T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R M AG I C I A N S A N D M E N TA L I S T S

ISSUE NO.111
VOL 19. NO.3
JULY 2023

Derren
Brown
NOTES FROM A
FELLOW TRAVELLER
Van Inc
 THE TEAM
MAGICsEEN ISSUE #111... Editor/DESIGN > Phil Shaw
Advertisement Enquiries >
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It's hard to believe that having previously published 110 issues of Website Design > magicseen.com
Magicseen Magazine over more than 18 years we have never interviewed
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the incredible Derren Brown. Well, as you will have already seen from
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the cover photo this issue we rectify that fact. We catch up with Derren as Edward Shaw, Jessica Preece
he prepares for the release of his brand new book - Notes From A Fellow
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Traveller. We even have a copy of his book to give away too, thanks to
Contributors > Iain Moran, Paul Gordon,
Derren and his team.
Ian Adair, Paul Brook, Kev G, Allan James
Taylor, Jay Fortune, Alan & Kat Hudson,
What else is in issue 111? Well, Nic Cheung answers questions about Reviewers > Phil Shaw, Shaun McCree,
his company, N2G, and the amazing coin gimmicks they manufacture, Liam Montier, Matt Diver
and Allan James Taylor runs us through this years' International Escape
Magicseen’s Management >
Artists Convention held at the National Emergency Museum in Sheffield.
Phil Shaw
General Enquiries and Comments >
We have another installment of Iain Moran's Bochord Club, and Alan
[email protected]
and Kat Hudson tell us about their brand new double act - Married at
Thanks to > Derren Brown, Coops,
First Sleight. We have two brilliant effects - one from Paul Gordon and Pip Rowsell, Nic Cheung
one from Ian Adair - in the Masterclass plus an article on 'Clonks and
Clicks' by long time friend and contributor, Jay Fortune.
SCAN
There's more too, but I'm running out of space here so you will have to ME!
find out for yourselves. Happy reading!

See you next issue!

Phil Shaw
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Nic Cheung...................................... 8
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Gaining Wait...................................38 Copyright. The views and opinions expressed in this
MaSTERclass.................................18 magazine are those of the individual contributors
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THE Power of Artist's Convention 2023..........44 publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction in
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Product Reviews.........................46
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SHOUTOUT....................................... 58
Ben Hart - JADOO.......................... 26

4 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 Readers’ Letters
If you have anything you would like to tell us, whether it’s about the magazine
or anything magic related, please email: [email protected]

NO PRACTISE
Dear Magicseen,

HAVE I GOT NEWS FOR YOU... AGAIN!

Am I the only person who thinks a lot of magicians these days
practise an effect a couple of times and then go straight out and try
and perform it in the real world? Personally, I practise something Dear Magicseen,
until I can do it without thinking about the mechanics so I can I was watching the BBC's 'Have I Got News For You' TV show a couple
simply concentrate on the presentation. I would never try and of weeks ago and was surprised and pleased to see Magicseen featured
perform something I'd bought a couple of days previously. again in the hidden words round. Well done... and great exposure for
the magazine and magic, even if they do have a bit of a joke about it.
Paul T, Truro
Julie P, Surrey
Ed: I agree Paul. It reminds me of a quote from legendary cellist
Pablo Casals. When asked why he still practised at the age of 90, Ed: Yes this is the second time Magicseen have been featured on the
he replied "Because I think I'm making progress". Enough said! weekly TV show. Hopefully, sometime in the future, we can make it
a hat trick of appearances! And you're right... although the panel do
make fun of it, it is brilliant publicity for both the magazine and the
art of magic.

WHERE TO START?
Dear Magicseen,
Having been an avid card magician for

OUT OF STOCK...
many years I have now developed an
interest in mentalism. I already own
Dear Magicseen, the classic 13 Steps to Mentalism book,
I have seen many posts online recently complaining about magic but can you recommend anything else I
dealers listing lots of products for sale that they simply do not have should take a look at?
in stock. Why do they do this?
Peter W, Tamworth
Mark O, Scotland
Ed: 13 Steps is a great book to get you
Ed: I can't speak for all of them but some dealers these days started. It was written a long time ago
work as dropship agents for the big magic wholesalers - such as though and mentalism trends have
Murphy's Magic in the US. Doing this allows them to add products changed a lot since it was published.
to their site which they will then only order if an item sells. This is While there are many online resources,
obviously not always the case with all products as some are huge here's a couple of my favourite mentalism
instant hits. Dealers will buy stock of popular items in bulk as books I would recommend.
demand is high but slower selling items will only be ordered on an • A Piece of My Mind by Michael Murray
'as and when sold' basis so they are not sat on loads of stock. • Certified Mentalism by Paul Brook

6 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
8 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 Nic
Cheung
Nic Cheung may not be a name you instantly recognise
but I'm sure you will have heard of his company, N2G,
who produce some of the best coin gimmicks available.
We catch up with Nic to find out more...

Tell us a bit about yourself? He helped me to truly start learning and

My name is Nic Cheung but please call practice magic. The first time I really threw
me N2G. Every product produced by my myself into magic properly was to learn the
company, N2G, represents my name. I was retention pass which is used in coin magic.
born in China in 1988 and have lived both As more time passed, my passion grew, and
in Guangzhou and Hong Kong. I embraced magic as a part of my identity.
It is the sense of mystery, and the desire to
How did you get into magic? create moments of awe that continue to fuel
I started learning magic at the age of 16 my love for it.
when I was in my sophomore year of high
school. At that time, a classmate who was a How did N2G start?
magic enthusiast taught me a simple false I graduated from college in 2011 and began
shuffle, card spring, and card production. searching everywhere for a job, but just
The thrill and wonder that magic evoked couldn't find a suitable one. Even when I
stayed with me, and drove me to explore did manage to find a job, I quickly resigned
the more secrets. A few years later, I met due to my limited interest in it.
a senior in college who was a magician.

As more time passed, my passion grew,

and I embraced magic as a part of my
identity. It is the sense of mystery, and
the desire to create moments of awe that
continue to fuel my love for magic.

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 9
Our factory produces approximately
3000 coins per month which are
processed into various coin props.

I took on some magic performances in 2011 Where did the N2G name come from? Who is the N2G team? Tell us about them…
and 2012. One day in 2012, my friend and My elementary school name, Nic, I am the founder, creator, life adventurer
I were at a milk tea shop where we were sat with my love for playing the Guitar, of N2G. Our team comprises of a diverse
at a glass table. My coin bag was placed on thus culminating in the fusion of NG. assembly of accomplished individuals.
top of the glass, and in it was a magnetic Subsequently, when I was a high school
half dollar. At that moment I had a flash student, a profound encounter with the Our team includes Magic Advisor Ken Tsoi,
of inspiration. What if I had two magnetic study of chemistry unfolded. I decided to two personnel who produce our coins,
half dollars, one in the bag, and the other add a 2 to the middle of NG, which felt very PR Specialist, Mr. Wong, and Finance
under the bag and the glass, which could be stylish. I took it as my English name. Manager, Hannah.
magnetically attract underneath the glass…
this would make it easy to hide. Gradually, Also, N2G can also be translated as 'Native Since our foundation, the N2G team and I
I improved the coin through glass effect to Globe', meaning magic should be have been committed to the development
resulting in the production of my first coin globalised, promoting original magic to of original magic.
effect, N2. the world.

10 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 To date, we have produced 24 coin
props within a 2-3 year period.
My favourite is Mirror Heart...

Kong dollars and Singapore dollars, but we have an excellent relationship with many
currently have no plans to produce foreign magic shops and websites around the world.
coins on a large scale. You can purchase our N2G products from
either your local magic shops or online, and
What’s your favourite N2G coin set you of course, you can also order directly from
have produced so far and why? our official website: www.n2gpresents.com
To date, we have produced 24 coin props
within a 2-3 year period. My favourite is Do you have any plans to produce another
Mirror Heart, which originated from using other magic props other than coins?
a mirror. In April this year while sat in N2G started with coins, and we will
Starbucks, Ken Tsoi and I began thinking continue to produce more fun, interesting,
Most of your gimmicked coins are about how to use mirrors to combine coins and practical coin props. However, we
Chinese/US Dollar coins. Do you have in an interesting way. Initially, we only do have plans to develop other types of
any plans to produce coins in any other thought of mirror coins, however this effect magic products, such as playing cards and
currency? was not strong enough. We added a number electronics.
Our factory produces approximately 3000 8-shaped coin effect to it and finally the
coins per month which are processed into addition of stretching the 8-shaped ancient Do you perform professionally?
various coin props. We have been producing coin into a heart shaped coin. My life is magic and I can be classed as
Chinese ancient coins sets for the past 2 or a professional magician. However, I see
3 years. Can your products be bought from myself more as a magic inventor. Although I
magic dealers around the world or only often perform magic in front of friends and
Next, we plan to produce coin sets in from N2G? perform at high-level venues, my focus is
Morgan dollar, half dollar, penny, as well as After applying for a registered trademark more on producing magic props.
copper coin styles. We also help customers in 2011, N2G has been developing and
customise foreign coin props, such as Hong manufacturing products for 12 years. We

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 11
 Do you only perform coin magic?
Although I have produced many coin
props, when I go out with friends or meet
new people, I only carry 5 or 6 coin props
Quick Fire Questions
(CSTC, SCC, Jumbo Coin, LCC, HCC2.0 Tell us 3 things about yourself that
and RBG2.0). people will not know!
1. I can create magic props in my
I would like to find more time to perform dreams. Jumbo CSTC came to
other types of magic or sleight of hand mind in my dreams, and the idea
card magic. I also really enjoy performing for N7 came during insomnia.
newly bought magic and I especially enjoy
performing mentalism, using apps. 2. I am very kind, sincere, and have
a pure perspective on the world. I
What are your ambitions? am also a Buddhist.
My ambition is to ensure that every set
of products we send out undergo strict Which performers are your favourites? 3. I take good care of my wife
screening and quality control, so users who David Copperfield and am dedicated. Every time
purchase N2G's products have a 100% I create a new magic effect, I
satisfaction experience and are happy when What did you eat for breakfast? immediately tell her about it and
using our props. Sausage sandwich ask her to analyse its strengths and
weaknesses.
What’s next for N2G? Favourite movie?
We plan to create more original magic Titanic What is your favourite
props, especially coins for magic enthusiasts magic
around the world. Favourite music? book or DVD?
It's my life Five Points in Magic by
I hope N2G will become a high-quality Juan Tamariz.
brand trusted by magicians all around the
world.

12 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 Although I have
produced many coin
props, when I go out
with friends or meet
new people,
I only carry 5 or 6
coin props.

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 13
COMING SOON...

magicseen.com
 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TWO
MAGICIANS GET MARRIED?
IS LIFE FULL OF MAGIC SURPRISES OR DO THEY STILL HAVE PETTY ARGUMENTS OVER
WHO'S TAKING THE BINS OUT? CAN YOU EVER RELAX WHEN YOUR PARTNER IS
CONSTANTLY PLAYING TRICKS ON YOU IN THE MIDDLE OF A BOXSET?

Alan Hudson and Kat Hudson They’ve both appeared on TV shows can do the tricks so it’s exciting to find
join forces for the first time. And around the world, including Tu Si Que new methods that haven’t been possible
if they argue too much, the last Vales in Italy, Britain’s Got Talent etc, before”
time. They’ve been together for 11 but until now they’ve never performed
years and married for 6 years, but together. Kat says, “The rehearsal period has
this is the first time they’ve decided been interesting to say the least. I didn’t
to try teaming up on stage. This Alan has been performing solo for his realise how easily distracted Alan can
is a premiere that could lead to whole career, so how will he find it get. 10 minutes in, Alan’s mind will
worldwide domination, fame and working with his wife? As Alan tries to start to wander and start thinking about
fortune. Or divorce. make it the best show ever, Kat has other something else. I think it’s starting to
ideas and thinks she knows best. Kat also make sense now why he never listens to
Alan Hudson and Kat Hudson are seems to think that onstage is the best me - nothing to do with me boring him at
joining magical forces in a brand new place to air their personal relationship all, he’s just thinking about when the next
double act, Hudson and Hudson. niggles in public. Craig Petty review show is out”
They’re taking their brand new
show, Married At First Sleight to the Alan says “The first rule we had when So what can you expect from Hudson and
Edinburgh Festival this August. writing the show was to not include any Hudson? Great magic, lots of LOLs and
material that we’ve previously performed, probably some built up tension on stage,
Alan Hudson (winner on Penn & Teller: so it had to be all new tricks. Trying to especially if Alan has been leaving his
Fool Us, The Next Great Magician) is find magic that is suitable for a double underpants on the floor recently.
teaming up with his wife Kat Hudson act is challenging. Especially when you’ve
(Penn & Teller: Fool Us and West End’s never done it before. Also, we both had Married At First Sleight, will be on at
Wonderville) in a comedy magic double to be fully committed to each trick. If one Gilded Balloon’s Patter Hoose from
act that could be the best thing they’ve didn’t like it, it was out. Being in a double 2nd - 27th August every day (except
ever done or the worst idea ever. act does have its benefits with the way you 14th) at 3.40pm.

16 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 MASTERCLASS

THE RETURN OF THE

MULESHOE GAMBLER
BY PAUL GORDON

This is a big favourite of mine. It was The packet is in dealing grip. Perform a a red Jack is good.” Place the inhand card
inspired by Frank Price’s Muleshoe block push-off turnover to reveal the JC onto the top of the packet. Do another
Gambler from Apocalypse. Frank’s as you say, “…a black Jack.” Turn the block block push-off turnover to reveal the
routine was a bit over-handled and tricky face down on the packet and table the top JC as you say, “…a black Jack.” Flip the
in my humble opinion. This is much card. Take the bottom card off the packet block over and deal the top card onto
easier and more direct. If you purchased (10H) and flip it face up on the packet as the tabled card. Flip the top single card
my marketed version, you’ll remember you say, “…a red Ten.” Flip the 10H face (KC) face up as you say, “…and a black
it came with an aged postcard which down onto the packet and deal it onto the King.” Flip it face down and deal it onto
added to the story and was also a memory tabled card. Turn over a single card on the the two already-tabled cards. Flip the top
crib for you the performer. It’s still easy packet (10C) as you say, “…a black Ten.” single card (JC) face up as you say, “…
without the crib. Turn it face down onto the packet and and another black Jack.” Flip it face down
deal it onto the two tabled cards. Turn and deal it onto the three already-tabled
The easy-to-remember set-up from top is: over another single card on the packet cards. Finally, show the final card (JD)
KC, 5H, 10C, JD, 10H then the JC, QC, (JD) as you say, “…a red Jack.” Turn it face and drop it onto the four tabled cards as
AC. My imaginary gambler is called John down and deal it onto the tabled three you say, “…and the other red Jack!” Four
Quincy Andrews and notice his initials cards. Finally, flip the single inhand card Jacks and one King are displayed.
(JQA) help me recall the last three cards face up (JC) and place it on the tabled
of the set up. The first five cards of the set group as you say, “…and another black Say, “So after exchanging just one card
up can be written on a business card or Jack!” This is all very magical. Say, “So, Andrews changed a full house to fours!
suchlike. Because you openly talk about he got three Jacks over two Tens after just Amazing. He was just about to play his
those five cards, they aren’t really a secret. exchanging one card from a very poor hand when they said in Muleshoe at
So, like I said, it’s an easy-to-recall set up! hand.” Christmas time you have to exchange
three cards!”
As you jogshuffle the deck retaining Say, “He was just about to play his hand
the top eight cards in situ say, “Many when someone said that in Muleshoe on Pick up the face-down poker hand and
moons ago I visited a little town in Texas Thursdays, you have to draw two cards!” say, “Without looking Andrews angrily
called Muleshoe. Back in the 1800’s lived So, pick the hand up and spread it faces exchanged a third card!” Here you take
a famous gambler called John Quincy toward you again as if playing poker. Slide the top card of the packet (JD) and place
Andrews. Let me tell you about his out the second-from-face card (10H) and it face down on the other two discards.
legendary hand of cards that got him shot!” without showing it, place it face down Take the top card of the deck and place it
atop the discarded 5H. Take the top card with the inhand packet.
Deal the top five cards face up in a spread of the deck (QC) and slide it where the
to reveal the KC, 5H, 10C, JD and 10H. 10H was; second from face. In other Say, “After exchanging just one card,
Say, “Yes, this is the hand Andrews got!” words, it goes between the 10C and KC. Andrews changed a hand of four Jacks
Now, casually grab the QC and KC and into…a royal flush!”
Place the deck in front of you and pick up place them (as a unit) to the rear/top of
the hand (faces toward you) as if playing your poker hand. Transfer the packet into Turn the hand face up to display the
poker. Say, “It wasn’t a very good hand so face-down dealing grip. royal flush. During the gasps, end with
when it got to Andrews’ turn, he rejected the wonderful line, “And it was at that
one.” Here, without showing the face, Say, “Well, after exchanging two cards he moment John Quincy Andrews was shot
remove the 5H and place it face down got…” Do a block push-off lift to show dead!”
beside the deck. Take the top card of the the JD. Flip it face down onto the packet
deck (JC) and slide it to second from face and deal the top card to the table as you I’m so pleased with this story routine. It’s
of your spread. In other words, it goes continue, “…a red Jack.” Now, you have fun and extremely magical. Of course,
between the 10H and JD. to displace the bottom card of the packet much credit goes to the late Frank Price.
to the top. You need a reason for this. So,
Turn the packet face down and say, “After take the bottom card and use it to point
exchanging just one card, Andrews got…” to the supposed tabled JD as you say, “Yes,

18 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 MASTERCLASS

FADE-AWAY
LADY
BY IAN ADAIR

Another version of ‘Find the Lady, All three cards are left on the table for WORKING AND PRESENTATION:
completely different from those of the spectators to examine and handle. Open the card box and remove the set
past. of cards in the order they have been
arranged, the Queen card on top. The
EFFECT: REQUIREMENTS: audience can now see the box is empty.
The performer removes a set of cards A card box with a separate flap which Leave the box open at this stage.
from a box. fits inside and hides a pre-loaded card.
Fan the cards. The audience see two blank
Three cards are displayed, two blank- Four cards (all Bicycle brand) as follows: cards and one Queen. Part them, so you
faced ones, the other, a Queen (the lady!) • Two blank-faced cards with matching hold both blanks in your left hand, the
During the routine all are shown to have back designs. Queen in the other. Casually reverse both
similar back designs. • One Queen (any one) – blank on blanks so their backs are shown. Square
reverse (known as a face-only card.) up the set which rests on the palm of your
The ‘lady’ card is reversed, both blanks • One genuine Queen which matches left hand. You are now, apparently, going
still in view. It’s an easy matter to know the one on the gaffed card which also to reverse the Queen. However, in doing
where she is, so, the performer removes has a matching back design. so, a ‘double-lift’ move is executed (two
one of the blank-faced cards and places it cards being reversed as ‘one’.) This you
inside the empty wooden box. do, which results in the back of one of the
SET-UP: blank-faced cards coming into view. Say
‘Finding the Lady’, with only two cards Remove the flap from the box and place “Oh, the Queen also has a back design..”
is easier, so the second blank-faced card the genuine Queen inside, it’s face image The Queen, which is blank on its reverse
is removed. All eyes are on the reversed upwards. Place the flap over this card. side is now second down from the top of
card, this must surely be the lady. When On top of the flap, the other three cards the set. Fan the cards. State that it’s an
reversed, it’s also a blank-faced card. should be arranged so the Queen is on easy matter to find the ‘lady’, but to make
Where can the lady be? The discarded top of the two blank-faced ones, their it more difficult, you are now going to
blank-faced card which was previously blank sides facing upwards. Close the lid remove one of the blank-faced cards. So,
placed inside the box is removed and of the box. you must remove the blank card which
reversed – it’s the Queen – the lady. has the Queen on its opposite side. Place >>>

BLANK BACKED QUEEN REGULAR QUEEN BLANK-FACED CARD BLANK-FACED CARD

WITH MATCHING BACK DESIGN WITH MATCHING BACK DESIGN WITH MATCHING BACK DESIGN

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 19
 MASTERCLASS

>>> this card, blank side uppermost into the Eliminate the final blank-faced card, box now appears to be empty, so close the
box (on top of the flap), and close the lid. removing it, at the same time casually lid and dispose of it.
Visually turn the box upside down, so, allowing the audience to see its back
when it is reopened, the back of it (really design. Place it blank side on the table. All three cards, two blank-faced ones
the back of the genuine Queen) is visible. You are left with what appears to be the with backs, plus the Queen with a similar
Leave the box open. Queen, but, when this card is reversed, it back design can be left on the table for
is shown to have a blank face. spectators to handle.
Explain that ‘finding the lady’ is much
easier now that there are only two cards, Finally, remove the card from the box,
one blank and one (reversed) Queen. reverse it, and reveal it IS the Queen. The

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If you have a trick you've created and would like us to include it in a future issue of Magicseen Magazine,
we'd like to hear from you. To send your trick for consideration please email: [email protected]
PLEASE NOTE: Not all submissions will be published.
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 The Power of
Palindromic
Patterns
BY KEV G

If you’ve equipped yourself with a decent cube and invested the time to solve
it, your point of call should be learning a one handed stack. This technique was
devised by the Japanese magician Takamiz Usui, who released this on a DVD
titled ‘The Cube’ in 2013, though it remained pretty underground as the teaching
was in Japanese and the subtitles were average at best. It wasn’t until Stephen
Brundage hit the TV screens performing cube magic on America’s Got Talent and
his subsequent release ‘Cube3’ that this technique hit the mainstream masses.

Simply put, mixing the cube in the 2112

I strongly believe that the original stacks
taught on ‘The Cube’ are superior to

stack allows you to solve the cube

any variations that have been published
since, due to their unique palindromic

using exactly the same moves used to

sequence. Palindromes are sequences that
are the same forwards and backwards.

mix it.
While palindromes are commonly found
in language with words such as ‘racecar’,
‘level’ and ‘pop’’, some palindrome-like
examples can also be found in nature. If
you want to get really geeky about it, the is a hypothetical set of moves known as the gimmickless cube magic further and
next palindrome day in the UK is the 3rd ‘Devil’s Algorithm’ which would achieve learn other palindromic algorithms
February 2030. this feat, however it doesn’t currently such as the 446 mix, it will enable you to
exist and it's not known if it would even combine them together and perform some
In cubing terms, this means that the be possible to create. If it could it would incredible effects without doubling the
sequence of moves used to mix up the cube be really inefficient and likely to contain amount of work you have to put in. My
is the same as the moves required to get so many moves it would be pointless personal preference is Takamiz’s 2112 stack
the cube back into its solved state. You may undertaking it. Regardless, it is another as it seems to have additional advantages,
well have seen videos on YouTube or TikTok reminder of the beauty and complexity of which have been explored in the Refraktor
claiming ‘Solve any cube with two moves!’ the cube and the mysteries it still holds. project (with intriguing new secrets being
that seem to rack up millions of views but discovered all the time).
are completely fake. These videos show a As a palindromic algorithm only requires
cube mixed up using a set series of moves, you to learn a single set of moves it makes Simply put, mixing the cube in the 2112
which when reversed or repeated take the life so much easier when performing stack allows you to solve the cube using
cube back to solved. This also makes a good as you’re not having to learn a second exactly the same moves used to mix it. You
conversation starter as at some point I’m algorithm to get back to your starting are also able to do this one handed, with
sure you’ll come across this misconception, position, resulting in less chance of you the advantage of only being 4 moves so it
which you’re now armed to debunk. There making a mistake. If you decide to take can look like you visually solve the cube in

22 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
an instant. This will require some practise,
but it is actually very easy once you learn
how to hold the cube correctly and move
the layers one-handed.

If you’re keen to get started then there are

a number of places you can learn these
stacks:

• Takamiz Usui LIVE - Penguin Lecture

• The Cube - Takamitsu Usui
• Cube Cards - Kev G
• Refraktor - Kev G and Collin Claus
• RD Complete Shell Set - Henry Harrius

A key element in making a solve using this

technique look deceptive is the flow of
the moves rather than the speed of doing
them. Mixed with the movement of your
hand it should look instantaneous, though
just be mindful that without practice it can
just look like exactly what you’re doing
and whilst moderately impressive, not very
magical.

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 23
 While Simon is probably best known for
his game-changing memorised deck magic,
his books contain a wide range of card
magic and he is not afraid to use gaffs, if
the effect warrants it. His material is always
well thought out and I love his no-stone-
left-unturned writing style. It's not unusual
for Simon to include several options in his
routines, so the reader can decide which
way to go. As usual, Art Decko contains
several memorised deck effects, though
unlike his other books, these aren’t the
kind of effects one would usually associate
with a memorised deck. Not an impossible
location in sight. So, if that’s what you’re
looking for, pick any of his other books
instead.

As with most of Simon's books, the routines

here are not technically demanding. That
is not to say the material is easy, as Simon's
work should be studied carefully to get the
most out of it.

About Face is a version of the Hofzinser Ace

Problem. Before you start yawning and skip
to the next paragraph, I have a confession
to make: I’ve never really liked this plot
either. It is often way over-handled and
the audience has to really concentrate to
follow what’s going on – the antithesis
It's time to discuss a of commercial card magic. Aronson’s
approach, however, streamlines it in a way
book from another I’ve not seen before and the handling is so
of my heroes, the squeaky clean, it’s a real fooler.
late and very great
Thinking Inside the Box is a three-phase
Simon Aronson. sandwich routine, each more impossible
The difficulty than the last. The finale, where two Jokers
trap the third selection while inside the
was deciding on empty card case, is a stunner. Once again,
which of his five the construction is wonderful and typically
Aronson.
hardbound tomes
to write about. Amongst The Discards is a collaboration
They all contain between Simon and his session- buddies,
John Bannon and David Solomon. It's
incredible magic, an impromptu effect, with a surprising
which is fun both ending, and I've performed it since it was
to work on and first published in Magic Magazine in 2004.
It contains a brilliantly discrepant John
perform. I even considered writing about my Bannon switch, which makes me smile each
favourite Aronson material spanning across all his time I use it.
publications. In the end, I went for his last book, Art Simon has a particular liking for the diary
Decko, published in 2014. It contains some absolute plot, popularised by Alex Elmsley, and
gems and is still in print for those who don't already he's previously published several versions
of it. Art Decko contains a chapter titled
have a copy. "Birthdays", which features three more
offerings of this greatly commercial concept.
All three are wonderful, but Birthday Backer

24 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 If you want to create a comedy act, or are a comedy
performer looking to supplement the fun that you
already have, this book will provide you with all the
inspiration, advice, effects, one liners and visual
gags that you need.

We have tapped into the knowledge and expertise of top comedy

performers such as Scott and Muriel, Gaetan Bloom, John Archer,
Alan Hudson, Nathan Kranzo, Andy Reay, Michael Finney and many

THE COMEDY HELPLINE

more, all of whom have revealed what it takes to make your magic
appealingly funny.

Reading this book will help to find the comic you by providing
comedy knowledge and understanding that will make your shows
entertaining for all lay people to watch. The contributors have all been
there and done it, and now it’s your turn!

www.magicseen.com

is my favourite. It's a strong, memorable I learned it a few years later, when it was
piece of magic and extremely practical too. included in Bound to Please, a compilation
It's a real reputation-maker for those who of Simon's early works. It has spawned
go to the trouble of making the props. many variations since then, notably from If you want to create
Aldo Colombini, Ali Bongo, Benjamin a comedy act, or are a
Christ-Aronson Aces is a version of Henry Earl and Woody Aragon. In the pages of
Christ's Fabulous Ace Routine. What's Art Decko, we are introduced to Simon’s
comedy performer looking
particularly impressive about this handling updated version, Random Sample to supplement the fun that
is the pack begins and ends in Aronson Shuffle-board. you already have, this book
stack order. This not only makes things
much easier, as sight-counting groups of Simon writes that the effect is stronger if the
will provide you with all the
cards has been eliminated, but even more audience doesn’t know there is a prediction, inspiration, advice, effects,
importantly, during the routine the cards so he’s introduced a market-research type one liners and visual gags
seem to be mixed, dealt, counted, spelled premise, which fits the effect very well that you need.
and therefore in a completely random indeed.
order. I always perform several effects that
don't rely on the memorised nature of the This effect also usually requires a (rather We have tapped into the
stack, before unleashing an impossible- extensive) set-up. But once again, the knowledge and expertise of top
location type effect, and this and the one Aronson Stack comes to the rescue: one cut
that follows are superb. and you're ready to perform.
comedy performers such as Scott
and Muriel, Gaetan Bloom, John
The Aronson Stack "Makes Good" is Simon's Unfortunately, you can't get back into Archer, Alan Hudson, Nathan
version of the venerable Matching the Aronson Stack after this, but in all honesty,
Kranzo, Andy Reay, Michael Finney
Cards plot. Dai Vernon believed it was the it's such a strong piece, it would be a tough
most effective card trick one could perform act to follow. As Simon mentions in the and many more, all of whom have
for lay people. I can certainly attest to the book, however, the pack doesn't end up revealed what it takes to make your
power of this effect, as I've performed fully randomised, so with some thought,
magic appealingly funny.
several versions for over 30 years. But it's you could use it for some memorised deck
not a plot that seems particularly popular, effects if you wished to.
even amongst the cognoscenti. I suspect Reading this book will help to find
the reason is the seven-card set-up that is As I’ve been writing my thoughts on the comic you by providing comedy
usually required. Of course, there are ways Art Decko, many of the effects from his
to get into position FASDIU; however, other books have also sprung to my mind. knowledge and understanding that
Mr Aronson has created a handling which I may have to discuss those in future will make your shows entertaining
begins with his stack, so if you often carry columns. But for now, this book is a for all lay people to watch. The
a pack in Aronson Stack (as I do), you can great introduction to the work of
perform this wonderful effect at any time - Simon Aronson.
contributors have all been there
and yes, it's easy to get back into stack order and done it, and now it’s your turn!
at the end. Enjoy the journey!

Shuffle-board is perhaps Simon's most

famous creation. First published in 1980,
magicseen.com
 Ben Hart
Jadoo, A New Show Exploring the World Class Magician’s Indian
Heritage Has World Premiere at Edinburgh Fringe 2023.
2ND to 27TH August 2023 at Palais du Variete, Assembly George Square Gardens
Drawn from his experience travelling India In this brand new show Ben will be father born in India, Ben finally turns his
to discover lost, real magic, Ben Hart sheds exploring the very essence of magic, focus to his heritage.
his usual sleight of hand trickery in favour taking away the ‘glitz’ and ‘sparkle’
of stunning displays of wonderment, extra- often seen in modern day magic shows Ben Hart said: “I am very excited to
sensory power and a search for the truth... and exploring the raw beauty of a be bringing an all new show of what I
thought provoking story, gorgeously think is my most baffling, amazing and
This mind-popping show is rich in colour, threaded with magical and impossible personal show yet to Edinburgh. This
passion and wicked humour. Don’t miss this happenings. Inspired by traditional show explores the magic of India, which
chance to catch the world’s foremost magic Indian street magic and by his own is rooted in a street magic tradition. I had
storyteller in this all-new, jaw-dropping fantastical imagination, expect magic you heard tales of travelling Indian magicians,
show. Ben Hart will premiere Jadoo in the have never seen before… so I travelled to India to discover more
gorgeous surroundings of the Palais du about my heritage, the art of magic
Variete spiegeltent as part of Assembly’s Ben has spent time in India both working and looking for transformation. What
festival offering before heading out on a with and learning from traditional street I learned has impacted my work and
UK tour. performers. This show will be a retelling resulted in this mysterious, bizarre and
of some of the stories and experiences he baffling show.
Britain’s Got Talent finalist Ben Hart has found on his way in his usual wonderfully
travelled India collecting stories of the engaging and enchanting style. As one of I cannot wait for the world to see what I’ve
strange and the mystic whilst exploring the world’s foremost magic storytellers been working on… you’ve never seen a
his cultural heritage. and magic theatre makers, and with a magic show like this before…”

26 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE Photo: Matt Crockett

 ‘Where there’s NO
will, there’s a way’
Why clonks and clicks
should be banned!
by Jay Fortune

Ok, I admit it. I’m guilty.

My one saving grace is that I have
Of what, you might ask.
never, hand on heart, not even in
I was once a fully paid-up member of the
annoying clonk brigade of performers that private, cast a shadow with my hand
plague our art. Yes, those magicians who
cannot resist making a clonk/click sound at
to make the magic occur.
the moment of magic in their performance.

I now shudder to recall those early This brought back to mind those clonks And by adding annoying clonks, finger
performances, inflicting an annoying sound and clicks. (Christ, maybe in a drunken clicks and flapping one’s arms only adds to
effect onto the public, all under the guise of state I have even asked a participant to the public perception offered by Morgan on
that sound being the causality of the magic. blow on a playing card. God forgive me.) the quiz mentioned above; magicians are
annoying.
Even writing these words makes me All this does bring me to a rather serious
feel like taking a cold shower and point. A popular TV show with millions of So, how can we create better performances,
flagellating myself. viewers had the panel discussing magic, with a more believable causality, above the
with the conclusion being how ‘magicians lazy option of simply being the magician’s
And there’s more… I have also fallen foul are annoying.’ Hmmm… Could it be those will? Perhaps, in that pursuit lies our
of clicking my fingers to apparently cause clonks and clicks? greatest routines.
the magic effect to happen. Yes, I, a mature
intelligent adult (debatable), have clicked Maybe we should ask ourselves in what Check out your own repertoire and be
my fingers to make the magic happen. ways do we, as magicians, present the honest with yourself: How many routines
causality of our magic. do you use a click or a clonk with to make
I shudder. the magic happen? I bet you’ll discover it’s
Almost every magic trick I have ever seen more than you first thought. See if you can S
My one saving grace is that I have never, has the magician’s will being the causality of find a different cause.
hand on heart, not even in private, cast their magic. Whether flapping one’s arms
a shadow with my hand to make the around to apparently make the girl levitate But not one where you blow to make the
magic occur. A small triumph, yet easily or casting a shadow over a coin to make it magic happen. Please, dear God.
overshadowed (pun intended) by the jump elsewhere, it seems many magicians No blowing.
countless clonks and finger clicks dished aren’t very creative in finding better, more
out, without thinking, over the years. convincing ways, to express the causality of Copyright J. Fortune 2023.
our magical moments.
I recently watched the satirical news quiz STOP PRESS – as I write this,
‘Have I Got News For You.’ This particular I remember my good friend Larry Hass Magicseen itself has just been featured
episode was hosted by Diane Morgan and discussing a conversation he once had with on the satirical news quiz ‘Have I Got
had a segment in the ‘odd one out’ round Teller, where Teller said how the magician’s News For You’ and, on this occasion,
about magic. Morgan said something along will was the least interesting causality in the panel were slightly more favourable
the lines of how she hates magicians. When magic. I’d go further; the magician’s will is to our beloved art. Only slightly.
asked why, she said they were annoying. also the least believable causality in magic.
O
28 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 ‘Stunning!’ - ‘I am speechless’
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Official portraits of two past masters - only available directly from the artist
MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 29
 Derren
Brown
NOTES FROM A FELLOW TRAVELLER

Best known for his TV and live stage show performances,

Derren Brown has astounded audiences with his amazing ability to
read minds, predict behavior, and influence outcomes. We chat with
Derren as he prepares for the launch of his brand new book -
Notes From A Fellow Traveller. Is there no end to this man's talents?
Phil Shaw asks the questions.

You have a brand new book out - Notes I’m passing on in the book. And I am a
From a Fellow Traveller - tell us a bit fellow performer, travelling around with
about it… the show. It had stuck around in my head
Ah yes. It’s a book about performance, for a long time and I kinda liked it.
about writing and putting on a show,
and touring with one. It’s written in What inspired you to write the book?
journal form: it’s a diary of my long I need something to write when on tour!
tour of Showman which spread over I’d get terribly bored without a writing
2021 and 2022. I wanted to put down project, I think it would be impossibly
what I had learnt from thirty years of hard. And it felt like a proper gap to fill.
doing mentalism. There’s not much of I don’t think anything has been written
substance written about performing that covers the areas I do.
mentalism, and maybe nothing about
how to write a proper show. Writing it Who is the book aimed at?
from day to day in cafés up and down the Mentalists and magicians, especially
country, often drawing on the experience those thinking of putting a show together.
of the show the night before, was a Though I think performers of any sort
very ‘live’ way of writing it, and hugely would get something from it.
enjoyable. It’s a long book though! That’s
what happens when it’s the journal of a How long did the book take to write Did you learn anything about yourself
long tour. and how did you find/plan the time? while writing the book?
It took the length of the tour, but I didn’t Well, the act of writing helped me clarify
Where did the title come from? include the West End as it would have my thoughts. It was helpful putting
Well - ‘Notes’ has a specifically theatrical become impossibly long. So I suppose things into language and being able
connotation - the notes you get from your about ten months? I think that was the to understand them better. Things I
director, and therefore, in turn, the advice length of the tour part of Showman’s life. had only faintly considered I was able

30 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 Writing it from day to day in
cafés up and down the country,
often drawing on the experience
of the show the night before,
was a very ‘live’ way of writing
it, and hugely enjoyable.

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 31
 It’s not important to me that people agree with me -
there’s plenty of ways of doing mentalism - but I hope
the book triggers thoughts in areas that people don’t
normally think about, way beyond the normal
questions of method and effect.

32 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
to explore more, and it fed back into ...the rule I discuss is
‘start strong, end big’.
the show itself: I could pay attention to
certain aspects of the show with the book
in mind, and make mental notes to dive
into a certain topic the next day. Though And yes, although writing is
that turns out to be difficult when your
mid-performance. different, it’s also kinda similar.
Does the book contain any magic
effects or is it purely performance relationship with volunteers on stage, for Well, the rule I discuss is ’start strong,
related? example - that’s hugely important. Or end big’. And yes, although writing is
There are a sprinkling of effects, I wanted getting the crowd to like you! This is vital different, it’s also kinda similar. So yes,
to include a few, but it’s really about stuff, surely. I suppose I try to do that in anything I
performing and writing. write - books, TV, stage or whatever.
What was the most difficult part about
What would you most like readers to the book? Having been privileged to read a taster
gain from reading the book? Finishing it! Oh, and getting injuries. of your new book, you have a very easy
One way or another, to be better Turns out being hunched over the laptop to read, witty, style of writing. Does
equipped to put on a show, or to do a all day every day in a café followed by that come naturally to you?
better job performing what they already performing a two and a half hour stage Well thank you, I think it’s my favourite
are. It’s not important to me that people show is bad for the back, especially if thing to do. Pure Effect and Absolute
agree with me - there’s plenty of ways of you're 52. Magic were the first things I wrote, and
doing mentalism - but I hope the book it’s nice to return to magic writing with,
triggers thoughts in areas that people In the book you talk about having I hope, a more mature writing style (and,
don’t normally think about, way beyond a strong opening and even stronger I suppose, several books under my belt).
the normal questions of method and closing to your shows. Do this also I love doing it very much.
effect. Thinking more clearly about your apply to writing a book?

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 33
 Magic would be transformed if we all shed our egos
and understood the value of a director.
Your still very sought after book ‘Pure
Effect’ is a book which should be on
every magicians’ bookshelf. Do you
have any plans to write any more
books explaining magic effects?
There are a few in Notes From a Fellow
Traveller, but unless I return to doing
close-up work, I guess I’m unlikely to.
Also the stage effects I perform are
created by three of us - Andy Nyman,
Andrew O’Connor and me, so it doesn’t
feel like my place to publicise them even
if I wanted to.

Andrew O’Connor and Andy Nyman

are referenced throughout your book.
How important are they to your shows
and the show’s development?
Oh, utterly central. We have worked as a

34 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 ...Showman was more grown-up,
more personal, more emotive, and so
much of it was a joy to perform.

trio from day one, we understand each

other so well, and work so well together,
yet have different temperaments and each
bring something different to the process.
But the fact we’ve done it forever is so
helpful. And they direct me, and having a
director is an absolute must. Magic would
be transformed if we all shed our egos and
understood the value of a director.

Your Showman stage show (as are all

of the others) was amazing. Do you
have a favourite out of all the shows
you’ve performed, and if so why?
You’re very kind. Showman was my
favourite, although historically my
favourite has always been the one I’m
currently doing or have just finished. But
Showman was more grown-up, more How long does it take you to write a to it, and rethink certain parts, which was
personal, more emotive, and so much of show and get it to the stage of being helpful. It made for a much smoother
it was a joy to perform. I talk about that ready to perform it? start to the tour.
in the book - the important of enjoying it, It’s usually a month of writing, and a
and how to make sure that gets into your month and a bit of rehearsing. Then we What are your top tips for anyone
writing and performance. And to do that make lots of changes, usually, in the first wanting to put together a stage show
show straight after lockdown restrictions week or two of the run: we’d expect to and can the same advice be applied to
lifted, given the themes and gravity that throw out whole routines and frantically a close-up set?
emerge throughout the show, gave it, I’m think up new ones. For Showman, we had Oh, they are very different worlds. A
sure, more impact than usual. the whole of lockdown to let it sit, return stage show needs a director. And every

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 35
 Quickies
Last book you read?
Paul Bloom’s The Human Mind.
Predictable answer! Though a terrific
book. And actually I’ve just started
Eugene’s posthumous Final Secrets - I
never read magic books any more, so this
is a treat.

Tell us 3 things people may not know

about you?
Um, well I paint, I don’t drive, I cook a
phenomenal risotto.

Favourite food?
Italian. Preferably the risotto above.

Your top 3 favourite magicians/

mentalists
Teller. Canasta. I'll leave the last one
open, it’s impossible to say.

What do you like to do in your

spare time?
Cook, read, paint. That’s the dream, to
just do those, perhaps alongside writing.
I’m trying to nudge things that way.

element of the show needs to be subjected writing a stage show, fun rehearsing terms of possibilities. I think it’s going to
the scrutiny of ‘Why?’ - why am I doing (most of the time, though it can be very be wonderful.
this, saying this, why is this effect in my draining at the end of a long day), and
show, and so on. Though those things are huge fun to do - and that ‘doing’ part can So what’s next (new stage show, TV
important in close up, you don’t have an last months. And you're a small team work, another book)?
audience staring you down in the same making it work. TV is sprawling with It’s all about Unbelievable at the moment.
way, your ’set’ will be shorter, and you’ll too many people, and rarely has any of I was working on it during the days
have licence to be looser in what you the adrenaline of a live show. And it’s a when I was performing Showman in the
do. What unites them perhaps above all wonderful skill to develop, being a stage evenings, which did become rather a lot.
though is - the magic (or mentalism, or performer. I don’t know what being a TV So afterwards, although there’s a play I’m
whatever) is NOT ultimately the point. performer even really means. involved in, I’m going to take a long break.
You want to connect with people, and
have them like you. Love you, even. Tell us a bit about your brand new Would you ever consider performing
Magic is your ostensible means of doing West End magic show ‘Unbelievable’ at, or attending the Blackpool Magic
that, but magic alone won’t do it. Trying It’s exciting! We’re writing it at the Convention?
to impress people is usually a pretty moment, and are about to go into Of course - little excites (and, perhaps,
obnoxious way of behaving. So in close- rehearsal. We’ve tried to rethink what disappoints) as much as a magic dealers’
up or stage, you do need to think about a magic show could be. No-one in it, hall. Usually I’m not normally free, but
the relationships you’re forming - they for example, is a working magician. hopefully I will be next year. Maybe I’ll be
are more important than whether you do Immediately that’s interesting: you’re not there talking about the book…
this trick or that. dealing with performers doing their own
acts. Instead, you can write a show, with Thank you for taking the time to
Do you prefer working on stage, or TV the effects and arc you want. And work talk to us.
(and why)? with people who can comfortably take My pleasure!
Stage. TV is far less interesting. It’s fun notes! All that makes a huge difference in

36 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 36

 ...little excites
(and, perhaps,
disappoints)
as much as a magic
dealers’ hall.

WIN A COPY OF
NOTES FROM A
FELLOW TRAVELLER
Thanks to Derren and his team we have a copy of his brand new book to give away.
All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is answer the following question:

Which of Derren's stage shows is his

favourite show to date?
To enter, email your answer to [email protected]
Entries close on 31st July 2023. Good luck!

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 37
 Gaining Wait
Slow down your performances and
build better interactions.
BY PAUL BROOK

Timing is often more critical than people realise when

performing mentalism on stage and while strolling.
We all want to avoid the dreaded 'dead time' where
nothing is happening, and your performance is not
progressing.

However, while keeping things

streamlined and swift, we can sometimes
Maybe the audience didn't care about Great Aunt Brenda
miss out on vital moments that could a few moments ago, but when they find out she raised
strengthen our acts and increase our
audience's reactions. thirteen children, five of which were taken in due to the
death of a family member, the landscape changes.
Quite possibly, the most common place
where I can see 'waiting' to be instantly
beneficial for the mentalist is when the a performance. But there are many other counting how long you take to deliver
performer has just asked the participant ways in which 'waiting' can be beneficial. your following lines.
a meaningful question. Asking someone
to think of a special person and simply We become accustomed to the scripts we Yet another place where pauses can aid the
listening to the name is very banal indeed. write as we collate the information we mentalist is during the reaction phase of a
want to convey, and we rehearse the words routine. These extraordinary abilities we
Who is this person? Why are they special? repeatedly. When delivering the words, we appear to demonstrate are 'every day' for
These are things that are easy to ask if you do so at a speed that is often too much for us, but when people see and experience
don't simply rush through the process and the audience to take in. them first hand, it is very powerful.
wait to hear what the person has to say.
In not rushing to the next part of 'Waiting' doesn't mean you should talk Still, performers will rush through the
your performance, you can prompt at a snail's pace or even slow down your strong reaction to get to the next thing
these follow-up questions and gain an script. It means that when you want the on their performance list. Cultivating
emotional hook. essential parts of your script to be fully that reaction, and listening to what the
understood and comprehended, you participant says, can be more powerful
Maybe the audience didn't care about should pause and allow that information than doing yet another demonstration.
Great Aunt Brenda a few moments ago, to sink in.
but when they find out she raised thirteen Sometimes participants who do not seem
children, five of which were taken in due Watch some online lectures and talks to be reacting may just be calculating
to the death of a family member, the outside of the industry that are popular or the impossibilities of what they have just
landscape changes. Why are you invoking that you have watched and liked. Actively experienced. It is easy to move past a
the thoughts of this seemingly wonderful observe how the presenter uses pauses muted reaction to the subsequent effect
person? What is going to happen? to make their points impactful. I bet you while commenting that the person is
didn't notice those pauses before, even if speechless. Instead, invite the participant
That's a quick example of how relaxing they are several seconds long. If people to find his words, then take some time and
into the entertainment can instantly aid are processing information, they are not gain some 'wait'.

38 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
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 r n at i o n a l
I n t e
The e Artists
c a p
Es ention 2023
C o n v

40 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 Dave Cox, Andrew Basso &
Tom Magick

The International Escape Artists Convention was born out of an idea from Allan James
Taylor, Andrew Basso, and Cliff Gerstman. During the pandemic, they wanted to bring the
world of escapology together and decided to create a group called the Global Escapology
Organisation (also known as GEO). Fast forward to March 2023, and the first convention
was born. The event was held at the National Emergency Museum in Sheffield, England.
The initial convention was set to be one to remember as the United Kingdom Escape Artists
(UKEA) was keen to get together.

The event was action packed with lots of

lectures and competitions, everything The Doncaster Restraint Museum (DRM) kindly
had been planned to detail with not a
single thing missed, well apart from the
sponsored the handcuff escape challenge
terrible weather! On the morning of the supplying cuffs with 4 different levels of
event, Sheffield had been hit with a huge
blanket of snow which had brought all difficulty to challenge the members.
public transport to a standstill and even
prevented the museum staff from being
able to open up for us in time. Luckily the levels of difficulty to challenge the Administered by the master locksmith,
hotel we were all staying at came to our members. With a limited edition set of Chris Gower the first round was about to
rescue and gave us a huge room to use Gold plated 95th Anniversary handcuffs begin. The handcuffs in the initial round
until the museum staff were able to open up for grabs for the winner along with a were ASP Model 100s. Aaron’s voice
up safely. The convention room was soon unique laser etched piece of wood from continued over the sound system “This will
filled with staging and escape equipment Barry Spector, using wood from Houdini’s be an elimination competition, on your
galore! We were ready! house in NY. marks, get set, and go!” Starting with seven
budding escape artists, there would soon
To kick off the unforgettable joint The curator of the Doncaster Restraint be crowned only one winner. In the words
convention we began with, you guessed Museum (Aaron Firth) took the of competitor Coxy, “I felt time stand still,
it…. A handcuff challenge! microphone and explained the rules “No I looked down with dread as my shim failed
keys, no rapping, and no slipping.” The to meet its mark. The plastic shroud had
The Doncaster Restraint Museum (DRM) rules appeared draconian to everyone and slipped which meant I would have to pick
kindly sponsored the handcuff escape soon the reality of the challenge dawned the cuff. Scrambling for a lock pick I heard
challenge supplying cuffs with 4 different on each competitor as the cuffs appeared. a voice “That's one free who will be next?”

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 41
 Andy Robertson, Hellen Fury &
Allan James Taylor

Steinfield taught us all that ultimately risk With just 5 now left in the competition,
the second cuff chosen was the HIATT
management does not need to be complicated to Hinged. This was set to be a tough round,
Coxy continues to share his experience
be effective. “The cuffs clamp and the klaxon sounds –
this is a pain. All three pawls are mocking
me as I attempt to subvert their cold grasp.
My shim was true, and a gentle squeeze
Andrew Basso &
Devin Steinfield on the bow freed my hand. No time for
relaxing, I am still trapped! I set to work
on the other cuff. It struggled briefly, but
then it surrendered. Free again – But for
how long?”

With only 4 now left in the competition,

a wry smile comes across Chris Gower's
face as he walks over to the notorious and
legendary Chubb ik70 Detainee Handcuff.
Coxy shares, “I was planning my attack
and I barely noticed the start signal had
occurred. I rushed to jam my shim in, but
no, I felt the shim slip down the side of the
pawl. I had just jammed the cuff. Fighting
to free my shim, losing time, and the cuff
continually mocking me I managed to free
my shim. Time to reset and start again. I
felt the bow go loose – Success. Now for
the other wrist. As the second cuff falls
by the wayside I stand up pleased that I
managed to just scrape through into the

42 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
final. I am now hesitant to see what the Chris Gower
final cuff will be.”

Now down to three competitors, the final

cuff is revealed, the Rigid TCH 840- a UK
standard Handcuff. The tension builds for
everyone. Coxy continues; “Time seems
to stand still. Every action I take is small
and calculated. Moving the shim gently
into position. It feels good. It’s in the right
place. I squeeze the bow and jump clear of
the cuff and my seat – The handcuff thuds
to the floor. I had done it. I had won the
first Handcuff Competition. An incredible
feeling flowed over me. And do you know
what the best bit was? This was just the
beginning of an epic convention”.

Next on the agenda was Andy Robertson’s

fantastic Cable Tie lecture which saw
him showcase the methods he has used
to capture audiences for many years. We
were all wowed by how visual it was! Andy
highlights to us “It remains to be my all-
time favourite street escape as it’s quick
The last talk of our day was by Chris Gower on
and brutal to all who see it.” Houdini and his Daily Mirror Handcuff Challenge
Following on from Andy, safety and stage in 1904.
management expert Devin Steinfield
joined us from The Illusionists to have an Aaron from the Doncaster Restraint day was by Chris Gower on Houdini and
in-depth conversation with Andrew Basso Museum followed with a hands-on talk, his Daily Mirror Handcuff Challenge in
followed by a Q & A. Steinfield taught us which saw him share his latest additions to 1904. Chris explained his idea on their
all that ultimately risk management does his collection, Aaron tells us “I also had the development and their complex Bramah
not need to be complicated to be effective. pleasure of showing delegates, patrons of lock mechanism. He gave credit to the
The number one thing an escape artist the museum and their staff, our fantastic research Mick Hanzlik did and how
should know to do is how to break down prison van which is fully operational and a Mick had proved Houdini and Thomas
the act into components and address real asset to DRM.” This was certainly one Froggatt were friends for many years. A
each part individually. Knowing your of the convention highlights. new breakthrough came a few years back
safety crew is essential and ultimately when a photo and article was published in
can make the difference between life and We finally had the news that we had all The Tatler Magazine, this showed a cuff
death. Steinfield’s talk certainly gave us been waiting for, the museum was finally different from the one in the Copperfield
some food for thought and gave some open! This was a perfect opportunity to Collection. Finally, he showed us an
fantastic tips on keeping us safe during our have a bite to eat whilst making our way excellent copy he made of the Solid Silver
performances. over to the venue. The last talk of our replica handcuffs - although cast in a silver-

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 43
 Allan James Taylor with
Mick Hanzlik Award
winner Andy Storm

Andrew Basso, Ann Beedham & photos, videos, and interactive exhibitions
Allan James Taylor which all tell a fascinating history of the
emergency services.

After a good rest, we were ready to start

our second day of the convention. Kicking
off the day we enjoyed a fabulous talk
from Ann Beedham, who gave us an
engaging insight into Randini. Randini
tells the story of a young Sheffield boy
who became a close friend of the great
Harry Houdini who helped him create his
most iconic escape. Sharing never before
seen photographs and stories, we were all
wowed by Randini’s inspirational wealth of
knowledge and ideas.

Stuart Burrell continued the theme

of sharing the history of escapology’s
looking alloy they were very convincing. Punishment Cell” certainly not for the inspiring individuals with a lecture about
To end an inspiring day, we couldn’t faint-hearted as it houses a display of the History of Escapes before Harry
help but take some time to take in the weapons used along with gruesome stories Houdini. Jack Sheppard, notorious English
amazing building and all of its original about historic murders from across the thief and prison escapee of the early 18th-
features. The venue was not only once a local area. The abundance of artefacts and century London was spoken about in great
Fire station but also a Police station too. memorabilia was eye-opening and the rest detail. Stuart magnificently ended his
The shared station once had a layout that of the building didn’t disappoint either. lecture with a strongman challenge, which
allocated the police to the left side of the The right-hand side of the building from saw him completely role a solid- Morphy
ground floor. This included four cells, 12 the ground floor upwards is made up of Richards frying pan!
stables, an office, an interview room, the the fire station, which displays the highest
inspector’s office, and an inquiry desk. fireman’s pole in the UK. Dating back to It wasn’t long before it was time for the
This area is now the museum’s reception. 1898, the Victorian building features huge next challenge, The Plasti-Cuff challenge.
However, we were all keen to see what rooms packed with displays of retired Eight budding escape artists were keen to
was left of the cells. A sign above one of police cars, ambulances, and fire engines take part. Secured by Dave Cox “Coxy”
the cell doors reads; “The Crime and along with a plethora of artefacts including each individual was restrained using

44 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
the standard double cable tie street tightly secure. He continued to restrain
cuffs with one aim, escape! There are his waist with a tight leather strap, secured
various methods of release possible, by another padlock, and handcuffed his
but the challenge not only requires lots wrists. If that wasn’t enough, he continued
of practice and knowledge on how to to restrain his ankles with leg irons, again
complete the escape but it was made fastening them to the metal structure that
harder by competing against other fellow he was forced against. Much to our horror,
knowledgeable escape artists. Andy the commentator introduced professional
Robertson sported his escape extremely wrestler Tyler Owens who looked
well and within 17 seconds he had extremely energised and ready to rumble.
achieved 1st place! The only way for Andy to win against his
opponent is by escaping within his time glory, he was crowned the champion of the
Dave Cox completed the last lecture of the limit of just 5 minutes. Every 30 seconds Mick Hanzlik award for 2023.
day by sharing his wealth of knowledge Tyler will be allowed to attack with one
with us all about the History and secrets weapon only. He showed us a large table The final award to present was the “David
of Handcuffs and Padlocks in Escapology. filled with what only can be described as De-Val Award” which is awarded for the
Members also had the opportunity to try potentially brutal items if used incorrectly. escape, public demonstration, or the
each item out too! First up was a ferocious slap on Andy’s promotion of escapology by an escape
chest, everyone screamed as Andy took artist or performer within the past twelve
Throughout the weekend six escape artists hold of the pain, clutching to the restraints months. The award is given each year in
took part in UKEA’s Mick Hanzlik Award. to begin his escape. Next up was a solid memory of David De-Val who was a master
The Mick Hanzlik Award is presented Kendo stick closely followed by a metal escape artist and magician from the UK.
to the member who is voted to have tray to his forehead and before we knew Over his career he escaped from handcuffs
presented “The Best Escape” in memory it we were surrounded by the remains and other restraints, as well as performing
of fellow Escape Artist Mick Hanzlik. Andy of what once was a computer keyboard. many spectacular escapes, many of which
Storm was delighted to take home the Andy continued to take on more torture were from prison cells. It should come as
much-desired award with his eye-watering from the wrestler enduring a staple gun no surprise that the wonderful Andrew
and utterly brutal wrestling escape. Set to his head and body which was followed Basso was gifted with this coveted award
within a Wrestling ring and strong metal by a wicked blow to his back with a metal for his jaw-dropping performance during
back structure Andy is restrained by a chair. By this time Andy had managed his time on Britain’s Got Talent, elevating
metal bar at the top of his head and by to free himself from all restraints but still the world of escapology.
metal chains covering the opening of his had the leg irons to contend with. To end
mouth and around his neck which were the vicious battle, a five-foot florescent As I’m sure you will all agree it was a
secured by padlocks, Aaron from the lighting tube was launched across his head, thoroughly enjoyable event enjoyed by
DRM took great pride in ensuring he was only to see Andy rise from his feet with escape artists all over the world.

Allan James Taylor &

Becki Elise Taylor
with David De-Val Award
winner Andrew Basso

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 45
PRODUCT REVIEWS
AN HONEST LOOK AT SOME OF THE LATEST MAGIC RELEASES
straight into a lot of working sets, There’s a lot of DIY to be done with
and combine it with the following these decks, but largely only to
effect, Splits (into which it flows the extent of writing on the cards
naturally) where the double - each deck becomes dedicated to
backers from the previous routine an individual routine, but buying
are split into the four aces and a couple of Svengali decks to
two selections, make for a really customise won’t break the bank
commercial set that is easy to do. and you’ll have something that
really stands out and looks nothing
Time Travel is another really well like a standard Svengali deck
constructed multi-phase routine routine. One of these is my clear
where a spectator’s signed card winner on this video, Mentalism vs
goes back and forward in time in Prediction, it’s one of those pieces
an impossible fashion. Moving a of magic I would get a buzz out of
PETTY UNLOCKED! decks respectively, the third bonus spectator’s signature from card doing because it’s just so sneaky
Craig Petty session covers some other props to card is another theme that and the fact that you actually
Video Download from Vanishing you may have already. Craig concentrates on. Face Off is produce part of the method as
Inc, 360 minutes approx (+ 75 min a signature transposition/fusion the climax just entertains me so
Q&A) One thing I should mention at effect, transposing not the entire much. It’s a very clean method of
Price: £48 the outset is that a number of the card but just the face. Slow Motion you easily divining two or three
routines presuppose you have a Sandwich has a parallel theme, a cards with no fishing what so ever,
If you’re anything like me and have table surface to work on, not all card sandwich effect where first the and having cleanly predicted the
a drawer full of miscellaneous card by any means, but some would back is captured, then the face and card a spectator would choose at
gaffs you’re going to get a lot of need reworking for walkaround finally the spectator’s signature. the outset, for me it’s one of those
material from these videos! conditions - not really a problem perfect ones for when you go back
but just something to be aware of. Every one of these routines would to a table, and a apart from an
Across three two hour videos Craig fit comfortably in my working easy palm the deck does all the
explains over 20 effects, mostly For me, the first video repertoire and are well within the work for you. Once again, Craig
using props & gaffs you’ll probably concentrating on gaffed cards, range of the average card magician. has put a huge amount of thought
already have - which is rather blanks, double facers and double There are a couple of other effects into making maximum use of the
the theme of them, encouraging backers contains some extremely on this video that appealed less to nature of the gaff in a really offbeat
people to look at familiar props commercial material, combining me, Small Change, a prediction of fashion.
and routines with fresh eyes packet effects with a regular deck an amount of money freely chosen
and coming up with something has always been something I’ve by the spectator from a number The same holds true for Lockdown,
different using them. This is a enjoyed doing and there are some of cards & Twin Souls Variation, a combining a very well justified
thought that resonates strongly gems here. There are several really straightforward instant four version of the diary trick with a
with me, I’m not a fan of slavishly routines with multiple phases of a kind based on a Dani da Ortiz Svengali deck allows you to have a
adhering to the routine that comes which really wring the most value effect, but the other five are solid prediction correctly identifying not
with a prop, I’d far rather put my out of a handful of gaffed cards, winners in my opinion. just a chosen card, but a randomly
own stamp on it and if that appeals the highlight routine of this set to selected movie title written in a
to you too there will be something me is Back Off, a sort of hybrid of Moving to the second session on colour of the spectator’s choice
here that you will probably use. a small packet ambitious card, an gaffed decks Craig explores the use across its face - this is a really clever
All Backs routine, 3 Way & Mystery of standard gaffed decks in novel idea that has a lot of potential other
Firstly I will say that not everything Card, which produces the gaffs ways, tackling a Mirage deck (a possibilities.
is self working by any means, but used throughout to accomplish roughed Svengali deck), a standard
the sleights needed really aren’t the routine as the climax. It’s Svengali, an Ultra Mental aka Of the other standard gaff deck
that demanding and Craig explains a one of those routines I think Invisible deck as well as a couple approaches Cross is an ingenious
them well too. I’ll take the three of a ‘fireworks’ routine, lots of of more unusual decks, one of version of a slow motion sandwich,
videos in turn, each focuses on moments of magic happening which is scheduled to be released Celebrity is a nice upgrade on the
different material, the first two packed into a short time, finishing commercially in due course. Fred effect (I would actually use Joe
covering gaffed cards and gaffed clean at the end. This one will go Riding’s approach with this rather

46 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
0-20% = VERY POOR 21-40% = A BIT WEAK 41-60% = REASONABLE 61-80% = GOOD 81-100% = EXCELLENT

than an Ultra Mental deck, but the only match the numbers but the coins I’ve seen similar ideas with routine you really need to look into
plot idea is great), and Invisible order they were drawn - a really dice but the routining is really solid this one, the two together make for
Stickman changes the look of a free feeling procedure, this could and I can see it having some heavy a perfect walkaround set - not as
standard Invisible deck routine be a feature of a parlour set for duty impact on spectators in a easy as most of the other material
to have a vanished stick figure somebody. walkaround scenario, finishing with here but if you do CCC you can
appear on the card. However, of a 3” solid metal ball dropping into likely do this. Have I said that I love
the two less usual gaffed decks The third session is somewhat more the spectator’s hand is likely to be this?
there’s another stick figure effect eclectic, there are four different remembered!
that I think is a killer routine, Stick ideas for using that WOW gimmick Finally, there’s also a bonus Q&A
Pack - a stick man drawn on a card you have in the back of the drawer, Now we move to the coin routines, session held with some of the
clones onto the back of each of for me Blank is the best of the one needs a gaff that many people people who did the masterclass
the four aces, they all jump onto bunch, using the prop in a lateral will already have (it has seen live at the time – Craig goes into
a single card with four stickmen fashion as a really smart convincer, publication before on Craig’s DVD some detail about his thoughts
on the back, then every card in again a great multiphase routine Flipped Out but that’s hard to on the business of magic which
the deck suddenly has a stickman with a blank deck climax - this one come by now) where the spectator probably only appeal to those
on the back - this one is seriously might take a bit more work on the gets to do the magic himself, of us doing magic for a living,
commercial, it draws on ideas from card skills front but well worth the visually and in their hand, coins competitor analysis, exploring
David Acer and others and is a effort for a self contained, really vanishing from their hand to travel your customer avatar & USP, the
winner in my book. commercial routine. to yours - to me this has always importance of flight time and
been one of the best uses of this social media presence, However,
Lotto is the final effect, more work Business Card Matrix is a really particular gimmick and is well there’s also a good deal of his
to make up, but an extremely nice idea, combining Out to Lunch worth revisiting here. thinking on creativity and creating
clean answer to ‘can you predict with a Frixion pen is cunning and magic - this is a little golden bonus
the lottery numbers?’. I’m a allows for a bunch more magic to Triple C Wild Coin I love - it’s for people who are interested in
big believer in listening to what happen and take you right into probably less for newcomers these fields, creative thinking tools
spectators say to you and using a coin routine, this one could be to coin work but it’s another are something I’ve found very
their questions as plot hooks, adapted for a number of other ‘fireworks’ effect - three silver helpful to study and Craig’s talk
and who hasn’t been asked that ideas - once again, rethinking the dollars, appear individually, through his ‘creativity board’ was
question on a gig? A spectator plot and the prop, the theme that move from hand to hand, change fascinating to me, it may be to you
shuffles and cuts six random piles runs through all of this project. individually into Chinese coins, to if this is something you want to
of cards with numbers on the face, and back, before leaving you in work on. SM
predicting the lottery numbers, Ballz is a really commercial ‘two in the perfect place to go into Troy
then freely chosen cards from the hand, one in the pocket’ using Hooser’s classic Charming Chinese Rating: 100%
a second contrasting deck not ball bearings - based on Gadabout Challenge. If already you do that

expecting to be able to perform this and you have a brilliant looking they realise that real practise
flawlessly straight out of the box effect. is required I can see it heading
then think again. straight for the magic drawer
As mentioned, the climax of the never to be seen again or sold on
Although the climax of the trick effect is the dice fusing together. to someone else who thinks it is a
leaves the spectator with two A cleverly designed supplied box precision made gimmick doing the
stacks of three dice which are fused helps to ring in the fused dice. If heavy lifting.
together the actual penetration you wished to, you could easily
part of the routine is done with six leave out the climax and just Although this may not be for
regular dice. perform the linking and unlinking everyone it is still a solid release.
part of the routine. Just because it's not selfworking
LINKING DICE 2.0 The moves required are actually doesn't make it a bad product.
Nobuyuki Nojima and quite difficult when you first start That being said this could quite
Hanson Chien practising. There are actually easily have been or could be sold I'm going to persevere with it as I
Available from three methods and none of them as a download. All you would need think the time needed is worth it...
www.hanson-chien.com particularly easy to execute. I to do is supply your own set of dice maybe you will think it's worth it
Price: £30 spent quite a while picking up dice and you would be set to go. too? PS
that I'd dropped at first. The dice
If you've watched the trailer for supplied are small with rounded I have the feeling that lots of Rating: 80%
Linking Dice 2.0 you will agree that corners which make the moves people will be disappointed after
it does looks amazing. It really does harder. It is much easier with purchasing Linking Dice 2.0
look like the dice melt through casino dice with sharp corners. thinking the dice are gimmicked
each other. If, however, you're Give it the time it deserves though and do all the hard work. Once

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 47
 PRODUCT REVIEWS

quality trick with a few cards and The bundle also includes a great
doable in nearly any performing interview with John - just over a
conditions. There are several quarter of an hour, he succinctly
principles together in ‘Little White explains his presentational and
Lies’ which have value together, or creative approaches to choosing and
individual parts may be useful for making material, and is of real value.
tricks of your own.
It concludes with a eBook version
So - for fans of sleight of hand close of his lecture notes, which
up card magic (by which I mean, if interestingly have very little
you can control a card, do a double overlap with the lecture, so there
lift, Elmsley Count, that kind of are about ten more John G items
level) there is much to celebrate that will be new to you. Having
here in the work of John G. covered so much of his material

SOPHISTICATED fit nicely into any of the coin and

sharpie flurry routines. The only real negatives come
above, I will allow you the surprise
and joy of reading ‘Discoveries and
STUNNERS from the production of the actual Deceptions’, and finding plenty of
John G Card stuff continues, and filming. The sound is passable, but both of those things on your own.
Available from ‘Assembly Line’ is an Ace Assembly is noticeably lacking (and John is
www.vanishingincmagic.com performed in the hands, and on quite a quiet spirit, so turn up those Overall then - a great value
Price: £30 stage, and works well - it raises speakers) and although there are bundle of magic, from a slick and
the interesting question of what multiple cameras filming, there’s likeable card man who blends
Vanishing Inc present a collection other table-bound classics can no overhead or convincing close up straight forward sleight of hand
of releases in one action packed be salvaged for other working shot. It doesn’t make learning the with subtlety, and who talks freely
rampage from the smooth card conditions. Why should the routines difficult, but it certainly and openly about his theory and
man John Guastaferro (who I standing be excused our Ace could have made them easier. I ‘brand’ which makes his magic
imagine has seen every wrong Assemblies?! think the lesson should be that if so easy to watch and enjoy.
spelling of his surname imaginable, a live event is going to filmed and Production values of the main
and so now kindly goes by John closes up the first half of sold, the same amount of thought lecture aside - this has to be highly
‘John G’.) the lecture with ‘Multi-Mental’, a and care should go into it as there recommended. LM
standing, regular deck impromptu would have been in releasing a
The first and main draw of the Multiple Selection routine, which studio release. Rating: 90%
bundle is ‘Center Stage’, a lecture could easily close any set. It is
that John gave at The Session, polished, well thought-out, strong
which was filmed for release. John and practical. the cards. Then, with a magical
comes across as a quiet and friendly gesture, the cards effortlessly
man, who has some seriously In the second half, the focus is slide apart, seemingly defying
fabulous card magic. ‘Lost and more on strolling magic - the the laws of physics. Impossible
Found’ is a clever, visual routine ‘Invisible Opener’ is an invisible Escape is a quick effect that
with a signed card vanishing from deck routine where all the props can be performed anytime,
and appearing in a clear luggage appear, and moves into a lot of anywhere. Throughout the
sleeve, ‘Gemini Squared’ is a classic strolling magic, followed by routine, the cards can be
version of the classic Gemini Twins ‘G.P.S’, a version of the Mystery examined, ensuring no
but with a nice structure, and
avoids a lot of the handling that
Card which keeps the finish as
a total surprise, and ‘Biddleless’ IMPOSSIBLE gimmicks are at play and
thoroughly examined at the
similar versions have. which feels like a much more open ESCAPE finish. Nothing untoward will be
handling of the classic Biddle Patricio Teran discovered.
For the non-card brigade, ‘Zen trick, and one that might fly past Available from
Bend’ is an impromptu, visual magicians. ‘Box Set’ sees four Aces www.penguinmagic.com The cards are made from plastic
bending drinking straw, which appearing all around and inside Price: $19.95 so will last longer than if they
looks cool on its own, but I think a card box, and ‘Introverted’ is were regular cards. This also
would be great combined with a another Ace production with lots A quick review of a quick effect. prevents them from getting
revelation of some sort - perhaps of smooth, visual appeal (and an Two unique cards with holes damaged from repeated use.
the straw bends over the coffee cup updated handling, ‘Wonder Aces’, in their centres are shown and
that the spectator has hidden a is included as a separate download connected by a brass split pin. Is it magic or more of a puzzle?
pack of sugar under, or something in the bundle). ‘Homage to The cards are securely fastened I'm not sure. Either way it does
along those lines, and the sequence Homing’ is a favourite of mine, a together as the pin passes look pretty cool and is easy to do.
that follows, where a ring appears, selection that jumps into a pocket through their centres. Spectators
the straw vanishes, reappears, from between four Aces, twice, can verify this by tugging on Rating: 85%
and then they link together, will before the trick inverts. This is a

48 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
0-20% = VERY POOR 21-40% = A BIT WEAK 41-60% = REASONABLE 61-80% = GOOD 81-100% = EXCELLENT

actually individual theatrical acts, One aspect that fascinated me Page’ type book test; ‘Socks’ you
complete with integrated lighting, is the emphasis placed on the probably already know; ‘Fate’ is
music & effects which are key to fact that this is a team of people a superb deck matching routine,
the success of each piece. It is a creating theatre, as magicians we using the highly devious Trojan
fascinating insight in how the show are probably too used to doing Deck; ‘Extra Credit’, an incredibly
was born and evolved, the inside everything ourselves and limit what clean credit card in ice; ‘Dark’ is
story of how the acts were created we can achieve as a result. more akin to a séance where the
and the storytelling constructed to participants experience the magic

SIX IMPOSSIBLE draw people into the ‘feel’ of what

magic can be is like no instructional
For a ‘one man show’ you get
a real glimpse into how much
happen in pitch darkness; ‘T
Shirt’ is Josh’s signature routine;
THINGS video I’ve ever seen. of a familial team this is, along ‘The Finale’ is essentially a formal
Joshua Jay with their honesty on why pieces close-up show, featuring Josh’s
Video Download from Vanishing Will you perform these pieces were replaced along the way if ‘Hitchcock’ t&r card and climaxing
Inc. 300 min approx. + 85 min in the same way? No, and nor they didn’t score a consistent with Chop Cup, which calls back
watch party should you, indeed we are asked 9/10 with the audiences and to moments from throughout the
not to perform T-Shirt at all, the why others were moved about show.
This is a unique insight into a point of this project is to give you in the running order over time.
unique show – the Six Impossible the insights into how you could Another thing that really piqued I don’t think I could recommend
Things show ran for 240 approach your own show in your my attention was the ingenious this any more highly, from the TV
performances over a span of own way – a number of the items use of the spaces themselves, quality production to the thought
18 months, selling out months used are commercially available the audience management and process and story of the journey, all
in advance. It’s an immersive, props, plus the nature of the venue the choreography which creates superbly well taught throughout.
interactive experience in a series of also dictates and/or allows for some misdirection for key moments to If you’ve ever wanted to see the
set piece rooms and you experience of the methods. I honestly believe accomplish the effects, a rare inside scoop on a sold out show this
the full show on video as if you that even without the explanations thing to see discussed in detail in is a must buy. SM
were one of the audience. of the tricks themselves (all of this way.
which are, of course, excellent) this Rating: 100%
Josh and his team talk through far would still be a masterful in depth As far as the ‘effects’ themselves
more than just the explanations of study into how to make tricks into are concerned, in simplistic terms
how the pieces work - I don’t want genuinely memorable experiences. ‘Murder’ is a Confabulation
to say ‘routines’ because they are type effect; ‘Alice’ is a ‘Pegasus

box is slightly thicker at one end to tutorial offers detailed guidance

accommodate the load but remains on how to do this in a matter of
unnoticed when handled discreetly. seconds. The tutorial does make
Made of cardboard with interior it look easier than it actually is so
metal and plastic components, preparation for Stratis may take
it is more durable than a regular longer than you'd like until you get
card box. good at splitting cards.

When you receive Stratis, the box Loading the split card into the
is blank. I comes with stickers gimmick is quick and easy, with
to customise its appearance as two methods explained. However,
either a red or blue Bicycle deck. loading and removing a full deck
Alternatively you could modify from the box can be challenging,

STRATIS revealing layers of paper. Between

these layers lies the concealed bill,
it yourself to resemble any deck
design with a bit of DIY.
and it is recommended to remove a
few cards to facilitate deck removal.
Michal Kociolek waiting to be handed back for
Available from examination. Applying the stickers takes less The tutorial spans just under 30
www.vanishingincmagic.com than five minutes so don't be put minutes and covers the setup, basic
Price: £35 The gimmick itself is a playing card off by its naked appearance when demonstration, and a full routine
box which simplifies the loading opening the package. using the gimmick. A few extra
A borrowed bill is signed and of a bill or other thin objects routines would have been nice.
vanishes, only to mysteriously between the layers of a playing Utilising the gimmick requires
reappears inside a playing card. card. It features a large load area the splitting of a playing card. Rating: 85%
That's right, inside! To retrieve the that doesn't require slides, and the This is the main major hurdle to
bill, the performer tears off the bill is sealed within the card as the overcome. If you're not already
top portion of the playing card, deck is removed from the box. The proficient at splitting cards a bonus

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 49
PRODUCT REVIEWS 0-20% = VERY POOR 21-40% = A BIT WEAK 41-60% = REASONABLE 61-80% = GOOD 81-100% = EXCELLENT

include Photo Sensory Perception,

The Stop Speller, Photo Prophecy,
A Picture’s Worth, The Animals,
Will the Photos Match?, and more.

The online video tutorial runs

to 2-hour and 41-minute and is
hosted by Dan Harlan & David
Jonathan. The explanations
are clear, accompanied by
detailed demonstrations and live
performances in Penguin's studio.
SNAPS
David Jonathan & Dan Harlan The 12 tricks provided in the
Available from tutorial can be performed in a ENCORE to their style and skill level by
www.penguinmagic.com parlour or close-up setting. Most of John Graham incorporating their favourite
Price: $39.95 the effects involve revealing letters Available from card routines.
as the climax, often with powerful www.vanishingincmagic.com
Snaps includes two gimmicked applications. Quite often it will take Price: £25 Notably, the act taught in
decks, the Focus Deck and the a while for a spectator to realise Encore is essentially impromptu,
Iconic Deck, each containing the word reveal but it gets great Personally when I think of a requiring only a deck of cards
56 high-resolution photo cards reactions when they finally see it. Multiple Selection routine I see and a pen. Although a breather
designed by Phill Smith to Some tricks involve spelling, which 5, 6 or more cards individually crimp is suggested for quick
resemble stock photographs. may be challenging for non-English selected and then simply located card location, alternative
speaking audiences. in an entertaining manner. methods like holding breaks
Let's start with the Focus Deck Although that does sound a little or using a corner crimp can be
which contains cards disguised as The tutorial's overall quality is dull, if done correctly and with employed. The act's accessibility
alphabet letters. Each prop in the exceptional, with a well-structured the right combination of reveals and seamless flow make it
photos are set up to resemble a explanation and audience reactions it can be very entertaining. John highly entertaining. It offers an
letter of the alphabet. Also included captured in live performances. Graham's book Encore is much exceptional structure, especially
is a double back and a double face The effects are diverse and well- more than this simple premise. for commercial use.
card featuring the letter 'O' on constructed, without any obvious
both sides. The letter distribution fillers. Encore is a concise book which The act's flexibility in swapping
is carefully thought out, with three unveils a deleted chapter from effects makes it adaptable to
cards for common letters and only The difficulty level of the tricks John Graham's book Stage by individual performing styles
one card for letters like 'V,' 'X,' 'Y,' is generally manageable, making Stage. This stand-alone routine and environments. While many
and 'Z.' them accessible to intermediate- offers an entire close-up card laypeople may dread lengthy
level magicians. act lasting approximately 20 card routines, the way that
The Iconic Deck on the other hand minutes. What sets this act Encore builds will keep them
consists of various images, these There have been other photo decks apart is its progressive selection engaged and entertained.
include ESP symbols, numbers, released (by Marc Spellman & process, where six signed cards
animals, card suits, and a few Patrick Redford) but I think Snaps are used for easy identification. This hardbacked book is
miscellaneous cards. is the best one I have seen so far. Each phase reveals the beautifully produced, as you
newly selected card while would expect, by Vanishing
Both decks are marked on the Although Snaps may not be a the previously chosen cards Inc and is nicely illustrated
back, allowing for know what the brand new effect (2020) it is one reappear, leading to a traditional throughout. The writing style is
card is by merely observing the that may have passed you by, so multiple-selection climax and an very easy to read and follow.
back design. The markings are check it out. I think you'll like it! PS unexpected finale.
well-disguised and readable when Although you won't find
the cards are spread. However, Rating: 92% The act features classic anything new, routine wise, in
memorisation is required to fully effects that are user-friendly, this 35 page book, what you
understand the context of the requiring no complex sleights. do get is an insight into how to
cards. The decks are also one-way, The variety and quickness create and build you own act. It's
enabling the orientation of the of each effect enhance their a short book but it's packed with
cards to be easily discerned. continuity within the act, solid magic.
creating a meticulously curated
The effects taught in the tutorial performance. The act's structure Highly recommended. MD
cover a wide range. Examples allows for customisation,
allowing performers to adapt it Rating: 95%

50 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
0-20% = VERY POOR 21-40% = A BIT WEAK 41-60% = REASONABLE 61-80% = GOOD 81-100% = EXCELLENT

of remote bending and the into alternative methods of metal

widespread experiences of bending, such as utilizing memory
individuals bending metal objects metal, creating tubular bends, and
and repairing broken watches from bending coins. The section also
the comfort of their homes. showcases novelty items inspired
by spoon bending, including magic
Part Four, 'Evolution,' examines apparatus and unconventional
how magicians have refined objects.
and simplified Uri's techniques,
including the introduction of 'Looking Ahead,' Part Eight,
devices and gimmicks. Noteworthy contemplates the future of metal
variations and contributions by bending as a genre and features a
Ali Bongo, Dr. Hiroshi Sawa, and method for bending plastic spoons.

BEND IT LIKE Scientists who verified Uri's abilities

are revealed, along with renowned
Geoffrey Latta are discussed. Current performers incorporating
metal bending into their acts are
GELLAR late skeptic James Randi. In 'Reflections,' Part Five, several highlighted, including Uri Geller's
Ben Harris performers, including Pablo Amira, recent displays of bending sand
Available from The first section, 'Enter Starman,' David Berglas, Richard Busch, and dunes on Mars and a cargo ship in
www.vanishingincmagic.com highlights the methods early Alain Nu, share their perspectives the Suez Canal.
Price: £40 magicians employed to replicate on spoon bending and Uri Geller.
Uri's feats. The section concludes with tips and The book includes a fascinating
"Bend It Like Geller" is a methods from Richard Osterlind genre map, showcasing metal
captivating and comprehensive Part two, 'Look & Learn,' sees Ben and Steve Shufton to enhance bending's recurring presence
exploration of the world of unveil the three-part structure of spoon bending routines. throughout the decades. It
metal-bending, a topic which has a metal-bending effect: inflicting concludes with a quote from Uri
intrigued audiences for the past the bend, concealing it, and 'New Visuals,' Part Six, explores Geller himself, emphasising his
five decades. The book, written revealing it. Various techniques the contributions of Steve Shaw use of 'real powers.' With a joyful
by Ben Harris, delves into the for bending keys and spoons are (Banachek) and Mike Edwards in and accessible tone, Bend It Like
origins of psychic metal bending, taught, accompanied by detailed 'Project Alpha,' which aimed to Geller offers historical insights,
tracing it back to Uri Geller's explanations on concealing expose the flaws in testing psychic philosophical musings, and
groundbreaking appearance on The and revealing the secret bends. abilities. The 'Twisted Spoon' technical explanations, making
Dimbleby Talk-In show in the early Additionally, the popular 'melting and 'Tine Bend' techniques are it an invaluable resource for both
70s. In the book, Ben vividly recalls spoon' routine is thoroughly introduced, along with a discussion novices and seasoned enthusiasts of
his own experience as a teenager explored. on the evolving pace and tempo of metal bending. MD
as he witnessed Uri's extraordinary spoon bending presentations.
demonstrations and the global 'Deep Thought,' the third part, Rating: 95%
phenomenon which followed. delves into the phenomenon Part Seven, 'Parallel Paths,' delves

Super Sucker begins with a time- It's a perfect ice breaker. does not have the same glossy
honoured classic - coin from behind appearance as a genuine one. This
an unsuspecting spectator's ear. Super Sucker is very easy to is not a huge issue as the effect is
Here's where it changes... in an perform and well within reach for so quick it should fly by, it's just an
instant, a 'magic wand' sticks to the magicians of all levels. The cleverly observation I think needs pointing
coin, and with a swift shake the coin designed gimmick (US Nickel or out.
changes into a vibrant lollipop. As if 5 Cent coin to us Brits) does most
that's not enough the lollipop then of the work for you. At the time In the nicely presented box you
wraps itself and can be handed out of writing it is not available in are supplied with the gimmick and
as a souvenir and even eaten as it is any other coin denominations or one regular lollipop. Replacement
a genuine lollipop. currency which may put off many genuine lollipops are readily
non Americans. available for not much expense
The strength of the effect lies in I guess you could try and replace which is good as you will be giving
SUPER SUCKER the speed of this trick. Once the the Nickel but the replacement these away each time you perform.
Rizki Nanda lollipop takes form, it can be given coin would need to be the same
Available from away. It is indeed genuine, which dimensions, and could damage the If you are looking for the perfect
www.penguinmagic.com they can keep. No matter what the gimmick. visual effect that's not another card
Price: £26 age (young or old) of the spectator trick then this is certainly worth
this effect will bring a smile to their One thing to note about the checking out. PS
face. This is not just a kids' trick. gimmick is that the lollipop part
Rating: 85%

MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 51
PRODUCT REVIEWS 0-20% = VERY POOR 21-40% = A BIT WEAK 41-60% = REASONABLE 61-80% = GOOD 81-100% = EXCELLENT

card in your hand, it perfectly of information and credits people

matches the very card they had where necessary.
in mind.
If you are wanting to get into stage
The secret lies in the specially shows then there is much to learn
printed 52-on-1 gimmick. Two here. Personally I was interested
different printed cards are in how to weave a bit of hypnosis/
supplied. suggestion into my magic act. It's
an area that has always fascinated
All you need to do is add
these cards to your matching
UPDATE me but I have shied away from for
fear of failure. One key point that
52 STUNNER deck, and you will be ready to is stressed over and over is that if
Juan Capilla perform. No sleight of hand is you follow what Jonathan does and
Available from required other than a standard says you, the hypnotist, cannot
www.penguinmagic.com top change depending on which BLACKPOOL fail so don't be afraid to try. I will
Price: $19.95 handling of the trick you choose
to do. If you choose to only use HYPNOSIS COURSE certainly now be giving some of the
things taught a go.
What starts as gag using a one of the cards supplied then 2023
deck of cards, concludes with absolutely no sleight of hand is Jonathan Royle For magicians or mentalists a cool
a mind-blowing display of fair required although there is a risk Available from coin bend, with added suggestion,
mental magic. While you may of the method being exposed www.jonathanroyle.sellfy. is taught in the second half which
be familiar with the 52-on-1 should a spectator examine the store/p/royle-hypnotist-live-in- doesn't require any expensive
gimmick, the standard gaff card too closely. blackpool-2023/ gimmicks. It will only cost you the
card has been transformed Price: $97 value of the coin you use.
into an extraordinary method The gimmicked cards are
for executing an incredibly printed on red backed Bicycle In the last issue of Magicseen Lots of hypnotic stunts and
impactful Thought-Of Card stock so are a good quality and (issue 110) a review was published suggestions are performed and
effect. will blend seamlessly into a of Jonathan Royle's Blackpool then explained step by step. The
regular deck. Hypnosis Course. However, what Electric Chairs routine, made
Here's the basic effect: A was written wasn't solely based on famous by the late Paul Daniels,
spectator selects and memorises This is a great effect and gets the course as it should have been is also touched upon as is Psychic
a playing card, and the card really good reactions, but be and it resulted in an unfair review. Surgery and induction techniques.
is replaced in the deck and sure you choose a spectator Apologies to Jonathan for that. Various methods of getting
thoroughly shuffled by the with good eyesight as the cards Here's a revised look at purely spectators to do what you ask them
spectator. With no knowledge on the card are small and could the hypnosis course filmed the to do is also an interesting section
of their chosen card's identity or easily be misread. I had this day before the Blackpool Magic of the course.
location, you make an educated happen a couple of times. Just Convention back in February of
guess by removing a single something to bear in mind. this year. Not only are the methods taught in
card from the deck. When they the course, but more importantly
reveal their card, you prove There is a small amount So, let me start off by saying that if the psychology behind why each of
you're correct by displaying the of fishing required when you are easily offended by swearing them works. This is actually quite
face of the card you removed. It performing the second phase of then this course won't be for you fascinating.
not only features their card but the routine. This is covered in as it's littered with bad language
all 51 other cards on its face. the tutorial and should prove no from the outset. If it doesn't bother Periodically, Chris P Taylor, aka
That's the classic gag which problem. you and you want to learn hypnosis 'Doc Strange' also offers a few
does get a laugh. then read on... nuggets of advice too.
For approximately £20 this is a
Next, you ask them to quickly really good two phase routine Running at a massive 4 hours long Much was crammed into the course
think of any card among the which gets laughs and great (broken down into two 2hr but I did feel like a few bits needed
ones printed on the 52-on-1 reactions for very little work. sessions) Jonathan Royle exposes all just a little more time devoting
gimmick and to remember it. What more could you ask for? the tips, tricks and myths associated to them, especially as time was
They are merely thinking of a Highly recommended. PS with performing hypnosis. running out towards the end.
playing card this time.
Rating: 88% Throughout the 4 hours lots of Whether you are new to hypnosis
Taking another card from techniques are shown and exposed or a seasoned hypnotist there is
the deck, you request them along with many stories. Jonathan much to learn here. Recommended
to disclose the card they really is a walking encyclopedia viewing, even it if is a bit sweary :)
are thinking of. When you when it comes to hypnosis and PS
dramatically turn over the continually throughout the
course references other sources Rating: 90%

52 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 www.markleveridge.co.uk

Bargain Magic
Choose from a selection of great individual routines extracted from the
E-Club Pro files and made available for a limited time only
Colour Key - a subtle mental magic routine with several surprises as
cards magically print themselves and inexplicably align with
coloured keys set out by a spectator at random.

The Flying Card - a freely selected and signed card vanishes from an
initialled envelope and appears sealed into a second envelope
removed from the performer’s pocket. No palming or sleights.

Assembly Point - this is a really clever coin matrix style routine

designed for performance on a close up pad. Four coins vanish from
under card covers and reappear inside a purse on the table.

Risk - an easy to do Just Chance type of routine in which a

spectator somehow locates an envelope containing his £5 only to
discover all the others contained a £20 note of the performer’s!

Squeeze Ring Move - a borrowed ringer ring is hung on a shoelace.

Simply by squeezing the ring it penetrates off the cord. This is one of
Mark’s classic ring moves made available on its own here.

Each of the above download routines costs just £7.00

(or £3.50 for members of E-Club Pro)
Mark Leveridge Magic, Anne’s Park, Cowley, Exeter EX5 5EN, England
+(44) (0)1392 490565 [email protected] www.markleveridge.co.uk
54 MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE
 TOMMY COOPER
CLASSIC ONE-LINERS
"I went to buy some camouflage trousers,
but I couldn't find any."

"I'm on a whiskey diet. I've lost three days already."

"I told my wife she should embrace her mistakes.

She gave me a hug."

"I said to the gym instructor, 'Can you teach me to

do the splits?' He replied, 'How flexible are you?'
I said, 'I can't make it on Tuesdays.'"

"I said to the doctor, 'It hurts when I do this.'

He said, 'Well, don't do it then.'"

"I used to be indecisive. Now I'm not so sure."

"My wife told me I should do lunges to stay in shape.

That would be a big step forward."

CollectingMagicBooks.com
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• Growing range of exclusive magic history & Hypnotism
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 Steve Cohen

Rob Zabrecky

Prison Magician

Lawrence Hass

Robert E. Neale

Andi Gladwin

Tina Lenert

Jamy Ian Swiss

John Lovick

Joshua Jay

WWW.VANISHINGINCMAGIC .COM
 Trickonometry With special thanks to Debbie McGee!

With more than 30 years of performance refinements, remakes, rebuilds and innovations
Trickonometry is undoubtedly “ ”
The perfect illusion that packs flat, plays big, requires no special lighting or staging, completely
surrounded and doesn’t need a size zero contortionist to go inside, this is a workhorse effect
that every serious stage performer needs to own. We have taken the very prop that Paul
spent more than 3 decades improving, added some twists that help make it even more
deceptive and practical for the modern audience and created a practical, working prop that
you will love to perform.
Crafted in Cherry, Sapele, ABS, Steel, Aluminium this is a high quality prop designed to
withstand the rigours of the real word and be used by a performer who wants a strong,
practical, devastatingly deceptive prop they can depend on.

WeAddWow.com/Trickonometry
MAGICSEEN MAGAZINE 57
 AVAILABLE IN BOTH
PRINTED & DIGITAL DEALER
SHOUTOUT
FORMATS FROM
magicseen.com

CARD-SHARK
Welcome to the half-way point of 2023. We have been to several
conventions on three continents, did a three week Magic Roadshow in
Remember the old days when all a magician had to do was practise a few
cards tricks and a sponge ball routine, put on his bow tie and then show the USA, and we are still on the move. Our next big stop is MagicLIVE; in
50 SECRETS TO SUCCESSFUL MAGIC

the guests a few parlour tricks as they looked on admiringly? OK, maybe
those days never even existed, but being a magician these days requires
more knowledge and inside information than ever. There are more types
the August heat of Las Vegas. (Thank Goodness for Willis Carrier and his
of venues, more types of audiences, and you need not only the skills
of a magician, but the foresight of a business man, the creativity of a
invention of air conditioning. Without it, Las Vegas would still be a small
marketing expert and the social expertise of a master diplomat. And that’s
just for starters. desert town.)
In this massive book of inside information many of today’s top stars from
around the world offer you help and advice on everything you can imagine
to be a successful magician. From how to book shows for a higher fee,
to how to add comedy into your act, to opening lines, to what tricks are
If you have attended any of the major conventions in the past several
the most effective in certain surroundings and so much more. With over
300 advice-stuffed pages covering every aspect of how to become a years, you have probably seen a crowd around a certain young magician
successful magician, this is an invaluable and must-read collection of
advice from people who have already done it! and inventor of amazing items, Christian Grace.

50 SECRETS
With contributions from: Nick Einhorn, Gary Jones, Tom Wright, Chris
Congreave, Joshua Jay, Jon Allen, Andi Gladwin, Pit Hartling, Paul Gordon,
Aaron Fisher, Iain Moran, Michael Vincent, James Brown, Keith Fields,
Morgan & West, Christopher T. Magician, and many, many more. Based in London, Christian is one of the brilliant minds in modern day
magic. His effects have been produced and marketed by some of the
TO SUCCESSFUL
premiere magic companies in the world. He is definitely one of the most
MAGIC
prolific magicians in the world.
THE KEY TO BECOMING A BETTER MAGICIAN
Published by www.magicseen.com
We are proud to have worked with Christian on two of his newest releases:
nal magician of many years
LIFE'S A BEACH

dely respected for both his

way of thinking. This book
“Thought of Card to Box” and “The Bet.”
ails of a large selection of
, a couple of effects from
ic, as well as many tips and
even what it takes to be a
.
If you attended the 2023 Blackpool Convention you would have seen
me you will learn the secrets
’s sleight free coins through
Christian behind our booth demonstrating these two effects. If you have
will learn a really clever card
not seen them yet, visit www.card-shark.de and check them out!
GARY JONES

a that removes the need for

simple yet effective method
m a bottle production, mental
hich are easy to do yet baffling
udience, as well as a strong

SUBSCRIBE
of other commercial card and
tines.

Magicseen
you are a pro entertainer you is delighted to present a second volume featuring the magic
of top UK professional close up magician Gary Jones.
know exactly what works with
ay public and what Garydoesn’t.
is one of those performers who is equally at home presenting magic to lay
LIFE'S A BEACH - VOLUME TWO

hone your methods peopleso thator to a room full of magicians, and his creative output reflects those two
requirements.
are practical yet strong, and Some of the magic in this collection is designed to intrigue and
fool magicians,
create magic plots that are while other effects are fast, direct and perfect for working under
nd easy to follow. The almost
materialany commercial conditions.
ook reflects these principles
What all the magic has in common is that the methods have been constructed
d will delight anyone looking for the maximum effect for the minimum of fuss.
to extract
cks to add to their repertoire.
Some of Gary’s handlings do require some sleight

TO MAGICSEEN TODAY!
of hand - he is very fond of palming cards, for
instance - but equally, there are other ideas which
are basically self working! So there’s something
for everyone here.
y www.magicseen.com The vast majority of the 40 effects included
978-0-9566539-9-4 here are with cards, but within that Gary has
provided a huge variety of plot and magic
that always has a big surprise finish. Some of
the effects will go straight into your working
repertoire because they are just too good
to miss!
GARY JONES

If you love close up magic that has attack

and impact, you are going to love Life’s
a Beach Volume 2.

SCAN
Published by www.magicseen.com
ISBN 978-1-9162692-0-0
ME!
 MIND BLOWING
MENTALISM
features 40 mentalism
routines and ideas
from the brilliant
mind of Ian Adair.

The effects within this book

are published for the first time and
there are some real gems here that
are not to be missed.

Many of the ideas described can be

easily made, most costing very little
- and all are 100% practical and very
IAN ADAIR’S commercial.

MIND
BLOWING
MENTALISM
Available from
magicseen.com
CUSTOM E R R E VI E WS