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Craig Petty by Phil Tilston, MSA, Harry Robson, Michael Amar, Richard Sanders, Morgan Dollar, Doug Brewer, Dave Campbell, Eugene Burger, and John Lok

Created by: Phil Tilston, MSA, Harry Robson, Michael Amar, Richard Sanders, Morgan Dollar, Doug Brewer, Dave Campbell, Eugene Burger, John Lok

The magic trick discussed is part of a series called 'Stranded With A Stranger,' where magicians share their desert island magic kit. This particular episode features Phil Tilston, a veteran magician with 30 years of experience, sharing his top picks for magic tricks, a book, and a non-magic item he'd take to a desert island. The tricks mentioned include Signed Bill to Lemon, Signed Card to Sealed Envelope, Cups and Balls, Fiber Optics, Three Fly, Emergency Card/Classified Prediction, Irish Poker, and Gypsy Thread. These tricks cover a wide range of magic types including close-up, parlor, and stage magic, emphasizing versatility and audience engagement.

Key features

  • Versatile tricks suitable for various settings

  • Emphasis on audience engagement

  • Includes both close-up and parlor magic

  • Features tricks with instant reset capabilities

  • Highlights the importance of adaptability in noisy environments

Pros

  • Wide range of magic types covered

  • Tricks are adaptable to different performance settings

  • Strong emphasis on audience engagement

  • Includes both classic and innovative tricks

Cons

  • Some tricks may require specific props not readily available

  • The Build to Lemon method mentioned is no longer available

  • May require significant practice to master all routines

Effect

The trick involves making a signed bill or card appear inside a lemon. The magician shows a lemon to the audience, cuts it open, and reveals the signed item inside. The effect is visual, surprising, and leaves a strong impression on spectators.

Full Details

The method allows the magician to keep the lemon concealed until the moment of revelation, avoiding the need for extra pocket space. This makes it practical for both close-up and parlor performances. The presentation can be adapted from existing routines, such as Cody Fisher's signed bill to lemon, to suit different performing styles.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform in walk-around or parlor settings. It works well for those who want a strong, visual effect that requires minimal setup. Performers who enjoy interactive magic, where a spectator signs a bill or card, will find this particularly engaging.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick requires some practice to master the loading technique smoothly. However, the method is designed to be efficient, with an instant reset feature that makes it practical for repeated performances. Magicians familiar with similar effects, such as card-to-wallet or bill changes, will find the handling intuitive.

What Magicians Say

Phil Tilston, a veteran magician with 30 years of experience, calls this his "strongest trick." He highlights its versatility, especially in parlor settings, where pocket space is limited. He uses MSA's Build to Lemon method, though he notes that this specific version is no longer available.

Other magicians, like Craig Petty, have also explored similar concepts, such as ending a cups and balls routine with a card appearing in a lemon. This variation adds an extra layer of surprise, making the effect even more memorable.

The trick is praised for its strong visual impact and adaptability, making it a reliable choice for professional performers.

What people are saying about Craig Petty

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Phil's selection reflects his 30 years of experience, prioritizing versatility and audience engagement in his magic tricks.

Phil Tilston says...

Signed Bill to Lemon is the strongest trick I perform... it holds the lemon in position inside the jacket until loading thus not taking up any pocket space for parlor shows.

Review videos