I already posted about this in another forum, but I thought it might fit better here. Has anyone seen "Darwin's Inexpensive Illusions" video? It says it tells you how to build enough illusions for a full show , most of the props being cheaper than $20. Supposedly you can carry it all around in the back of your car.

Hi:

I didn´t see that video, but I have read the Darwin´s Inexpensive Ilusions" book. I recommend it to you, it is a great book, and you have all type of ilusion, very cheap and cool. I think that with the book, you won´t need any video. The book works very well.

All the best magic,

Pablo Tejero

I'm also interested in buying the book, but I heard somewhere that this book requires a lot of black art. Can someone be more specific? Does this mean things just have to look deceptively thin, or does this mean that these illusions rely on a full black art setup (i.e. full black stage, magician in white, lights blinding the audience)?

Black Art is a principle, not a "black only" science.

Darwin is famed for his use of Black Art but even a multicolored backdrop with spangles on it can be used the same way as black velvet.

The lowly Squared Circle, a very magical item, is a Black Art device as is the hidden compartment in any black item like the Metamorpho Spots trick.

If you are thinking of huge black velvet curtains and people dressed head to foot in black, think again.

Gary Darwin does have a book out that deals with Black Art but don't let that put you off. Read it and apply the knowledge you learn to red items, plaid items or striped items.

Best Regards,
Ray

Thanks, I just wanted to make sure that the book didn't require the extensive stage setup some acts can require. By this I was talking about a magic show that relied solely on black screens and creativity. If it's mainly the principles of black art applied, then these illusions could be fine in my show.

Thanks again for the clarification!