We were lucky to catch up with Brad Eickhoff recently and have shared our conversation below.
Brad, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
I have been performing magic for over 47 years, and my fascination with magic began when I watched magicians perform at events like civic club meetings and birthday parties.
My journey started at the local library, where I checked out numerous books on magic and dedicated countless hours to practicing the tricks I learned. Fortunately, I had access to several magic shops in the Cincinnati, OH area, where I could further immerse myself in the art of magic.
Additionally, I joined the local chapter of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. This group met monthly and featured guest lecturers who provided invaluable insights and teachings about magic.
Brad, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Being a magician is truly fascinating. It isn’t about fooling or tricking people; instead, my role is to think outside the box and bring the impossible to life. Unlike a traditional artist, my canvas is the realm of the impossible, where I create wonders that defy reality.
When crafting new magic effects, I work in reverse. I envision the final result and then plot the path backward to make it happen. Sometimes, the sequence of the magic effect flows seamlessly, while other times, it requires adjustments. Just because I start with one method doesn’t mean I’ll stick with it throughout the process.
Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in my work, allowing me to respond to each unique situation and ensure the magic remains awe-inspiring.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
One of the essential aspects of being a magician is knowing that my art of performing magic can positively impact people’s lives. How, you ask? For instance, if you’re having a bad day and feeling down, watching a fun magic performance might lift your spirits. I often perform at hospitals and children’s charity events, bringing joy and wonder to those who need it most.
I also love encouraging people to think differently. Rather than sticking to just one way of doing things, I show that there are many possible approaches to making something work. I frequently take suggestions from my audiences on how we should attempt a trick. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but we always have fun along the way.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Growing up, social media wasn’t a part of our world. By the time I graduated high school in 1991, the internet was just beginning to gain traction. I embraced technology then, and my passion for it has only grown over the years.
My journey with web development began when I built my first website using HTML. I taught myself through a library book called “HTML Programming for Dummies,” taking it step by step until I had a functioning website.
Since then, I’ve created and managed multiple websites for my various brands, and helped others build their own. The process has become much simpler over time.
In addition to websites, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are invaluable tools. They don’t require special skills to navigate—just the investment of time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mymagicpro.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymagicpro
- Other: www.eickhoffentertainment.com
www.foampartyentertainment.com
www.wintertime-whimsy.com