Mind Games
The Billiard Club (10505 82 avenue) August 14 – 14 (every day)
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An interview with Jeff Newman.

Describe your show in five words. 

Science, suggestion, and good old-fashioned trickery.

Okay, now that we’re intrigued… what’s the longer description?

Mind Games showcases my skills as a mentalist. I make predictions, influence thoughts and behavior, and even read minds using my background in science, suggestion, and good-old fashioned trickery. Each piece in the show tracks my journey to becoming a mentalist, talking about how my experiences growing up led me to where I am, and how they still influence me today.

You have a lifelong interest in magic – what drew you to magic as a kid and how do you keep that passion/exuberance present in your performances?

It was an indirect discovery, really. My family was big into games, puzzles, pranks, tricks, and impromptu science experiments so getting into magic was a natural progression. As a kid, I saw magic more like a puzzle than anything else. The “how does that work?” fascination is what interested me, and when I started learning, I was hooked. Because of that, I approach my performances the same way. Rather than present my audience with “an amazing trick,” it’s more an attitude of “let me show you a puzzle.” People are still amazed, but I find that whatever they’re presented with becomes more “real.” It brings back a sense of wonder that a lot of people lose when they get older.

 So we get a taste of your show, can you describe your favourite trick to perform for audiences?

I have a lot of favorites for a lot of different reasons. I have one that uses books to select a random word, which I glean from the spectator. It seems so simple, but so impossible at the same time. Another involves revealing someone’s first crush. It’s a more intimate piece that results in spectators being absolutely speechless. But, my personal favorite is a simple game of picking up playing cards off a deck. It’s a clean, direct trick that involves my own personal story, audience interaction, and a kicker ending. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a spot for it in my show…but those who make it out to the Fringe Festival launch on August 5^th (or any of those who manage to find me out and about in Whyte Avenue establishments) will get a chance to see it.

Anything else you want audiences to know about the show?

It’s going to be a great show, filled with gasps, laughs, and cheers. You’ll leave the show saying, “How the %@&! did he do that?!”

Bonus question: Any names you want to drop who have been involved in your show (Edmonton arts people or otherwise)?

Huge thanks to:

• Hannah Rud – She’s the second-in-command for the whole Fringe process, and I couldn’t have done it without her.
• Benjamin Toner – He provided the fantastic graphic work for all the publicity material.
• Natascha Hainsworth – for helping me with all the “admin” things along the way, and being a great mentor in the world of performing arts.
• My family – Not only have they been super supportive, they’ve been the first to volunteer extra sets of hands (or iron out all the wrinkles on my rain-soaked posters).
• The Billiard Club – They’re spectacular people at a great venue. It’s been a seamless partnership, and I hope that I get the chance to work with them in the future.
• Cameron Lomon – Photographer: great job on finding all the angles that make me look good.
• David Gabert, and The Drama Nutz – The improv troupe in Lethbridge. They’ve taught me to think on my feet, helping me with promo material, and providing honest feedback.
• The University of Lethbridge – for being first in line to step in and help their students take on challenges like the Fringe.

The 33rd Edmonton International Fringe is August 14 – 24. I’ll be previewing shows up until the Fringe starts. Want your show to appear on After the House Lights? Email [email protected].