I originally started this in another thread. People suggested to post it here and get the views of stage performers.

You can see the original thread here. http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewt......um=177&9

A buddy and I were discussing this topic the other day about "borrowing" ideas from other magicians routines. 90% of all the magic you know whether it be sleights, patter, routines, were all developed or created by someone else, then published in books, videos, magazines etc. So, lets say you wanted to make a stand up comedy act. And you wanted to take ideas from other magicians routines. (The amazing Johnathan's Hand is quicker than the eye gag, or his Linking rings, these ones are already linked so we can move on with that. Or Michael Finney's card on forehead routine.) This is considered wrong to use other magicians patter, routine, or effects. My buddy says that as long as your not making an instructional video of someone elses work (without their permission), Its completely fine to use others ideas for his own routine.

This was being talked about while I was trying to help him come up with a comedy stand up act. Neither one of us are too good at making comedy bits. So we started watching other magicians routines to get some inspiration, and that's how the topic came up, from him saying, "Why don't I just do this whole bit?" (referring to Michael Finney's card on forehead routine.)

We already had a few drinks, so obviously the discussion turned to more of an argument. So that's why I'm here to see what others think about the topic.

So feel free to leave some input.

IMHO one's performing work is more personal than the clothes one is wearing much less ones possessions or relationships. It comes from inside and is part of ones growing process. IMHO a hands off policy seems respectful.

IMHO it's fine to ask them about their material (is it in print?) and you might get some ideas out of that discussion which would better suit your own needs - or permission to use theirs - or maybe not.

This topic is continued at A little insight on "borrowing" routines?