Flying Rig

The Flying Rig is a grand stage illusion that allows a performer to seemingly defy gravity by flying around the stage like a bird. This trick is a showstopper, often used by top illusionists in Las Vegas and world tours, known for its breathtaking spectacle and the awe it inspires in audiences. It's a piece of magic apparatus that requires significant investment not just in the rig itself but also in lighting, backdrops, and other staging elements to create the full effect.

Where to buy

Magicbox

Flying Ring by Gaeton Bloom - Trick

£35.52

🇬🇧

Shop

Key features

Requires significant investment in both the apparatus and staging elements
Known for its breathtaking spectacle and ability to awe audiences
Used by top illusionists in major shows and tours
Not practical for most performers due to cost and logistical requirements

Pros

Creates an unforgettable moment of astonishment for the audience
A dream trick for many magicians, offering the ultimate illusion of flight
Can be customized with different performances (e.g., flying like Superman or a more comedic approach)

Cons

Extremely expensive, with the apparatus alone costing around $100,000
Requires additional significant investment in lighting, backdrops, and other staging elements
Impractical for most performers due to the high cost and logistical challenges

Effect

The Flying Rig is a grand stage illusion where a performer appears to levitate and fly through the air with no visible means of support. The effect is visually stunning, creating the illusion of weightlessness and defying gravity. The performer may glide, spin, or even soar above the audience, often accompanied by dramatic lighting and music to enhance the spectacle.

Full Details

The Flying Rig is a highly specialized piece of magic apparatus that allows performers to simulate flight. It involves mechanical and technical components that must be carefully concealed to maintain the illusion. The rig is designed to be both safe and reliable, though it requires precise setup and operation. Performers using the Flying Rig often integrate it into larger stage shows, pairing it with choreography, lighting, and music to create a seamless and breathtaking performance.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Flying Rig is best suited for professional stage magicians who perform in large venues with the necessary technical infrastructure. It is not practical for close-up or impromptu performances due to its size, complexity, and cost. Magicians who specialize in grand illusions or theatrical productions will find the Flying Rig a powerful addition to their repertoire.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Flying Rig is one of the most challenging illusions to master, requiring extensive technical knowledge, physical coordination, and performance skill. Proper execution demands rigorous training to ensure safety and maintain the illusion. Additionally, the rig must be set up and operated by experienced technicians, making it unsuitable for solo performers without a dedicated crew.

What Magicians Say

Richard Young of Young & Strange describes the Flying Rig as "the one piece of magic apparatus I've never been able to play with," emphasizing its exclusivity and the high level of investment required. He notes that top-tier illusionists like David Copperfield and Criss Angel use it because it is a "showstopper." Young also mentions the impracticality of touring with the rig, stating that it requires significant financial backing, specialized lighting, and custom staging to achieve its full effect.

The Flying Rig remains a dream for many magicians due to its cost and logistical demands, but those who have mastered it consider it one of the most impactful illusions in magic.

What people are saying about Flying Rig

Richard Young says...

It's the one trick I've never played with so I guess if I'm going to this island I would love to take something that I know I would find endlessly fascinating and yeah I can fly like a bird that'd be good wouldn't it.