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Apollo V.I.P. Los Angeles 77 Posts |
With the nature of the working as a pickpocket, I have found myself in some pretty precarious situations.
While you try to be prepared, some things you just wouldn't think of. For example: One night while I was performing my set at CME (Caesars Magical Empire), I was working with a man in front of the audience. I pulled what felt like a small box out of his pocket and held it over his shoulder for the audience. That's when I heard them gasp... that wasn't a typical reaction. I peeked behind his back to see that I was holding an engagement ring box. The whole situation became painfully crystal clear. This gentleman, his girlfriend and both their families had flown to Las Vegas; paid $75 each for the show; and had an elaborate set-up for him to purpose later that night. Now, I had potentially spoiled the memory of the whole occasion. I brought the box around in front of us and pointed it out. "What's this?" I said as I opened it up towards me and him. My ears were feeling hot but I tried to remain calm as I bottom palmed a leopard print g-string with my left hand. I pretended to remove it from the ring box as I clamped the boxed shut and tossed it in my pocket. "Planning on having a fun night tonight?" The audience laughed and relaxed. He was very pale. I slid the box back in his front pocket and tapped it as I whispered "Breathe!" When he later tried to purpose it was an even bigger surprise because the girlfriend thought it was a joke. |
Whit Haydn V.I.P. 5449 Posts |
That's a great story. Can you speak a bit about the other, more foreseeable risks in pickpocketing, and how you protect yourself?
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magicbillk New user 64 Posts |
Tried to propose? Did she say yes?
And why do you carry around a leopard print g-string? Maybe I shouldn't ask... Haha. -Bill
"For those who believe, no explanation is necessary. For those who do not, none will suffice." -Dunninger
www.magicbillk.com |
Apollo V.I.P. Los Angeles 77 Posts |
Sure Whit,
Picking pockets has much more room for liabilities than magic. As soon as you reach into someone's pocket you have technically broken the law. This opens a theatrical pickpocket to many potential accusations. Whether they misplaced an item, forgot what they had (elderly and drunks especially), or are trying to exploit you for profit or agendas. The style I have evolved into, takes "open inventory" of the items I may take before I steal them. For example I may point out that a stone is missing BEFORE I steal a bracelet. This career is also not one for ego battles. If someone accuses you of foul play, you have to swallow your ego and think of how to productively manage the situation. |
Zerububle Elite user Poole 430 Posts |
Things might be different in the US but here in the UK theft is defined as the act of removing an others property with the intention of keeping it. Therefore as a performer of theatrical pickpocketing Apollo is very wise to inform publicly what he is about thus removing the risk of accusations being made. Although I am sure this would not stop some magicians being accused I am of the belief that a persons attitude and character will preclude this from being an issue.
Bubble |
Pete Biro 1933 - 2018 18558 Posts |
Was it Giovanni (sp?) that used to pick their pockets as they entered the circus, then put all the stuff in the Lost and Found until his act?
STAY TOONED... @ www.pete-biro.com
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Apollo V.I.P. Los Angeles 77 Posts |
Hi Bubble,
"...in the UK theft is defined as the act of removing an others property with the intention of keeping it." That is the same in the States. It is classified as a "grand theft." It is difficult to catch a thief with the "goods" because they often hand off or drop the wallet before they can be apprehended. Many governments have started to adopt more aggressive measures. Even unsuccessful pickpockets can be charged with "attempted grand theft." Heres a couple of examples: A man was charged with "attempted grand theft." for attempting to reach in a man's pocket. - California State Court Records, 1963, the People vs. Twiggs. A man was charged with "attempt to commit a pickpocket theft." for opening the clasp on a woman's purse. - California State Court Records, 1968, the People vs. Euell. " I am of the belief that a persons attitude and character will preclude this from being an issue." I couldn't agree more. The relationship and respect you share with your audience is essential. |
Apollo V.I.P. Los Angeles 77 Posts |
Hi Pete,
I believe you may be thinking of Borra. He came up with a very intricate system of keeping the items associated to the person's seat number. Now when he began his act he was able to point to the exact owner of an article and revealing it. I've heard many stories of Dr. Giovanni's performances, but I have never seen it for myself. From my understanding, he was quite improvisational, and very accomplished at using measured risk in his act. ~Apollo |
Pete Biro 1933 - 2018 18558 Posts |
You're right it was BORRA... Al Flosso told me about this some years ago.
STAY TOONED... @ www.pete-biro.com
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Lseeyou Inner circle 1271 Posts |
What a great story Apollo. They payed for the show and they received a bonus surprise bonus.
That's BIG entertainment! When you come to Portugal? Cheers |
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