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'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - The Lecture

E-mails received about the 2002 World Lecture Tour, January to March 2002.

"I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I enjoyed your lecture last Friday night at The Magic Castle. You are both amazing people with a great amount of talent." - Michael LaFond.

"I loved your lecture in Baltimore. Thanks again for a very entertaining and informative lecture. All the best." - Bob Sheets.

"We so VERY much enjoyed your lecture at Grand Illusions! The people who attended are saying you gave the best lecture we have ever hosted. No K.S. (Kangaroo s**t). You really knocked 'em dead here and people are STILL buzzing with creativity and an eagerness to put to use the excellent theatrical tricks you taught them... As for me? The 22 year veteran of professional close-up? The sceptic who has his same tried and true sets for the last ten years? Well... on the Tuesday following the lecture I did a VERY lucrative job for a local Business-Networking periodical here in Sacramento. If you had followed me around you would have seen that I abandoned the first routine in my set in exchange for a bag of rubber-bands and little souvenir cards with holes punched in them. If I learned nothing else, and I most certainly cannot say that, just that one idea was worth more than three lecture fees. One gentleman, who's business was marketing, read the comedy on the one side of the card, and turning it to see my contact info, raised his eyebrows and made an appreciative "Oooooo" sound in admiration of the marketing idea. When I left the event I looked back into the room and could see at least a hundred persons with rubber bands around their wrists with little cards attached to them. Simply splendid. Thank you!" - Steve Johnson.

"I saw the Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster lecture last night. It was one of the better lectures I've seen in the last five years. At least three of the items they covered are 'workers' and they have a lot of advice on creativity, walk around and staging. If they are coming your way, make a point to attend." - C Norris.

"Saw your lecture last night (Feb 21) in Fort Collins, Colorado. I've been in magic sixty years (mostly as a collector) and just wanted to say that yours was one of the finest lectures I have ever seen. I got on the phone this morning to urge two friends to be sure and catch you tonight in Denver. Also wanted to thank you (especially Sue-Anne) for the most excellent job of autographing a poster to me. I have a daughter who has a framing shop, and she will do it justice with appropriate double mats and a suitable wooden frame. Rather than going into the collection as such (which the Yankee Magic Collector Journal called "renowned"), it will instead go up in my office (I am a semi-retired psychologist). There, I display some of the Houdiniana, together with a few examples of paper from those few performers I have come to particularly respect over the years - Paul Daniels, Norm Nielsen, Johnny Thompson etc. You two will be among them, where you belong. It was a wonderful, wonderful lecture. Bravo!" - Dr. Ronald P Dutton.

"I'm not a big fan of bothering people after a show and stroking their egos, nor is that my intent now. That being said, I saw and met both of you at my friend Carlos' Magic Shop in Garden City, Michigan last night. By the time I got home it was 1am. I can't imagine how late the night was for you. I was so excited I couldn't sleep until about 8am. I don't need to tell you that you do really great and inventive magic. You have people all over the world telling you that everyday. What could I possibly add? The thing that stands out to me most is that aside from the miracles you perform, you are both such open and delightful people to talk to. Whether on stage or off, whether it was with me or someone else, you were never rude or obnoxious or even just too good for the rest of us. Although I know thast there's not much chance of me being on the same magical level as you, you both treated us as equals with a common interest. Not like someone that knows more than everyone else. Your magic is wonderful, but your personalities make the show! Thank you for such an enlightening and delightful experience." - Chip Christian.

"Wanted to tell you how much my son and I enjoyed your lecture in Garden City, Michigan, about two weeks ago. It was a lot of fun for both of us and we had never attended anything like that before." - Todd Mossoian

"I just wanted to write and say how much I enjoyed your lecture at both Magifest and in Cincinnati. There were numerous great points and tips mentioned that I'm sure many members are using right away. Keep up the great work!!!" - Ryan Swigert

"I attended your presentation at the Magic Castle and I just wanted to thank you very much for your inspiration and the gift of your art. I am an aspiring magician and well as a Chemist. I have been studying magic for a while but Tims style in performance has helped me define my direction and focus.
Thank you again, you were both just fantastic and hope to see you again some day." - Jay S. Jaworski

"I was at your Buffalo lecture and I would like to thank you for such an excellent job. Your program was a real eye-opener. I stayed up until 3am reading your lecture notes that night and I was most excited about your acknowledgement of Jesus Christ. I have just finished looking at your website and saw Sue-Anne's article about World Vision. Thank you again for a lovely evening and your time." Phillip Pratt

"I just attended a lecture of yours (it was the best I've ever seen!) Keep up the great work! You are the kind of people that keep magic alive!" - Karl Miller

"Just wanted to tell you that the lecture in Nashville Thursday night was probably one of the best I've ever seen. I was wanting to go again Thursday to Murfreesboro, but we have Church that night. Tim, some of the things you said made me think more about the magic I do than any I've heard in a while. I've struggled for a long time trying to come up with a great character for stage. My personality in close up is very zany/bizarre/strange, yet likable. After the other night, my only thought is, "Go for it". After seeing you come out, sit very quietly on a stool with the little nice, catchy song playing, then you ate RAZOR BLADES!!! This is exactly what I've been looking for! My magic is to be strange, on the edge. Not like everyone else. I went back and reread the MAGIC Magazine editorial about Magic and the WWF. You were right. It's time to be over-the-top as a performer if I expect to stand out! Thank you so much. You and your wife were a God-send to a struggling magician! Grow strong in Christ." - Rick Green

"Recently saw your lecture in Chicago (Magic Inc.) and I wanted to shower you with praise. The lecture material was first rate and proved that performance magic can be made to appear "real". Thank you for visiting my corner of the globe and passing on the fruits of your work and experience." - Benjamin Barnes

"I had to leave at noon today from the workshop in Columbus, Ohio, after the MagiFest. At any rate, I regretted having to leave without being able to personally thank the two of you for your kindness in sharing the REAL magic... the creative process and kind of thinking that goes into creating the kind of unique and fully entertaining magic you perform, and we all strive to emulate. If I am able to employ your kind of thinking processes when I try to develop my routines, certainly the benefit will be there for my audiences to enjoy!! I came to the workshop to learn "how" to do the resurrection soda... and left having clearly learned that, but more importantly, having learned more about how two professionals work through developing coherent and entertaining magical effects. Thank you for that! And one last point... your willingness to share whatever we wanted to learn from you, to go into what ever interested us, and to share of yourselves freely was truly refreshing!!! Your sincerity as both professionals and as "people" was indeed a great example for the younger magicians there, I thought!! (As youngsters, we all need to be reminded that the "magician" is by ROLE all powerful and great... but in reality we are by nature only human.) In reality we need to be a well grounded, decent human being first. You both surely did model that quite well!!!" - Bob Wegesin

"Just wanted to let you know that the lecture was a big hit. Tim and Sue are outstanding people and the material they covered and the way they presented it was great. Keep up the good work." - Norm Marini

"I had the pleasure of seeing Tim and Sue-Anne's lecture at Midwest Magic in suburban Chicago. It was a joy to attend. Tim's performance experience is evident in his skillful presentations of both original tricks and clever twists/additions/nuances to classic effects. Close up, stand up, strolling... he has much to offer and no wonder he is a FISM Award winner. If you haven't seen his cups and balls or his 6 Card Rap, show up ready to laugh loud and hard. Lovely wife Sue-Anne, a performer in her own right, is a bonus as this is a "dual" lecture. Okay... I read it on the EG first, but seeing Soda Resurrection performed four feet away slapped the cynic right out of me (at least temporarily). Well produced lecture notes made the evening complete. Well worth seeing if they're coming your way." - Tim Felix

 

 

COLUMBUS MAGIFEST - Lectures and shows.

January 31 to February 3, 2002

"I really enjoyed your close up show as well as your lecture. I thought you gave the best lecture there and hope you come back next year. I really wanted to say thank you for a wonderful presentation. You both are excellent performers and truly gifted entertainers. I am grateful to have been in the audience for the lecture as well as the close up show." - Joe Winnell

"I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say what an awesome job you both did at the Magi-Fest. I'm 25 years old and have been performing for 18 years. I have attended 15 Magi-Fests and I can honestly say that you two are in my top three acts of all time. My only complaint was that you weren't on the Headliner Show. Your energy level and creativity are second to none. As you know, being in magic so long has goods and bads. The worst thing about being a magician who performs full time is that I am rarely, if ever, fooled by anything even though I always try to watch the performance without trying to figure things out. I can honestly say that I was fooled by pretty much everything you did. Perhaps the thing that amazes me the most is that you could be selling the notes for your soda trick for $50 if not more and you would sell thousands of them (the only thing that might possibly outsell the soda notes would be notes entitled "how to get a women like Sue-Anne to marry you), but you include them with your regular notes. Truly amazing. I just thought I would let you know what a hit you were at the convention. Everyone that I spoke with said that you were hands down the highlight of the Magi-Fest. Bravo." - Eric Myers

"Thank you for contributing to the huge success of the 71st annual Columbus Magifest. Your fantastic close-up performances, your lecture, and your special masterclass all contributed to making this one of our best-ever Magifests. I would recommend you to anyone who would call to consider your performance. That recommendation includes other magic conventions and other performing venues. You did an outstanding job, were very easy to work with, and you have that special professional touch that pays attention to every detail. Again, thank you for the professional manner by which you conduct yourself and your stellar magical presentations." - Jep Hostetler, Magifest Executive Director.

 

 

NEW YORK - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - The Lecture

Feb 14, 2002. Seth Cohen Assembly 194, Yonkers, New York. Reviewed in their Newsletter

"He sat on a stool curious eyeing a hand razor on the table. Overwhelmed by a boyish curiousity he picked it up, twisted it's handle and slowly brought into view a gleaming double-edged razor. He stared at it, lifted it into the air and then popped it into his mouth and with a big gulp, swallowed it. He did the same with four more of these dangerous pieces of double edged steel, but not before demonstrating their sharpness by slicing sheets of paper with the blade's edges. Then, after ingesting a piece of dental floss, Tim Ellis, "The Wizard of Aus", placed his hand into his mouth and slowly regurgitated the blades, one by one, all tied to the piece of dental floss. Proving that a great effect equals a great presentation equals great acting.

The show and lecture put on by Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster was truly a very happy Valentine's Day filled with all kinds of wonderful treats. For over two hours Tim and Sue-Anne amused and entertained us with effects from their corporate and FISM award-wining acts which they have performed all over the world. They have won more awards than any other Australian magician ever. Tim is also Australia's only world champion of close up magic.

In Credit Card Fax, Tim borrowed the credit card from audience member Phil Klipper, laid it on the table, then placed his own photo ID credit card on top of Phil's. Tim asked Phil to select a card, and would you believe it, Tim's photo not only disappeared from the front of his credit card, but reappeared on the back of Phil's credit card - holding the selected card.

In Soda Resurrection, Tim emptied a can of soda, crushed the can then right in front of our eyes the can uncrumbled and resealed itself. Tim popped open the top and poured out another glass of soda. An eye-popping effect. For all those who purchased the lecture notes, Sue-Anne gave a private demonstration of this effect at the end of the evening.

Tim and Sue-Anne gave out great tips on keeping your Fantasio candles lit, more magical ways of making them appear, ditching thumbtips for squeaky clean endings, using your cell phone as an eavesdropping device, and some good advice on acting.

Cups and Balls - like you've never seen it done before - with a nostalgic 1950's soda shop skit with red balls appearing and disappearing under milkshake cups. Tim donned a black leather jacket and dark shades as he performed this to the tune of 'Runaround Sue'. It all ended with Tim pouring a strawberry milkshake out of one of the cups.

There was a lot more magic, with a very funny six card repeat done to Rap lyrics written by Tim himself to end the evening's show and lecture."

 

 

FRANCE - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - Lecture and Show

Le Double Fond, Paris, France, February 25, 2002

"I went out completely enchanted with this lecture. I have the impression to have grown rich, have learnt of and have received from a certain energy.

The interest of this lecture did not doubtless lie in tricks or advice, although there were many good ideas, but in the spirit, in the run-up and the enthusiasm which they showed for a more creative magic (and more playful) magic. It is not tangible, one can not estimate clear profits, but I know that I was less bad magician after the lecture than before.

It is really the kind of lecture that restores you for the next six months, the urge to burst you into magic and which urges you to create and to improve what you already have in the suitcase. When they have a principle of a trick they do not hesitate to modify the envelope to adapt it to various situations, to make out a will, during the rehearsals, the variety of music and the presentations in improvisation. I think that it is by that method that one eventually masters and understands a trick." - Philippe Day (Part of a much longer review published in French and badly translated by a computer. We'll try to bring you the full version eventually)

 

 

UNITED KINGDOM - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - Lecture and Show

Shropshire Magic Society, UK, March 9 and 10, 2002

"I have been interested in magic for 20yrs, it has only been recent that I joined a magic society. The show that you both presented for the Shropshire Magic Society at the Lord Hill Hotel in Shrewsbury, no words can describe!!! I can't even find words to express more than Fantastic!! My dinner guests have spoken to me since your performance, they have given me a high credibility, due to the excellent performance by both of you. My guests, sister and myself were stunned to see you in the bar performing close up to groups of people. I liked your folded card in the mouth trick. Also thanks for your help with the Card Warp and rubber band magic.

Your lecture on the day after on the 10th March 2002 was an inspiration, the Razor Blade routine and cups and balls, what can I say! When asked how long were you both lecturing for you both replied ALL DAY IF YOU LIKE. I cannot wait to see you perform again, and would so much like to meet you both again." - Jason Davies

"I was on your table at the Shropshire magical society dinner, (yes the little critter opposite you) and attended your lecture the following morning. I would just like to say what a wonderful evenings entertainment it was and how brilliant the lecture was. As a performer my self I can appreciate how wonderfully original the pair of you are." - Paul Dabek

 

 

AUSTRIA - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - Lecture and Show

Innsbruck, Austria, February 27, 2002

"By the way: we are talking a lot of times about your lecture in our magic circle, and the only thing everyone knows about this lecture is: this was the best one we ever had in all the years. That's the truth! Thanks again for this very entertaining, well structured and interesting lecture." - Steve - Pipo 

 

 

 

SOUTH AFRICA - South African Magic Championships - Lectures and Shows

Capetown, South Africa - March 21-24, 2002.

"I have attented your lectures during the magic convention in Cape Town, and REALLY enjoyed them. You guys are excellent!" - Leonie Mollentze

"This is Alan mailing you from a cold and wet Plettenberg Bay in South Africa. I attended your lectures at the recent convention in Cape Town this past weekend and... WOW! I really enjoyed your performances, presentations and professionalism. The 'Living Next Door To Ellis' was THE BEST!" - Alan Strydom

"Just a very quick note to thank you both for truly making the SA Champs an unforgettable event... you really are two of the nicest people in magic and it was indeed a privilege to get to know you... both on stage and off :-) I don't think I'll ever forget our trip to "deepest, darkest Africa" anytime soon... Thank you again for everything." - Craig Mitchell, Convention Chairman.

 

NEW YORK - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - The Lecture

Fechter's Finger Flinging Frolic, Batavia New York - April 25, 2001

Reviewed by Robin Dawes, Linking Ring Magazine

"Their bubbling high energy was irresistible and their magic was delightful. A highlight was the performance, explanation, and repeat performance of Tim's creative Cups and Ball routine. This is a strong lesson in exploiting a theme to solve challenges within a routine.

"Each year the attendees (of FFFF) vote for the convention's MVP, the person who has contributed the most to making the event a success. This year was unusual in that the award went to a team: Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster. A well-earned reward for their boundless enthusiasm and talent."

 

Fechter's Finger Flinging Frolic, Batavia New York - April 25, 2001

Magic NZ E-Zine - By Tom Craven

"I just had the pleasure of watching Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster at The FFFF convention. Then the following weekend at the Battle of Magicians convention in Canton Ohio. As all you Aussies know, they are superb performers! Tim's Cup and Ball routine "killed" everyone at both conventions.

They were on the big, closing night stage show in Canton. The magicians and laypersons were all enthralled by their performance! Your fellow countrymen should be extremely proud of Tim and Sue-Anne. I hope I get to see them again soon."

 

Fechter's Finger Flinging Frolic, Batavia New York - April 25, 2001

Magic Makers on the Web - By David Jones

"The convention started Wednesday evening with a lecture by Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster. It's years since I've seen Tim lecture, and this was quite an eye opener. The lecture is a show in itself, a slick production, full of excellent ideas and tips, with Sue-Anne playing an integral part, rather than just "hanging around" to help sell lecture notes afterwards. It's a very refreshing approach, and works well in their hands. Tim's "Six Card Rap" and cups and balls routine "Run Around Sue" were big hits, and Tim had to perform the cups and balls routine three times during the convention. To say that their lecture was well received would be quite an understatement, they were the definite high point of the convention for many, as evidenced by the award of the MVP (the Most Valuable Person) to both Tim and Sue-Anne by Obie at the end of the convention. This is an award decided by a ballot of all attendees by the way, and not just decided upon by Obie and his "committee"."

 

 

FLORIDA - 'ELLIS IN WONDERLAND' - The Lecture

Tampa Bay Magic Club, Florida - Tuesday April 17, 2001

Letters received by Mark Byrne, Program Chairman

"Mark, Tim and Sue Anne Ellis' lecture last night was one of the best 10 lectures I've seen in the last 40 years. The performance of Tim's Cups and Ball routine was the most original and entertaining I've ever seen. He explains some very strong magic that's easily within the grasp of any magician. Tips and ideas on approaching people for walk-around magic were exceptional. Ideas on getting your name and phone number into the hands of spectators without just passing out business cards were priceless. Besides all that, they're both nice people." - Bob Klase, President TBMC


"Mark, You really did it right this time! Tim Ellis & Sue-Anne Webster really did a great lecture. Lots of good stuff that we all can do, with good notes & even a CD ROM. Sue-Anne is a real lady magician with a mind of her own. Sunny appreciated her remarks on female magicians. But to top this off with just about the best cups & balls routine I have ever seen, and done with milk shake cans yet ........ I just can't say enough good things about Tim's choice of costume, music, routining and great timing, for an act that would be a winner anywhere. I stood up and applauded with everyone else. They did what I always like to see in a lecture. They did what they make money with and not a lecture put together to sell to magic clubs. Bravo!!! I have already e-mailed my friends around the world to tell them not to miss this lecture if it comes their way. Thanks from two performers who appreciate a real lecture."
- Windy & Sunny.

"Tim and Sue Anne lecture and performance has been the highlight of our clubs activities this year. The response from everyone has been most gratifying. They are consummate performers which rely upon solid magical principle to create the illusion of magic. So often we see lecturers who try to over look the glaring unrealistic use of their tricks in real world situations. Tim's FISM award winning act is not only a world class act but, a lesson in how to routine an act and the open mindedness creative free thinking. Tim Ellis & Sue Anne Webster's performance is a sure standing ovation at any function." - Mark Byrne, Program Chairman, Tampa Bay Magic Club.

 

 

MELBOURNE'S MAGIC MALARKEY, 2001

By Adam V

"Tim Ellis performed a very funny cup and balls using a D-Lite. A magician-only piece but extremely funny as he retention vanished balls of light and made them appear under the cups. He followed this by a card routine featuring "Titan the Flea". Everything that could go wrong did go wrong in this routine but was so funny nobody cared. In the end poor Titan got the blame and was mercilessly squashed."

 

By Nick Morton from the ASM's 'Magic Makers'

"I hadn't seen Tim Ellis' new act before but had read of the rave reviews and prizes he was gathering as he travelled the world. All I can say is that the praise he gets is well deserved. Tim's 'D'Cups and D'Balls' is an hilarious spoof on magic adverts and informercials. 'Titan the Flea' was a textbook example on how to take an effect and make it your own (and also a great lesson in how to handle it when things don't go quite to plan). The 50's milkshake act was a perfect mix of music, choreography and magic. Unique and entertaining, it sets the standard for a self-contained close up act. Tim's performance was one of the highlights of the day."

 

REVIEWS FROM THE 2003 WORLD LECTURE TOUR

"I loved the lecture it was great!!!!!!!!!!!"

- Jim Reams, New Haven, Indiana

"I just wanted to send a brief note of thanks for the wonderful lecture you held here in Vancouver on Feb 4, 2003. Having met you both previously at the 4 F convention a few years ago, I knew that you'd live up to my expectations. You're both very kind, generous and proficient in your craft and even though I'm a lover of knuckle busting sleight of hand magic, I really appreciate the theatrical aspect of your presentation."

- Ray Roch, Vancouver

"You are the best!! Great lecture!! Enjoy your tour!!"

- Jeff Ezell, Burbank

"I wanted to follow up and tell you guys thanks so much for coming to Findlay to lecture this past Sunday. Needless to say it was a great hit. You guys are super. I am really glad we chose the '24 Years' lecture but when it comes to magic I know 'Ellis in Wonderland' would have been great too. Honestly I received more comments about your lecture than anyone else recently lecturing."

- Chris Topel, Ohio

"I attended your lecture at The Magic Shop in Garden City, Michigan. I did not get a chance to tell you, but it was by far the best lecture I have ever seen, and I have seen many lectures. It qualified as more of a show than a lecture. It was most creative and original, the way Sue-Anne disclosed the workings of each effect, with her nosy neighbor character. Tim's cups and balls act "blew me away". Great job guys! You're destined for the TOP!! Thanks."

- Jim Placido President, Ann Arbor Magic Club

"I was wondering if (maybe I missed it on your website) your "Ellis in Wonderland" lecture notes are available for purchase. I saw you lecture in Sioux City, IA on Feb. 11, and am still asking myself why I didn't buy it then!! You have done of the BEST lectures I've seen in a very long time!!"

- Derek Reneld, Iowa

"Thank you so much for the greatest lecture I've ever seen. And I don't say that lightly. I hope you had a safe trip, and I'm putting a review on the EG and also on the NZ e-zine of Alan Watson. You are the best. PS: Where do you get all that energy? I'm jealous -:)"

- Don Drake, Las Vegas

DON DRAKE'S REVIEW PUBLISHED IN THE ELECTRONIC GRYMOIRE

"I just had to post this. We had the most wonderful lecture I have ever had the privilege of attending. Being a professional lecturer myself, I don't say this lightly. Tim Ellis & Sue Anne Webster are the most energetic, funny and entertaining couple I have ever seen! Not only are the tricks good, but the method of teaching is hilarious. There's never a dull moment. So PLEASE, if you ever get a chance to see them, don't pass it up."

"First, let me tell you how much I enjoyed your performance and discussion at the Milwaukee IBM Magic Ring. You two are exceptional! One of the greatest aspects I found is how Sue-Anne is an integral part of the show, rather than simply an assistant. The working relationship you two exhibited is phenomenal.

I purchased "The Works" and thoroughly enjoyed it. I've shown several friends your CD already to date. (Not bad, for only 12 hours after last night's show). Again, loved the show, loved the insight, and appreciated every moment of the evening."

- Daniel M. Becker, Director of Marketing and Communications, Barat Education Foundation

"This was the most entertaining presentation our Ring 205 has ever had."

- Gene Craft, Secretary Ring 205, Findlay Ohio

"Thanks again for a most amazing lecture in Gatlinburg TN. I must say it was the most entertaining lecture that I have ever seen. The display of energy and fun that you add to the art is truly magnificent. I enjoy watching magic as much as doing it and I love to be fooled! Your lecture made me feel like I was a kid again! You are truly wonderful magician. I only wish that I had gotten to speak to you both while you were in Gatlinburg. Your time was so limited there. Also, would you tell me how I can follow your progress so that I can see when you will be lecturing in my area again? Thanks again."

- Shane Pittman, Tennessee

"Our feature event was a lecture by Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster. Thank you, Danny Archer for sending these two Australian magicians up to Eastern Washington State! This magical couple presented their first lecture: "Ellis in Wonderland."

Tim and Sue-Anne shared some magical thinking and wisdom. They gave excellent methods for approaching groups during restaurant or strolling magic. They gave good tips on presenting the Fantasio appearing and vanishing candles while lighted. Here are a couple gems from the minds of Ellis-Webster. Make your magic so strong it will make people paranoid. Paranoid people will call you again for more bookings! The simple act of rolling up your sleeves will go a long way to impressing your layman audiences.

Ellis-Webster set their lecture apart from any I
ve ever seen, by presenting some F.I.S.M. Award Winning routines. Tims cups and balls with two milkshake containers was terrific. It was highlighted by the oldies music and old-time malt shop props. Their Six Card Repeat routine was fantastic. They call it "And One Makes Six!"
Tim Ellis, Sue-Anne Webster and their lecture were better than excellenthighly recommended. Were hoping theyll come back to Spokane so we can see their second lecture, "24 Years of Living Next Door to Ellis."

- Michael Munter, Spokane Washington

"On behalf of IBM Ring 41 Milwaukee, thank you including Milwaukee in your USA lecture tour. All 46 attendees came away from last night's performance with a sense of enjoyment, education and appreciation for your enthusiastic approach to magic. The evening past all too quickly.

In addition to Milwaukee area members of Ring 41 and Assembly 61, we had guests from Chicago, Madison and Appleton (the childhood home of Harry Houdini). And your appearance resulted in several new applications for Ring 41 membership. We wish you well on the remainder of your spring tour and a safe trip home to Melbourne. Hopefully our paths will cross again."

- Richard Mehring, President, IBM Ring 41 Milwaukee

"My name is Mark Martinez VP and Webmaster of SAM #61 and the MUM reporter for IBM #41. I attended your lecture and meet you yesterday in Milwaukee... Maybe you'll remember me, I was next to Sue-Anne when we took the picture with you just before you left...

In any case, I loved your lecture. It was very entertaining and informative... When you showed us Magic Sports :-) I just had to kick myself... I have been taking comedy courses, and participating in a local club called ComedySportz... I joined these groups to help my theatrical performance, and help my improvisation. I never thought to put the two things together... I don't know why I never thought to put the two together but when you said that... I was speechless....

I'm sure this e-mail just doesn't show how excited I am to hear this idea about putting the Theater Sports into magic... I wish I could call 7 guys from the magic club and have them take off of work right now and come here so we could play!!!! I am just jumping out of my seat with joy at the idea of playing some of the games in your lecture notes and off of the website... I have already setup a MagicSports activity night for our SAM #61group in April and have talked to a few magicians about starting a MagicSports group that would meet once or twice a month. Thanks for everything."

- Mark Martinez, Milwaukee

"Thanks for braving the frozen north and for visiting St. Paul, MN on your US tour. Your professionalism and creativity are awesome! I was pleased to have the chance to see you again. You both make a great team!"

- Lawrence Sagstetter, St. Paul

"I had a great time at your Dayton lecture! So many new ideas and so little time. Anyway, I told you I'd drop you a copy of the picture that was taken so here you go! I've attached it to this note. I really enjoyed you folks!! I wish there were folks like you close by to get crazy with and improve my routines."

- Al "Alto" Tokarsky, Ohio

"I am writing to express how impressed my wife and I were with your talent for creativity and originality. We were at the Winter Carnival of Magic, and must say that the convention would not have been nearly as enjoyable if you both were not there this year. I am not sure that you would remember me, Tim, but I was the one that asked for a picture with you near the dealer room, and also expressed (after the Sue-Anne workshop) how impressed I was with your performance and asked how the lecture idea of "rewinding" was inspired for you to create such a great masterpiece. Also, my mother was the one that said you looked like David Copperfield in earlier years (when he used to look a lot better looking than he does now... specifically, back in the "Vanishing Bandana" effect on his 'Great Wall of China' Special). I think it's your smile though... and my wife tends to agree as well.

We also enjoyed the workshop with Sue-Anne very much. It gave us a chance to see Sue-Anne at a more personal level and to realise how talented she is. Not to mention great to talk to and VERY friendly! :)

In any case, I think you all were terrific, and we absolutely loved meeting you both. You perform magic the way that we very much agree with, and what we aim for when trying to create a routine. In fact, there are very few people that we can actually say that about. You have been a great inspiration, and I cannot thank you enough for stopping by the Winter Carnival convention this year. You two are such a thrill to watch!"

- Jeff Cline, Kentucky

 

CHICAGO - '24 YEARS OF LIVING NEXT DOOR TO ELLIS' - Lecture

"Tim and Sue-Anne are a fantastic couple, tremendous magicians and their passion for their art and each other was so apparent. This was one of the best lectures I have ever witnessed.

This last line will seem bizarre to anyone who doesn't know how bizarre I am but it is true: I feel truly honored to have been on the same stage as these two magicians and even more honored to have seen their lecture tonight. Magic is blessed to have them among us and to encourage us (the common semi-pro/amateur magicians) to do better, think harder, practice more and love with passion."

- Tim Quinlan, Chicago

TIM QUINLAN'S REVIEW PUBLISHED IN 'INSIDE MAGIC'

Tim Ellis & Sue-Anne Webster -- A Passionate Lecture

Okay, here is the honest part of the review. I'll deny this later so read it now and forget it. If you don't want to read my confessions, skip to the next page. If you do want to read them, skip them entirely and see a trained professional -- you are a sick person to want to read my confessions.

I am so jealous of Tim Ellis that I could grimace. (Ironically, this is the name of my third movie, "I Could Grimace." It went straight to video but told the story of a man trapped in a McDonald's Character Costume for a crime he did not commit. It was also my directing debut -- I filmed it entirely on-location at the McDonald's near my trailer home)

I first actually met Tim and Sue-Anne in Las Vegas a couple of years ago at the World Magic Seminar. I didn't know him from a good friend of Adam and I certainly didn't know his wife, Sue-Anne.

It was the open-mike portion of the convention where anyone can perform. I was behind the bleachers, getting ready to do my really poor version of muscle reading (with a forced card - I take no chances).

Tim was talking with Obie O'Brien and I was trying to remember what card I intended to force.

I was cursing myself for not getting a one-way force deck. Tim sounded like he was from some foreign country - maybe Australia. He sounded like a nice guy and even said something nice to me when I walked off the stage. I forget what he said but it wasn't "Boy, you're terrible." It was actually something very nice.

While I was on stage, I saw Sue-Anne to my right, apparently getting ready to work the sound system. Now, I am happily married (for almost 20 years - in a row) but I was stunned by her beauty. Her smile was so natural and friendly and she almost seemed interested in what I was doing - I know she wasn't. She was looking across the stage to her husband, Tim.

I finished up my amazing muscle reading routine in which, because of Sue-Anne, I almost forgot the dang force card - even after I pulled off a classic force. I walked off stage, Tim said something encouraging that was not "You have made the audience hate all magicians forever." I took my seat in the crowds and watched as they were introduced.

They did their Six Card Repeat effect and I was blown away. They did it to a rap tune and it was outstanding.

I could understand why they would have won the FISM prize for it. They were a great team.

Confession Time

I felt enormous guilt for even looking towards Sue-Anne during my routine.

I went to church the next morning and confessed. The priest assured me that my glance her way did not constitute a sin, mortal or venial, or even the "near occasion of sin." He did however point out that the stuff I did at the casino later that night "was just plain wrong and could have put somebody's eye out." So I got absolution and moved on.

The more I got to know about Tim and Sue-Anne the more I came to respect their enormous talent. They are more than a great performing team, they are inventive and filled with passion for magic.

Tim made an excellent point during the lecture tonight, "be passionate about your art." He pointed out that Steve Irwin - the crocodile hunter - is popular because he comes across as being truly excited about what he is doing. The show is the same each time; he jumps in the water, sees the croc and says "Crikey." But he is popular because he is filled with passion and it comes through to the audience.

By being passionate about our art, we can push the envelope to make magic better.

He is right. And the lecture demonstrated that both Tim and Sue-Anne live that message. They have energy and passion that overflows. I have never been at a lecture where the audience gave a standing ovation at the end - but tonight, the jaded among us stood to applaud Tim and Sue-Anne's love for this art.

Okay, so let's get to the review.

The first thing I've noticed each time I've seen their lecture, is that every piece of it is commercial. There are no throw-aways in the lecture. Nothing that you couldn't use - assuming you took the time to practice as well as they encourage.

Tim did his FISM award-winning close-up routine of the cups and balls with milk shake containers to the music of Run-Around-Sue. I've seen this on their CD-ROM and live once before but this was the first time I was dedicated to figure out how on earth he did it. How does he make his sunglasses disappear and reappear in a milk shake container? How does he end the cups and balls with a milkshake pouring out of a previously empty container? How does he make the ball vanish?

I really sort of didn't want to know. Just as I didn't want to know how Henry Evans does Ten Exact Cuts, I didn't want to learn and lose the special feeling I had seeing the routine.

But like turning my head to see a traffic accident, I had to watch Tim's explanation. I can tell you that even knowing the explanation, I don't know the secret. I don't know how he came up with such an ingenious routine.

His use of skills we all have (not to his proficiency) to put together this award-winning routine astounded me. Every move has a reason both for the efficacy of the trick and for the performance. Every move looks natural but accomplishes or hides a necessary sleight. It was genius.

It is our policy here at Inside Magic to never reveal magic secrets and I have no intention of doing so here tonight at now 4:05 in the morning. But if you have a chance to see their lecture, please let me know if you are not more astounded by the secrets to the routine than the routine itself - if that is possible.

Tim Sells Pampers

Tim and Sue-Anne demonstrated "Magic Sports" for the standing room audience. This activity really seemed to be a lot of fun. There are various events within the concept of "Magic Sports" but they all seemed to boil down to improvisational magic. Sue-Anne asked the audience to name any commercially available product and immediately after the product was identified - tonight it was "pampers diapers" - Tim presented the multiplying golf balls around a pampers theme. It was funny, clever and so impressive. Tim is one of the best magicians I've seen when it comes to ad libs.

Sue-Anne and Tim then invited a member of the audience to help in the next "Magic Sport." The audience named a variation on an old magic trick and with the help of Sue-Anne, the volunteer was to guess what the audience had decided based only on Sue-Anne's hand gestures. That sounds strange, doesn't it?

Sue-Anne Helps Magic Sport

Sue-Anne stood behind the volunteer, placed her arms around him and gestured for the volunteer as Tim asked questions. It was hysterical. I hope our club will have a night of "Magic Sports" if only to help us learn improvisational skills.

If you're interested in learning more about "Magic Sports," visit Tim and Sue-Anne's fantastic web page at: www.magicunlimited.com I've added it to our Links of Fame

They ended the lecture - and I am leaving so much out - with the same Six Card Repeat routine I had witnessed two years ago. It was as it was: outstanding.

Tim and Sue-Anne are a fantastic couple, tremendous magicians and their passion for their art and each other was so apparent. This was one of the best lectures I have ever witnessed.

This last line will seem bizarre to anyone who doesn't know how bizarre I am but it is true: I feel truly honored to have been on the same stage as these two magicians and even more honored to have seen their lecture tonight. Magic is blessed to have them among us and to encourage us (the common semi-pro/amateur magicians) to do better, think harder, practice more and love with passion.

INSIDE MAGIC RATING: FOUR OUT OF FOUR

 

'24 YEARS OF LIVING NEXT DOOR TO ELLIS' - Lecture Tour 2005

"Thank you for presenting one of the best-ever lectures we have had. Your style of explaining each effect is nonpareil and made the whole evening pass so quickly that it ended all too soon. In other words: it was a damned fast night full of fun and knowledge. From my corner perch, I observed the faces of your audience and you had them enthralled.

It was a pleasure to have world-class performers such as you visit our humble little club. We hope that you have fond memories of your Spring 2005 Tour and will return again one day."

- Tom Smith

"I writing to you to tell you how pleased I am with last night's lecture at Tannen's Magic Shop in Manhattan, New York, USA. They were awesome from both an entertainment and instruction standpoint. Please pass on to them how much I appreciate their talent and I am glad to have the knowledge that they thank God for it publicly. It explained a connection and inspired me!"

- Michael Taft

"I would like to take this time to really thank you two wonderful people for making this year's Fechters Finger Flicking Frolic a huge success. You two in my book are two of the nicest people in magic. You and Sue-Anne went a long way to making 4F one of the best close up conventions in the world. Coming from the land downunder you are a credit to our craft. Thanks for doing a super lecture of Friday evening and a super performance on the shows. The guys are still talking about the coke can. Even the guys that saw in in 2001 enjoyed it again.

Thanks again for making the best close up convention in the world even better. I hope you will visit us again when you make your next tour of the USA. I really enjoyed Jeannie on Sunday night, as she was one of my favourites." - Obie OBrien (Head Forker)

"Just saw Tim and Sue-Anne's lecture at the Cape Cod Conclave and it was great. Both my son and I thought it was very interesting and really funny."

"They rocked the house in NYC on Thursday. DO NOT MISS Tim and Sue-Anne."

"Asper was correct...Tim and Sue-Anne were excellent before a small but very appreciative group in Reading, Pennsylvania this afternoon. I don't think I've ever before seen a lecture that played quite the way this one did, with their approach in the first half of the afternoon. Their manner of demonstrating and teaching the effects would play well as pure entertainment, in addition to being very instructive.

The joy they bring to their magic is evident, and makes the time spent with them hugely enjoyable. Thanks, folks...continued safe travels."

"Could not have said it better myself Steve. The best lecture I have ever attended!"

"I was lucky to see Tim and Sue @ The Mingus Magic Shop in Reading, PA yesterday.... WOW! The only lecture that was down right entertaining. Not the magic you learn, but the lecture. A lot of laughs and a great time. Plus you get very practical useable magic that is very good. Two thumbs up, maybe the best lecture I have ever seen definitely the most fun, and the most useable for me.

Don't miss 'em. They were also very nice people as well."

"I was at Tannen's tonight and all I can say is great lecture. Your DVD's are greatttttttt!!"

"I just wanted to compliment you on how well you performed at Hank Lee's convention. The way you and your wife are able to combine theater, comedy, and magic is very inspirational. It was my first time seeing you two perform, and I was very impressed, Sue Anne's McDonalds Aces fooled me!"

"Tim Ellis and Sue Ann Webster, WOW!! Talent and creativity!!"

"Tim - Your and Sue-Anne's Six Card Rap was absolutely hysterical . Of all the six card repeat presentations I have seen (quite a few), yours was easily the most entertaining one. We were all cracking up beyond belief. Good job to you both. I also really enjoyed your lecture including the "Runaround Sue" performance - just fantastic. Keep up the good work guys!"

"Wow everything's been said, time to reiterate, it was a hell of a show."

 

 

 

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