What is a “Ring”?

The I.B.M. is divided into local chapters commonly referred to as Rings. Together, these Rings create the international organization.

What is the I.B.M. and  I.B.M. Ring #199?

The International Brotherhood of Magicians is the world’s largest organization for magicians and magic enthusiasts boasting over 14,000 members worldwide. Members share a common interest in promoting, performing, learning and advancing the performance art of magic. A brief history of the I.B.M. and Ring #199 may be found here. 

Do I need to be a magician to attend meetings?

No. The Raleigh Magic Club welcomes anyone with a sincere interest in the performance art of magic. Our Club includes members who are magic enthusiasts, collectors, historians, and beginner as well as part-time and full-time performers.

Do I need to be a member of the I.B.M. to join the Ring? 

Yes. Ring members are required to join the national organization. However, you may attend up to three meetings as a guest before opting to join the national organization. National membership information can be found at www.magician.org. Youth membership is included in the lesson fees. 

Do I need to be a member of the I.B.M. to join the Raleigh Magic Club?

No. The Cub offers a Supporting Membership for magicians and magic enthusiasts who prefer not to join the national organization. 

How often does the Club meet and how long are the meetings?

The Club generally meets on the First Saturday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00 PM. Informal virtual Magic Jams are held every Tuesday at 7:30 PM EST. Club luncheons are hosted around the Triangle. Magic Youth Raleigh generally meets on the First Saturday of each month at 5:00 PM. Scheduled meetings and locations may vary, so please consult the Ring Calendar before heading out.

How old do I need to be to join?

Youth members range from 8 thru 17 years of age. Adult membership is open to any adult 18 years of age and older. 

What are the benefits of joining the Club?

Aside from the social and professional support offered through the Club, members enjoy free or discounted access to lectures, workshops, and social events hosted by the Club. The Club hosts an annual magic auction, magic flea market, performance showcases, friendly competitions, and more. Club members may receive group discounts for professional magic performances across the Triangle. The Club’s monthly newsletter, website and Facebook page will keep you well informed on magic events, lectures, and workshops happening across the Triangle. Members may also request and receive hands-on coaching and direction from more experienced members of the Club. 

How often does the Club host a magic lecture or workshop?

The Club has hosted such magic luminaries as Jay Scott Berry, Joshua Jay, Michael Ammar, Bob Sheets, Eugene Burger, Jeff McBride, and many more. We are working on hosting Pop Haydn and other top names in the year ahead. The Raleigh Magic Club generally hosts four to six professional lectures and/or workshops each year.

How much does it cost to join the Raleigh Magic Club?

Annual Club dues are $25.00 covering the calendar year. Dues paid during the months of July thru December are prorated at 50% or $12.50. Magic Youth Raleigh membership dues are included in the lesson fees. 

How are my Club dues used? 

Annual Club dues are applied toward various member activities including free lectures and workshops, showcases, banquets, talent competitions, and family social events. Additional fees may apply to help offset the cost of some items.

Are Club officers paid with my dues?

No. Club officers and committee members are all unpaid volunteers. The Club is a nonprofit organization. 

Do my Club dues support this website or the monthly newsletter?

No. The Club website and monthly newsletter are maintained by a volunteer webmaster. Website and newsletter expenses are covered by voluntary donations from supporting members. 

How do I join the Raleigh Magic Club?

All you need to do is attend a regular Saturday meeting and introduce yourself. You will find yourself among friends and peers! Prospective members are required to perform two magic effects – one at each of two meetings. This is not a test! You can perform the simplest of magic effects straight out of the box or a complex theatrical piece! This is an icebreaker designed solely to help you feel comfortable among the Ring members. Raleigh Magic Club members are your greatest supporters. If you are joining virtually, Club Membership may be started by paying dues through the website. Once this is done, a Raleigh Magic Club Board Member will reach out to you to answer any questions and provide access to our virtual events.

Are the accompanying parents of youth members required to join the Club?

No. Accompanying parents are always welcome to sit in and observe any meeting or session their child is involved in. Parents who are not Club members and are escorting a youth member are admitted to paid events free of charge.

Can I be refused membership?

In over a decade with the Club, we have yet to see this happen. So, I would have to say “No.” We are, above all else, a social club for the sharing and advancement of the performance art of magic. Egos are not permitted to interfere with this mission. 

Is the I.B.M. and Raleigh Magic Club a Secret Society? 

The International Brotherhood of Magicians is not a secret society. We believe that the performance art of magic must be shared to be truly appreciated. However, we do protect the secrets of our craft. We believe that revealing a magic secret reduces a beautiful and hard-worked magic effect into a baseless puzzle with no real charm.  The true joy of magic is found in its secrets.