-Above: Sammy backstage with Siegfried, 2001-
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Siegfried and Roy took magic and turned it all around. Since meeting Siegfried after their incredible show and joining the International Brotherhood of Magicians under their endorsement in 2001, Siegfried and Roy have been a profound influence to me. After studying them for several years; I would like to tell you a little bit about them , how they have influenced modern magic, and what we can learn from them. Enjoy!
Background-
Born in World War II Germany, Siegfried and Roy each discovered his nitch. For Siegfried – it was magic. For Roy, it was animals (especially exotics animals). Eventually, the two crossed paths and formed a dynamic duo that would eventually set precedents for magicians to follow for years to come. They worked their way to the top – from performing in small theatres in Germany to performing in famous Vegas revue shows to performing their own headlining shows at The Frontier and of late at The Mirage.
What can we learn from this pair of greats and what did they do to change magic?
What they have done -
They introduced wild animals to magic shows. Before Siegfried and Roy, magicians’ animals of choice were limited to doves and rabbits.
They created the huge, Broadway magic show. Harry Blackstone Jr. and Sr. had done it before, but Siegfried and Roy carried the idea into more modern times.
The idea of a free standing magic show was introduced. Believe it or not, before Siegfried and Roy came to Vegas in the 60s, magicians were only opening acts. Nobody would have dreamed that a magician could have an evening show in Vegas.
They redefined magic. Magicians could then perform with more special effects, numerous dancers, and wear clothes that made them look like rock stars. Magicians didn’t need to wear tuxes anymore.
They helped make Vegas family friendly. They were one of (if not) the first acts in Vegas to create a show for all ages. They covered up the dancers and thus – the market to see the shows was expanded.
What we can learn from them? -
Be different, don’t do what everyone else is doing
Magic is all about the audience
Never rest on your laurels,never be satisfied with your work
The show, most importantly, must have a heart and soul
