions. Everything you’ve heard about what he can do is true. Richard will be performing his full show for the last time ever! We’ll also be interviewing the living legend himself live on stage. This really is a chance of a lifetime to see this amazing man work, and meet him too.

Juliana Chen

Juliana Chen made history as the first woman and the first magician of Chinese heritage to achieve a world title for a solo act in the prestigious 50-year history of FISM. Her remarkable talents and dedication to the craft led her to numerous accolades, including winning the All-China Best Magician competition. Juliana's pursuit of excellence propelled her to conquer magic competitions across Europe and the USA. We are privileged to have Juliana Chen grace our magic convention with her presence, where she will share her vast knowledge and insightful experiences.

Allan Ackerman

For more than four decades Allan Ackerman has been praised as an innovator and technician with a pack of cards. He has been on the cutting edge of the card magic scene for so long that his name—and his work—has attained legend status. But Ackerman seldom appears at lectures or conventions, and particularly in recent years, has not been as visible in the magic community. This is why we're thrilled to welcome Allan Ackerman to Magifest 2024.

Asi Wind

Asi Wind joins us fresh on the heels of his highly-acclaimed off-Broadway run for his show, Inner Circle. Asi has made two recent appearances on the Kelly Clarkson Show, and won Magician of the Year from the Academy of Magical Arts. Asi is a Magifest favorite, and we're delighted that he makes his return to our stage with an all-new, never-to-be-repeated event that will focus on collaboration, and how we can improve our magic through working together with our magician friends.

John Graham

John Graham is a Magifest veteran, and author of the widely-praised book, Stage by Stage, and his more recent Encore, which explores his handling of the multiple selection plot. John Graham is a seasoned performer who has graced our stage for a lecture and show. This time he teams up with his close friend Asi Wind, and together they present 'Magic Between Friends,' which will be part lecture, part show, part philosophy, all about how to improve our magic through collaboration.

Jay Sankey

A legend in the magic industry and hailing from Canada, Jay Sankey is the world's most prolific magician, having released thousands of original trick compositions over his storied career. Sankey will deliver a lecture of new, unpublished material as well as some of his very favorite routines, all in celebration of the reprint of his seminal books, The Definitive Sankey. If you've never seen Jay Sankey live, don't miss this rare convention appearance, and a catch to see his zany antics and amazing magic up close.

John Guastaferro

'John G' is a Magifest favorite, but this time he will share two new aspects of his talents that have never been showcased for magicians. By day, John G is a successful executive for a major non-profit, and he delivers inspirational keynote addresses all over the country. Building on his 'one degree' theory for developing magic, he will speak to us on the one degree changes we can make to our magic and to our lives. In addition, John is a world-class guitarist, specializing in a soothing blend of classical and Spanish styles. He will infuse music into his presentations.

David Kaplan

David Kaplan is a Columbus native and a familiar face on the Magifest stage. He is also one of our favorite magicians. When not residing in Columbus he travels all over the world doing his unique blend of magic and vaudevillian physical comedy. This year, we present a new dimension to the Great Kaplan: a full stage show.

Alexander Koblikov

Alexander Koblikov is one of the world's foremost jugglers. He has traveled the world with his nautical-themed juggling act, and he will fill the variety space in our Gala Show. Originally from Kiev, Ukraine, we are thrilled to welcome Mr. Koblikov for his Magifest debut.

Peter Samelson

If you’re interested in theatrical magic, Samelson literally wrote the book on it. Theatrical Magic is a collector's book now, but its influence was far-reaching and for good reason. Penn Jillette says that Peter is one of the best magicians in the world. From his pioneering work on the Snowstorm effect to hits like Body Snatchers that he performed on Fool Us, at Magifest 2024, Peter will be sharing the tricks that built his well-deserved international reputation as well as showing new handlings and new ideas he has never published.

Michael Feldman

Michael's magic is not just about tricks; it's about creating unforgettable experiences. He understands the power of storytelling and uses it to weave narratives that captivate and engage his audience. Whether performing on stage or up close and personal, his charisma and infectious enthusiasm leave a lasting impression on all who witness his magic.

Dan Harlan

An Ohio native, Dan Harlan has ascended to the highest heights of our industry, as both a creative and performing luminary. Harlan has created some of the most enduring, best-selling effects in the magic industry, and we joins Magifest this year with an all-new lecture and show. You'll see him perform and explain some new, wildly creative magic. You'll also have a chance to see how, precisely, Harlan weaves his material together into a cohesive show.

Jason Suran

A rising star in the field of mentalism, Jason Suran combines a biting, dry wit with jaw-dropping mentalism: the result is a full-on assault of the senses. Heralded as "jaw dropping" from People Magazine and "A Must See" from The Daily Mail, Jason holds the coveted "Artist in Residence" position at the renowned Soho House in New York City. Jason will perform his full mentalism show in his Magifest debut.

Montreal Trio

The Montreal Trio, featuring Michel Huot, Yannick Lacroix, and Marc Trudel, have a completely unique three-person stage act that combines humor and magic in a way that we're certain you'll love. They will feature the act that they recently performed on France's Got Talent to wide acclaim!

Arthur Benjamin

Both a Professor of Mathematics and a magician, Dr. Arthur Benjamin combines his two passions in one of the most unique acts in our industry. He has performed on The Colbert Report, National Public Radio, CNN, and The Today Show. Billed as a "mathemagician," Mr. Benjamin will perform his outstanding, hilarious, and insane act during our gala show.

Trigg Watson

Trigg is, right now, one of the "most-watched" magicians on the planet. He is, at the time of this writing, a finalist on America's Got Talent. He astounded the judges with a technological-magic act, featuring animations that go into and out of a television screen. Originally from Australia, Trigg now makes Los Angeles his home, where he is in-demand for corporate and private events all over the world.

Randy Shine

Randy Shine is in high demand all over the world. He has opened for comedian Trevor Noah, and been featured on Penn & Teller's Fool Us, as well as Masters of Illusion. He was voted College Magician of the Year three times, and his schedule performing at universities is jam-packed. Randy will host our Session Event, where you'll also get to see him perform and lecture.

Lance Rich

Making his Magifest debut, Lance Rich is both an accomplished performer and magic historian. It is this latter pursuit that they will exhibit on our stage during our "Session" event. Lance will share his groundbreaking research on the history of magic in Las Vegas. If you suspect this talk will be nothing more than a slideshow of names and dates, then you've never seen Lance at work. His presentation is a multimedia extravaganza, and he unravels his research like a mystery novel: there is intrigue, a plot twist, and a surprise ending. This presentation and this research all celebrates the release of his new book, Neon Dreams, which is the first--and definitive--look at magic in Las Vegas.

Blaise Serra

Blaise Serra is based in New York City. He has appeared on Fool Us and is a regular performer Speakeasy Magick in New York City. Blaise will be lecturing on his systematic approach to creativity, which he has used for years to consistently develop original magic both for himself as well as numerous stage and film productions he has consulted on.

Richard Hatch

Richard Hatch is a Utah-based performer and magic scholar. Of late, he has turned his attention toward Günther Dammann. Dammann was a young, German scholar of magic who published a book of biographies of Jewish magicians at the worst possible time and place: Berlin 1933. In his talk at Magifest, Hatch will answer the question of why Dammann did this, and we'll explore the consequences of his research. The talk is entitled, "Günther Dammann and The Lives of the Jewish Magicians."

2024 VIP Tickets

For the first time in Magifest history, we’re offering you the chance to get VIP treatment. By grabbing a VIP ticket (or upgrading your current ticket to VIP), you can experience Magifest like never before with these amazing perks:

Workshop Tickets Included
You’ll be coming to our two additional workshops on the Sunday after the convention. This alone has a value of $200 and is included in your VIP ticket.

Priority Seating
VIPs don’t have to worry about wasting time standing around in lines. Events will open early for VIPs allowing you a chance to get the best seats in the house before the room is opened up to all other guests.

Priority Registration
VIPs will have a separate line for registration, allowing you to save time and get on with enjoying the convention.

VIP Pin
All VIPs will receive a special, Magifest pin.

Swag Bag
When you register, you’ll also receive an exclusive Vanishing Inc. Swag Bag with merchandise and a discount coupon to use at the Vanishing Inc. stand.

If you want to make the most of your time at Magifest and experience the convention in the best way possible, you need to become a Magifest VIP. VIP tickets are $550 or you can upgrade an existing ticket for just $200.

What Happens?

In short, performances and lectures from the best magicians in the world combined with amazing informal jam sessions in the lobby and bar area. And not much sleep!

Magifest is different from other conventions. We don’t schedule events to overlap, so you will be able to see every single session.

We put in breaks, so you can grab food, hang with your friends (and make new ones), and simply decompress a little to take in all the amazing magic you’ve just learned.

And because we limit attendance, it’s not so busy that you have to fight to get a seat at shows, or the bar is 20 people deep, or you can never get a seat in the lobby.

You’ll get to eat, sleep and breath magic for three, wonderful days. Surrounded by like-minded magicians. You’ll reconnect with old friends, and make new friends that will last a lifetime.

Magifest also boasts the largest Dealers Room of any magic convention in America. You’ll be able to see - and get your hands on—many brand new, unreleased books, tricks, and more. This means you’ll be ahead of the pack, and have the latest and greatest before anyone else!

Who Should Attend?

Everyone who shares our passion for magic! We have some of the best professional magicians in the world who come as attendees because they love the convention. Equally, beginners and less experienced magicians come too, because they want to learn from, and be inspired by, the magicians who they get to see—and meet—at the convention.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been into magic for your entire life or just a few months. Magifest is an inclusive convention and everyone is made to feel incredibly welcome.

If you’ve never been to Magifest, or any convention before, we’re organizing some new events this year to make sure you feel welcome, can make new friends, and most importantly become a better magician.

How Much Is It?

This is the good bit. It’s just $350 and that gives you three days full of incredible magic. You’re going to see, and learn, so much new magic that compared with anything else, Magifest is the best value in magic.

• Youth scholarships
• Magifest schedule
• Get in touch

Renaissance, Columbus Downtown

50 N 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Be sure to ask for the Magifest rate when booking a room. It's currently $112 (plus taxes) per night.

How to book a room

Introducing Magifest Basecamp

We have all felt overwhelmed by the idea of coming to a magic convention. What if you don’t know anyone? Are people friendly? Who will you chat with? Who will you have dinner with? What if you’re nervous or anxious?

This year, we’re proud to announce new offerings designed to help first-timers, or those who want to make more friends feel as welcome as our Magifest veterans.

We’re calling it Basecamp. A safe place you can return to any time you need.

Welcome Event
After the first session, all first-timers are invited to a breakout room where you’ll get to meet your hosts Josh and Andi and your other friends-to-be. We’ll make sure you’re welcomed properly and get to meet each other. Friendships could be formed here that will last you a lifetime. We can’t wait to meet you.

Basecamp Tables
We know how it can feel awkward for a first-timer or magic beginner trying to join a jam session already in progress. Or that the idea of eating alone can feel intimidating. So, this year, we’re reserving special tables in the convention area exclusively as your “Basecamp”.

These tables will be marked with table tents and will often have hosts present to help people get to know each other, to encourage us all to help each other with moves, or tricks, and to just generally have the best of times. Whether you’re working on a new trick or just want to see some cool magic, these tables will be a great place for Basecampers to gather.

Special Pins
A special pin will let everyone know you are a Basecamper. Beyond being an awesome collectible, this will help Magifest veterans better welcome Basecampers and ensure you experience the very best of Magifest.

Magifest is undoubtedly one of the best weekends of the year for magicians and mentalists. We don’t want you to miss anything. So we’re doing everything we can to make sure you feel welcomed and have an incredible experience.

2024 Workshops

We've invited two of the finest magicians working today to conduct intensive workshops with limited attendance. This is the closest you will ever get to a private lesson with Dan Harlan and Art Benjmain.For your convenience, both Sunday workshops are easily attended together, with a lunch break between for you to enjoy alongside new friends.

Sign up for each workshop for $100. However, both workshops are included in our VIP registration fee ($500), making it the best value for money. VIP registrations also include downloads of the workshops. (If you are already registered, you can upgrade to VIP in your account area).

Art Benjamin (11am - 1.30pm)

We’re overjoyed that the extraordinary Dr. Arthur Benjamin will be hosting an in-depth workshop at Magifest. Dr. Benjamin, not only a renowned magician but also a mathematician, will merge the realms of magic and math.

In this one-of-a-kind workshop, attendees will witness the fusion of mathematics and magic, as Art shares the secrets behind his incredible mathematical magic. From lightning-fast mental calculations to mind-reading feats, Dr. Benjamin will guide you through the fascinating intersections of numbers and magic.

Whether you're a math enthusiast, a magician, or simply curious about the connections between these two worlds, this workshop promises to be an enlightening and entertaining experience. This is a rare opportunity you do not want to miss.

Dan Harlan (2.30pm - 5.30pm)

Join us at Magifest for an incredible experience as the amazing Dan Harlan hosts an intimate, rare, hands-on workshop. With a career spanning decades and a reputation as an incredible performer and creator, you know you’re in safe hands.

During this exclusive workshop, attendees will have the unique opportunity to delve into Dan’s world of magic. From sleight of hand techniques to the psychology behind astonishing performances, you'll gain invaluable insights into the art of magic.

Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to refine your skills or a passionate hobbyist eager to improve, this workshop is designed to inspire. Don't miss the chance to be there as Dan Harlan shares his expertise. Join us at Magifest for a rare chance to learn from this master.