The Magic of Mark Wilson
If you've chosen only the free membership, may I strongly recommend one of my favorite benefits of paid membership? That's the opportunity to see episodes of one of TV's best shows: "The Magic of Mark Wilson." (Psst, Greg: post more episodes!) This is Mark Wilson magic at its best, and a classic example of classy entertainment. The joy of these episodes cannot be described; you really have to see them. Greg would do us an immense favor with an article on the history of this show (How it came to be, when it aired, how long it lasted, any behind-the-scenes stories) to increase our enjoyment.
Highly, highly recommended!
*jeep!
--Grandpa Chet
The Magic of Mark Wilson Syndicated Series, early 80s
Hi Chet, and all,
Great question. I was about 12 and 13 years old when the show was shot. I remember many details from about a 4 foot tall point of view! What an incredible project, so many episodes shot in such a short period of time. Dad and I cranked through all of our regular material quickly. So both of us were studying and practicing new stuff constantly. I think the top magic advisors at the time were Alan Wakeling (of course, he was working for Dad at the time), Max Maven, Earl Nelson, Don Wayne, and more. This is where it gets a little foggy, as my magic lessons start to blur together. I believe this is the era when I studied with Dai Vernon too. Another teacher for many years was Father Jim Blantz. And more wonderful people that I will remember in the next few days.
I think it is a grand idea to put some of the episodes online "in full". I will talk with Dad about it, and see what we can do. For me, that means transferring the video from 3/4 inch or 1 inch to digital, then posting it to the site. I will try my best.
I will try to write more details soon. I will update Dad too!
Best Wishes,