Flying by David Copperfield

Created by: David Copperfield

The 'Flying' trick is a mesmerizing stage illusion where the magician appears to levitate or float in mid-air, defying gravity. This classic effect, often associated with legends like David Copperfield, creates a sense of wonder and disbelief as the performer seemingly hovers above the ground, sometimes even interacting with the audience or performing additional feats while airborne. It's a visually stunning piece of magic that captivates audiences of all ages, making it a staple in stage performances. Buyers should note that this trick typically requires specialized equipment and setup, making it more suited for professional or large-scale performances.

Key features

Requires specialized equipment and setup
Best suited for stage performances
Creates a strong visual impact
Often involves audience interaction
Can be adapted with different presentations

Pros

Highly visual and captivating
Strong audience impact
Versatile in presentation
Timeless appeal

Cons

Requires significant space and setup
Not suitable for close-up or impromptu settings
Can be expensive to acquire and maintain

Effect

The Flying trick creates the illusion of levitation, making it appear as if the performer or an object defies gravity. The audience sees the magician or an item float in mid-air with no visible support. This effect taps into the universal fascination with flight, creating a moment of pure wonder.

Full Details

Flying is a classic stage illusion that has been performed in various forms, from simple floating objects to full-body levitations. The effect relies on clever mechanics and misdirection to hide the method while emphasizing the impossibility of the feat. Performers often enhance the illusion with music, lighting, and choreography to heighten the sense of magic.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for stage magicians who want to add a visually stunning and emotionally impactful moment to their act. It works well in theatrical settings, large-scale performances, or any show where spectacle is key. Those who enjoy combining storytelling with magic will find Flying particularly rewarding, as it naturally lends itself to dramatic presentation.

Difficulty

Flying is considered an advanced trick, requiring precise timing, physical control, and often specialized equipment. The mechanics can be complex, and performers must practice extensively to ensure smooth execution. Additionally, maintaining the illusion under audience scrutiny demands strong misdirection and performance skills.

What Magicians Say

Nick Mohammed, known for his comedic and theatrical approach to magic, praises Flying for its inherent sense of wonder:

"There's something so organically magical about flying... it feels like it breaks down the laws of physics in a really simple, straightforward way."

He highlights how the effect resonates with audiences, evoking childhood fantasies of flight. Other magicians appreciate Flying for its versatility—it can be adapted to fit different performance styles, from elegant and mysterious to playful and comedic.

The trick’s impact lies in its simplicity: no explanations are needed. As Nick notes, "It transcends language... it’s just wonderful when done properly." Whether performed as a grand stage illusion or a subtle floating effect, Flying remains one of the most captivating tricks in magic.

What people are saying about Flying

Nick Mohammed says...

Flying would always be [my superpower] because there's something so magical when something floats. It feels like it breaks down the laws of physics in a really simple, straightforward way.