Magic Tricks

This lesson covers common and uncommon productions, and one vanish. These stage tricks tend to be "arts and crafts" heavy. Although Dan Harlan leans towards that direction, it's not his fault here -- that's just what these tricks are. These lessons take complex tricks and give step-by-step instructions that make them less intimidating. Since Dan has actually performed all of them, he gives great advice.

This video is light on the methods used in the book. If you want a history lesson, this isn't the best choice. It is aimed at people who want to perform these tricks.

Here are my notes on each trick.

Production of a Large Bowl of Water: a famous trick that originally required a specific type of performance that few would be interested in doing today. It is updated to be usable for more performers, but it still has practicality issues.

Production of Four Bowls of Water: a lovely effect, but a lot of work for a short moment. It can be used to produce any tall object.

Production of a Child: a surprising effect that's easy to achieve. Uterus not required.

Modern Production of a Bowl: a method from the book that's still in common use, with some extra touches to make it even more deceptive.

Vanishing Bowl: a trick with a great moment of shock. I want to do it.

Production of Doves: I don't like the custom prop that's similar to what the book uses -- I'd buy a magic store version instead. Has a good idea for a routine.