This is a question I get asked quite often; most people are surprised at the answer.
Actually the foundation of the material I perform is quite old, sometimes called “the classics of Magic.” Classics never die, but they do evolve…unless you’re doing a period piece. The foundations and psychology of magic will never change. Things work for a reason, and that is fact. We can discuss the theory of magic, but successful results and performances do not happen because of theory. They succeed when the performer has a thorough knowledge of how artful deception becomes entertainment. Much of the card magic I perform, dates back fifty to hundred years and beyond. The tools, (sleight of hand) are just as old. The “Magical Plots” are ancient. It is rare when a new plot is introduced into this field. Quite often, inventors are chasing their tales and rarely improve on the originals they are imitating. Suffice it to say, a competently trained, and talented Magician can make good money where there is a thriving market for this entertainment. O.K., now I give out the secret, which a magician is never supposed to do. Some new technology has aided deception and made the job easier in some instances. However, IMHO the impact of the effect is not always stronger than what can be accomplished with different means. Finally, if this craft, (art) that we call magic was reliant on advancement through the “latest Developments in its field, I think it would crumble. I would say it is reliant on innovators. Those who are willing to step outside the ordinary and be something different. Those who present a new fresh face or approach that attracts wide spread interest. In my life I recall, Doug Henning, David Copperfield, Siegfried and Roy, Penn and Teller, David Blaine, Criss Angel and many others who do not always get the recognition granted to those whose talents align with the stars.
And for those who have an interest, the oldest truth in this business is, practice correctly until you get it right. “And how long should I practice?” As long as it takes.