In a theatrical context, should magic require a reason for being done?

Most of the time, there is little or no theatrical context applied to magic. There is no need to do the magic. The performer does it just because they can. Let me explain to you what I mean.

Consider a performance piece in which a performer flies across the stage from one side to the other. Think David Copperfield if you like.
Now imagine another performer who flies across the the stage because in the middle of the stage is a fire.
The second performer has a reason to need to fly, while the first one just wanted to show off that he could fly. Continue reading “Does Magic Need A Motive?” »