Floating Table by Losander
Created by: Losander
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
Floating Table
MattMcGurk mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Tutorial videos
Steve Gore's Desert Island Tricks
AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Other videos
What can't you do? #magic
penguinmagicshop mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Oliver Tabor's Desert Island Tricks
AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.



