With all of the changes and issues with the
2011 IBM Convention in Dallas, Texas, one of the best things that happened was the closing gala show titled "Legends of Magic & Comedy."
Beginning with
Jeff McBride, performing his fantastic mask and card manipulation act, as well as his miser's dream. With his high energy and extremely visual magic, Jeff was a natural choice to start off the show, and he energized the audience immediately.
Next,
Michael Ammar and his wife Hannah performed a staple of Hannah's great-grandfather's magic show; the Willard Spirit Cabinet. It was an amazing display and Francis Willard, Hannah's mother and Willard's granddaughter, was visibly moved by the routine.
Walter "Zaney" Blaney introduced his daughter and granddaughter who performed his world famous levitation, an effect that is still as amazing as it is perfect.
Next,
Tom Mullica presented his Red Skelton Guzzler's Gin routine to rounds of laughter and applause from the audience.
Johnny and Pam Thompson presented their "Great Tomsoni" routine to a standing ovation.
Another tribute routine had
Darren Romeo and
Gay Blackstone performing Blacktone Jr's famous floating lightbulb routine.
At the end of the night, everyone left with a feeling of awe and appreciation of those magicians who have come before us, both the performers on stage and those who can no longer be with us. The closing show of the IBM 2011 convention captured the spirit of the convention.
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