Well, I've done magic for a while, about ten years, mostly for friends and family. I feel I'm getting close to starting some kids shows but haven't decided whether to look into joining SAM or IBM. And I really don't know much about either group, so since that hasn't been a direct question, (that I've seen anyway), figured I'd ask here.

So here's my dilemma:

On the one hand, I figure I'd only be small time, doing shows mostly on the side, rather than as my primary source of income. So it's not like I'm just there trying to get business away from them.

But on the other hand, I figure if I did shows without joining one of those groups I'd be stepping on people's toes, so to speak. That taking any of the available work isn't quite right, without being a member. I also believe that by joining I could give and receive referrals to and from magicians, but don't know that for sure.

So I guess what I'm asking is:
-what are the advantages of being in each group?
-is it a requirement to join if one wants to be professional? or would one be alienated from the local magicians from not joining?
-Are there any other groups?
-are there any advantages in not joining? (besides not having to pay membership dues)

Welcome dcs2406,

Well, we belong to the S.A.M. (my hubby and I) and our daughter belongs to the S.Y.M. (youth division). She is currently enrolling also in the I.B.M. youth division.

I think it is really important to have the backing of a society behind you, for a multiple of reasons.

1. The societies both have a long respected history; being a part of these organizations will help you during your journey of becoming a "professional or semi-working professional."

2. Networking is so important. You wil be able to talk with a lot of other magicians in your area and learn from them, both business tactics and magic wise. We have found this to be key! As novices ourselves, the outpouring of helpfulness from our Assembly has been a blessing for our daughter.

3. Referrals. This works both ways. It not only gives you the opportunity of receiving referrals, but also having a "backup" when an emergency arises and you cannot make a gig yourself.

4. A sense of community. This is by far the most important to me. We have made some wonderful friendships. Our family looks forward to the monthly meetings and getting together with friends and the opportunity to visit.

As you can see, I am a firm believer in belonging to either or both of the groups. Only you can decide what is right for you.

Good luck with your endeavor. I wish you the very best of luck!

I also belong to SAM and IBM and would not even think of dropping my membership. Kristen really covers most of the advantages of membership. There are other really hard to describe things about belonging. i.e. we are a group of individuals with a love of the art of magic and to meet with others who have this same love that we do gives you a feeling of true comraderie that we can't get from our "muggle" (to steal a term) friends.

Also when refining our shows, routines, etc. fellow members are always more than willing to help and offer suggestions to improve your showmanship. The contests and conventions are not only learning experiences but a heck of a lot of fun.

Finally the monetary advantage. Liability insurance. Think of all the things that can (and do) go wrong, then think about an idiot with a law degree. Even if you win the attorny that you need can bankrupt you. With membership you can purchase over $1 million worth of liability insurance for as little as around $100 a year and not have to worry about anything.

Hope this answers any questions you have

Like paddy, I proudly belong to both as well. I have been much more happier with My SAM membership than my IBM membership...but that is only because they seem to run a more tighter ship.

You don't have to be a member to be professional and you won't be alienated for not signing up. The clubs are just a way to link magicians in America and around the globe.

You shouldn't complain about membership dues...they are only about $50.00 per year...that's nothing...that fee covers a magazine subscription and club privelages.

I would reccomend that you join both...but if not both, at least the Society of American Magicians.

You asked if there are any others...in fact there are...if you are a gospel magician, there is one out there titled "FCM" which stands for Fellowship of Christian Magicians...there might be more, but that is the only one I can think of.