MEZMER'S pHEMOMENAL INSPIRATIONS

Many fans have asked me through the years where my inspiration came from to become a magic phenomenist. The answer is that I have had many people throughout my life, both in and out of show business, who have influenced me deeply. In regard to magic, the first time I ever saw it performed live was by my grandpa McClaran. Grandpa did his own makeshift version of the classic cups and balls routine. Grandpa used his fedoras and balls made out of newspaper to present the illusion. Grandpa was not a magician, but just loved to present the magic for his grandkids.

The first professional catalyst for my journey in magic began as a boy when I first saw the movie “Houdini.” The movie starred Tony Curtis, but at the time I believed I was really watching the great Houdini. I don't think I fully understood it was an actor portraying Houdini. As time went on I studied books on the master of escape and ultimately learned how to duplicate and perform several of his amazing feats, including the straightjacket. The next big inspiration for me was illusionist Doug Henning. Doug changed the face of magic; no longer did magicians have to wear tuxedos and top hats. What I loved about Doug was his ability to make an audience truly feel childhood wonder. Although I never met Doug, I did purchase many of his props when he retired and ultimately performed several of them in my own show. Another leading inspiration in my career was the fantastic Siegfried and Roy, "Masters of the Impossible." I had the pleasure of visiting with them many times throughout the years. Siegfried even gave me suggestions on how to do one of my illusions in a more effective way. Siegfried and Roy were the exact opposite of Doug. They were absolute class; immaculate in dress and style. The majesty of their beautiful cats and incredible illusions were beyond anything I had ever imagined.

As I matured in my performing and expanded into new areas my next major influence was the Amazing Kreskin. Kreskin appeared on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show more than any other performer. Kreskin opened my mind to new areas of illusions of the mind. He was a skilled hypnotist and mentalist, and I also became one of the top performance hypnotists in the country. Later in my career when I was starring at a Nevada casino, I was honored to share a poster with and meet Kreskin.

In the past decade my strongest influences have been Criss Angel "Mindfreak" and the incredible David Blaine. Although I have not yet met Criss, I have worked with Mark Cannon, one of Criss's consultants on the Mindfreak TV show. Mark helped me to develop one of my feature escapes. David Blaine is perhaps the most influential entertainer on everything I currently do. David is much more than just a magician; he is an endurance performance artist. The impact his work has had on me is immeasurable. Recently I was fortunate enough to meet David, and he is absolutely inspirational as both a person and performer.

I will always be grateful for the part both directly and indirectly these legends of entertainment have played in my development as an entertainer. It is my feeling that when I walk on stage to perform I am not alone, but rather channeling the spirit of all the legendary magicians who have inspired me on my magical journey.