Hocus Pocus Project (HPP)
We all know the determination and focus it takes to master an effect. We also know the sense of satisfaction and self worth that stems from its mastery. These intangible benefits of practicing and performing magic are what Conjuring Arts' new outreach program brings to those who need it most.
Early in June 2007, Conjuring Arts launched the Hocus Pocus Project at the Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital in New York City. Hocus Pocus teaches magic to disadvantaged youth and adults. It is important to note that HPP is not magic entertainment, but magic education. The goal of the pilot program is to empower participants by introducing them to fun and accessible magic effects that, with some effort, they will master and be able to share in other settings.
This first trip to the children's hospital was a success. A team of three Magic Teachers set up teaching stations in the Wintergarden auditorium, a bright space designed to hold concerts and other large events. Although we didn't need such a large venue, our team of HPP Certified Magic Teachers filled the space well as the kids were engaged and smiling. Led by Master Teacher PG Varola, Magic Teachers Steve Cuiffo and Bobby Torkova helped instruct the participants to learn new "powers."
Hocus Pocus curriculum is centered around learning how to demonstrate magical powers. The sessions intrigue participants with the concept of learning a "power" that can amaze friends and family. Once a student experiences the rush of having a magical skill that sets them apart from the crowd, it is easy to encourage further study of the art.
One of the first ways HPP students will explore magic beyond their lessons is through our forthcoming student handbook, The Book of Powers. It is designed to enhance what is taught in person. With this book we introduce a different approach to engaging and instructing potential magicians. The Book of Powers, like the program itself, offers the reader a menu of different powers (i.e., the power to read minds). Once the reader decides on the power they wish to exhibit, they can choose from several corresponding effects, and ultimately the reader will chose from various methods. This structure is in the reverse order of most beginners' magic books, and it is precisely this distinction that we find promising. We are quite pleased to have Allan Kronzek, author of The Secrets of Alkazar, working on this student manual. The book will function as both a reference guide for the effects taught by Magic Teachers and as instruction sheets for more advanced applications of the Powers. In addition, The Book of Powers will incorporate accurate, historical and biographical information about some of magic's finest performers. Reflecting the aim of the Hocus Pocus Project, The Book of Powers will emphasize powerful, effective showmanship. The point is not just to teach a few magic tricks, but to inspire great magic, and a love for the art.
Another way HPP will enable its participants to explore magic is through Ask Alexander. Conjuring Arts plans to develop a portion of Ask Alexander specifically dedicated to the motivated Hocus Pocus student. We will provide free access to select materials through the Ask Alexander database to any student who is looking to advance their studies, or expresses an interest in magic history.
Looking ahead, we have just made contact with a Veteran's Hospital here in New York and plan to modify the structure of our sessions in order to accommodate these adult learners. Later in our three-year plan we hope to bring HPP to at-risk teens. We all know how magic has transformed our own lives and HPP is working to give that gift of possibility to others who can appreciate it.
Please contact Conjuring Arts if you would like to get involved with Hocus Pocus. We can use your support in many ways.
