JAPAN 3. MAGIC GIRLS

Well, thanks to Max, I have discovered the Mecca of shops. I was formally introduced to one of "the" quintessential magic stops (next to MagicLand, of course) in Japan called Tokyu Hands. This place is UNREAL. I can't explain how cool this place is! It's seven floors (with sub floors A, B and C levels!) of everything and anything you can think of. From timber and lumber to leatherwork supply materials (make your own change purse, belt or leather handbag) to wool, quilting fabrics, sewing and ribbons supplies to stationary and stamps, to magic, magic, magic back to beads, jewelry, storage boxes, housewares, hardware and electronics. It was that exhausting. I've just touched on a VERY few of the items that we saw - I only had two hours!

Came back to the hotel to get ready...we were met by Ton who took us to the old Tokyo Hilton where the Beatles gave their press conference! Cool. There is a competition before us so lots of nervous performers pacing back and forth. I met so many top Japanese magicians, it was overwhelming!

After the competition was a break and then, the "Ladies Close-up Show" followed by a special presentation by Max Maven. I met Catherine from Korea (far left) and Kiyono from Japan. Yes, she's quite tall! Both girls were just lovely and very very hospitable as were all their friends and supporters. It is so refreshing to work, side by side, such youthful energy!

I was gifted with a wonderful treat ... a translator! Dr. Yukishige Yanagawa and his wife, Mariko, used to live in New York so they are both totally fluent. And, since Dr. Yanagawa is also a magic fan, he was often called upon to translate for the Western magicians visiting .... he was called upon, with little notice (basically, none) to help me out! A real star and lifesaver!!

After Max close the show with a great performance, we had a bite to eat and visit with the many gracious and interesting magicians who came to see the show. I met several other female magicians, one of whom, Yumi, was our MC for the close-up show. Simply a fabulous lady!

I had a ball and as you guessed, it was a delightful evening!