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FunTimeAl Special user 987 Posts |
Last summer I was using shells for two different effects. After a while, one chipped the other dented, and that was it for me. I was out a lot of $ and wasn't able to perform my rehearsed routines. I just had to do different effects that I didn't feel were as powerful.
Then, I went back to square one, rewrote new stuff, and came up with a routine that only required items I was able to buy at local stores (for the most part). It's been going well, but now I'm back to wanting something that I can pull out and really hit a magical tone after I've done the ungimmicked stuff. Maybe I don't need it. The shows fine as is...but I'm never happy with what I did yesterday...had a boss that used to say, "your're either getting better or you're getting worse". I love that quote. So....I figure that if I'm clean all show long, then the finale can be gimmicked (especially since I've got a proven ungimmicked finale as a back-up). Something that requires multiple volunteers, has a story line that builds, and hits them with a knock out magic punch. Funny also, that I'd like it to be a bit theatric...almost stage-like. Somehow, I got this idea that if I can build the show from simple beginning to broadway end, then the energy level will build upward also. So, here's my idea: http://www.hocus-pocus.com/magicshop/?product=10029 Has anybody used this before, on the street or otherwise? I think it looks perfect for a finale. Dunno though. Never scene it, just found it on hocus-pocus's website after searching around. Thoughts fellas? At that price, I'll probably buy it anyway just to check it out. I know I'll use it for something, even a dinner party with friends. But, what do you all think about tossing it in the rig and playing it as a finale? |
FunTimeAl Special user 987 Posts |
Just tried my own link. It didn't work. Follow the link, then run a search.
The effect is called: Whodunit |
Chance Inner circle 1385 Posts |
You're over thinking the problem Chad. You're too close to it all, obsessing over details with little or no meaning. Step back a few paces, take a deep breath, relax, and remember these words: It's not what you do, but how you do it. It's all in the personality, not the props.
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Pokie-Poke Special user Bensalem, PA 883 Posts |
If done right then the efect of a gimic or non gimiced prop should be the same for the crowd.
I like to buy toys, and have used some but it ends the same. A ring, a rope, deck of cards, Coins. get off the plane, hit home depo. and get to work.
www.pokie-poke.com
The Adventure cont... |
FunTimeAl Special user 987 Posts |
I agree with you both. But then again, theatrics are important in street theater. I do a show in which 90% of the stuff I use comes from the craft/hardware store.
But, what about making the finale BIG?!?! Why not have one gimmick in there (with a non-gimmick back-up finale) to really WOW the crowd. I think that a gimmicked effect can play bigger sometimes. It all depends on which effect vs. which effect...agreed. But I think a good, solid gimmicked effect should be a consideration. Lot's of audience participation, big color, HUGE finish. That's the direction I wanna head in. I want those punters feeling like they just got to witness a 1st class show in the most intimate of settings. I'm not talking about banging out 15-minute sidewalk shows like this. But, if ya got a circle pitch to work, why not play it up? Why not make it HUGE? Certainly we should all be able to bust out a show from the most basic of props. It keeps you grounded and focused on the RIGHT details of the show. I'm not looking to hide behind a self-working gimmick. I'm looking for a spectacle of a finish. I'm buying this Whodunit for starters. It looks great. Anyone have ideas for a big gimmick finish?!?!? |
TheAmbitiousCard Eternal Order Northern California 13425 Posts |
Chad, you @#$%$.
Is this the product you're talking about? http://www.hocus-pocus.com/magicshop/?product=9884 I've been trying to figure out what you're talking about and only now do I think I'm finally catching on. Let me know before I spend anymore brain cells on your behalf.
www.theambitiouscard.com Hand Crafted Magic
Trophy Husband, Father of the Year Candidate, Chippendale's Dancer applicant, Unofficial World Record Holder. |
FunTimeAl Special user 987 Posts |
From that link you still gotta run a product search Mr. Funnypants.
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Chance Inner circle 1385 Posts |
Well, breaking down the question to whether or not this one effect will give you a big finish, my opinion is absolutely not.
It's not a "miracle" or "amazing spectacle" by any metric I can think of. Plus it requires too much explanation and requires the specs to invest far too much mental observation. In my opinion, the amount of the spectacle you wish to create is directly proportional to the amount of EMOTIONAL vs. INTELLECTUAL investment required. The more they FEEL, the better the reaction; the more they are required to THINK/MENTALLY TRACK, the worse the reaction. Miracles should by their very nature TRANSCEND the thinking process. Miracles don't have explanations. How do you explain walking on water or raising the dead? That's just it, you can't! Bottom line, it's just a card trick and everybody already knows one or two. Buy it for yourself, but don't expect too much besides. |
TheAmbitiousCard Eternal Order Northern California 13425 Posts |
Quote:
On 2008-05-12 11:57, Chad wrote: You do? I don't. "Whodunit" comes right up. Hmm...
www.theambitiouscard.com Hand Crafted Magic
Trophy Husband, Father of the Year Candidate, Chippendale's Dancer applicant, Unofficial World Record Holder. |
FunTimeAl Special user 987 Posts |
Good thoughts Chance. I'll buy it and play with it in other venues (family dinner night, etc...) and then make a decision of whether or not to haul it to the pitch.
Frank, I envy your computer. Your cookies must be better than mine. I got sugar cookies apparently, you must have those coconut covered girl scout yum yums... |
TheAmbitiousCard Eternal Order Northern California 13425 Posts |
Samoas, baby!!!
www.theambitiouscard.com Hand Crafted Magic
Trophy Husband, Father of the Year Candidate, Chippendale's Dancer applicant, Unofficial World Record Holder. |
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