Earl Nelson's Last Magic Show

On September 20th, 2022, I drove up to Oak Creek Canyon for a day of magic with Earl Nelson and some friends.  We had many sessions over the years and I learned some interesting things from Earl, including the instantaneous 3 ring separation that I use as the final effect of my 3 ring routine.  Check out a recent post on my Instagram, @shawnericmagic.

On this trip, I had several effects ready to perform, one of which was the Rice Bowls.  I had just started working on it and the script was still a rough draft.  Nevertheless, I wanted to show it to Earl and the guys.

When I arrived, I saw Earl and was shocked.  I wondered if he'd had a stroke or something.  He was recovering from a fall and was moving slow, but that day he busted out his cards & coins and showed us several new moves he was practicing.  He did the Sun & Moon coin effect and we talked about that for some time.  He was always creating & practicing new moves and adding touches of finesse to existing sleights.

Whenever I perform with children in the audience, I imagine that I might be the first magician they ever see.  When I perform for seniors, I imagine I might be the last magician they ever see.  In both cases, I do my best to create a personal experience of astonishment, a memory of real magic and feelings of wonder, love & joy.  I think I might have been the last magician Earl ever saw perform.  He was hospitalized shortly after our visit and passed away a month later, on October 21, 2022.  It was an honor to be his friend. 

Celebrating 10 Years at Rustler's Rooste!

It's an amazing place!  After 10 years of "working tables" at the Rustler's Rooste restaurant, I'm still blown away by the number of people who come in from all over the world.  And I have the opportunity and privilege to entertain them with my magic & comedy skills.  Not just that, I've learned so much about how to engage & connect with such a variety of guests; when to approach, making them feel welcome, sensing how they're feeling (mostly hungry at first), making them laugh & feel amazed, and creating memories of magic and a true sense of hospitality.  Over the years, I've created a fan base that keeps coming back for birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, graduations, holidays, etc.  For many guests, it's their first time there and what a treat it is for them!

I have sincere appreciation for all the people I get to work with.
Thanks to Tom, Flash, Mike, Julie, Craig, Amy, Cathy, a multitude of waiters, busers, and staff. Thanks to Mark Dollar & the Silver Peso Band.  Most of all, to the really great audiences, thank you!      

I've always believed the best magic happens up on a hill.  The Rustler's Rooste is up on the hill just south of the Arizona Grand Resort.  The windows and patios face north overlooking the Valley of the Sun.  It's a great place for events, and walk in parties of up to 20 people can usually be accommodated. Family entertainment at its best.  Magic, music & dancing, balloon art, amazing waiters, and of course great food.  Beef and brews with a view... Come on in and say "Howdy partner!"