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Aus Special user Australia 996 Posts |
Hi Everyone
I have to admit Bizarre magic isn't really my forte, I do however like to dabble in the more obscure aspects of magic for my own enjoyment, and like formulating a great story, this is the reason I'm here. In my mind over the last few days I have been trying to routine a bizarre set of three tricks themed around Houdini and his associations with spiritualists and the occult. After a monologue highlighting these elements of history and associations, the conversation eventually turns to a demonstration of manifesting Houdini's sprite which by it's own merit, would be emphatic proof that such things exist. The first two tricks for this set are Haunted key, and Ted Annemann's Psychic Writing. The Haunted Key along with a drawn image of a padlock on a blank card seems to unlock itself well sandwiched between the spectators hands as the haunted key mysteriously turns above it in the magicians suspended hand. The premise here is to firstly manifest Houdini's sprite in our presence by presenting forth items and imagery of which Houdini's sprite is familiar and well acquainted. After this bizarre manifestation, we then lead to actually communicating with Houdini's Sprite by way of Annemann's Psychic Writing effect. I have toyed with a playing card revelation here but I'm open to other suggestions as to what the revealed message should be. Any help here would be appreciated. The third and final trick of the set is undecided. I have played with the idea of the previous psychic writing effect being a card revelation which would lead nicely into a Haunted deck final. Then I considered Houdini's Diary by Wayne Dobson as a nice thematic fit, but after reading some unfavourable reviews on the café about this product I have started to have second thoughts. The thought also crossed my mind that I could remove the Houdini theme entirely and go for a more boarder presentation along the lines of the Haunted Key being the last remnants of a tragic house fire where some people had perished then continue on along the same vain as described above. Anyway, that's the current state of my thoughts, I would be interested in what other insights others might have to offer in these and other possible directions. Magically Aus |
Philemon Vanderbeck Inner circle Seattle, WA 4694 Posts |
In my opinion, the use of Houdini is an overused trope that is now a cliché at best and a self-parody at worst.
Professor Philemon Vanderbeck
That Creepy Magician "I use my sixth sense to create the illusion of possessing the other five." |
Aus Special user Australia 996 Posts |
Quote:
On Feb 9, 2021, Philemon Vanderbeck wrote: Probably, but from who's perspective? The magicians point of view or the audiences? Magically Aus |
weepinwil Inner circle USA 3828 Posts |
Perhaps a fitting end would be a slate message that says, "leave me alone to rest in peace!" At which time a glass breaks or something turns over.
"Til Death us do part!" - Weepin Willie
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weepinwil Inner circle USA 3828 Posts |
Quote:
On Feb 9, 2021, Philemon Vanderbeck wrote: I agree. Why not contact someone less famous such as the local prostitute or town drunk? The annual televised failed attempts to contact the spirit of Houdini works against success.
"Til Death us do part!" - Weepin Willie
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Philemon Vanderbeck Inner circle Seattle, WA 4694 Posts |
Trying to contact someone who actively debunked spiritualists in the latter part of his career seems disingenuous.
If you want to use someone who would be more "spirit-friendly," why not Madame Blavatsky or Erik Jan Hanussen? Both are far more interesting characters with bizarre histories ripe for storytelling.
Professor Philemon Vanderbeck
That Creepy Magician "I use my sixth sense to create the illusion of possessing the other five." |
Mr. Woolery Inner circle Fairbanks, AK 2149 Posts |
I dunno. If Houdini gave a message like “I’m sorry I ever doubted,” that would be kind of fun.
End it with an escape, orchestrated by Houdini’s ghost. Patrick |
Delimbeau Special user May the magic be with you 596 Posts |
You could build a humorous story around Houdini’s brother ‘Broudini’?
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Gerald Blankenship Loyal user Lake O The Pines Texas 206 Posts |
I agree that Houdini is over used to the point of boredom (at least for me) why not use such greats as Keller or Thurston or Bancroft or maybe Roca? I suppose they are lost in history and in our time Houdini is the most visible to us. However I believe they also contributed to our art form every bit as much as Houdini.
I don't understand all I know about this
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The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » The spooky, the mysterious...the bizarre! » » Routine Suggestions. (5 Likes) |
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