Four magicians performed for about 300 people, including fellow magicians, at the hotel as part of the 61st annual Magicians' Alliance of Eastern States convention.

The convention features magic shows, seminars and dealer booths where magicians can see other people's tricks and purchase props.

Clark Beurlen and his wife Kathy have been coming to magic conventions for years. They own Circus Day Productions, which organizes performances in Columbia, Md.

"It's a very relaxed and happy convention," Clark Beurlen says. "Performers here are on the national level."

Steve Friedberg, a volunteer at the convention and amateur magician, says these events give magicians a chance to share and have fun.

"We like to watch others and are supportive of other magicians," Friedberg says. "It's cool for people of all ages."

'One step ahead'

He explains, "Magic is being one step ahead of the audience. It should inspire a sense of fun and wonder for the person doing the magic and the audience."

Friday night's performance, which was open to the public, featured the magic of Bill Dickson, Samuel Patrick Smith, Three Street and Lee Germain and Judi.

Dickson and his assistant wowed the audience with doves, scarves and mirrors. The crowd cheered as Dickson made doves disappear and scarves multiply.

"Isn't that a nice way to start the show?" asked Hank Moorehouse, the show's master of ceremonies.

Next up was Samuel Patrick Smith, a children's entertainer and author.

Smith mixed jokes and magic. "What is the difference between a magician and a large pizza?" he asked. "A large pizza can feed a family of four."

He then brought out his assistant, a puppet named "Puff the Magic Rabbit." After antics that made the children in the audience giggle with delight, Smith reminded everyone "every puppet needs a hand."

Organizers say the fun continues tonight with another show that is open to the public beginning at 8:30 p.m. featuring the magic of Mat Franco, Sylvester the Jester, Max Maven and Michael Finney.

Friedberg calls Max Maven "the most famous author and performer of mentalism in magic today."

Convention organizers say Sylvester the Jester is internationally noted for his highly original character and developments in magic.

"The guy is a walking cartoon," Friedberg says. "But he is serious about his magic."