Format for a S.A.M. (Society of American Magicians) Meeting

The Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.) Assembly meetings generally follow a standard 90-to-120-minute format: Call to Order, Business/Reports, a structured educational segment (such as a lecture or “Show and Tell”), and open “sessioning” where members perform. Presidents (or presiding officers) facilitate this flow, balancing official business with camaraderie. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

A typical agenda for an S.A.M. meeting includes:

1. The Call to Order & Opening

• Welcome: The President opens the meeting, often welcoming visitors or new members and reminding everyone of S.A.M.’s fraternal goals.
• Roll Call & Minutes: The Secretary takes attendance and reads the minutes from the previous month.
• Treasurer’s Report: A brief update on the Assembly’s finances. [1, 2, 3]

2. Committee Reports & Old Business

• Upcoming Events: Discussions on participating in community events or National Magic Week (giving charitable performances in the community).
• National Updates: The President relays any news from the S.A.M. National Council or upcoming regional/national conventions. [1, 2, 3, 4]

3. The Feature Segment (Educational/Performance Focus)

This is typically the highlight of the meeting, curated by the President or an appointed program director:

• Theme Nights: A structured focus like “Apparatus Magic,” “Stand-Up Comedy Magic,” or “Virtual Magic” where everyone brings tricks corresponding to the theme. [1, 2]
• Lectures/Workshops: An invited guest performer or an experienced local member teaches a specific sleight, routine, or theory. [1, 2]
• “Show and Tell”: Members showcase a new prop, a fresh take on a classic effect, or demonstrate a routine they are struggling with to get constructive group feedback. [1, 2]

4. Open Sessioning & The “After-Meeting”

• Critiques & Sharing: Open floor time for magicians of all skill levels to perform, workshop routines, and bounce ideas off one another in a safe, supportive environment. [1, 2]
• Adjournment: The formal meeting concludes, often leading to impromptu jam sessions, eating, and discussing the finer points of the craft. [1, 2]

SAM Assembly 12

Minneapolis, MN

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