Hey guys
just got my sal dvds and got a cheap set of shells free, only placcy but do the job.
when learning how did you practice? do you just sit and load unload repetedly or any other ways, I left my close up mat at work so looking forward to practising on that and learning this fun game

Start with a good routine - take the routine in stages. Then after you get the routine down try it in front of people. Take out the stuff that they don't like and put in the stuff that they do like. That is the stuff that is entertaining keep in and the stuff that doesn't fool them and entertain them take out.

Build the routine into a strong routine with each move - seeming to be more amazing (each move) building to a strong ending or climax.

As far as props you can make a set of shells from walnuts. Or use bottle caps, sea shells, many of the small plastic cups I have seen at the dollar store would also work with the shell game.

Again in my opinion it is not the props it is the routine and the personality of the performer - giving an entertainment for the audience - in my opinion that is what counts.

I hope this helps.

When I bought my first set of Shells, I also got a booklet called...."The Manual of The Three Shell Game" by Eddie Joseph.

It has many moves and many routines and illustrations between its covers. I don't know if its still available. It was first published in 1959!! I got mine from "Davenports" in London.

There is another thread somewhere on this subject, but where I can't remember, (Alzheimers?). I am sure others will advise you on many different learning DVD's etc. I like "Absolutely Nuts" by Bob Sheets.

Chris

Don't overlook the School For Scoundrels. Chef Anton has some great stuff to teach!

http://www.chefanton.com/scoundrelsstore/shell_game.htm

Mark.

Invest in the School for Scoundrel's DVD's--Priceless

This is the way to go. I have Sal Piacente's DVD, and while it gets you started with the basics, IMHO the School for Scoundrels DVDs are the best thing ever done on the 3 Shell Game.

Absoutley SFS DVDs. Also get the "SFS Shells". These are perfect and while I have 6 sets of shells I use SFS regular shells the most. WHY? Because they are perfect, small, work fantastic, durable, the dip etc....and now for the star of the show...DRUM ROLL..."The Perfect Pea" from SFS. Do not use any other pea but this one..in fact throw your other ones away right now...What are you waiting for? Throw them away. Believe me you will not be sorry. But you will use nothing else but The Perfect once you try it.

No I do not work for SFS or know Whit but through his site and his posting here.

SFS is the way to go and also get Bob Sheet's "Absolutely Nuts"

Absolutely Nuts has been incorporated into the second SFS dvd.