I'm putting together a small 35-45 min stage show for a funeral director's association meeting in December. I'm trying to work up an act that will combine mystery and comedy. I would like to have high and low points/ combining comedy audience participation with a few small illusions. Here is what I am thinking:
1. Manipulation Routine to music (silks, cards, billiard balls)
2. Cardiographic
3. Anderson's Newspaper Tear
4. Comedy Confabulation
5. Lester Lake Chopper
6. Losander Floating Table - to music
7. Straight Jacket Escape

What do you guys think about the effects and/or the order? Do you have suggestions for substitutions, additions, or subtractions? Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Brad

The routining is pretty good. The newspaper tear is a good "finish" to the first part of your act - a single prop with a "BAM" ending. After this you want to put something unique, so I would make the floating table #4.

Is your straight jacket a serious routine or a comedy routine? If it's serious, put it after the comedy confabulation. Then finish with the chopper as a closer. If it's a comedy routine and you feel it's a strong closer, do the confabulation, chopper, and straight jacket in that order.

This looks like a very well thought out and entertaining show. I'd pay money to see it myself!

These are just my opinions based on my show routining - I'm sure you'll hear much more (and different opinions) from different performers.

Jim

Jim, Thanks for your input. What do you think about substituting the Straight Jacket with the Suit Jacket Escape as a closer? My only concern is that most of my effects involve audience participation (cardiographic, confabulation, chopper, escape). Should I put in something else that does not involve an assistant? Perhaps something to music.... any suggestions?
Thanks Again

Brad