Unshop (Trick) by Devin Knight $39.00
5 pages of stapled instructions, 8.5 x 11 plastic prediction card, 9 x 12 envelope, garment cards, a secret something.
Available at: http://www.hocus-pocus.com/magicshop/
Devin Knights latest effect, Unshop, is an amusing example of consumer-conscious conjuring.
A large envelope containing a prediction is sitting in plain sight. The performer invites a male participant to take an imaginary shopping trip to buy a new outfit. The performer displays cards bearing the names of the garments that will comprise the outfit - a sports coat, shirt, necktie, pants, socks, shoes and a pair of boxer shorts. When the participant gets to the check-out counter, he discovers that he doesnt have enough money, so he must return an item. The participant selects one of the garment cards to return.
From the envelope, the performer removes a plastic card with a barcode printed on it. He shows that the envelope is empty. The performer claims that the barcode correctly identifies the returned garment. He asks the participant which article of clothing he returned. The participant announces pants. The performer turns the card around and it bears a photo of a man wearing all of the garments, except the pants.
Click on the link below to view a performance clip.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DBCjE5YINY
Mr. Knight writes well and does a fine job of teaching the simple methodology. He includes his complete performance script.
The garment cards are made of heavy paper stock and come with a plastic carrying sleeve. With proper care, they will serve you well for many years. They cant be examined, but no one will want to. The barcode/photo card is made of sturdy plastic. It will endure long after youre gone. The quality of the props justifies the products rather stiff price tag.
The effect is suitable for close-up and stand-up performances. For a stage performance, Mr. Knight recommends having the prediction card enlarged and using a larger envelope.
The procedure by which the participant chooses the garment card appears fair and he will believe that he had a free choice. Mr. Knight employs a minor variation of a method credited to Don Tanner.
Mr. Knight has incorporated the familiar barcode gag into a strong, commercial effect that will appeal to anyone who has ever shopped, or been forced to Unshop.
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