The Genii Forum

I've been performing Docc Hilford's "The Wizard's Manual" for a couple years now, and it kills. A word to the wise.

I've also been trying to track down its origins, find similar tricks, and trying to figure out the best trick in its category.

I've heard that the trick originated with The Pegasus Page, for example. However, in recently re-studying Whim of Tituba (Practical Mental Effects), I realize that it has many similarities. Can anyone enlighten me further on this subject?

David,

I seem to remember that Docc was inspired by "The Sough of Horses' Wings" in Ted Lesley's "Paramiracles" (although I think he knew about it before Ted's book was in print.) In that effect, a corner of the page disappears and reappears in a previously empty envelope.

"The Pegasus Page" by Art Emerson appeared in Swami, Vol 2, Issue 13 in the 60's. I find it interesting, but to me, it's not nearly as streamlined as Docc made the effect. In The Pegasus Page, you give the spectator a choice of three books. The book is handed to another spectator to hold while you write the name of the book and the page number on two pieces of cardboard. Give the cardboard to a spectator, the page vanishes from the book, and then appears between the two pieces of cardboard.

Emerson credits the original idea to Herbert Milton, with help from Robert Harbin, and Ned Rutledge.

I think Docc brought the trick down to its most elegant form. You've just got a book and an envelope. And it lends itself to several different presentations.

Also, take a look at one of Bill Goldman's newsletters for his take on it, "Like a Bird on a Wire."

Jeff

"A flight of fortune" is my take on that effect which has been in print in "Mind and Magic" I beleive as well as my book. my version uses a book of fortune telling.
PSIncerely Yours,
Paul Alberstat
AB Stagecraft
http://www.mindguy.com/store
Supplying unique mentalism world-wide

Originally posted by Paul Alberstat:
"A flight of fortune" is my take on that effect which has been in print in "Mind and Magic" I beleive as well as my book...Paul Alberstat
AB Stagecraft
http://www.mindguy.com/store
Supplying unique mentalism world-wide

Do you mean "Can You Keep a Secret?" Is it in that book?

Yes and if you send me an e-mail to my paul@mindguy.com account I will send you as an attachment that effect as it appears in there. Otherwise you can get copies of the book from Stevens Magic, H & R Books, or AB Stagecraft.
PSIncerely Yours,
Paul Alberstat
AB Stagecraft
http://www.mindguy.com/store
Serving the world for unique, real world mentalism for Professional Entertainers.