Maximum Entertainment by Ken Weber

Effect

Maximum Entertainment by Ken Weber is a book that teaches magicians how to elevate their performances by focusing on presentation, scripting, and showmanship. It provides practical advice on structuring routines, engaging audiences, and refining performance techniques. The book does not teach specific tricks but instead offers a framework for making any magic performance more impactful and memorable.

Full details

Maximum Entertainment is a guide for magicians who want to improve their performances beyond just learning tricks. It covers topics such as audience engagement, scripting, pacing, and the psychology of magic. The book emphasizes the importance of strong presentations and offers checklists and exercises to help magicians refine their acts. It is suitable for both close-up and stage performers, providing insights applicable to various performance settings.

The book is structured to help magicians become their own directors, offering tools to analyze and improve their shows. It includes examples from professional performances and encourages magicians to think critically about their routines. The updated version (2.0) includes additional insights and modern examples.

Who should consider the trick

Maximum Entertainment is ideal for magicians who already know a range of tricks but want to improve their performance skills. It is especially useful for those transitioning from casual performances to professional gigs. Performers who struggle with scripting, audience interaction, or structuring their acts will find this book valuable.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The book does not teach sleight of hand or specific tricks, so there is no technical difficulty in applying its lessons. However, implementing the performance advice requires practice and self-reflection. Magicians must be willing to critically evaluate their routines and make adjustments based on the book’s principles.

What magicians say

Steve Rowe, a professional magician, describes Maximum Entertainment as "the Holy Grail, the Bible of every performer." He recommends it for its thorough coverage of performance theory and practical advice.

EruditeMagic, a reviewer, highlights the book’s focus on directing one’s own performances, calling it an "excellent book for anyone looking to elevate their show." They note that while some concepts may be familiar to those with theater experience, the book is invaluable for magicians without formal performance training.

Another reviewer mentions that Maximum Entertainment is often referenced alongside Darwin Ortiz’s Strong Magic and Designing Miracles, forming a trio of essential theory books for serious magicians.

Overall, Maximum Entertainment is praised for its actionable advice and its ability to transform a magician’s approach to performance.