Appearing Glass by Steve Thompson

Created by: Steve Thompson

**Appearing Glass** by Steve Thompson is a visually stunning close-up/parlor magic trick where a magician produces a full glass of liquid seemingly out of thin air. The performer starts by showing an empty, folded bag, which is then unfolded to reveal a glass filled with liquid, appearing in a flash. This quick and impactful opener is perfect for establishing credibility and engaging the audience early in a performance. The trick is ideal for parlor or stand-up settings, offering a strong visual punch with minimal setup.

Key features

  • Quick and visually striking opener

  • Minimal setup and reset

  • Works well in parlor or stand-up settings

  • Engages the audience immediately

Pros

  • High visual impact

  • Easy to perform

  • Versatile for various performance styles

  • Strong audience reaction

Cons

  • Limited to producing a glass (not adaptable for other objects)

  • Requires careful handling to maintain the illusion

Effect

Appearing Glass by Steve Thompson is a visually striking opener designed to immediately grab the audience's attention. The magician removes a flat, empty bag from their pocket, unfolds it, and shows it completely empty. In an instant, a full glass of liquid visibly appears inside the bag. The glass is substantial in size, and the liquid inside makes the production even more impossible-looking. This quick, high-impact effect establishes credibility early in a performance.

Full Details

The trick is self-contained and easy to carry, making it ideal for performers who need a strong opener without bulky props. The glass appears in a way that defies logic, with the liquid inside adding an extra layer of impossibility. The method is straightforward, allowing the magician to focus on presentation rather than complex handling.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Appearing Glass is perfect for:

  • Parlor and stand-up magicians who need a fast, visual opener.
  • Performers who want to establish credibility quickly before moving into longer routines.
  • Those who prefer minimal setup—the trick is easy to reset and can be repeated if needed.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform, with no advanced sleight of hand required. The method is practical, and the effect is self-working once the initial setup is understood. This makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced performers looking for a reliable opener.

What Magicians Say

AlakazamMagicUK highlights Appearing Glass as an excellent choice for a parlor show opener, stating:

"It's great for ingratiating yourself with the audience... as that's happening, people don't know what to expect, and then you produce a glass of liquid—boom! You've done a magic effect."

They also emphasize its versatility:

"It makes a great little opener... most people use these quick effects to establish themselves before moving into fully-fledged routines."

The trick is praised for its visual impact and ease of integration into a structured act, making it a strong choice for performers who want a fast, memorable start to their show.

What people are saying about Appearing Glass by Steve Thompson

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Appearing Glass is a great opener—very quick and visually striking. It immediately impresses the audience and sets the tone for the rest of the show.

Other videos