Tag: lighting cues

Production Value

Working more and more in theaters, it has me paying attention to the things that really aren’t possible in non theater shows.  I remember when sound became a thing for me, and that was a game changer in my show.  Now being able to play with video projection, video and lighting is opening a whole … Continue reading “Production Value”

Working more and more in theaters, it has me paying attention to the things that really aren’t possible in non theater shows.  I remember when sound became a thing for me, and that was a game changer in my show.  Now being able to play with video projection, video and lighting is opening a whole new world for my show. 

I really want to add a video element to the show, where I play a video at some point.  I’m not sure what, I think I want to do something with my daughter where I talk to her on the screen.  I think this would be fun, but it’ll take some work for it to not come off as cheesy.  Currently I call my daughter in the show and that works well, but that has a “live” feeling, where with a video I’d be worried it would feel canned. 

Having these options opens a world of possibilities for my show.  Like being able to do a few smaller tricks for larger audiences.  I’ve been doing my mismade bill routine, which isn’t for 500 + people, however it works with the projection screen and plays well.

Production Value and You

One of the things I noticed while watching Shawn Farquhar’s show the other day was his use of production value in the show. It’s something that a lot of magicians, especially ones who come out of the comedy world don’t use enough of. It’s also something that adds a lot to the show. For example … Continue reading “Production Value and You”

One of the things I noticed while watching Shawn Farquhar’s show the other day was his use of production value in the show. It’s something that a lot of magicians, especially ones who come out of the comedy world don’t use enough of. It’s also something that adds a lot to the show.


For example he uses different lighting for different parts of the show, not just a general wash. This adds texture to the show, however it’s something that you can’t do in most non-theater venues. Some higher end corporate events or conventions in ballrooms will have lighting options. I’ve only encountered this a few times in hotel ballrooms.


My opinion is to design a show that works both ways. So it piece will work and play with a general wash, however when you have the option for lights, you can use it.


I keep a thumb drive with everything a theater could want on it in my case. This has all of my cues from lighting, video to audio, as well as the audio files. I always have it, so if I have someone to run the lights, I’m good to go!