Reviews of DVDs and Tricks for Stand-Up and Stage
This area lists our reviews of tricks and DVDs for stand-up and stage.
Review: Foresight by Devin Knight
Here's a strong prediction effect based on playing cards, but without playing cards. A thought-of playing card is found in a holder hanging from your neck. It's a seemingly freeform effect with a brilliant concept and execution and can be used on stage or in walkaround situations.
Here's a strong prediction effect based on playing cards, but without playing cards. A thought-of playing card is found in a holder hanging from your neck. It's a seemingly freeform effect with a brilliant concept and execution and can be used on stage or in walkaround situations.
Review: Dan Tong Live
When an entertaining worker of Dan Tong's caliber tips his stand-up show, it’s time to sit up and listen and take notes. These are fantastic routines that you can perform and use to entertain. Another plus with this DVD is that you get to see how Tong entrances his audiences with humor, scripting and charisma.
When an entertaining worker of Dan Tong's caliber tips his stand-up show, it’s time to sit up and listen and take notes. These are fantastic routines that you can perform and use to entertain. Another plus with this DVD is that you get to see how Tong entrances his audiences with humor, scripting and charisma.
Review: MXL Margarita XL by Sean Scott
If you'd like to walk up to a crowd and quickly produce an enormous wine glass, this DVD shows you how. The effect is stunning and the method, which will require practice, is efficient and effective. Furthermore, you won't have modify your clothing and you don't even have to be wearing a jacket.
If you'd like to walk up to a crowd and quickly produce an enormous wine glass, this DVD shows you how. The effect is stunning and the method, which will require practice, is efficient and effective. Furthermore, you won't have modify your clothing and you don't even have to be wearing a jacket.
Review: Undiscovered Wonder by Mel Mellers
I first discovered the hilarious and immensely entertaining Mel Mellers, an accomplished British comedy magician, on his DVD set, "Tickling the Mind." This DVD teaches six routines that have potential in any stand-up act and are not difficult to perform.
I first discovered the hilarious and immensely entertaining Mel Mellers, an accomplished British comedy magician, on his DVD set, "Tickling the Mind." This DVD teaches six routines that have potential in any stand-up act and are not difficult to perform.
Review: Happy Birthday Vest by Lee Alex
With Lee Alex's Happy Birthday Vest, any magician can cause a white vest that he is wearing to change into one that shows a colorful birthday cake. The changes are fast and impressive and the vest is a well made, a high quality item.
With Lee Alex's Happy Birthday Vest, any magician can cause a white vest that he is wearing to change into one that shows a colorful birthday cake. The changes are fast and impressive and the vest is a well made, a high quality item.
Review: Ping and Pong by Wayne Dobson
Ping & Pong is a booklet that provides the script for Wayne Dobson's excellent and entertaining routine with the "Chinese Sticks." The rhyming routine is all Dobson - witty, edgy and hilarious.
Ping & Pong is a booklet that provides the script for Wayne Dobson's excellent and entertaining routine with the "Chinese Sticks." The rhyming routine is all Dobson - witty, edgy and hilarious.
Review of Space Between by Jason Palter
What if you could predict the space between two randomly placed objects, before they are freely arranged by a spectator? This is the premise behind Jason Palter's "Space Between."
What if you could predict the space between two randomly placed objects, before they are freely arranged by a spectator? This is the premise behind Jason Palter's "Space Between."
Review of Smart Ass by Bill Abbott
This effect by Bill Abbott is a powerful prediction effect that relies on a very fair (or seemingly fair) selection of a playing card. The effect, which is interactive and entertaining, is great for stage. And even if you don't care for the effect, which is unlikely, you'll love the force.
This effect by Bill Abbott is a powerful prediction effect that relies on a very fair (or seemingly fair) selection of a playing card. The effect, which is interactive and entertaining, is great for stage. And even if you don't care for the effect, which is unlikely, you'll love the force.
Review: Cabaret Card Magic by Bill Abbott
Playing cards have the potential to pack small and play very big, and this is the premise behind Bill Abbott's Cabaret Card Magic. In this first rate book, Abbott shows how to entertain and mystify large audiences with card routines and provides themes and detailed scripts for some well known effects.
Playing cards have the potential to pack small and play very big, and this is the premise behind Bill Abbott's Cabaret Card Magic. In this first rate book, Abbott shows how to entertain and mystify large audiences with card routines and provides themes and detailed scripts for some well known effects.
Review: Tear Down by Andrew Mayne
I've been performing a newspaper tear for years. It used to be my stand-up opener. The tear, based on a popular method, has served me well, but I may well be tossing it to employ Andrew Mayne's excellent "Tear Down," an impromptu effect.
I've been performing a newspaper tear for years. It used to be my stand-up opener. The tear, based on a popular method, has served me well, but I may well be tossing it to employ Andrew Mayne's excellent "Tear Down," an impromptu effect.
DVD Review: Bish Bash Bosh by Magic Dave
This DVD showcases the routines Dave Allen, many of which are prop-based (in order to perform the effect, you'll have to buy the magic prop). Allen has a great rapport with kids and I thoroughly liked his silent puppet routine. If you're putting together a show for younger kids, you'll probably find some great ideas on this DVD.
This DVD showcases the routines Dave Allen, many of which are prop-based (in order to perform the effect, you'll have to buy the magic prop). Allen has a great rapport with kids and I thoroughly liked his silent puppet routine. If you're putting together a show for younger kids, you'll probably find some great ideas on this DVD.
Trick Review: ESP Mind Set by James Biss
Here's a great stand-up and stage effect that offers a stunning prediction, a bit of pseudo-psychometry, lots of interaction with five audience members who join you on stage and an intriguing ESP theme. I especially like the strong two-phased ending.
Here's a great stand-up and stage effect that offers a stunning prediction, a bit of pseudo-psychometry, lots of interaction with five audience members who join you on stage and an intriguing ESP theme. I especially like the strong two-phased ending.
DVD Review: Greg Otto - New Comedy Routines for Magic
Greg Otto is a comedy magician who performs entertaining magic using straight-forward methods. Most magicians will already know versions and methods for the classics that he presents on this DVD. This DVD is notable for its comedy bits and the way that it shows what a worker such as Otto uses in his act.
Greg Otto is a comedy magician who performs entertaining magic using straight-forward methods. Most magicians will already know versions and methods for the classics that he presents on this DVD. This DVD is notable for its comedy bits and the way that it shows what a worker such as Otto uses in his act.
Trick Review: Puzzle Paradox by Larry Becker and Lee Earle
This is no simple puzzle, but a strong mentalism routine that involves a jigsaw puzzle. Somehow, a spectator’s freely chosen piece from a bunch of random ones is the very piece that's missing from an almost fully assembled puzzle. It's a compelling routine for stand-up or stage that features good audience interaction.
This is no simple puzzle, but a strong mentalism routine that involves a jigsaw puzzle. Somehow, a spectator’s freely chosen piece from a bunch of random ones is the very piece that's missing from an almost fully assembled puzzle. It's a compelling routine for stand-up or stage that features good audience interaction.
DVD Review: The Naked Zombie Ball by Raymond Crowe
This DVD teaches a routine where you make a silver ball appear to float in the air. However, unlike the usual zombie routine, you don't rely on a gimmick, nor to you employ the traditional foulard. The routine sports two phases, the first with the ball floating from your hands, and the second, where it floats around a small hoop. The DVD also offers an excellent introduction to studying and applying movement.
This DVD teaches a routine where you make a silver ball appear to float in the air. However, unlike the usual zombie routine, you don't rely on a gimmick, nor to you employ the traditional foulard. The routine sports two phases, the first with the ball floating from your hands, and the second, where it floats around a small hoop. The DVD also offers an excellent introduction to studying and applying movement.
Trick Review: Kanpai by Ginjiro
In Japanese, Kanpai means "cheers." And Ginjiro brings a glass and liquid production that is worth cheering about. The holdout provides the means to effectively produce a glass with liquid that you can immediate drink or pour out-the glass is not gimmicked. This kit comes with the glass and everything that you need. If you’ve always wanted to make a glass of wine appear out of seemingly nowhere, Kanpai is worth a look.
In Japanese, Kanpai means "cheers." And Ginjiro brings a glass and liquid production that is worth cheering about. The holdout provides the means to effectively produce a glass with liquid that you can immediate drink or pour out-the glass is not gimmicked. This kit comes with the glass and everything that you need. If you’ve always wanted to make a glass of wine appear out of seemingly nowhere, Kanpai is worth a look.
Review: Funny Business - Niagara Comedy Magic Seminar 2007
If you're an aspiring comedy magician or want to learn how the pros perform comedy magic, this DVD offers helpful interviews, informative panel discussions and hilarious performances from the Niagara Comedy Magic Seminar in January 2007.
If you're an aspiring comedy magician or want to learn how the pros perform comedy magic, this DVD offers helpful interviews, informative panel discussions and hilarious performances from the Niagara Comedy Magic Seminar in January 2007.
Review: Echo by Wayne Dobson
An entertaining routine that is interactive, makes great uses of a volunteer and is commercial and very funny, Wayne Dobson's Echo is a winner. This is a version of the "Teach A Card Trick" where a spectator is brought onto the stage and with coaching from the magician, performs a card trick.
An entertaining routine that is interactive, makes great uses of a volunteer and is commercial and very funny, Wayne Dobson's Echo is a winner. This is a version of the "Teach A Card Trick" where a spectator is brought onto the stage and with coaching from the magician, performs a card trick.
Trick Review: Enchanted Cube
An intriguing and visual effect, you instantaneously solve a Rubik's Cube right in front of spectators. The cube is clearly mixed at one moment, and, after tossing it up in the air, it's solved with all of the colors matching on each side.
An intriguing and visual effect, you instantaneously solve a Rubik's Cube right in front of spectators. The cube is clearly mixed at one moment, and, after tossing it up in the air, it's solved with all of the colors matching on each side.
Trick Review: Rainbow Ropes-The Remix by Daryl
A visual and dazzling rope trick that is easy to perform and leaves you clean at the end, Daryl's Rainbow Ropes - The Remix is an excellent effect for stand-up or stage. The high quality ropes are thick and easy to handle and Daryl offers excellent written instructions as well as thorough explanations on the enclosed DVD. I also like the many potential themes that can work for this trick.
A visual and dazzling rope trick that is easy to perform and leaves you clean at the end, Daryl's Rainbow Ropes - The Remix is an excellent effect for stand-up or stage. The high quality ropes are thick and easy to handle and Daryl offers excellent written instructions as well as thorough explanations on the enclosed DVD. I also like the many potential themes that can work for this trick.
Review: Kidding Around by Chris Capehart
On this DVD, Capehart shows how to present compelling and fun magic for kids that doesn’t insult the intelligence of anyone over six years old, the way that many kids performers do. Capehart is not only an excellent performer, he combines lots of skills, which also involves and entertains the parents who are watching with their kids.
On this DVD, Capehart shows how to present compelling and fun magic for kids that doesn’t insult the intelligence of anyone over six years old, the way that many kids performers do. Capehart is not only an excellent performer, he combines lots of skills, which also involves and entertains the parents who are watching with their kids.
DVD Review: Incredible Dancing Paper Napkin
This DVD explains a visual dancing paper napkin that you can perform anytime and anywhere. It uses a real napkin that has been examined by a spectator or has just come out of a restaurant dispenser. And there are no strings, threads or wires. This one is absolutely fantastic.
This DVD explains a visual dancing paper napkin that you can perform anytime and anywhere. It uses a real napkin that has been examined by a spectator or has just come out of a restaurant dispenser. And there are no strings, threads or wires. This one is absolutely fantastic.
DVD Review: Plunge Of Death by Kockov
This DVD offers two versions of Russian Roulette: one with four inverted cups - one of which has an upright nail under it - and the second that involves real guns in the classic scenario. While the Kockov character is one that’s designed for laughs, the routines are tense and present an actual element of danger. Both routines have great entertainment potential and are not hard to learn or perform.
This DVD offers two versions of Russian Roulette: one with four inverted cups - one of which has an upright nail under it - and the second that involves real guns in the classic scenario. While the Kockov character is one that’s designed for laughs, the routines are tense and present an actual element of danger. Both routines have great entertainment potential and are not hard to learn or perform.
DVD Review: Helter Shelter The Movie by Bizzaro
If you’ve ever wanted to perform the classic effect where you swallow a series of razor blades and some thread and then bring them out all strung together, Helter Shelter The Movie offers a fast, running start by explaining the various commercial effects that you can purchase and teaching various techniques.
If you’ve ever wanted to perform the classic effect where you swallow a series of razor blades and some thread and then bring them out all strung together, Helter Shelter The Movie offers a fast, running start by explaining the various commercial effects that you can purchase and teaching various techniques.
Book Review: Theatrical Magic by John Pyka
John Pyka not only knows magic, he knows theater. And his book, “Theatrical Magic” will make you think about the magic that you perform and inspire you to add meaning to it. I got a lot out of reading this book.
John Pyka not only knows magic, he knows theater. And his book, “Theatrical Magic” will make you think about the magic that you perform and inspire you to add meaning to it. I got a lot out of reading this book.
Review: Collard by John Archer
In the spirit of mentalism effects where an object predicts some random input from audience members ala “Koran Medallion” and Don Wayne’s “Room Key,” “Collard” allows audience members to freely name a stuffed toy dog and later discover that its tag already has its name inscribed on it. This one is good and it’s definitely a stage effect.
In the spirit of mentalism effects where an object predicts some random input from audience members ala “Koran Medallion” and Don Wayne’s “Room Key,” “Collard” allows audience members to freely name a stuffed toy dog and later discover that its tag already has its name inscribed on it. This one is good and it’s definitely a stage effect.
Review: Red Carpet
For a society that can’t hear enough about Brittney, Lindsey and Paris, “Red Carpet” exploits our interest in celebrities. It’s a mind-reading effect that involves male and female spectators and ten cards that depict well known people. While the theme is compelling, the effect is rather lackluster and anti-climactic.
For a society that can’t hear enough about Brittney, Lindsey and Paris, “Red Carpet” exploits our interest in celebrities. It’s a mind-reading effect that involves male and female spectators and ten cards that depict well known people. While the theme is compelling, the effect is rather lackluster and anti-climactic.
DVD Review: Bill In Lemon (World's Greatest Magic)
L&L has combined bill in lemon routines from the DVDs and videos of several artists that include: Bill Malone, Doc Eason Fielding West, J. J. Sanvert and Ted Lesley. It’s fascinating to watch the different technical approaches to the effect as well as the presentations. If you want to perform a bill in lemon routine, you will find this DVD worthwhile.
L&L has combined bill in lemon routines from the DVDs and videos of several artists that include: Bill Malone, Doc Eason Fielding West, J. J. Sanvert and Ted Lesley. It’s fascinating to watch the different technical approaches to the effect as well as the presentations. If you want to perform a bill in lemon routine, you will find this DVD worthwhile.
Review: Street Cups DVD and Book by Gazzo
Gazzo, the legendary street magician, demonstrates and teaches his famous cups & ball routine. It’s the money-making routine that he uses to close his street shows. If you’ve always wanted to learn the cups & balls and work it on the street, Gazzo’s DVD and book are required watching and reading.
Gazzo, the legendary street magician, demonstrates and teaches his famous cups & ball routine. It’s the money-making routine that he uses to close his street shows. If you’ve always wanted to learn the cups & balls and work it on the street, Gazzo’s DVD and book are required watching and reading.
DVD Review: Tickling The Mind #2 by Mel Mellers
Mel Mellers is a successful magic performer and his DVD, “Tickling The Mind “ strives to teach other magicians how to apply themes to their effects and improve their routines and act. I found his “Tickling The Mind #1" to be a mixed bag, but generally liked this second effort. On this DVD, Mellers presents commercial routines and clever presentations.
Mel Mellers is a successful magic performer and his DVD, “Tickling The Mind “ strives to teach other magicians how to apply themes to their effects and improve their routines and act. I found his “Tickling The Mind #1" to be a mixed bag, but generally liked this second effort. On this DVD, Mellers presents commercial routines and clever presentations.
DVD Review: Tickling The Mind #1 by Mel Mellers
More about presenting magic than teaching new techniques, tricks or moves, Mel Mellers’ unconventional DVD showcases his comedy skills. Here, he shows how to take mostly rudimentary and well known tricks and dress them up into hilarious and entertaining routines. However, the DVD is a mixed bag that falls short as it’s not clear what Mellers is trying to teach other magicians.
More about presenting magic than teaching new techniques, tricks or moves, Mel Mellers’ unconventional DVD showcases his comedy skills. Here, he shows how to take mostly rudimentary and well known tricks and dress them up into hilarious and entertaining routines. However, the DVD is a mixed bag that falls short as it’s not clear what Mellers is trying to teach other magicians.
Trick Review: Endless Rose
A stage effect with lots of potential, “Endless Rose” allows you to pick a full-sized red rose from a half-dozen roses; continually pluck the flower from the stem and immediately regenerate a rose at its end, and for the finale, cause the bare stem to produce a yellow rose.
A stage effect with lots of potential, “Endless Rose” allows you to pick a full-sized red rose from a half-dozen roses; continually pluck the flower from the stem and immediately regenerate a rose at its end, and for the finale, cause the bare stem to produce a yellow rose.
Stand-Up Magic - Volume 2 (World's Greatest Magic)
This is another great DVD in L&L’s “World's Greatest Magic” series that compiles lessons from noted magicians and their earlier videos. As the name implies, "Stand-Up Magic - Volume 2" presents a variety of effects that may be used in stand-up performing situations. This DVD offers routines by Michael Finney, Flip, Michael Ammar, Michael Close, Steve Dacri, Steve Draun, Fielding West and Eddie Tullock.
This is another great DVD in L&L’s “World's Greatest Magic” series that compiles lessons from noted magicians and their earlier videos. As the name implies, "Stand-Up Magic - Volume 2" presents a variety of effects that may be used in stand-up performing situations. This DVD offers routines by Michael Finney, Flip, Michael Ammar, Michael Close, Steve Dacri, Steve Draun, Fielding West and Eddie Tullock.
Stand-Up Magic - Volume 1 (World's Greatest Magic)
Another great DVD in the L&L’s “World's Greatest Magic” series that compiles lessons from noted magicians and their earlier videos, "Stand-Up Magic - Volume 1" presents a variety of effects that may be used in stand-up performing situations. Because of the broad premise, the routines span the gamut and include parlor magic, mentalism and more. And as the name implies, this DVD is the first of three.
Another great DVD in the L&L’s “World's Greatest Magic” series that compiles lessons from noted magicians and their earlier videos, "Stand-Up Magic - Volume 1" presents a variety of effects that may be used in stand-up performing situations. Because of the broad premise, the routines span the gamut and include parlor magic, mentalism and more. And as the name implies, this DVD is the first of three.
Bisection by Andrew Mayne
A fantastic and visual stage illusion that requires no assistants and packs into a single box or case, Andrew Mayne’s “Bisection” is a stunner. The magician walks out onto the stage and with the cover of a cloth curtain that is lifted from the ground, makes the upper half of his body momentarily disappear.
A fantastic and visual stage illusion that requires no assistants and packs into a single box or case, Andrew Mayne’s “Bisection” is a stunner. The magician walks out onto the stage and with the cover of a cloth curtain that is lifted from the ground, makes the upper half of his body momentarily disappear.
Trick Review: Mind Control Remastered by Bill Abbott
In “Mind Control,” Bill Abbott offers a trick that is easy to perform and can be performed in several variations for close-up or stage. Here, the spectator makes a free choice and is shown that the magician knew all along.
In “Mind Control,” Bill Abbott offers a trick that is easy to perform and can be performed in several variations for close-up or stage. Here, the spectator makes a free choice and is shown that the magician knew all along.
DVD Review: Zoom, Bounce, And Fly- Jeff McBride
Jeff McBride’s “Zoom, Bounce, And Fly” teaches you how to spin cards in flashy ways to dress up your card manipulation act. This DVD provides some new variations and the complete work on performing McBride’s amazing “floor bouncing” where cards are rapidly spun and thrown from a deck that’s held in one hand and bounced off the floor. And for the first time, McBride unveils a secret gimmick.
Jeff McBride’s “Zoom, Bounce, And Fly” teaches you how to spin cards in flashy ways to dress up your card manipulation act. This DVD provides some new variations and the complete work on performing McBride’s amazing “floor bouncing” where cards are rapidly spun and thrown from a deck that’s held in one hand and bounced off the floor. And for the first time, McBride unveils a secret gimmick.
Trick Review: Star Trick by Larry Becker and Lee Earle
A prediction effect that is surprising and visual, Larry Becker's and Lee Earle's "Star Trick" manages to capture our society's fascination with celebrities. This effect is based on an innovative and creative concept and is designed to be performed on stage but can also be performed close-up.
A prediction effect that is surprising and visual, Larry Becker's and Lee Earle's "Star Trick" manages to capture our society's fascination with celebrities. This effect is based on an innovative and creative concept and is designed to be performed on stage but can also be performed close-up.
Trick Review: Kate and Edith
One of the funniest effects in magic, “Kate and Edith” is a fantastic routine for bars, nightclubs and adult gatherings. Doc Eason recently re-released Kerry Pollack’s “classic” with a DVD that presents two recordings of his live performances and provides tips, audio files that you can listen to and memorize the routine and more.
One of the funniest effects in magic, “Kate and Edith” is a fantastic routine for bars, nightclubs and adult gatherings. Doc Eason recently re-released Kerry Pollack’s “classic” with a DVD that presents two recordings of his live performances and provides tips, audio files that you can listen to and memorize the routine and more.
DVD Review: The World-Renowned Magic of Paul Potassy
Paul Potassy is truly a master magician. He has performed for 66 years in 44 different countries for celebrities, heads of state and even the Pope; speaks six languages and has been called “the Maurice Chevalier of magic.” It’s a pleasure to watch this master in action and to learn the effects in his stand-up show.
Paul Potassy is truly a master magician. He has performed for 66 years in 44 different countries for celebrities, heads of state and even the Pope; speaks six languages and has been called “the Maurice Chevalier of magic.” It’s a pleasure to watch this master in action and to learn the effects in his stand-up show.
DVD Review: Zombie Ball (World's Greatest Magic)
This DVD offers advice on learning and performing the Zombie Ball from three well respected experts: Al Schneider, Jeff McBride and Tommy Wonder. If you want to learn Zombie, or want to improve or expand your current routine, you’ll find lots to like on this DVD.
This DVD offers advice on learning and performing the Zombie Ball from three well respected experts: Al Schneider, Jeff McBride and Tommy Wonder. If you want to learn Zombie, or want to improve or expand your current routine, you’ll find lots to like on this DVD.
DVD Review: Laser Anywhere Volume 1 - Adrian Man
"Laser Anywhere" offers a thorough course in CD Manipulation and is the companion lesson for the Manipulation CD Box Set. On this DVD, magician Adrian Man offers good explanations on palming, productions, vanishes, holders, gimmicks and body steals.
"Laser Anywhere" offers a thorough course in CD Manipulation and is the companion lesson for the Manipulation CD Box Set. On this DVD, magician Adrian Man offers good explanations on palming, productions, vanishes, holders, gimmicks and body steals.
Review: Manipulation CDs Box Set
Manipulation CDs are props that look much like real CDs, the kind that you stick into your computer to burn, but are specifically designed for magic and manipulation. Like jumbo coins, manipulation CDs look great on stage, but they are larger in diameter, lighter in weight and far easier to handle.
Manipulation CDs are props that look much like real CDs, the kind that you stick into your computer to burn, but are specifically designed for magic and manipulation. Like jumbo coins, manipulation CDs look great on stage, but they are larger in diameter, lighter in weight and far easier to handle.
Trick Review: Money Bag-Anton Corradin
A magician holds a black piece of cloth and puts some coins inside it, which fall through. The magician shows the cloth to empty. After a shake, a jumbo 7-inch (17 cm) half-dollar coin falls from the bag. The magician turns the bag over and shows a picture of a bill. When the bag is opened again, a wad of paper currency appears. This offbeat money effect is easy to learn and perform. Personally, I find this one rather unsophisticated and corny.
A magician holds a black piece of cloth and puts some coins inside it, which fall through. The magician shows the cloth to empty. After a shake, a jumbo 7-inch (17 cm) half-dollar coin falls from the bag. The magician turns the bag over and shows a picture of a bill. When the bag is opened again, a wad of paper currency appears. This offbeat money effect is easy to learn and perform. Personally, I find this one rather unsophisticated and corny.
DVD Review: Sucker Punch-Thom Peterson
On his newest DVD, Thom Peterson promises “"magic that will knock the wind out of your audience...nine great sneak attacks to daze and amaze." Peterson is a creative performer with a quirky sense of humor. There are only nine close-up and stand-up routines here, but there are some definite gems.
On his newest DVD, Thom Peterson promises “"magic that will knock the wind out of your audience...nine great sneak attacks to daze and amaze." Peterson is a creative performer with a quirky sense of humor. There are only nine close-up and stand-up routines here, but there are some definite gems.
DVD Review: Enigmatic Vol 1-Alexander de Cova
I greatly admire the creativity and ingenuity of Alexander de Cova. His brand of magic offers some well-thought-out enhancements to classics and the six stand-up effects on this DVD are varied and strong. As he did on his “Thumb Tip” DVD, de Cova fooled me bad. None are difficult to perform, but will take some rehearsal.
I greatly admire the creativity and ingenuity of Alexander de Cova. His brand of magic offers some well-thought-out enhancements to classics and the six stand-up effects on this DVD are varied and strong. As he did on his “Thumb Tip” DVD, de Cova fooled me bad. None are difficult to perform, but will take some rehearsal.
Trick Review: Divine Time - Jason Palter
A first rate mentalism effect, Jason Palter’s Divine Time offers an entertaining routine that’s built on a time theme and serves a solid prediction. A spectator selects a watch from several that display different times, and the performer is able to somehow determine the time.
A first rate mentalism effect, Jason Palter’s Divine Time offers an entertaining routine that’s built on a time theme and serves a solid prediction. A spectator selects a watch from several that display different times, and the performer is able to somehow determine the time.
Trick Review: Fate-Rick Maue
This incredible bit of mentalism involves five spectators and six poker chips and serves two powerful revelations. I successfully performed the routine at three shows this past weekend and it got a great response. I can’t say enough great things about Rick Maue’s “Fate.”
This incredible bit of mentalism involves five spectators and six poker chips and serves two powerful revelations. I successfully performed the routine at three shows this past weekend and it got a great response. I can’t say enough great things about Rick Maue’s “Fate.”
DVD Review: "As I Recall..." Slydini
This excellent DVD set is a tribute to the great Slydini. You get to see many of his classic routines that include "Coins Through the Table," "Paper Balls Over the Head" and more, and learn them from Cellini, the noted street artist and Slydini student. Other students perform their favorite Slydini effects and recall their experiences with the master. This is a worthwhile DVD.
This excellent DVD set is a tribute to the great Slydini. You get to see many of his classic routines that include "Coins Through the Table," "Paper Balls Over the Head" and more, and learn them from Cellini, the noted street artist and Slydini student. Other students perform their favorite Slydini effects and recall their experiences with the master. This is a worthwhile DVD.
DVD Review: 100% Commercial Mentalism-Andrew Normansell
As the title implies, Andrew Normansell’s 100% Commercial Mentalism DVD offers the magician’s favorite mentalism effects. Normansell offers mentalism that works on stage and in close-up situations. All are easy to learn and perform. While some rely on playing cards, none require any sleight-of-hand.
As the title implies, Andrew Normansell’s 100% Commercial Mentalism DVD offers the magician’s favorite mentalism effects. Normansell offers mentalism that works on stage and in close-up situations. All are easy to learn and perform. While some rely on playing cards, none require any sleight-of-hand.
Book Review: Helter Shelter - The Razor Blade Illusion
If you’ve always wanted to perform the “razor blade illusion” where a magician swallows several razor blades and some thread, and then “regurgitates” the blades back up, all neatly tied on the string, “Helter Shelter” is almost required reading.
If you’ve always wanted to perform the “razor blade illusion” where a magician swallows several razor blades and some thread, and then “regurgitates” the blades back up, all neatly tied on the string, “Helter Shelter” is almost required reading.
DVD Review: Miracles from the Sock Drawer
On this comprehensive DVD, Paul Gallagher shares an amazing wealth of ideas, applications, subtleties, insight and routines for standard effects that many magicians have purchased and thrown into their sock or junk drawers. With some 50 effects, routines, presentation tips, and performance applications and some five hours of footage, this is a great DVD.
On this comprehensive DVD, Paul Gallagher shares an amazing wealth of ideas, applications, subtleties, insight and routines for standard effects that many magicians have purchased and thrown into their sock or junk drawers. With some 50 effects, routines, presentation tips, and performance applications and some five hours of footage, this is a great DVD.
DVD Review: The Secret Art of Coin Manipulation
If you want to learn an excellent stand-up coin routine, Eric Evans’ teaches an entertaining and bewildering one on this DVD. Here, a silver dollar goes through a series of mind-bending productions, vanishes, transpositions, penetrations, and transformations, and the routine climaxes in a seemingly-endless, barehanded production of jumbo coins.
If you want to learn an excellent stand-up coin routine, Eric Evans’ teaches an entertaining and bewildering one on this DVD. Here, a silver dollar goes through a series of mind-bending productions, vanishes, transpositions, penetrations, and transformations, and the routine climaxes in a seemingly-endless, barehanded production of jumbo coins.
Trick Review: Mindreading 101
A collection of mind-reading gags that can be used on their own for laughs, or to lead up to a major prediction or revelation, Mindreading 101 offers a set of high-quality cards that you can use right away in your act. The gags are proven ones that will be a hit with almost any lay audience.
A collection of mind-reading gags that can be used on their own for laughs, or to lead up to a major prediction or revelation, Mindreading 101 offers a set of high-quality cards that you can use right away in your act. The gags are proven ones that will be a hit with almost any lay audience.
Review: Andrew Mayne’s Light Storm (Plans)
Good illusions always cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars, right? But magician and designer Andrew Mayne can change your mind. His plans for “Light Storm” offer a large-scale effect where an assistant appears to push a light through the body of the magician. The effect is a good one that can cost less than $60 to build.
Good illusions always cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars, right? But magician and designer Andrew Mayne can change your mind. His plans for “Light Storm” offer a large-scale effect where an assistant appears to push a light through the body of the magician. The effect is a good one that can cost less than $60 to build.
Trick Review: D’lite Flight
D’lite Flight makes a spot of red light flicker in mid air-almost like a flying, buzzing, living and glowing firefly. Despite the D’lite name, the effect can only be performed under certain lighting conditions-mostly on darkened stages. But it’s an eye-catching effect that may be performed as a short transition or something to visually attract spectators.
D’lite Flight makes a spot of red light flicker in mid air-almost like a flying, buzzing, living and glowing firefly. Despite the D’lite name, the effect can only be performed under certain lighting conditions-mostly on darkened stages. But it’s an eye-catching effect that may be performed as a short transition or something to visually attract spectators.
Review: Andrew Mayne’s Voodoo Box (Plans)
If you’ve always thought that good illusions cost hundreds, and even thousands of dollars, magician and designer Andrew Mayne can change your mind. His plans for “The Voodoo Box” offer a variation on the classic sword box that replaces the swords with umbrellas and is built with a cardboard box. The end effect is a good one that can cost less than $30 to build.
If you’ve always thought that good illusions cost hundreds, and even thousands of dollars, magician and designer Andrew Mayne can change your mind. His plans for “The Voodoo Box” offer a variation on the classic sword box that replaces the swords with umbrellas and is built with a cardboard box. The end effect is a good one that can cost less than $30 to build.
Q&A: Moving Wall Technology
Magician Don Drake, who is known professionally as Dondrake, is an innovator in the area of black art magic. He recently applied for a patent for his new Moving Wall Technology. Drake spoke with Magic & Illusion about his latest product and how it works for illusionists.
Magician Don Drake, who is known professionally as Dondrake, is an innovator in the area of black art magic. He recently applied for a patent for his new Moving Wall Technology. Drake spoke with Magic & Illusion about his latest product and how it works for illusionists.
Trick Review: Daryl’s Group Session
If you’ve always wanted to perform the “Tossed Out Deck,” but wanted to maintain control over the cards, Daryl’s “Group Session” offers a great alternative method. “Group Session” comes with the necessary props, paper instructions and a DVD and is a fantastic system that provides all of the tools that you need to learn and perform the effect.
If you’ve always wanted to perform the “Tossed Out Deck,” but wanted to maintain control over the cards, Daryl’s “Group Session” offers a great alternative method. “Group Session” comes with the necessary props, paper instructions and a DVD and is a fantastic system that provides all of the tools that you need to learn and perform the effect.
Trick Review: Jumping Jelly Beans
An entertaining effect with a built-in message about sharing, Magikraft’s Jumping Jelly Beans is a fine addition to a kid show.
An entertaining effect with a built-in message about sharing, Magikraft’s Jumping Jelly Beans is a fine addition to a kid show.
Review: Tony Clark's Ever Ready Silk Dropper
If you can use a dropper that lets you produce a silk handkerchief at just about any time, definitely consider Tony Clark’s first rate Ever Ready Silk Dropper.
If you can use a dropper that lets you produce a silk handkerchief at just about any time, definitely consider Tony Clark’s first rate Ever Ready Silk Dropper.
Trick Review: Daryl’s Amazing Acrobatic Knot
Daryl’s Acrobatic Knot, his take on Pavel’s Fantastic Knot, is a visual and entertaining effect where a knot jumps from one rope to another amidst other assorted zaniness. If you’ve always wanted to learn Daryl’s pet effect, this set includes everything you need, including a DVD, written instructions and the ropes. It’s a great addition to any stand-up or close-up act.
Daryl’s Acrobatic Knot, his take on Pavel’s Fantastic Knot, is a visual and entertaining effect where a knot jumps from one rope to another amidst other assorted zaniness. If you’ve always wanted to learn Daryl’s pet effect, this set includes everything you need, including a DVD, written instructions and the ropes. It’s a great addition to any stand-up or close-up act.
Review: D’Lite Blue, Color Change and DVD
We review the newest blue and color-changing D’Lite effects, as well as the instructional D’Lite DVD. The new gimmicks are excellent additions to the D’Lite that open up new performance possibilities. And the DVD offers outstanding instruction to beginning and intermediate performers.
We review the newest blue and color-changing D’Lite effects, as well as the instructional D’Lite DVD. The new gimmicks are excellent additions to the D’Lite that open up new performance possibilities. And the DVD offers outstanding instruction to beginning and intermediate performers.
Review: Tony Clark’s Ultra Card Dropper
For card manipulators and those who need to steal cards during their routines, Tony Clark’s Ultra Card Dropper securely holds cards until you need them and works like a charm.
For card manipulators and those who need to steal cards during their routines, Tony Clark’s Ultra Card Dropper securely holds cards until you need them and works like a charm.
Review: Art of Card Throwing DVD
Art of Card Throwing DVD promises to teach how to throw cards, as well as flick, spin and shoot them.
Art of Card Throwing DVD promises to teach how to throw cards, as well as flick, spin and shoot them.
DVD Review: Official Poker Card Stunts DVD
Rich Ferguson’s “The Official Poker Card Stunts DVD” teaches a wide range of card techniques to switch cards, reveal and deal cards in flashy ways, throw cards and execute flourishes. While there are no actual tricks, magicians should find many of the moves useful. It’s a first rate DVD that provides excellent instruction.
Rich Ferguson’s “The Official Poker Card Stunts DVD” teaches a wide range of card techniques to switch cards, reveal and deal cards in flashy ways, throw cards and execute flourishes. While there are no actual tricks, magicians should find many of the moves useful. It’s a first rate DVD that provides excellent instruction.
Review: The Specter Cabinet (Plans)
The Spector Cabinet is another high-impact, low-cost illusion idea from Andrew Mayne. It’s his creative take on the shadow box. His plans offer everything that you need to know to build the illusion for about $60 worth of materials. This one can make an excellent show opener.
The Spector Cabinet is another high-impact, low-cost illusion idea from Andrew Mayne. It’s his creative take on the shadow box. His plans offer everything that you need to know to build the illusion for about $60 worth of materials. This one can make an excellent show opener.
DVD Review: Criss Angel Self Levitation
If you want to learn and perform an excellent self-levitation, one that allows you to lift your feet in the air while standing almost anywhere, Criss Angel teaches one of the many techniques that he performed in his MINDFREAK television series.
If you want to learn and perform an excellent self-levitation, one that allows you to lift your feet in the air while standing almost anywhere, Criss Angel teaches one of the many techniques that he performed in his MINDFREAK television series.
DVD Review: Andrew Normansell 100% Commercial - Comedy Stand-Up
Andrew Normansell’s comedy DVD offers a strong selection of commercial stage effects. This DVD does not present an act, but several routines that are largely weighted towards cards. Normansell has an engaging stage presence and the effects he presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to perform.
Andrew Normansell’s comedy DVD offers a strong selection of commercial stage effects. This DVD does not present an act, but several routines that are largely weighted towards cards. Normansell has an engaging stage presence and the effects he presents here offer lots of opportunities to interact with spectators and are not difficult to perform.
DVD Review: The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion-Asia
If you want to find out what it’s like to carry out an international tour, The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion-Asia offers an entertaining compilation of backstage and on-the-road footage. The DVD demonstrates no secrets and the performance segments are limited, but it’s fascinating to watch The Spencers and their support team in action and experience their Asian tour through their eyes.
If you want to find out what it’s like to carry out an international tour, The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion-Asia offers an entertaining compilation of backstage and on-the-road footage. The DVD demonstrates no secrets and the performance segments are limited, but it’s fascinating to watch The Spencers and their support team in action and experience their Asian tour through their eyes.
Trick Review: Seance Handcuffs
The seance is a magic classic. In a seance, the magician is tied-up or bound in some way that constrains his or her movements, and then spiritual “manifestations” and strange events occur. To perform the effect, Cannon’s Great Escapes offers its superb Seance Handcuffs that work well and rely on a clever and almost undetectable gimmick.
The seance is a magic classic. In a seance, the magician is tied-up or bound in some way that constrains his or her movements, and then spiritual “manifestations” and strange events occur. To perform the effect, Cannon’s Great Escapes offers its superb Seance Handcuffs that work well and rely on a clever and almost undetectable gimmick.
DVD Review: Cellini, Art of Street Performing, New Orleans, Volume II
For those who want to perform magic in the streets or can use strong stand-up routines that work under almost any condition, Cellini, the street master, offers superb instruction in his Art of Street Performing, New Orleans, Volume II. With varied effects that use silks, coins, ropes, cigarettes and cups and balls, the DVD presents an entire street act.
For those who want to perform magic in the streets or can use strong stand-up routines that work under almost any condition, Cellini, the street master, offers superb instruction in his Art of Street Performing, New Orleans, Volume II. With varied effects that use silks, coins, ropes, cigarettes and cups and balls, the DVD presents an entire street act.
DVD Review: 24 Years of Living Next Door to Ellis
Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster offer a brilliant, hilarious and entertaining DVD that’s filled with first rate, commercial effects. The premise here is that a nosy neighbor, played by Webster, is constantly spying on Ellis in his home and figuring out and explaining his tricks. It’s loads of zany fun and Ellis and Webster often make the explanations as entertaining as the tricks.
Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster offer a brilliant, hilarious and entertaining DVD that’s filled with first rate, commercial effects. The premise here is that a nosy neighbor, played by Webster, is constantly spying on Ellis in his home and figuring out and explaining his tricks. It’s loads of zany fun and Ellis and Webster often make the explanations as entertaining as the tricks.
DVD Review: Bob Sheets’ Hang ‘Em High
Another strong effect from Bob Sheets, his “Hang ‘Em High” DVD shows how to perform his stunning version of the rope through body. Two spectators hold a single rope at each end and the magician places the middle of the rope on his back. In the blink of an eye, the rope ends-up in front of the magician, somehow passing through his body.
Another strong effect from Bob Sheets, his “Hang ‘Em High” DVD shows how to perform his stunning version of the rope through body. Two spectators hold a single rope at each end and the magician places the middle of the rope on his back. In the blink of an eye, the rope ends-up in front of the magician, somehow passing through his body.
DVD Review: Stand-Up Magic For Kids
Can the secret to great kids magic be found in a single DVD? “Bill Abbott Performs Stand-Up Magic For Kids” comes darn close. This excellent DVD only profiles three routines, but they’re high-impact, powerhouse effects that are clearly worth the price of admission. This DVD is a virtual gift to serious kid magicians everywhere.
Can the secret to great kids magic be found in a single DVD? “Bill Abbott Performs Stand-Up Magic For Kids” comes darn close. This excellent DVD only profiles three routines, but they’re high-impact, powerhouse effects that are clearly worth the price of admission. This DVD is a virtual gift to serious kid magicians everywhere.
DVD Review: Runaround Sue
Is a DVD with only one routine worth the money? When it’s Tim Ellis’ “Runaround Sue,” his take on the cups & balls, the answer is a resounding “yes.” In addition to explaining Ellis’ excellent fifties-themed cups & balls, the DVD provides lots of useful information on vanishes, setup and showmanship.
Is a DVD with only one routine worth the money? When it’s Tim Ellis’ “Runaround Sue,” his take on the cups & balls, the answer is a resounding “yes.” In addition to explaining Ellis’ excellent fifties-themed cups & balls, the DVD provides lots of useful information on vanishes, setup and showmanship.