Dunninger's Complete Encyclopaedia Of Magic by Dan Baines

Created by: Dan Baines

Dunninger's Complete Encyclopaedia Of Magic is a comprehensive collection of bizarre and theatrical magic effects rooted in Victorian séance traditions, updated for modern performers. This close-up and parlour magic resource includes classic effects like Spirit Cabinet and Spirit Slates, where spirits seemingly communicate through writing or movement, and haunted object routines where keys or other items move autonomously after a captivating narrative. The collection emphasizes distressed textures, believable provenance, and clever hidden technology to create an authentic, vintage feel. Performers can explore dark versions of classic plots like 'Out of This World' with blooded blanks and mortuary photos, or use switch boxes and scurot for clean method management. Buyers should note that this is theory-heavy, focusing on storytelling and prop design, making it ideal for magicians interested in macabre, narrative-driven magic that feels genuinely real.

Key features

Rooted in Victorian séance magic traditions
Emphasizes rich storytelling and narrative to enhance magical effects
Uses distressed textures and believable provenance for authentic props
Incorporates subtle methods and hidden technology for seamless performances
Includes updated classic effects like Spirit Cabinet and Spirit Slates
Focuses on simple methods to free performers for better engagement
Covers ethics in magic with examples like the Derbyshire Mummified Fairy hoax
Draws inspiration from theatre and other performance arts

Pros

Enhances storytelling skills for more engaging performances
Uses simple methods that are easy to master and focus on narrative
Provides historical context and updates to classic magic effects
Encourages ethical considerations in magic through real-world examples

Cons

Theory-heavy, which may not appeal to those seeking step-by-step trick instructions
Requires investment in prop design and craftsmanship for full effect
Macabre themes might not suit all audiences or performers

Effect

Dunninger's Complete Encyclopaedia Of Magic presents a collection of magic effects rooted in bizarre and theatrical traditions. Audiences see objects that appear to move on their own, haunted artifacts that respond to stories, and classic séance style illusions like spirit cabinets and spirit slates. The magic creates an atmosphere of mystery where props seem to possess their own life and history, making the impossible feel genuinely real.

Full details

This collection draws heavily from Victorian séance magic and bizarre magic traditions. It includes updated versions of classic effects such as Spirit Cabinet and Spirit Slates, where messages appear through sound and vibration. The Corpse Candle effect uses theater inspired technology to create mysterious light phenomena. A version of Out of This World transforms the classic card plot into a darker narrative using thematic props. The methods emphasize early switches and clean management systems that remain undetectable to spectators. The props feature distressed textures and believable provenance to enhance their authentic appearance.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians interested in bizarre magic and theatrical performance will find this collection valuable. Performers who enjoy storytelling and creating atmospheric experiences should consider these effects. Those looking to explore historical magic traditions with modern updates will appreciate the content. Magicians who work with props and want to create lasting impressions through narrative driven magic will benefit from this material.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The methods described emphasize simplicity in technical execution. Dan Baines states that simple methods free the performer to focus on storytelling. The techniques rely more on narrative timing and presentation than complex sleight of hand. Some effects require proper handling of specialized props and understanding of theatrical pacing. The difficulty lies primarily in creating compelling stories rather than mastering difficult moves.

What magicians say

Dan Baines emphasizes that "the key to effective bizarre magic lies in the details" including distressed textures and believable provenance. He argues that stories should earn the magic, noting that in haunted key effects "the object only moves once the narrative has properly captivated the audience." Baines believes simple methods are beneficial because they "free the performer's mind to focus on telling a better, more engaging story." He draws inspiration from theater and discusses how design constraints can lead to more powerful performances. The collection represents his philosophy that magic should create experiences that "crawl under their skin and linger long after the performance is over."

What people are saying about Dunninger's Complete Encyclopaedia Of Magic

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Baines uses subtle methods and rich storytelling to create bizarre magic that feels real. He emphasizes that the key to effective bizarre magic lies in the details: distressed textures that suggest age, a believable provenance for props, and clever technology that operates quietly beneath a vintage veneer.