FFFF

No, my keyboard is not stuck.

Next week marks the beginning of the 4F convention - the “Original Close-Up Magic Convention” and the most prestigious gathering of close-up magicians in the world. This invitation-only event continues to feature the best performers, creators, and lecturers in the world and has done so for 46 years.

A remarkable achievement - and an even more remarkable gathering.

The first time I ever performed at 4F I was surprisingly calm. I had worked a lot of conventions and performing for magicians never really rattled my nerves. Then, I stepped behind the table to begin…

The first few rows at 4F are filled with former Guests of Honor and I didn’t really realize that until I looked up! You stand before of a wall of talent and skill that would make any magician tremble. Wherever your eyes come to rest you’re looking in the face of a legend. If you’re not humbled by it - then you’re not paying attention. I pushed forward with legs of jelly, and I can honestly say that I remember little of what actually occurred during my spot. When it was done - the reaction seemed good, the audience applauded, and I was never so relieved to be finished with a show!

Each year I look forward to the event as a time not only to see some of the best magic, but to catch up with friends that I see but once a year. Eddie Fechter passed away in 1979, but his impact has extended across the globe and through the decades. But most remarkable to me is that to this day, when I perform locally, his name and the Forks Hotel are mentioned frequently by non-magicians who remember the place and the man fondly.

We should all be so lucky to leave that sort of legacy.

Dick Cook put together a wonderful photo montage on Eddie, the Forks, and the Convention. It was originally played at the 2009 Convention, but an updated version is now online for all to see.