I knew of Marc Salem's reputation and was eager to check out this lecture. I live about 90 minutes
from the studio where these Penguin LIVE lectures originate, so I wanted to see Marc live and in
person. I am so glad I did.
Marc has a fluid banter with the audience, and it's as if his
gift of gab never stops. He is incredibly entertaining and funny.
His opening effect, The
Gift, is one of those nice pieces that can fit in a variety of shows. The performer reads off a
series of gifts to his helper, asking if she has any of them. Three spectators write down two-digit
numbers. Once the total is added, another spectator chooses on of the digits. It corresponds to a
number on the list of gifts. The gift is read, and it is found in a bag underneath the chair that
has been there the whole time. Inside the bag there is also a receipt, and it is for the amount the
numbers added up to. Nice, fun effect, and Marc teaches a classic principle to achieved the desired
outcome.
Marc also performed two book tests. I am a big fan of book tests, and he shared
two ungimmicked book tests. If you already use a commercially marketed effect, then having these
methods available allows you to add layers and built on a routine. I like the two very much. Also,
if you have repeat performances, having these two book tests in your arsenal allows for you to
change up methods and books.
Marc teaches a straightforward, ungimmicked Bank Night
routine. It is nice and allows for some interplay with your helpers.
One of the principles
he taught (though he did not perform a routine using this principle) is how to use a certain kind of
business card for a Q&A act. It is based on a classic principle, but Marc has streamlined it in such
a way that I people write down the names of cities. I don't do readings either, but this method has
me curious. Take your cards and a brown paper bag, and you have a serious piece of mentalism that
can run long or short, depending upon your ability or desire. I like this a lot.
The promo
material stated Marc would teach a right-brain/left-brain effect that was in the vein of Out of This
World. He does not perform it or teach it, however, he mentions what he did with it during his
interview with host Dan Harlan. You will need to know the OOTW method and know the difference
between right- and left-brain activity to perform it, but it should not be much of a challenge if
this interests you.
Marc was delightful, engaging, funny and entertaining. It was a treat.
Delightfully entertaining from start to finish
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