The Problems with Magic on Television
I think if you can't say no to a television date you are not ready to say yes. Some television is not good for you. There are those times when you should turn it down. Television people like to be in control and have time limit issues. You can't take film back once it is out. While you are working your act into a well performed show if you make a mistake down at the legion hall only a small number of people see it. If you blow it on television millions can see it.
If your on America's Got Talent they will record it as you do it. One young man went on to copy of magician Mc Brides original acts. During his performance he fell off stage. There was no do over. Then it went on the internet. Many shows today are more than willing to show people at their worst. Many people in television will try to get people to do things they want. My feeling is that you always need to be in control.
If they cut time in your act and you can't perform what you need for a fantastic audience reaction what is the point of going on? I remember years ago a television show in Boston wanted me to perform for them. I didn't care for the show but I told the agent I would talk to them. Their contact didn't say much and I pressed for who else was going to be on. Finally she said Melbourne Christopher do you have a problem with that? I said, “No I have worked with Mr. Christopher and like him very much.”
Then I asked, “Who else will be on?” Her reply was, We are paying you to perform so we feel we can do what ever we want. That was enough for me and I refused the show. The agent called and said, “Who the hell do you think you are?” He was livid. I know who I am and people don't hire me to tell me how it is going to be.
That’s why I say you must learn to say no and understand when to say no. For instance when they are in a big rush and you are doing something dangerous. Taking your time to present these things is the only way it will work.
-N. Bigelow
