Hey guys,

I was wondering if you could recommend books or something for the ultimate impromptu for scenario's like: you're walking down the street and someone you know stops you to see a trick and you have nothing, no coins, dollars, cards, anything, nada, nothing! Or you're sitting in class and all you have is either a pencil or paper or something, I hope you guys get my drift

Thanks
Avi

Avi,
For impromptu magic try Michael Weber's "Lifesavers" or Martin Gardner's "Impromptu Magic" ( not sure of that title )
Rennie

Martin Gardner's Encyclopedia of Impromptu Magic.

If you can master sleights, you could do almost anything impromptu.

You might want to check out this discussion I started a couple of years ago titled Nothing but finger tricks landed me a 2 year gig.

In that discussion you'll find a lot of suggestions and ideas.

I agree with rmoraleta. Learn to do sleight of hand with common objects and you're always ready. Doesn't hurt to carry your T-tip and other small gimmicks in your pocket too.

Ron Jaxon

"Twisting Arm Illusion" and "Finger Fantasies" are two where you need nothing but flexible body parts.

rmoraleta says, "If you can master sleights, you could do almost anything impromptu."
He's right on!
Someone will usually have a few coins, a bill, finger ring, a key or something you can borrow.

I've actually borrowed a shoelace and finger ring and did a thimble moves, knots and a nice ring and string routine. I,ve borrowed cigarettes and BIC lighter and done routines. The possibilities are endless if you just think outside the box.

In my opinion, finding and studying impromptu magic is one of the best things you can do. Think of a good presentation and those impromptu that at first appear weak can become quite strong.

Luck to ya,

An old magi once told me never leave home without at least one trick.

'On the Spot' by Gregory Wilson is also an excellent set of tapes, in fact a lot of the stuff on there is better than I have seen in a lot of magicians full acts!

If sat with nothing but paper and a pencil, there are some miracles that can be done from Corinda's 13 steps.

As said though, there are many many threads on this topic!

Simon

Body Tricks by Stephen Ablett

He also has a Body Tricks dvd out at the end of the week...

If you focus your study of magic on sleight of hand you will be able to perform "Jazz Magic" anytime, anywhere with anything.

PSIncerely Yours,
Paul Alberstat

If you can borrow a coin, then Stuck by Greg Rostami is truly an ultimate impromptu.
If mentalism is something you like, then Max Maven's Nothing DVD takes impromptu to the next level.

Well... not exactly impromptu. You still need the materials.

I'd like to put my vote in for the wise words above: LEARN to do solid basic sleight-of-hand with cards, coins, balls, the paddle move, etc. Once you can do manipulation with the standards of the craft you are ALWAYS ready to work no matter where you are! Not only that, but adding brilliant singular items like the Quarter in Soda Can (I personally think this is the finest impromptu effect ever devised) becomes just an extension of the skill set you already have.

All best,

Rubber Band magic is great for impromptu situations...
Check out Joe Rindfleisch’s EXTREME RUBBER BAND MAGIC DVD, its full with amazing magic.

I agree with Brad, and sjdavison with Greg Wilsons "ON THE SPOT". But just knowing basic sleight-of-hand will allow you to perform with anything. You can apply many coin slights to other objects for the same effects. Also Jeff McBrides "World Class Manipulations" which has some difficult material, but it will be worth it to you in the end.