Foreward

by Jeff McBride

 

In the pages ahead, you will read about the many faces and personas of the magician. Yes, the magician often shape-shifts into many different roles… so does Tobias. As you walk along this adventure with Tobias, you will see him transform and change roles from page to page… and I would not be surprised if YOU transform into a very different performer by the time you reach the final chapter.

 In the words of William Shakespeare:

“All the world’s a stage,
 and all the men and women merely players.
 They have their exits and their entrances,
 and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages.”

 

I have seen Tobias play many parts, both onstage and off. I have witnessed him shape-shift into many stages and ages! Here are just a few.

THE ACTOR

Tobias has spent many years on the stage. He began his theatrical career learning his craft as an actor. He passes his many years of theatrical training and stage experience on to you. His years of acting technique have been distilled down to magic formulas, formulas that he shares with you. Many of his brainstorming techniques and acting exercises can transform your work. Often you will see that these acting and creativity techniques will make you not only a better performer, but a better person!

Be prepared to transform!

THE DIRECTOR

I have seen Tobias work wonders, not only with my stage show, but also with many of the students that attend our Master Classes here in Las Vegas. Tobias has a keen eye and observes the theatrical process in his own unique way. He has an incredible attention to detail and often catches subtle mistakes that fly past all the other facilitators who were giving feedback at our sessions. In the following chapters, you will learn how Tobias thinks, and how his years of directing can help you make good choices about your next performance.

THE MANAGER

I’ve been working with Tobias for 25 years in all venues; television, festivals, casino, theatrical and our classes here in Vegas. Working with Tobias has been one of the most important factors in my success as a performer. As a producer, he has helped many performing artists to manifest their highest visions by assisting them with expert advice and career guidance.  Many of his clients and students have gone on to find global fame, and financial success.

THE EDUCATOR

Magic students around the world have had opportunities to meet Tobias in his workshop settings. Each year at our Magic & Meaning conference, Tobias challenges us to see beyond our deceptions and misconceptions, into the truths and scientific proofs that support his vision of what a magical performance can achieve.

THE WRITER

Many of you have met Tobias through writings in books, magazines and also his contributions to our Museletter. His first book, Beyond Deception - Vol. 1, met with critical and popular acclaim. If you’ve read Tobias’ work in the past, I know you are eager to move ahead and learn more ways to empower your magic. If this is your first time approaching his writings, you’re in for a big treat.  He will inspire you and fill you with a lifetime of practical knowledge and gems of wisdom. One of the things you may not know about Tobias is how well read he is. It seems he is up on all areas of theater, brain science, and the magical arts. The amount of practical knowledge he has and his ability to distill and share it is staggering!  Know that when you read the chapters ahead, you are getting the distilled essence of many of his teachings.

THE WIZARD

In the past few years, I’ve seen Tobias transform through many stages, the current one being that of the wizard. This transformation into a wizard was very intentional for him. He had worked years towards attaining this goal by pursuing his passions in all the other areas of his interests. Now is the time that he opens to the next stage of his personal unfolding.

Tobias is a messenger of reinvention. He is an exemplar of what he writes. He continually inspires, uplifts, motivates and encourages us all to reach our maximum potential. More than mere words, Tobias gives us his tried and true formulas for a more successful performance and for a better life.

 

Jeff McBride

April 14th, 2014

Las Vegas, NV