The last article described how to create a file for each magic trick that you might use in a magic show. This article will show you what kind of information you need to include in each and every magic trick file you create.
This is an important step, because having this information in a word processing file will be very useful for later steps in stting up your Virtual Magic show hire.
Step 2
Each trick file needs to have these sections in this order:
Trick Name
Items Needed to Perform Trick
Setup Notes
Brief Description of Effect
Performance Script
Notes
Trick Name
This section needs little explanation. Use the trick’s original name or a name you can easily remember.
Items Needed to Perform Trick
This is one of the most important sections of your file. You need to list in detail every item required to perform the trick. I usually separate out the consumables from the non-consumables. Consumables would include any item that is used up during the performance. For example flashpaper, paper money, and lemons are listed as consumables for my bill in lemon trick. Separating out the consumables means I am less likely to overlook them when packing up my show.
The non-consumables list is a great checklist to make sure you have everything you need to perform the magic trick.
Setup Notes
This section reminds you about any important points to remember when setting up your trick. As tricks come in and out of my performing repertoire, it is a nice reminder of key points I may have forgotten if I haven’t performed the magic trick in a while.
Brief Description of Effect
You can use the description from the magic trick’s ad or write a brief one yourself. I have found it useful to have a description handy if I am looking to add tricks for an upcoming show. You have a vague idea (or none at all) about what this trick is about.
Performance Script
This section contains the complete script that I use to perform the trick. I write out everything I do and say in the form of a script. This is the baseline for my performance of the trick. Once the script is mastered I am able to freely go on and off script during my performance.
Writing the script is a good way to study the intersection of this magic trick and your performing style. I work on the script all of the time. I view it as a work in progress. It is a good exercise to avoid just using the canned patter that comes with the trick. Try writing your own script out for a magic trick or two. You will be pleasantly surprised with the reactions you get from your audience.
Finally, the script is a nice refresher if you have not performed the trick in a while. I hated having developed a good routine for an effect only to have forgotten most of it because I had not used in a couple of years.