“TMW” INTERVIEW

TMW: You have just challenged Criss Angel. Why have you decided to challenge Criss?

MORGAN: “I love magic. I live, eat and breathe it. Before I announced this challenge, I gave it a lot of serious thought. I am very concerned about the credibility of magic. I want this challenge to generate world-wide excitement of magic as a true art form. I truly believe that Criss’ “Mind Freak” program delivers a product that is more Hollywood movie special effects than legitimate magic. I do not believe that outright deception has a place in magic.”

TMW: Why not another magician?

MORGAN: “I believe that Criss Angel’s “magic” represents a change of direction that could be very detrimental to the art. If people want to see this type of entertainment, they can go buy a movie ticket or play a videogame. But, for true fans of pure magic, I don’t think computers, high-tech cameras, or creative editing will ever take the place of the creativity of the human mind.”

TMW: Why are you challenging Criss?

SEE ABOVE

TMW: Is it for publicity for you?

MORGAN: “In sports, business, entertainment or magic, any high-profile challenge is going to generate publicity for everyone involved. So, there is no doubt that this event will create a huge level of public awareness for both Criss and I. However, my primary goal for the event is to elevate the popularity of magic and create a whole new generation of fans.

TMW: Is it for fans?

MORGAN: “Absolutely, this event is for the fans! No performer should ever let their own personal ambition, fame and fortune make them forget the fans. Without them and their continued support, the art of magic will simply fade away. I, for one, refuse to stand by and let that happen!”

TMW: Is it for magicians?

MORGAN: “Yes, my challenge with Criss Angel is for magicians, too. And, I mean ALL magicians; past, present and future. Today’s magic must honor and protect the legacy of magic’s great legends from the past, such as Houdini, Blackstone, Henning and others. Today’s magic must be honorable, credible and not undermine current greats like Copperfield and Burton. And, today’s magic must create an environment that will nurture aspiring performers that will be the stars of the next generation. All of us, magicians and fans, are accountable to protect our beloved industry.”

TMW: Why have you decided on the challenge you have- most can understand the magic show, and the street magic - but why the Chinese Water Torture?

MORGAN: “I wanted to think outside the box for this challenge. Chinese waster is perfect! And, the neat thing about Chinese water torture is that it’s legendary. For decades, we’ve read about, heard about it, seen it on television and in dozens of movies. But, this infamous technique has remained eerie, mysterious, and frightening. In my challenge with Criss Angel, there will be no editing. One camera will be on both of us all the time. Who has the ability, the creativity, the emotional fortitude, and the mental stamina to win? Fans will love it!!”

TMW: Have you heard anything from Criss or his management yet?

MORGAN: “No, I haven’t heard anything from Criss or his camp. I find this very hypocritical, especially since he was so judgmental of David Blaine years ago when he ignored a challenge from Criss. I hope Criss’ fame hasn’t clouded his appreciation for and obligation to the fans that put him where he is now. Why would Criss shy away from a healthy challenge?”

TMW: Are you surprised by this?

MORGAN: “Not really. This challenge is very different. It strips both of us of artificial advantages and leaves only our raw talent and skills to win. This may be very intimidating to Criss. But, I believe that fans want a real challenge. I can assure them there is nothing fake about this challenge.”

TMW: How long will you keep the challenge up?

MORGAN: “I will keep the challenge to Criss open as long as necessary to get a public acceptance or rejection. All magic deserve this.”

TMW: What do you think of TV editing in magic?

MORGAN: “Television is a highly structured medium. It is obvious that editing is necessary to package each program into a desired time slot. However, I strongly object to “creative editing” of a televised magic program. I define this as editing that exaggerates a magician’s performance beyond the reality of their individual talents and skills. This is very deceptive and an insult to magic fans around the world.”

TMW: Did this inspire you in your challenge?

MORGAN: “Yes! As an example, today’s professional basketball players can jump higher, play better, and score in ways that would have seemed impossible years ago. They can do this because of their superior training, conditioning and commitment to excellence. The art of magic and its legions of loyal fans deserve the same from its magicians. The state of our art should advance and improve because its performers are more creative, practice more, and constantly refine and hone their skills…..not through artificial techniques which yield outrageous performances that could not be replicated in a live performance! Let’s give magic back to the fans with pride and integrity!”

TMW: Do you have any products soon to be released?

MORGAN: “Yes, I am working on several new products that will debut soon. But, right now, my entire focus is on making the Morgan Strebler – Criss Angel Ultimate Endurance Challenge a reality. Stay tuned!”

January 7, 2007 – LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Let the games begin! Morgan Strebler, master illusionist and internationally renowned Psycho-Kinesis (PK) superstar, today issued a brash, “no holds barred”, public challenge to “Mindfreak” magician, Criss Angel, on WLIR’s “Real Radio Show” with Frankie Dee in New York City.

Morgan boldly declared, “Criss likes to issue challenges. Now, I’m bringing one directly to his doorstep! Criss looks good when he performs in a controlled environment with multiple camera angles and creative editing. And, he’s pretty good at making balloon animals for the kiddies. Let see how well he does in the real world! Let’s see how well he does with head-to-head magic on a live stage, in the street, and strapped to a table for 24/7 Chinese water torture until one of us breaks……..ONE camera, NO split screens and BOTH of us in full view at all times! Someone has to look out for the legions of loyal fans of legitimate magic. I am tired of seeing them disrespected and subjected to ”magic” that is long on camera tricks and short on talent!”

For the finale of their proposed challenge, Morgan said he chose Chinese water torture because, “…….it is the ultimate, centuries old torture technique used to break down the strongest of men. The slow dripping of water onto the forehead has driven many victims insane. The relentless cycle of apprehension, tension, shock and relief eventually leads to a total breakdown.”

Talking directly to Angel, Morgan ratcheted up the rhetoric by stating, “Criss, you’re busy. I’m busy. So what?!? Call my management and let’s work out the details. You like to talk smack and issue challenges to others. Now, the shoe’s on the other foot! Don’t duck this challenge because I won’t stop until you answer. Remember, everyone’s watching, Criss! “No!” is not an excuse. It’s your admission of defeat. And, to ignore my challenge is the ultimate insult to all magic fans around the world!”

Further, Morgan asserted, “Magic and its loyal fans need more reality, more honesty…….and less deception. If Criss decides to show up, that will all change! Let the live audience see everything. Let the television audience see everything. Let’s stream it on the World Wide Web and let the world see everything! NO breaks! NO intermissions! Who’s better to monitor this competition than magic fans?! Let’s both give our fans what they really want and deserve……..unfiltered, unedited magic talent and entertainment!”

Hey everyone! I hope all of you have had a great start to the New Year! I just wanted to take a minute to let you know that I’ll be on “The Real Radio Show” in New York City with host Frankie Dee on Sunday, January 7, 2007 at 11:00 pm EST. I invite you to call in on the WLIR HOTLINE at 1-631-648-2535. Your participation will make the show a great success! The show will be streamed live on the World Wide Web, so tune in! Also, be sure and check out The Real Radio Show’s website at www.myspace.com/RealRadioShow for more details! I look forward to chatting with you then!

Best Wishes For A Magical 2007!

Morgan

Hello everybody! I hope all of you had a happy and safe Holiday Season! I braved the crowded airports and flew back home to Missouri to visit family for Christmas. While I was there, I made a special appearance on the CBS Breakfast Show. There is a small video clip of part of my performance on their website, www.kfvs12.com. It’s titled “Breakfast Show Magic”. Check it out!! I will post ALL of the footage on www.myspace.com/morganstrebler later this week. Make 2007 your year!

Best Wishes,

Morgan

HELLO EVERYONE!

I’m sorry that it’s been so long since I’ve been able to update my blog. The last three months have been a blur! My new son, Hunter, was born on Father’s Day. What a rush! Only a father can know the joy and pride he has given me. Thankfully, Mikala and Hunter are both doing well!

After Hunter’s birth, our home felt like a hotel with a revolving door! There was a constant parade of family and friends coming and going. All of this made practice and preparation for my one-week gig at the Magic Castle and competition at FISM very challenging to the say the least. But, all’s well that ends well!

Before I departed to LA for my week’s gig at the Magic Castle, I was fortunate to be able to spend three wonderful days with Sam Blankenship and his family in Temecula, California. I got to hang out at Sam’s pride and joy, The Trick Shop. Be sure and stop in when you’re in that area. It was the best magic shop I’ve ever seen!

While making the trip to the Magic Castle in LA, I was in a daze. Ever since I was a young boy, I wondered what it would be like to perform there. I can honestly say that the experience exceeded my expectations. The crowds were great! And, the professionalism, hospitality, and assistance shown by the entire Magic Castle staff and management were unbelievable! Thanks to Sam, Maxwell and Acar of Penguin Magic for their support and attendance. It was a perfect memory. I can’t wait to go back!

Just to let you know, this update to my blog is “hot off the press”! I’m just taking a break from packing. My plane leaves in a few hours for Stockholm, Sweden where I will compete in the FISM World Championship of Magic. This prestigious event only takes place every three years. I’ll be traveling with my good friend, Noblezada, creator of the smash hit effect, “Self-Tying Shoelace”! I will competing in the “Close-Up Mentalism” category at 11:00 am on Monday, July 31st. The rest of the Penguin crew will be joining us on Sunday. If you plan to attend, please stop by the Penguin booth and say “hello” to the entire gang!

Competing at FISM is truly a lifetime honor. I want to express my sincere appreciation to the International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) for their sponsorship and Penguin Magic for their financial support. This wonderful opportunity would not have been possible without both of them.

I’ll try my very best to bring home the World Championship for my family, friends and fans! I love you all….talk to you soon!

Hi Everyone!

Tom Gorman, columnist at the Las Vegas Sun, wrote an article about me in today’s Sunday newspaper. For those of you that didn’t get the opportunity to read it, I’ve included the link below. Gorman first interviewed me five years ago when he wrote for the Los Angeles Times. Take care and we’ll talk soon!

http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/commentary/2006/mar/26/
566660574.html

I will be performing at the legendary Magic Castle in Los Angeles from July 10-16th! I’ve dreamed of doing this gig since I was a little boy! If you’re in the LA area at that time, you can catch my act in the early show, in the close up room. I would love to meet you!

I have received numerous emails regarding the status of “Taste Conditions”. The bulk of the delay in launching this tremendous product was due to technical difficulties and multiple challenges on many fronts facing my team. Upon returning from Blackpool, I decided to try and compete in FISM (Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques) in July in Stockholm, Sweden. As part of my repertoire, I will be performing “Taste Conditions” along with a unique version of “Liquid Metal”. Following this important competition, I will promptly make the “Taste Conditions” DVD available to the magic community. So, I am postponing the release of this DVD until after I compete. If, for whatever reason, I do not compete in FISM, I will accelerate the DVD to market as soon as possible. Trust me…..the “Taste Conditions” DVD is worth the wait! I will keep you posted!

Talk about MAGIC!! The Ultrasound test revealed that my wife is carrying our new son! We are both very excited! She is doing great and our new addition to the family is expected to make his grand debut on June 28th. Suddenly, my magic seems ordinary compared to the “miracle of life.”

I’m sorry that I haven’t been able to update my blog in such a long time. I have been super busy! I have just returned from the land of kings, queens, The Beatles, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey……….and Europe’s largest city! London, England is a fascinating place and gives diversity a whole new meaning. There are over 200 different languages spoken by its residents! It was my honor to attend the prestigious Blackpool magic convention. It was a great experience! I have to admit that this was the best convention I’ve ever attended. I met so many awesome people! My favorite part was hanging out afterwards at the Ruskin. Most of my time at Blackpool was spent in the fantastic Penguin Magic booth. I saw a lot of old friends……..and made a bunch of new ones! I can’t wait until next year! Many thanks and kudos to Maxwell, Acar, and Sam of Penguin Magic for their hospitality, generosity and support that enabled me to attend this important event!

http://www.blackpoolmagic.com