Went to Las Vegas in August for 8 days, for some fun and for the Magic Live Convention. I go every year as it is always a great time. Below is a recap of the convention.
The first night’s kickoff event was a blast with a costume party and contest. Many magicians made the effort to dress in many different costumes and lots of creativity in making them. We saw several Harry Potter’s including myself, a very realistic Tape Face costume, Storm Trooper and Jawa’s, several playing card costumes, anime characters, and even a bill change costume. The overall winner of the contest was good friends of mine who I had traveled down with. Dave Watters and David Wilson came dressed as a life size balloon dog and his handler. 
Of course, the dealer’s room with over 17,000 square feet with over 60 different dealers was in full swing on opening night. Lots of magic to peruse thru. All the latest tricks and coolest gadgets were on display and for sale.
Day 2 was the first full day of events, talks, lectures, and shows!!
There was a wide variety of talks in the general session. From Grand illusion with a cardboard box, virtual reality and the travel diary of Harry Houdini.
The focus sessions saw a choice of some kid show knowledge, Creativity, and Mentalism. You could also shop the dealer’s room or hang out in the Mystique lounge. I saw several shows as well, including the close-up experience which is always a huge hit at ML.
Day 3 started off with a PowerPoint slide show from none other than Master Payne.
Jon Armstrong then talked about thoughts, theories, and techniques to make your magic win over all audiences. (Very insightful)
We got the inside scoop on how Emily Robinson-Hardy fooled Penn and Teller(Teller was also at the convention) with her version of ACAAN. The focus sessions were also amazing with several heavy hitters sharing techniques and amazing magic.
The fourth and last day of the Convention, the general session was something different and new. It was kicked off by Taylor Hughes and It was a bunch of interviews but the person being interviewed, ended up interviewing the next guest and so on. We saw about 10 interesting and informative Interviews. I thought it was quite interesting and fun. The Focus sessions had a close up clinic, perceptual deception, and the world’s greatest con!! In the evening before the final Party, I saw the Juniors show. It was made up of several of the juniors from the Magic Castle and was possibly one of the best shows of the convention with 2 standing ovations.
Then we had the FINALE party which you were to dress in Black and White with a splash of red. This was super fun and the Canadians that were there got together in the hall and got a group photo! A great way to end the convention!!
The 4 days were filled with events, shows, workshops and fun and excitement. As it is every year there were several big names in magic appearing in the halls and the dealer’s room. As well as Teller, we also saw Jeff McBride, David Blaine, and David Copperfield. To watch Copperfield take out his phone and record one of the dealers demoing a trick was priceless!!
Stan and his amazing team did a stellar job as usual this year. They always bring in the best of the best from all over the world.
In conclusion it was another amazing convention, and I am already looking forward to next year!