Review: Funny Business - Niagara Comedy Magic Seminar 2007

If you're an aspiring comedy magician or want to learn how the pros perform comedy magic, this DVD offers helpful interviews, informative panel discussions and hilarious performances from the Niagara Comedy Magic Seminar in January 2007.

The DVD’s emphasis is on comedy and not magic. In fact, there’s no mention of secrets or explaining the tricks. The DVD strives to give you an idea of how the pros work on stage to make their audiences laugh. The live performances by John Ferrentino, Bob Sheets and Dave Merry have been edited to accentuate the comedy bits and the magic techniques and secrets are secondary.

The DVD features one-on-one interviews with Ferrentino, Sheets and Merry. I particularly enjoyed listening to Ferrentino as he described how a comedy club owner helped him change and adapt his magic act for the comedy circuit. It’s also interesting to listen to Sheets talk about the entertainment business.

Another segment offers a panel discussion with Ferrentino, Sheets and Merry, and yet another panel segment features our main trio with the addition of Doug Funk, John Park and Larry Horowitz.

Overall, the interviews and discussions are fascinating and insightful, and it’s great to see the likes of Ferrentino, Sheets and Merry in action. Don’t get this DVD if you’re looking for the latest magic move, but get if you’re trying to take your comedy magic to the next level or want a better understanding of the comedy club circuit and how magic fits in.

-Wayne N. Kawamoto

MSRP: (US) $39.95

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Dealers can purchase from Murphy's Magic Supplies, Inc.