Mystery School Review

August 11th, 2003 12:03am Rating:

Reviewed by RobertCharles

"Pulling Back the Veil of Mystery" Mystery School: An Adventure into the Deeper Meaning of Magic provides readers with a comprehensive view of the driving forces behind the founding and evolution of Mystery School -- an influential and occasionally misunderstood series of gatherings featuring performances, lectures, workshops, drumming and ritual. A conversation between Eugene Burger, Jeff McBride and editor Todd Karr describes Mystery School's conception, purpose and development. Eugene encourages magicians to evaluate their magic and allow themselves to be engaged on a powerful level that will affect their magical performances. Jeff's routine of "Alchemy of the Elements," featured in his Off-Broadway mask-and-magic show at the Ballroom Theater in the 1980's, is explained. Robert Neale speaks of ritual magic and gives wonderful insights into the "Five Symbols" of creative stimulation and their dynamic readings. Max Maven explains his involvement with Mystery School and discusses his application of the "Samarra" routine that led him to develop "Overdose." David Parr offers useful tips on dealing with stage fright. An audio transcript of Terence McKenna's views on magic is included. And Todd Karr's 1995 interview with former Harvard professor Timothy Leary, in which the counter-culture icon offers perspectives on the experience of magic, may still rouse controversy. In all, nearly 40 contributors -- "Faculty members," "Guests of Honor" and "Alumni" -- recollect rich experiences and vivid magical effects that make this book a must-have for any serious student of magic. Katlyn Breene's bewitching illustrations capture the essence of Mystery School arcana. What clearly is communicated is the heartfelt love of magic and the passion for excellence these individuals have for their art. All magicians have a need for a safe place that allows them to explore who they are and inspires them with a vision for incorporating these insights into a successful performance. Mystery School succeeded in this immense undertaking and those of us who did not have the opportunity to attend can now pull back the veil of mystery and discover some of magic's deeper meaning.

Product info for Mystery School

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Mystery School - An Adventure Into The Deeper Meaning of Magic

In Eugene Burger and Jeff McBride’s first collaborative work, you may at last peer into the shadowy conclave known as Mystery School.

Featuring Jeff McBride stage masterpieces revealed for the first time, new pieces by Burger, and essays by Mystery School faculty member ROBERT NEALE.

Plus magic and writings by some of the world’s most magical thinkers, including: Bob Fitch, Dan Harlan, Paul Harris, Kevin James, Vito Lupo, Patrick Martin, Max Maven, Stephen Minch, Alain Nu, and Peter Samelson.... and featuring the exotic art of Katlyn Breene.

Over 400 pages on large-format acid-free satin-finish pages, hardbound, with 16 color pages and beautiful full-color dustjacket.