News

After almost two years of working on this project I am pleased to say that this new book of  tips, hints and stories about performing and travel has finally begun!! It's something a friend asked me to write a while ago, and because of other projects I just kept in on the back burner, although collecting and writing for it.

I am still collecting stories from other performers, so if you have a travel story, a tip or hint you'd like to share with others I would LOVE to hear from you. Please email to info@paulromhany.com

It could be about anything in the business -from a close-up tip (for example I like to take  a lint brush in my close-up bag with me for cleaning my close-up pad) to what you take as a back up show should your own show get lost. This happened to me 14 times in one year while working on a cruise ship - I put together my 2nd show based on having no props!!

If you have any 'advice' or survival hints, tips then this is what the new book is all about.

I would like to share something really exciting with all my readers of this BLOG. I just got word of a wonderful new addition to The Magic Network. 

Here is the message from the owner Vincent 

"I just wanted to let you know I have big news that I want to share with the magic community. I am launching a Magicians Directory as a branch of The Magic Network.
Feature-wise, it is the best magicians directory on the web. Each listing includes a video, a map, 4 photos, and links to the magician's website and social networks. My mission is to make it the best directory for finding and contacting magicians on the web!"

I have belonged to The Magic Network for a few years now, and this new addition is certainly a great addition. I joined immediately! If you want to check it out then go to The Magic Network and click on Magicians' Directory.  It's a fantastic idea ,

BEN IN A BASKET

It's been years since I have seen anything that I wanted to rush out and buy, simply because I instantly knew it would KILL in a live show. This is a routine that wants to make me run out and start doing more kids shows! If you do ANY PRESCHOOL work - you MUST get this routine. Not only are the props fantastic, but the routine it self is MADE TO WIN KIDS OVER. You'll have them laughing so hard, and interacting it will be the best investment you could make for your show. 

 Hocus-Pocus have managed to get the US exclusive on this and I think it's one of the BEST items they have every carried. I know Paul at Hocus-Pocus has been after this for some time, and he told me the orders are going nuts for this item. It seems anybody who watches the promo video, and does kids work really understand this is a winner.

Best of all, it's easy so you can add it to your show without too much fuss. Of course the more you work it the more fun you'll have. One of the things that really appeals to me is that adults will get a huge kick out of this. It's just plain old fun pure and simple. I will never forget, as a kid seeing something like this and it stayed in my memory all these years.

I have been trying to get Ben In A Basket for Hocus Pocus since I first saw it performed two years ago. Thank you to our friends at Practical Magic for allowing us to carry this great effect exclusively for the USA. - Paul Gross.

"Got mine at Blackpool; to see it demmed is to buy it; superb prop for the tiny tots, even had the adults laughing out loud..." P.H.

"Hi Practical Magic, I bought Ben in the Basket a couple of weeks ago and I have had the chance to use it the last two weekends for children's parties. The response I have had, has been fantastic. I have always been cautious about using puppets but I feel very much at ease with Ben. I have been on the look out for a basket for a puppet ever since I saw your own production of Terry Herbert's magic for the Under 5's. Well this has done it and I am sure I will be using it for years to come. Great entertaining prop. Many thanks." G.S.

Ever wanted to include a puppet in your show but were worried that you couldn't do vent? Time to stop worrying! Here's a 10 minute routine with NO vent - just very simple movements. Not only that, the prop comes complete with all the props you need AND a DVD with performance and explanation!

We've said before, and we'll say again, you can have the best puppet in the world, but it means nothing unless you have a great routine. We have always provided a strong routine with the puppets we sell, but this time we think we've excelled ourselves.

First of all, there's Ben himself, an adorable little collie dog, but Ben's naughty (there's a missing chocolate biscuit to be explained!) - just the thing that children LOVE! During the routine we see Ben trying to mend his basket with a very large hammer; trying to perform magic with hilarious results; and finally showing the fish he has caught. All the time the accent is on comedy.

Just look at what you get:
a custom-made basket with a window woven into the back (not just a hole hacked with a sharp knife!);
a very cute dog puppet with a long sleeve;
a tap (faucet);
a 9" silk;
a 3" sponge ball;
a large hammer;
squirting fish;
a DVD showing the full routine and, after it, lots of advice and tips for getting the best out of your puppet.
It has taken over six months to polish the routine and assemble all the props and we are really proud of the end product. Not only that, we think that Ben in a Basket represents exceptional value for money!

(N.B. Colours and exact specifications of incidental props may vary slightly.)

The DVD starts with a studio performance of 'Ben in the Basket' followed by a thorough explanation of the routine. I do many puppet routines in my shows and I know without even trying this that is is a winner. The routine would be very funny for kids although I wouldn't use all of the 'bits of business' in the one routine, however you have ample material here for repeat bookings. The explanation portion covers not only the routine but also hints and tips on manipulation of a puppet (very important). Even though I have more puppets than a grown man should, after viewing the DVD I am going to go ahead and purchase Ben In A Basket. Highly recommended. TP

I also received my Ben in a Basket DVD today in the mail, I watched the DVD with my 7yr old son and my friend's 5 yr old daughter. They both laughed at the DVD as it went through the routine. This is a great routine for the younger audience. I think anyone over 8 yrs old would not enjoy this as much. If you are looking to add a five minute puppet routine to your show this one is priced right to do so. The basket on the DVD appears to be made well and Ben is a nice looking puppet. For the price you can't go wrong and you can always add your own props to make this your own routine. This is more of a comedy routine then a magical routine; however it can easily be changed to be a magical effect. Thank you Jeremy for allowing us to comment. RS

I also received a DVD to review.
I am not currently using a puppet routine in my show, but for my preschool shows I think it would be perfect. I like the routine as it is presented although a couple of the gags will not be understood by American audiences. There should be many opportunities for some creative additions to the routine. A cute puppy is something all children can relate to along with a good story line. I would say it will play best with the preschool age group, although my teenaged boys saw me watching the DVD and I detected a smile on their faces as they were watching, too. Thanks to Jeremy for sharing. PR

Put this into my show for the first time at a kindergarten and stormed it! Afterwards the principal came over and said the children were mesmerised by the puppet. Jimbo (aka Jimmy Carlo)

 

3 Card Routine (Cards and DVD) by Steve Valentine 

Here it is - something I wished HAD NOT BEEN RELEASED!!! I first saw Steve perform this live for a group of magicians - all of them couldn't believe what they were seeing. It is without a doubt THE STRONGEST and MOST VISUAL 3 Card Monte routine I have EVER SEEN!! It is the perfect walk-around and close-up routine. I actually am looking at adding this to my repertoire to do onstage a 1500 seat theatre - using a video camera on me. 

Many of you will know Steve from various well known TV shows such as House and Monk, and sitcoms by Disney, and movies. I met him in NZ a few years back while he was filming a movie here, and we got to hang out a bit. I then got to see him work one night for an audience of pretty famous magicians, including THE Paul Daniels! While I was watching Steve, I kept my eyes on Paul. Remember Paul Daniels has seen pretty much everything there is to see in the world of magic, so for somebody to really impress AND entertain him you know they have to be damn good. Well, Steve did all that and more. I knew about Steve of course, but it was the first time I'd seen him work, and he INSTANTLY became one of my all time favorite close-up performers. His material was original, very sharp and his skills were out of this world. 

Steve showed me this effect when we got to hang out, and I knew when he released it that it would be an instant winner. It doesn't come out until mid-May, but may I suggest you ALL place your orders NOW before they sell out. It is an effect that you will take with you everywhere and perform for everybody!!! It really is THE most visual 3 card monte I have ever seen!!

Pre-order yours today for FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Expected release date is mid-May.

Some of you may know Steve Valentine from TV's CROSSING JORDAN or I'M IN THE BAND, some may remember him as the sly magician on HOUSE or the evil one on MONK, but did you know that back in the day Steve was one of Hollywood's top close up magicians?

Vegas headliner and two time winner of The Magic Castle's CLOSE UP MAGICIAN OF THE YEAR, Steve was a highly sought after entertainer in the Beverly Hills- private party- circuit. In 1999 Steve quietly retired from performing magic professionally but never lost the love.

Over the years many people have asked what happened to all of the powerful and original close up material that Steve honed over thousands of shows for incredibly demanding clientele. The material that put Steve where he was.

The answer is here, Steve has finally agreed to release a limited edition Pro Magic series of teach in DVD's. Starting with his favorite packet effect THREE. A trick that has blown away the likes of Gregory Wilson, Joe Monte and Richard Kaufman.

THREE is the perfect walk around packet trick: visual, entertaining, modular, no reset, put the cards back in your pocket and you're ready to go again. There's nothing to break during performance and at the very end everything can be examined.

What more do ya want? THREE by Steve Valentine, available from magic dealers everywhere.

"This one routine has more MPM (Magic Per Minute) than most complete acts!"
- Gregory Wilson

Eddie Ace Hand-Carved Sponge Rabbits - LIMITED QUANTITY

These are the Rolls Royce of multiplying bunnies. I have tried to get these in the past and they are very hard to find. Paul Gross at Hocus-Pocus has found a source and they are limited supply. Anybody who does Sponge rabbits knows these are the finest around.

If it were me I'd be buying several sets and put a few away!!

These little guys are back in stock....Order yours now because they never last long!

We are so excited to be able to offer the extraordinary meticulously hand-crafted sponge rabbits of Eddie Ace. Truly the very finest sponge products currently available to the magic fraternity.

Eddie Ace is known for his fine work with sponges, and THE choice of top professionals. Eddie's sponge rabbits are hand-carved, hand-painted and we believe, the finest available to the trade!

EFFECT: You place Poppa Bunny in your hand and Momma Bunny in the spectator's hand. A few magic words and that ever loving couple are both now in her hand. That's not all! You place Momma and Poppa back into the spectator's hand and when they open their hand once again, low and behold there are Momma, Poppa and 4 little Baby Bunnies.

Now for the climax -- the four baby Bunnies are picked up and placed in the hand along with Momma and Poppa. A magical pass and now when the hand is opened, the baby Bunnies have vanished and only Momma and Poppa remain.

Complete instructions included with Eddie's kicker finish.

LIMITED SUPPLY: Please bear in mind that these sets will go FAST, so don't delay in ordering as they really are available in a very LIMITED supply.

Seriously folks, when we're sold out, who knows when we'll have more!

 I had a call from my agent this week asking if I could fly to China for a corporate gig where I am to perform for the Royal Family of Monaco. Not often I get gigs like that! It's very exciting. I fly over there end of May for the one night then back home again. No matter how many times I travel I just never get used to it. My latest book is a 'survival' guide style book for performers. If you have any tips or advice when it comes to traveling, or any type of performance style then drop me  a line at info@paulromhany.com

ROMHANY'S PICKS OF THE WEEK from www.Hocus-Pocus.com

A Lifetime of Magic by Charles Gauci - Book

I have had the pleasure and honor of seeing Charles work, and perform some of his material. He is one of the most respected mentalists in the world, and his ideas have been performed by professionals the world over. This book is the PERFECT title because it really does include EVERYTHING that Charles has created. If you have any interest in mentalism then you MUST have this book. It is JAM PACKED with effects that have been in Charles's own personal repertoire during his long career. You only have to read what is in the book below to know that this is a book you will read over and over, and more importantly is a book you filled with amazing routines you will use!

Make no mistake, this book has the perfect title - A Lifetime of Magic is a life's work composed by one of magic's most innovative thinkers and equally brilliant performers.

Charles products have sold in the thousands! Why? They are practical, powerful magic that in most cases are easy to perform allowing them to become reputation makers. For years magicians worldwide were happy just to get his products, but now you will not only be tipped to how to make some of these great effects, you will also derive powerful benefits from Charles years of experience as a worker! Charles is one of the best teachers in magic and this is going to be a must have for anyone interested in magic, mentalism and/or psychics.

Charles Gauci reveals his most cherished secrets that have enabled him to make a very good living from entertaining for over 50 years. He has created some of the most practical, commercial magical effects which have sold all over the world and are used by top professionals everywhere.

There are a total of thirteen stage effects which he performs in his "Magic of the Mind" and "Mysteries of the Mind" shows. There are no pipe dreams here but killer routines that are reputation makers. There is enough material to perform two forty-five minute shows ranging from a small intimate audience up to one thousand people.

Both of his shows fit into a carry-on case enabling him to travel everywhere without worrying about lost luggage.

Charles practices what he preaches. With the exception of his memorized deck system, you will be able to perform all of the effects within minutes of reading the instructions. His creations rely on clever subtleties rather than sleight of hand. This enables him to concentrate on presentation.

There's no padding in this book. The 222 pages are packed with original effects, some of which have never been published before. There are also links to private YouTube video clips of various performances. It is a huge advantage to be able to see how certain effects are performed in front of a lay audience.

In total there are thirty-six effects ranging from stage, close-up, and roving. *C.G. Switch Box. This simple yet familiar to all cardboard gift box is cleverly gimmicked to enable you to switch cards or envelopes. Perfect for a Q & A routine.
Marked Deck System. Can you imagine the killer effects you can create with a deck of marked cards that you can read two meters away? Couple this with a memorized deck system and you have one of the most powerful tools any mentalist can have.
At the Races is another very commercial effect suitable for corporate performances. Great to use at trade shows to draw a crowd to your stand.
Rain Man. Perform this incredibly easy memory routine to one person or a thousand. This is a reputation maker and you will perform it within minutes with no complicated memory required.
Perfect Prediction is exactly that. A diabolical routine that kills!
New Super Sudoku will make you look like a genius. Further details: *Stage Mental Effects 13 Effects
Tools of the Trade 3 Effects
Miscellaneous Favourite Effects 8 Effects
Memory Routines for Stage & Close-up 3 Effects
Card Mysteries 11 Effects

I can look you straight in the eye and say that for any professional/semi professional mentalist this book is a must have in one's library. It has been priced to keep it out of the hands of the curious. Stevens Magic Emporium is the only distributor. No other dealer will be involved. This way we can control distribution to a certain extent. Charles Gauci is recognized by his peers as one of the most creative minds in magic.

Additional Details and Biography of Charles Gauci

In 2010 he was presented with the Dave Lederman Memorial Award for "Creativity in Mentalism" at the prestigious Psychic Entertainers Association convention.

Turning professional at sixteen years of age, Charles very quickly realized that to succeed in this tough entertainment business his act had to be different. Consequently, he began to create new and original routines.

"A Lifetime of Magic" is a treasure trove of thirty-six of his favourite effects from his two professional shows, "Magic of the Mind" and "Mysteries of the Mind." They include instructions of how to build seven of his top selling commercial effects thus saving you hundreds of dollars.

This book is aimed at the professional/semi professional entertainers. The material is well tried and tested over thousands of performances. You also have access to performance video clips on private YouTube.

It is often said that if you get one item out of a book, then the investment has been worthwhile.

We think that gems such as the C.G.Switch Box, Card Marking System, and his various reputation makers Memory Routines alone are worth the price of the book. Included is his new methodology for performing his best selling "Eye to Eye"

Testimonials:

"This may be redundant, but I think Charles Gauci is one of the most creative, entertaining and professional psychic entertainers in the world. His output of killer mental effects constitute some of the most powerful material any mentalist could perform. Most important of all he is a true gentleman and I am proud to call him my friend."
- Larry Becker

"If you like being fooled - which I do - you will be delighted with the practical material in this book. His methods are direct and you will be delighted with the practical material in this book, His methods are direct and diabolical. This book is destined to become a classic.
- Barrie Richardson

"This book is a must have for any serious mentalist/magician."With 'Eye 2 Eye' Charles created a modern classic of contemporary Mentalism. Therefore I'm sure that Charles will exceed even the highest expectations with "A Lifetime of Magic" with many practical real-world materials and applications."
- Dr. Ralf Froehlich

"One of the greatest creative geniuses of all time. Whatever he does is real workers material."
- Nick Belleas, New York City performing mentalist and member of Psychic Entertainers Association.

"Charles's work in the field of mentalism is legendary. Having been a huge fan of his work for many years I can't wait to work my way through this amazing book. As a professional entertainer I am constantly on the look out for routines that are commercial, entertaining and very strong. Charles's work ticks all of those boxes."
- Paul Romhany

"Charles Gauci is a well respected name in Mentalism. He's an active member of the prestigious Psychic Entertainers Association and recognized for his leading edge innovations for our community. I'm anxious to review his book - "A Lifetime of Magic."
- Randy Schostag, Professional Mentalist & Craft Bibliophile, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

 

The Boldly Go Box by Anthony Masi- EXCLUSIVE - PRE-ORDER

I LOVE this!!!! Paul Gross at www.hocus-pocus.com shared this with me a while back and I told him to send mine as soon as it arrives!!! This is WITHOUT A DOUBT one of the BEST switching devices I've EVER seen! To top it off it's incredibly well machined and even though I know how it works it still fools me - to cap it off, it's so easy to use. This comes with some really fantastic routines, but I'm sure many will come up with their own uses for this.  The concept of this box is based on the idea  developed by Bob Kohler. 

Be sure to check out the video at www.hocus-pocus.com

Pre-order yours today and SAVE! The price increases to $110 on April 23 as a No Discount item.

It's another Hocus Pocus exclusive!

Boldly go to new places with your magic!

There is an endless need in the magic community for utility devices that switch one item for another, and this little box will enable you to switch folded paper money, billets, playing cards - and other small items such as a coin, key, matchbook, etc. - without anyone being aware of the switch.

The "secret something" that gives the box its devious methodology is comprised of six separate pieces that work together effortlessly to execute a very bold switch right in front of your audience - yet they won't see a thing.

Each box is precision made by a master wood worker, and is constructed from cherry wood, metal, felt, velour and brass rods, and will last a lifetime.
Very easy to do
Based on a bold and devious concept originally developed by Bob Kohler
No electronics
Nothing to break
NOT a Kennedy Box rip-off
Endless possibilities
Quality craftsmanship by a master wood worker Although the uses for The Boldly Go Box are only limited to your imagination, included in the instructions are explanations for nine killer routines:

BOLDLY GO SIGNED CARD IN BOX
This classic effect has been updated with a very bold switch that your audience won't even know occurred. A spectator signs a playing card. After it is shuffled back into the deck, it somehow instantly vanishes only to reappear - folded - in the box that has been sitting on the table the entire time.

BOLDLY GO SIGNED DOLLAR BILL TRANSPORTATION
A spectator's signed dollar bill instantly vanishes and re-appears in a box of change sitting on the table.

BOLDLY GO MATCHBOOK COINCIDENCE
A weird "coincidence" involving a matchbook, a playing card and a marker that will leave your audience stunned.

BOLDLY GO LOTTERY TICKET PREDICTION
Predict which lottery numbers the spectator is thinking of.

BOLDLY GO CARD TRANSPOSITION
Two cards are selected and folded into tiny packets and kept away from each other. One of them is signed with a marker. Instantly, they change places.

BOLDLY GO SERIAL NUMBER PREDICTION
Divine the serial number on a borrowed dollar bill that has been folded and secured with a paper clip.

BOLDLY GO JUMPING QUARTER (OR KEY)
A quarter (or key) keeps jumping from your hand to the box and vice-versa. A nice routine that has the magician's props playing tricks on the performer.

BOLDLY GO TORN AND RESTORED CARD
A spectator selects and signs a card. You rip it into quarters and give her one piece to hold. Instantly, the remaining three pieces disappear and re-appear - fully restored - inside the box.

BOLDLY GO ANY CARD IN BOX
A spectator simply names any card - absolutely no force. You instantly open the box to reveal a folded card inside. When it is unfolded, it is the selected card.

The Boldly Go Box comes with three pages of printed instructions with photos detailing the handling of the box, as well as access to a video tutorial on the Internet to give you a thorough training on this devious little device.

Take your magic to new places with The Boldly Go Box!

What a week it's been. I took last week off to spend time with my family. We are in our home now, bags unpacked and had a lovely Easter together. It's nice to just take time out to relax and enjoy being together. We are slowly settling in down under here in New Zealand. Today I was able to plant a few fruit trees. That is something we have been wanting to do for some time now, get back to New Zealand so we can plant lime, orange and lemon trees. 

This week has seen Vanish - International Magic Magazine reach the 30,000 download mark! The magazine went viral all over the Internet and has become an instant hit. I have tried to keep up with all of the e-mails but time just got away from me. You can still download the FREE MAGIC MAGAZINE from this website (www.paulromhanymagic.com). The second issue is well under way and promises to offer more effects, essays and reviews - I'm particularly looking forward to the cover story as it's one of my favorite actors AND magicians. If you'd like to know how to go from a magician to TV and movie Star this might shed some light.

 

Well the new book is FINALLY finished and available. It has been several years in the making, and completes the HUGE body of work on Performing Mentalism for children.

This is the latest in the series of great and easy to do mentalism for children.  For many years this was incorrectly overlooked as a way to entertain, but no more. This volume has 300 pages and over 55 routines PLUS more essays and articles on performing for kids. What many have discovered is that a lot of the material can also be performed for adults as well as children. The effects range from close-up, walk around to parlour and even stage routines! There is such a huge variety in these books. 

If you combined BOTH VOLUMES together you would end up with over 600 pages PLUS over 100 routines and effects. This really is quite the body of work and I'm very proud of it. It wouldn't be possible without all the wonderful contributors so I would like to thank them all.

Contributors for Volume 2 includes:-

Contributors includes:
Bill Abbott,Greg Arce,Danny Archer, Christopher Berry, Reg Blackwood, Greg Britt, Ken Dyne, Martin Duffy, Andrew Gerard
Jim Gerrish, David Ginn, David Harris,,Barry Harvey, Michel Hout, Matthew Johnson, Cris Johnson,Jim Kleefeld, David D. LaRue,Anthony Lindan, Larry Lipman, Isaac Louie, Endre Løvås, Lon Mandrake, Nick Morton, Mark Paulson, Kyle Peron, Ken Ring, Wayne Rogers, Paul Romhany, Dal Sanders, Professor Spellbinder, TC Tahoe, Christopher Taylor and Richard Webster.

Volume 1 was one of the hottest selling Mentalism books of 2011. There is a huge movement towards performing without props, yet still making it entertaining. This is what the essays talk about, and show you how to go about doing it. For me some of the best material in both volumes includes the essays. 

 

 

My new Pro-Series books have just come out. This is number eight in the series and again, these are doing incredibly well. This time it's my Headline Prediction routine PLUS a really amazing version by my good friend Cris Johnson. I first discovered Cris's routine in his outstanding "Murder By Magic" and knew I had to include it in the Pro Series. I was so glad he wanted to be part of it because it really offers several different versions of doing a Headline Prediction. Anybody who has received FREE NEWSPAPER publicity will tell you the BEST way to get it is by doing a headline prediction. The best way I like to use it is when I turn up to a new town to perform and need to get free publicity. By involving the local MP or Mayor, as well as newspaper it's a sure fire way to get Radio, TV and news coverage.

This has the exact method I use, plus Cris's version and another version I have performed on stage. There is also a little bit on using my Dream Prediction for a headline prediction.

This is something that both mentalists and magicians will get use out of.

Effect: The magician posts a sealed envelope to the client a week prior to the show.

At the show the client confirms it is sealed, and has not been tampered with. The performer brings out three different daily newspapers, and a spectator is given a choice of one. The spectator takes the newspaper with sealed envelope, and sits down for the remainder of the show. For the finale, the magician asks the spectator to bring the newspaper and envelope on stage. The spectator opens up the sealed envelope, and reads out the letter, which not only predicts which newspaper the spectator would choose, but also the daily headlines, and certain results of things that happened during the show.

BONUS - Cris Johnson also shares his favorite Headline Prediction routine called, ‘ConFab Headline Prediction.' This is the exact routine and method that Cris performs in his professional corporate show that uses headlines from the daily papers that are chosen by the audience.

Effect: A sealed FedEx envelope is handed out to someone at the beginning of the program. At the end of the program, several local newspapers are handed out to audience members. At the appropriate part of the show, the performer encourages the audience to select their own headlines, phrases or even individual lines of an article out. Upon opening the sealed FedEx envelope the spectator finds another sealed envelope and inside is an index card that has all of the audience-selected material on it in as much detail as the performer cares to have.

Both versions are practical and can be used under any working condition from intimate settings to stage work.

ANOTHER BONUS ROUTINE

Finally Paul Romhany shares a unique version using a prediction rolled up inside a poster tube, that can be used for a headline prediction or any type of prediction effect. This was used by Paul and his wife on board cruise ships for the past twelve years, as well as for solo headline prediction style routines. This unique method uses something most magicians own but Paul uses it in a very different way.

 

Hot Picks of the Week from www.Hocus-Pocus.com

  Slomotion by Joe Litvinchuk

I have been reviewing magic for many years, and can only tell you this is one of the BEST items I've ever reviewed! Let me also say that I never leave home without this gimmick. I have performed this so many times now - usually using a borrowed finger ring - and it NEVER fails to get gasps. I have performed this right in front of magician's noses and they still have NO idea. I love doing this in short sleeves for magicians because they are so used to the $300 versions where the magician has this huge gimmick running up his arm attached to a big box etc.  This is the most practical version bar none! 

There is no doubt about it; it was the biggest selling item in 2011. Then, the production completely sold out and it became unavailable. Not a day has gone by when we haven't received numerous requests for this item. After working very closely with the manufacturer, we are happy to announce that SLOMOTION is BACK!

"I love this thing. Rarely, do I ever put a trick in my pocket to carry with me in the event of an "impromptu" performance. Now Slomotion is the only trick I have with me at all times."
- John Mendoza

It's another Hocus Pocus exclusive!

I am proud to announce that my good friend, Joe Litvinchuk, the owner of Phantom Magic, has chosen Hocus Pocus to be the EXCLUSIVE distributor for all Phantom Magic products.

His effect, Slomotion, is the cleanest version of Psychokinetic Energy we've ever seen! The performer uses a lifesaver and straw, both can be borrowed, and threads the lifesaver on the straw. Then, at the performers command, through apparent pyschokinetic energy, the lifesaver starts spinning. But, then the performer can stop the spinning at will and reverse the direction! When finished, the objects can be left behind, because everything is borrowed and completely examinable.

Perform using actual items found available in a live setting (coffee shop, bar, etc.) to confirm you are not using trick items; they are fully examinable. Spectators will not believe their eyes when they see this up close! Hands are shown empty before and after. This effect can be repeated immediately.

Perform wearing casual attire (no sleeves required)

No magnets, threads, or wires

All objects are borrowed

Instant reset; no set-up necessary

Perfect for close-up, walk around and street performers

You will perform immediately right out of the package

Easy to perform

No static electricity

Supplied with instructional DVD

Works automatically

Shift - Self Bending Key by Ellusionist

I am a big fan of the Self Bending Key that Ellusionist released a while back - I used it on TV and combined with other bending spoons and forks when you finish off with it bending in their hand it kills. Like Fork - this is a key that BENDS in the spectator's hands. It doesn't get any more visual and mind blowing than this. Again, I combine it with another one of my favorite key bending routines by Andrew Gerard, and together you have the ULTIMATE key bending routine bar none!! This really is the Rolls Royce of Key Bending effects.

Self bending metal is the next evolutionary step in PK Magic. If traditional metal-bending was an Ape, Shift: Self Bending Key would be Modern Man with an iPhone 7 and a Jet Pack.

Shift is the epitome of 'Packs Small, Plays Big.'

You can now perform the impossible action of bending a a key INSIDE your SPECTATOR'S HAND, in plain view, for the world to witness every surreal moment.

The key itself has been manufactured from a patented alloy, similar to the Self Bending Fork, and will stay in its 'set' condition, even hanging on your key chain - so you're ready to perform at a moment's notice.

Shift: Self Bending Key activates it's bending movements using ONLY your spectator's body heat. You can manipulate the molecules of metal without touching the key as is slowly bends in open view.

In a breakthrough of technology, Shift: Self Bending Key is the lowest priced self bending metal effect in history. Not to mention the ONLY engineered the gimmick to stay straight in room temperature UNTIL you place it inside the spectator's hands.

Shift will remain unbent, unnoticed, and unassuming until the moment you place it into the spectator's hands. From that moment on, your work is done and the real phenomenon begins.

You now have the tool for a surreal performance. A physical impossibility is now within your reach.

Sweet Treats Wonder

Finally this week, an amazing effect for the children's performer. This is so well made and will really fool the kids. There aren't that many new kids routines on the market these days - and this one is something every kids performer should have. It's an old idea but updated and extremely well made. The routine is great and it has an ending that will fool adults and children alike.

SWEET TREATS -- A new version of the classic U.F. Grant Mystery of the Pyramids effect.

An item you can take down from the shelf and perform at a moment's notice; no set-up necessary, completely self-contained and fools them every time!

Ingenious Manufactured Method!!

Presented, is a stack of five brightly colored blocks on a base and rod to represent a roll of candy. The stack is covered with a cylinder and turned upside down repeatedly.

Upon removing the cover, the blocks are always upright.

Present it as the first magic trick you ever performed as a baby by showing a stack of wooden circular blocks on a rod/platform and a tube. You can casually show the top blocks to be separate and drop them back on the stack. You then cover everything with the tube, and turn it over in your hands. When you remove the tube, the stack is still right side up!

Repeat until they start throwing things at you!

 I finally arrived back home after my trip away. It was an amazing time and got to see some incredible sites. Without a doubt the most memorable was visiting Hiroshima in Japan. I've been a full time magician now for just on twenty two years, since I left teaching and still am amazed at the places I get to travel in the world. I still feel like a kid with a dream to one day travel the world performing my magic - just like I read about my magic idols doing when I was a kid. I never take any gig for granted, or the face that clients are willing to fly me around the world to see my act. While the travel is exhausting it is still very rewarding. Next month I'm off to India, then back to China for another corporate show!

Here are a few photos from Hiroshima I'd like to share with you this week.

The Atom bomb went off just above this building (about 100 meters) and believe it or not, as you can see in the photo everything else around it was destroyed, but part of the building was left standing. The photo above on the right shows how it looked prior to the bombing and how it looked afterwards. 

Here's another photo of a castle that was just lovely.

VANISH MAGIC MAGAZINE 99% COMPLETE

By this time next week you'll be able to download for FREE the very first issue of VANISH Magic Magazine. This is definitely my best work yet. The magazine is filled with great articles that will help you take your magic business to higher levels. I've started performing two of the effects in there already. Andrew Gerard's routine is KILLER that he shares, and there are two gems by Ken Ring and Wayne Rogers. Also, Diamond Jim Tyler has something that you'll perform every time you have a Red Bull!! It's filled with cool tricks, marketing ideas and articles that will make you think. It's a whopping 75 pages. Stay tuned folks:) If you haven't already joined my free newsletter do so, that way you can be the FIRST to download the free magazine. As soon as it's ready I send out a newsletter letting you know that it's ready.

ROMHANY'S PICKS OF THE WEEK FROM www.HOCUS-POCUS.com

This week I've been on the phone to my good friends at Hocus-Pocus and Paul told me about the top sellers. He can't stop talking about The Vanishing. Mine is on it's way. This week here are the top picks from Hocus-Pocus.

The Vanishing

 

 It's another Hocus Pocus exclusive!

Pre-order yours today. FREE SHIPPING ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! Expected release date is last week of March or sooner.

"I almost hate to admit this, but when The Vanishing was presented to me, I couldn't figure out how it was done. Seriously, it both drove me crazy and excited me, and this is what makes The Vanishing such an outstanding effect. PLUS, it's easy to learn. What you see is exactly what you get, there is no special editing on this video!"
- Paul Gross, owner Hocus Pocus.

NO special clothing requirements!

Preface: This utility device will allow you to do miracles when it comes to vanishing an object or making it travel from one place to another. It is light to carry and can fit in your wallet. It's not bulky, and no necessary clothing requirements are needed. You can even use this gimmick naked if you wanted to.

Chapter 1: The magician borrows a small object, a coin, ring, etc. There are no switches, and the exact same coin is used the entire time. With a slow wave over the coin, it effortlessly vanishes. No funny movements, no sudden sleights. The coin is COMPLETELY gone. The spectator can FEEL your hands to make sure there's nothing there; because there is nothing...

At this point, you can either choose to end there, or continue, and make the coin reappear again on your hand or in theirs. You then hand out their coin for examination and leave them with a signed coin they'll never forget.

Chapter 2: The magician borrows a tic tac box and a tic tac. There are no switches whatsoever, and there are no alterations on the box or the tic tac. You cleanly place the tic tac inside of the box. And with no sudden movements, the tic tac visually melts through the bottom, and landing on your spectator's cupped hand. They can then immediately examine the tic tac and the box.

Chapter 3: The magician proceeds to use an ordinary coffee cup, and asks the spectator for a dollar bill (or anything that can be crumpled up into a ball). He cleanly places the cup over the ball. With NO movements whatsoever, he snaps his fingers and the ball is gone. You can then proceed to continue with your regular cups and balls routine; or you can continue to use the gimmick to make it a devastating cups and balls routine.

 

Micro Psychic by Nakashima Kengo and Kreis - FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!  

Micro Psychic was one of the hits of the 2012 Blackpool Convention.

See why Micro Psychic has received rave reviews and comments from Charlie Frye, Michael Weber, Gaetan Bloom and many other top names in magic.

A spectator screws a nut onto a bolt about half way up and then you hold it at your fingertips. The audience can always see your empty hands. Suddenly the nut starts to rotate and unwind off the bolt and finally drops off the end. It looks like some ghostly power is unscrewing the nut and bolt. It can be done visually or under a cup or handkerchief.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ghostly Spirit Bell with Transport Case - EXCLUSIVE

LIMITED TIME Introductory Special Price! The price will increase to $399.95 on April 1 (no fooling). Place your order now for the best deal!

Imagine...

A question asked, an answer given and a bell mysteriously rings.

For centuries, this mystic event has taken place in parlors, in the tents of roaming Gypsies and in temples throughout the world.

The Spirit Bell is one of the most heart stopping effects in magic. The bell sits on the table in full view of everyone.

As a question is asked and answered, without a hand touching it, the bell rings out confirming the answer is a lie or a truth.

Beautifully crafted solid wooden base Small Attaché Case w/ foam insert Wireless Remote Controlled This Spirit Bell is LARGER and LOUDER than any Spirit Bell we've seen before. Perfect for large venues because it can be both seen (the bell visibly swings) and heard (with a very loud ring). Turn the lights down and call up the spirits for a chilling illusion! The brass Spirit Bell by itself measures 3 x 3 inches.