Description

The subtitle for this one hundred and forty-four-page offering from one of the best writers in the history of conjuring simply promises “magic and illusions,” the simplicity of this description belying the fact that modern performers looking for new material could put together a full stage show from the array of routines explained here. Nelson Hahne’s beautiful illustrations accompany Hugard’s clear prose as he gives a thorough breakdown not only of his own fire-eating act and Bullet Catch, but also of a baffling card transposition from G. W. Hunter, and a remarkable stage illusion from Daniel Dew. Paul Curry’s superb “Touch”, which sells elsewhere for $30, is explained in full, and is accompanied by a clever variation courtesy of R. M. Jamison. Variety acts seeking to offer audiences an unusual spectacle will enjoy reading Max Holden’s account of producing smoke pictures, while the annual’s chapters on cigar and cigarette manipulation, magic with coins, effects with silks, and routines with playing cards will give every reader with an interest in performing engaging and entertaining magic plenty to conjure with.