If you can feel that something is going to be special, there can be no possibility for the contrary.
This phrase is a truth I have lived for years, but what am I referring to?
As a creative person, as I work, I must never proceed onward unless I can honestly say to myself, “this is amazing.” Otherwise, I am shortchanging my audience by giving them something that is not inspired by life events. Magic is, after all, very much theatre and theatre is inspired by everyday life.
I have... »View Details
September 23, 2009
Sammy is working at the Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance’s production of Steven Dietz’s “Still Life with Iris.” The reason? He’s adding magic to the production’s illusion needs. “Still Life” is a children’s play originally performed in Seattle in 1997. The magic was designed by magician Steffan Soule, who also performed as some of the characters in the fantasy.
“Down the road, I may be exercising this skill... »View Details
September 19, 2009
Ever had an experience where you performed a presentation and the audience was completely lost?
All performers have an internal monologue, or internal personas and stories.The use of an internal monologue creates a meaningful performance for yourself as well as an authentic experience for the audience.
Do we reach a point, however, where we get too carried away by our internal monologue and the audience becomes lost? Remember, in theatre the audience only: sees and hears. Anything in the middle... »View Details
September 16, 2009
People ask how I keep the creative juices flowing. By nature, I think in new ways. However, a good reason why I am able to consistently come up with new ideas is because I live a life that fosters creativity.
Steve Jobs and staff, Apple Headquarters
Any creative person will tell you there are eclectic elements in their everyday life which allow them to innovate. These eccentricities could range from clothes styles to house decorations. Some innovators prefer to work in minimalist, stark environments.... »View Details
August 21, 2009
After many hours of work, we give you the *NEW* official “Dimension Unknown” show trailer. This will be sent to agents promoters, etc in Sammy’s presskit.
var addthis_pub = 'sammycortino';
var addthis_language = 'en';var addthis_options = 'email, print, favorites, twitter, facebook, digg, delicious, myspace, google, live more';
Read More →
August 5, 2009
Duane and Mary Laflin
On a recent trip to Pigeon Forge, you may have gone to see Terry Evanswood perform his “Magic Beyond Belief” illusion show and were surprised to see Duane and Mary Laflin onstage.
On a trip a couple weeks ago, I had the privilege of watching Duane and Mary perform Terry’s show. On Sunday, Terry has the day off and the Laflins fill in for him. From fast-paced illusions, to high tech lighting and sound, large illusions, and his signature silk effects there... »View Details
August 4, 2009
Magic is a do-it-yourself business. I’ve never seen an craft combine so many other arts and elements. In this computer age, we:
Have saved thousands on media production
Feed our rabbits extra carrots due to the fact we run our office on the computer
Learn magic FOR-FREE
Connect with the greatest magicians alive
May have subconciously copied other performers thanks to YouTube
Have created an audience’s expectation of what a magician should be
Restored how we know what we know in magic
…and... »View Details
July 17, 2009
Although it's not the end-all choice, the Spider Backdrop is an example of how you can create an atmosphere using a portable unit.
Released weekly, Magic! – The Podcast discusses the latest news in the magic world, a topic related to the art, and interviews illusionists from around the world!
♣ Intro (:20)
New format
♦ Topic (1:43)
Create atmosphere with a backdrop
var addthis_pub = 'sammycortino';
var addthis_language = 'en';var addthis_options = 'email, print, favorites,... »View Details
July 15, 2009