BACKGROUND
Founded in 1902, The Society of American Magicians (SAM) is the oldest and most prestigious magic society in the world. Since its beginning, more than ten thousand magicians have worn the red[1]and-gold insignia of the SAM. More can be found at the SAM website: www.magicsam.com. In 1981 several of the SAM leaders saw a need to give young people an opportunity to learn the art and ethics of magic at an early age. The new program was named The Society of Young Magicians (SYM) and there are now many SYM Assemblies established around the United States. SAM Assembly 59 sponsors SYM Assembly Y105 in Portland.
PURPOSE
A primary goal of the SAM is to consistently search for new members by attracting people who possess a sincere interest in learning and performing the art of magic. One way to make this happen is by “growing our own.” We do this by encouraging young people (ages 7 through 17, inclusive) to join and participate in the SYM Assembly Y105.
WHY JOIN?
Magic is an excellent hobby for young people. To master the art involves combining the technical execution of magic’s basic principles along with the elements of theater, stage presence, comedy, elocution, and timing. The SYM members receive instruction in many areas of magic, such as rope magic, silk magic, productions, pocket tricks, coin, and card magic, and even stage illusions. From time-to-time, some of the training includes information regarding the history of magic. In the process, those who learn to perform magic develop self-confidence, poise, self-esteem, and increased reading skills. The SYM members also gain very valuable life-long public speaking and communication abilities. The main objective of SYM is to reach out and attract interested young people in the community who appreciate the art of magic. We provide regular significant meetings, quality instruction, motivation, fulfillment, organized fun, and a secure positive atmosphere to learn about and enjoy the performance of magic. The intended result of this activity is for the young people to become proficient in their magic skill and to want to continue their growth in the art by becoming SAM members later on.
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
♠ Regularly scheduled meetings twice a month
♠ Certified adult supervision and instruction from SAM members
♠ Opportunities to perform shows for the public
♠ Opportunities to attend lectures by world-class magicians
♠ SYM Y105 Magic Library (tricks, books, videos, CDs, DVDs)
♠ Subscription to the monthly newsletter, The Magic SYMbol, included in the monthly digital magazine
SYM 105 MEETINGS
The Portland SYM Assembly Y105 meets on the first and third Saturdays of every month from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Our meeting place is: All American Magic Shop 1037 Lloyd Center Portland, Oregon 97232 (in the west wing, 2nd floor, north side)