Propless Wonders

Last night I had the opportunity to see a rare public performance by Ross Johnson, one of America's premier psychic entertainers and star of Fun Inc.'s Simply Psychic DVD. Ross' show relies on his theatrical ability to entertain rather than flashy props. It's a study in simplicity, an economy of motion.

Aside from Simply Psychic, here's some other resources you can look to for minimum props, maximum entertainment:

Twisting Arm Illusion DVD: This is an impromptu routine, which is easy to do and uses absolutely no props. The magician asks a spectator to copy his actions. Both place their hands palm down on the table and begin turning them in a clockwise direction. The spectator turns his hand part way, while the magician turns his hand in a full circle one and a half times!

Pen Sation: This has been a very popular item, and it's lean toward the impromptu is part of its success. Divine a thought of number, word, or symbol. Even though you had your back turned, you are instantly able to name the original thought! An outstanding utility tool for mentalists. Great for Living and Dead tests!

The Piatt Envelope: This is one of the most devious and ordinary looking props a magician and mentalist can use. The concept of multiple outs is a powerful weapon when used in a mental effect. Books have been written on the subject and hundreds of props have been invented to produce the desired results. The Piatt Envelope is among the best and fairest methods ever invented for this purpose.