Penne and Teller’s course is one of the shortest sessions in Masterclass but requires the most time. The play and pause buttons are on repeat because I like rehearsing the magic techniques.
The duo creates 2 workshops for students. In the first group, I learn the magic terms and choreography of the act with beginners. This group is fun for me because the students are performers who have a background in showmanship like me. In the second group, I get to witness the duo (and the late Johnny Thompson) give comments and suggestions to professional magicians who like to make stronger and clearer choices in their acts.
I think that they are confident in revealing the secrets of magicians for two reasons: (1) They want anyone interested in magic to have a deeper appreciation of the art when they see a show; (2) The confidence also comes from their willingness to incorporate technology in their acts which gives them new possibilities and new approaches.
The actual footages of their performances are also great transitions. My jaw is so tired from all those jaw-dropping acts.
What sticks with me is how they emphasize (quite passionately) the ethics of magic and embrace these as their mission statement.
Olive Nieto 