On Sunday, August 17, one of our dearest friends passed from this world to the next. She was a remarkable woman – passionate, caring, funny, charming, and delightful.
We first met Joanie almost 20 years ago when she was still working with the David Copperfield show. Cindy and I were on the road and bought tickets to see the show in Savannah, GA. While sitting in the park outside the Johnny Mercer Theatre, Joanie came out of the building to walk the dogs that were a feature in David’s. Her approachable manner made it easy for us to strike up a conversation…and we did. We discovered her love for animals and the joy she received in caring for them.
We first started working with Joanie in 1999 when we hired her to direct a new illusion in our show. It was the beginning of a professional relationship that lasted 15 years and transformed our production. From that moment on, not a single illusion made it to the stage without Joanie’s direction. Her reputation preceded her and those first rehearsals were long, sometimes grueling and always productive. Her expertise helped to move us to the next level of performance. She taught us how to touch not only our audience’s inquisitive minds, but their hearts as well. Joanie was someone who cared deeply about people and saw great potential in everyone; not merely as performers, but as individuals. By helping you become a better performer, she also allowed you to discover things about yourself, to find your inner strength and confidence. Everyone with whom she worked was not only a better performer. Each was a better person.
What took us by surprise was the personal relationship that we developed in such a short period of time. Over those 15 years, we spent a lot of time together – personally and professionally. There are so many stories, memories, moments that make us laugh…and cry. She was remarkable – an extraordinary woman who touched everyone with whom she came in contact. We were privileged to know her and to have the opportunity to benefit from her passion. Her impact on the art of magic will probably never fully be realized or recognized. She elevated our art to new levels and for those who knew her well, she also elevated our lives. We miss her already and our hearts are broken.
