The annual 2024 IBM convention was held recently within commuting distance and I took the opportunity to attend. I hadn’t been to an IBM convention since the early 80’s when it was in Pittsburgh. I hadn’t attended any conventions since the 2020 SAM convention in Las Vegas right before the world shut down.
One of the problems with a convention within driving distance is that day-to-day events interfere. I was only able to attend two of the four days – the first day and the last.
So what did I think? Well, here’s my highlights:
- Erik Tait’s lecture was great. A mix of cards and coins that ranged in skill level. Erik was funny and explained everything well. It could have been a drinking game for every time he mentioned his employer, Penguin.
- Leah Orleans’ performance was a treat. Variety acts are always a breath of fresh air at a magic convention. Leah’s act was exceptional with contortions, juggling, and unicycle. She was a delight.
- Rachel Wax’s close up performance was great. Excellent magic and spontaneous humor. I enjoyed watching the audience squirm when she made a period joke.
- Mr Massado’s ring routine. He was the MC of the close up show and that was his set. I’d read about the routine but never witnessed it. It’s really deceptive.
- Nick Defatte is always great. He was the MC for the closing show and managed to keep things moving despite the efforts of some of the other acts.
- Benjamin Barnes was the talent coordinator for the convention. He needs a shout out for assembling a diverse cast of performers in an industry that is predominantly white male.
My only complaint was the same as I had for the SAM convention. They have three days of events stretched out over four. Both days that I attended, I was on site for about 12 hours and only had 4-5 hours of events. It’s nice not to have to rush the meal breaks but things could be much tighter.
