I opened my last and so far only show with a paper hat tear. I was concerned it wouldn't get a very good response as it was so simple, inexpensive, and I thought done to death. It got oohs, ahhs and a huge response.
I had obviuosly underated the effect.

It never ceases to amaze me. I keep struggling with this. I have been doing family shows for six years. I do between 150-200 shows. I consider myself at about intermediate status. I still struggle with, what I call beginner thoughts of what trick will be a killer. I order tricks and props. Some sit, and some go in my show but fail to get the response I expect. The biggest improvements in my show so far have been for two reasons. First, I attended Kidabra. The wealth of help and information instantly helped me better my show. I am still learning from it. Secondly, I read the book, "Maximum Entertainment" by Ken Webber. It showed me that there is more to performing than just tricks, a lot more!!! Since then I have continued to research and practice. I keep my eyes open for everyday things like things that happen at the dinner table or at work as possibilities. I read all kinds of material, not just magic books. Things like elementary science books and comedy books. So, to bring this to a close, the other day I am doing a birthday show. What got the biggest response? Sitting down to pull a huge sponge rock from my shoe because it was bothering me!!! You never know. Just play it for all it's worth.

Paper hat tears... totally under rated.

Popo,

Thanks for your post ... well said. I hope to attend my first Kidabra conference this summer.

Dan.

Popo,
I too plan on attending Kidabra this year, and nice post.

Spongeballs. You can use larger ones for small stage events and people just can't figure out how those darn things keep multiplying. I personally have my "Trained Sponge Bats" routine which the kids love.

It is not exactly magic but after a kids show is done I say it is always good to have balloons for balloon animals kids love it teenagers love and most of the time adults like it. plus depending on what kind of magic you are into you can add the balloons into your shows most of the time in one way or another.