An open-frame production of a person, as performed by Mandy Muden on Britain's Got Talent:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AGMg91t4sE

starting at 4 mins 20 secs.

I'm looking for something similar for a stage play and I wonder if this is a commercial design. Many thanks.

This illusion is called " Grabel's circular production cabinet" and it can be found in The Magic and illusions of Lee Grabel book.

Paul Daniels did a fantastic version on his tv show ( February 1990 )
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2xbUsTigK8

Since you are in the UK it might be a good idea to contact Scott Penrose... ( he has experience with this illusion and I wouldn't be suprised if he was involved with Mandy's version )

Thanks very much for that. Given that absolutely nothing about Mandy Muden's version is actually circular, I wouldn't have deduced that name in a million years. Paul D's *is* circular of course but strikes me as a little less deceptive.

Thinking about it, though in many ways it's ideal for what I want (fast, dramatic reveal in mid-stage) I'm not sure I can guarantee that our actor will be limber enough and there's also what might be a fairly bulky costume to consider. But it's certainly still well worth considering.

What's the copyright situation with regard to a published illusion? Does the Grabel book include information on licencing?

I might start another thread outlining exactly what we need and the performance conditions; with luck some other suggestions might be made. I'd certainly be grateful.
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The prop Mandy used on BGT belongs (or belonged) to magician Jamie Allen. It is a one off build. I don’t know if Mandy bought it from Jamie or if she hired it from him. If you are interested get in touch with Jamie Allen.

I spent a bit of time with this prop and can vouch for it as a great self contained production. It can be used and operated by a solo performer and can also produce one or two people.

Thanks for that. I'm grateful for the information but as I said to RVH Magic, I'm not sure that the prop is ideal for my purpose: a pity, since the effect is splendid. I really need a production which permits the actor to be standing before he comes into view. I've started a separate thread in this forum, asking for suggestions.