Name: Chris Kenner
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Vitals:
In his first career as a close-up magician, although now known more as a comedy magician, Chris Kenner was one of those rare individuals who was not only proficient, but highly influential in both card magic and coin magic. His best-known creations are Threefly (arguably the most influential coin trick of the last 50 years) and the Sybil cut (which helped inspired a generation of card flourish enthusiasts).
His best-selling book Totally Out of Control features over two dozen of his other close-up creations. An additional handful of original routines were featured in his first book, The Right Stuff.
Along with his long-time friend, Homer Liwag, he published the ground-breaking periodical Magic Man Examiner. He also produced and starred in the short films Brokeback Magic Mountain, and Magic in Jeopardy! For the past sixteen years, Kenner has worked as David Copperfield’s executive producer. He currently lives in Las Vegas, and spends approximately half the year touring the world.
Chris Kenner's Official Site
Q&A:
Q: What is theory11 to you? Why is this site different?
A: Theory11 is a place to be able to grow and try new things. it is also the Theory between 10 and 12. The best thing about the site is that there is no other magic site in the world that can touch it. It is setting a new mark on the bar for others to try to reach.
Q: What got you into magic?
A: Watching movies. When I was a kid I love the feeling I got sitting in the theatre. At that time it was not a digital world so the thought of making my own movies was out, so I started playing with magic to try to give people that same feeling of wonder I got while watching a movie.
Q: How long have you been performing?
A: Since the time of 8 track tapes. Longer than anyone else with a profile on this site. Maybe longer than any 2 combined. Damn, I am old.
Q: Who is your favorite performer to watch?
A: I love to watch BAD magic. When people think they are good but they suck. It just does not get any better. I could name names, but I am sure a few of you will read this.
Q: Do you have a favorite effect?
A: Ice Cream has the best effect on me.
Q: Tell us about the first time/effect you performed.
A: I did a milk pitcher and actually poured the milk out into the paper... No s***, I really did. That is the moment I decided I needed to try to be funny.
Q: What do you see as wrong with the industry today?
A: Where do I begin. I think that the biggest problem across the board is that magicians are not self aware. How many times have you seen someone doing illusions that needed to lose at least 30 pounds and had a Mullet, but did not live in Alabama. Or a close-up guy that did Card on Ceiling, Ring Flight, Card to Wallet, Ambitious Card, Card on Forehead, and might have a small twist of a version of Collectors... but tells everyone he is a creative genius.
And there is the comedy magic guy doing Rocky Raccoon, the Baffling Bra trick, and countless other tricks that you can purchase from your local magic shop, that claims to write all his own jokes and bits. I mean, just be what you are. There is nothing wrong with being a normal close-up guy or a standard comedy magician, just be aware that is what you are. This is a very hard thing to admit to yourself, but if we can start right there then progressing becomes a much quicker process. I am going to add something to this section as time goes on, so stay tuned...
Q: What's the last trick that fooled the crap out of you?
A: Asi Wind did card under MY watch, and I felt like a little kid again. Then I begged him not to tell everyone that he fooled me so bad.
Q: What advice would you give to those that are just starting in magic?
A: Remember why you love this stuff and stay true to yourself.
