Hospitality by Jim Steinmeyer

Effect

Hospitality is a classic magic routine where a magician appears to pour a single liquid from a container, only to produce a variety of different drinks. The magician starts with a carton or jug of one type of liquid, such as milk, and then pours it into glasses, producing different beverages like chocolate milk, strawberry milk, soda, or even beer. The routine often ends with the magician handing out the drinks to the audience, who can taste them, confirming that they are real. The finale typically involves the magician revealing the container to be completely empty, leaving the audience baffled as to how so many different drinks were produced from a single source.

Full details

Hospitality is a versatile routine that can be adapted to various performance settings, from close-up magic to large stage shows. The trick involves a specially designed container that allows the magician to pour different liquids without the audience detecting the method. The routine is often accompanied by engaging patter, where the magician interacts with the audience, making the experience more personal and entertaining. The key to the trick's success lies in the choreography and scripting, which make the impossible seem effortless. The routine can be customized to include different types of drinks, depending on the magician's preference and the audience's expectations.

Who should consider the trick

Hospitality is ideal for magicians who perform in a variety of settings, from intimate close-up shows to large stage performances. It’s particularly well-suited for magicians who enjoy audience interaction and want to create a memorable experience for their spectators. The trick is also a great choice for those who want to add a versatile and visually stunning routine to their repertoire. Magicians who appreciate classic magic with a modern twist will find Hospitality to be a valuable addition to their act.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Hospitality is considered an intermediate-level trick. While the method itself is not overly complex, the routine requires careful handling of the props and precise timing to ensure the illusion is maintained. The magician must also be comfortable with audience interaction and have strong presentation skills to make the routine engaging. Practice is essential to master the choreography and ensure smooth transitions between the different phases of the trick. With dedication, magicians of varying skill levels can successfully perform Hospitality and leave their audiences amazed.

What magicians say

Edward Hilsum, a renowned magician, describes Hospitality as a "dream routine" that he first saw performed by Lance Burton. He emphasizes the importance of the finale, where an audience member is handed the container and produces a drink themselves, creating a moment of pure astonishment. Hilsum notes that the trick’s strength lies in its ability to make the audience member the star of the show, rather than the magician. He also highlights the versatility of the routine, which can be performed in various settings, from close-up to large stage shows. Hilsum’s experience with Hospitality demonstrates how the trick can be adapted and personalized to create a unique and memorable performance.