Ring 17 Honors Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, Ring 17 invited Dr. Kenrick “Ice” McDonald to join us for our February meeting. For a few hours it was looking like our evening might become a casualty of a stormy Canadian winter afternoon and evening. Blizzard-like conditions made for a difficult and dangerous drive on Toronto streets, but we still had a strong turnout for a showing of The Quiet Masters – The History and Relevance of The Black Magical Artist. Ian Crawford opened the evening with a short, but comprehensive introduction of Ice’s accomplishments and accolades in the field of magic and a quick hello from our guest. Following the showing of the film, Ice took the stage and answered questions about the making of the film and its history. Ice is a consummate pro. He was warm, welcoming, and a great host.
Presenting invaluable historical insights, an incredible cast, and compelling interviews with black magicians across the globe, The Quiet Masters is a documentary that delves into the narratives of remarkable figures. Henry “Box” Brown’s ingenious escape from slavery by mailing himself to freedom, the thriving magician Fetaque Sanders during America’s darkest periods, Ellen E. Arm- strong from a pioneering family of black magicians, and Richard Potter, the first American-born professional magician with a unique background, are highlighted in the film. Ring 17 was introduced to the powerful and personal stories of these magicians, re- counting their trials and triumphs. We learned a great deal about a relatively unknown part of our own magical history.
Ice McDonald’s Q&A with IBM Ring 17 and guests.
Taking on the roles of producer and director, Ice made history in 2014 as the first African American National President of the Society of American Magicians. This has been a labor of love for McDonald as he has uncovered the rich history of great Black magicians from our past. The documentary captures the importance and essence of these magical legacies, offering a profound and relevant exploration into the diverse experi- ences of black magicians.
Al Warren, a board member, asked Ice if he could do something for the group as we had quite a few non-magicians in the crowd. Ice didn’t disappoint by pulling a fortune cookie from his pocket and finding a torn corner of a selected card buried inside. The club ended up at a local Toronto pub to hang out, share a late-night meal together, and continue conversations and sharing late into the night.
It was a great night of learning and com- munity building. Thanks to Lee Asher, we learned that Henry Brown is buried in the Necropolis Cemetery in Toronto and that his last performance was in Brantford, Ontario on February 26, 1889. Lee and Ice were able to visit the memorial site on the Friday after the screening. Look up Box Brown’s story. Fascinating on so many levels and heart breaking on others.
Ice McDonald with the Ring 17 board.
The following night, Ice held a Master Class at The Browsers Den, our local magic store in the city for a group of Toronto-based pros. He tipped those in attendance on how to take your magic to the next level, and shared some of his pet effects with the group.
If you haven’t seen the film, it’s worth a screening for your club and can also be seen on Amazon. It’s full of rich history and facts that will both entertain and surprise. Many of Ring 17’s members were glad to hear that a coffee table book might be published in the not-so-distant future.
Ring 17 was visited by two “Ice” storms this February, and if you haven’t met Dr. McDonald, it’s about time you do. David Peck
