Banishment

Banishment is a magic trick that combines theatrical storytelling with visual magic, suitable for both close-up and stage performances. It involves the magician making an object disappear or 'banish' in a way that captivates the audience, often through a narrative that adds emotional resonance and intellectual engagement. The trick is versatile, appealing to both children and adults, and can be adapted to various performance settings.

Key features

  • Combines theatrical storytelling with visual magic

  • Suitable for both close-up and stage performances

  • Appeals to both children and adults

  • Versatile and adaptable to various performance settings

  • Emphasizes emotional resonance and intellectual engagement

Pros

  • Engages the audience with a compelling narrative

  • Versatile for different performance settings

  • Appeals to a wide range of audiences

  • Combines classic magic with innovative presentation

Cons

  • May require additional theatrical skills for maximum impact

  • Narrative framing might need customization for different audiences

Effect

Banishment is a magic trick that creates the illusion of an object vanishing in a visually striking way. The performer makes an item disappear in front of the audience, often with a theatrical flourish that enhances the mystery. The effect is clean and leaves no obvious explanation, making it a strong piece for both close-up and stage performances.

Full Details

Banishment is designed to be versatile, fitting into different performance styles. It can be adapted for children's shows, close-up magic, or stage performances. The method is practical, allowing for smooth execution without complicated setups. The trick relies on a combination of sleight of hand and misdirection, ensuring the vanish appears effortless.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Banishment is ideal for magicians who want a reliable vanish effect that works in multiple settings. It suits performers who enjoy theatrical presentations, as it pairs well with storytelling or character-driven acts. Those who perform for children will find it engaging, while close-up magicians can use it as a strong standalone piece.

Difficulty

The trick is moderately easy to learn, with a method that most intermediate magicians can master quickly. It does not require advanced sleight of hand, but smooth execution depends on timing and presentation. Performers who focus on audience engagement will find it easier to integrate into their routines.

What Magicians Say

Nikola Arkane emphasizes the importance of theatricality in magic, and Banishment aligns with her philosophy of blending storytelling with strong effects. She notes that tricks with clear visual impact, like vanishes, work well when framed within a narrative.

Wayne McEwan highlights the value of tricks that connect with audiences on a cultural or emotional level. While Banishment is not tied to a specific theme, its versatility allows performers to adapt it to different contexts, much like his coin routines that incorporate historical elements.

Both magicians stress that strong magic relies on presentation as much as method. Banishment offers a solid foundation for performers to build upon, whether they prefer fast-paced children's shows or more refined close-up performances.

What people are saying about Banishment

Nikola Arkane says...

Her career highlights—winning the IBM British Ring Close-Up Competition, performing at the Magic Castle, and appearing on Penn & Teller: Fool Us—all reflect her belief that theatrical thinking adds dimension to magic.

Wayne McEwan says...

His 'Copper-Silver-Brass' routine uses historical coins to tell a story about New Zealand's gold mining history.

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