Hi guys.

I am thinking about incorporating the "Incredible Block Penetration" to my children's act from the following link..

http://themagicwarehouse.com/cgi-bin/fin......r=MB7285

Can anyone provide some pointers such as PROS / CONS. Any presentation ideas are welcomed.

Pros: It's VERY cheap, the effect is quite magical, self-working.
Cons: Finding a comedy routine is TOUGH, only plays well for older kids, not really an audience participation trick, likely to be another one that never comes out of the drawer.
I've never seen a professional using this item, though I'm sure some have. I own a more expensive version, and though it's fun to show guests at home, it's really not one I'd ever put in a show these days.
Potty

Would I be able to spray paint the block a solid color instead of it looking like a die?

JC, it all depends on you. If you can perform it in a good manner keeping the kids entertained, no problem. But if the kids will not be enthusiast by your performance with that trick, I would not recommend it for you.

If I was performing it I would speak in a manner similar to the following: "Guess what, a man told me this block can go through these two blades. Isn't that impossible? That guy must be crazy." (As I am talking, the block is going through the blades. I act like I am not noticing it while the kids are screaming it is going through.)

Maybe you could utilze it as a "running gag" throughout the show?


peace,
phill

I like the running gag idea!

There are other versions of this available, some as solid blocks. You probably won't be able to re-paint it, as I think it would interfere with the mechanism. A running gag? How would you manage that?
Personally, I favour the "Crystal Tube", or "Miracle Escape", which is a similarly magical effect, but with two or three helpers from the audience. This means instead of a "how's this one done?" effect, you have a funny and engaging routine. Miracle Escape is the routine where you tie a silk around two lengths of rope, pass the ropes and silk through a clear tube, and one rope is tied around the tube.....then as two kids hold the ends of the ropes, the tube and silk are both pulled free from the ropes. I can't find it at Davenports, who used to sell this item, but I know I've seen it in several magic books.
Good luck!
Potty.