Floating Table by Losander

Created by: Losander

The Floating Table is a classic stage illusion where a table appears to levitate and float in mid-air, defying gravity without any visible means of support. This trick creates a strong visual spectacle that captivates audiences, often used as a powerful closer in performances. It falls under the category of stage magic and can be adapted for various settings, including parlour and cabaret. Buyers should note that it requires smooth execution to maintain the illusion, and incorporating personal narrative or motivation can enhance its impact, making it more than just a technical display.

Key features

  • Creates a strong visual illusion of levitation

  • Versatile for stage, parlour, and cabaret performances

  • Can be normalized by integrating it with props like a gift box for audience interaction

  • Often performed to music for dramatic effect

  • Requires practice for flawless execution to avoid revealing methods

Pros

  • High visual impact that leaves audiences amazed

  • Can serve as a powerful finale in a magic routine

  • Allows for personalization through storytelling and presentation

  • Durable and reusable prop for repeated performances

Cons

  • May appear impersonal if not framed with a narrative

  • Requires setup and handling that could be cumbersome

  • Risk of being perceived as cheesy if not presented authentically

Effect

The Floating Table trick shows a table levitating in the air. It appears to float without any visible support. The table moves up and down, sometimes rotating slowly. This creates a strong visual illusion that defies gravity. The effect is clean and impossible looking for the audience.

Full details

The Floating Table is a classic magic illusion. It is often used as a closing piece for stage performances. The table itself is a specially designed prop. Performers can make the table rise, hover, and descend on command. Some versions allow the table to be examined by spectators before or after the performance. The method is concealed within the table's construction. Proper handling and presentation are crucial for maintaining the illusion. The trick requires specific angles and staging considerations. It is not a impromptu effect and needs preparation.

Who should consider the trick

The Floating Table is suitable for magicians who perform in stage settings. It works well for parlour magic, cabaret shows, and larger venues. Magicians looking for a strong visual closer should consider this trick. It is ideal for performers who want to add a classic illusion to their repertoire. Those who value clean, impossible-looking magic will appreciate this effect. It is not recommended for close-up magicians or those who only perform impromptu magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Floating Table requires practice to perform smoothly. The technical method is not overly complex, but execution must be flawless. Proper timing and angle management are important. The trick involves physical handling that needs to become second nature. Steve Gore notes that it serves as a powerful stage closer, indicating that it requires confidence and stage presence. Matt McGurk's performance shows it can be executed smoothly with practice. The difficulty level is moderate for experienced performers but may be challenging for beginners.

What magicians say

penguinmagicshop discusses the importance of having a narrative reason for performing levitation effects. They state that using props like the floating table without personal motivation is a missed opportunity. They emphasize that magic should feel human and relatable.

Steve Gore uses Losander's Floating Table as a powerful closer for his stage sets. He normalizes the prop by first gifting something from the table's box. He then lets spectators feel the table rise, making the miracle more tangible. He performs it to music for maximum impact.

Oliver Tabor includes the Floating Table among the eight effects that shaped his career. He refines this classic illusion for maximum impact in his performances.

Matt McGurk demonstrates the trick with smooth execution, creating a strong visual illusion that captivates audiences.

What people are saying about Floating Table

MattMcGurk says...

The 'Floating Table' trick takes center stage as a table appears to levitate effortlessly, defying gravity without any obvious support. The performer nails the illusion with flawless execution, making it look like pure magic.

Oliver Tabor says...

The Floating Table is a classic illusion refined for maximum impact, blending visual magic with emotional engagement to create shared experiences over mere spectacle.

penguinmagicshop says...

Audiences connect more deeply with performers who show vulnerability—like admitting they can’t make things float—rather than those who present flawless, impersonal demonstrations of power. [...] They critique the trend of magicians using props without adding a personal spin or narrative motivation, calling it a missed opportunity for deeper engagement.

Steve Gore says...

Floating Table serves as a powerful stage closer, normalized by gifting from the box and letting spectators feel the table rise, making the miracle more tangible.

Performance videos

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    Floating Table

    MattMcGurk mentioned this magic trick in this video.

Tutorial videos

Other videos