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Michael Amar by Michael Amar

Created by: Michael Amar

The Michael Amar Cups and Balls routine is a classic close-up magic trick that involves the magical appearance, disappearance, and transposition of small balls under and between three cups. This trick is renowned for its versatility and the potential for performers to develop their own unique routines based on Amar's foundational techniques. It's a staple in the repertoire of many magicians, suitable for both intimate close-up settings and larger parlor performances. The routine can be adapted to include various final loads, such as a signed card appearing inside a lemon, adding a personalized and surprising climax to the performance.

Key features

  • Classic cups and balls routine with room for personal adaptation

  • Suitable for both close-up and parlor magic

  • Potential for creative final loads, like a signed card in a lemon

  • Encourages the development of unique handling and presentations

Pros

  • Highly versatile and adaptable to various performance settings

  • Strong audience engagement and reaction

  • Allows for personal creativity in routine development

  • Classic effect with a proven track record of success

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to master the sleights and timing

  • May need additional props for certain final loads

  • Not as immediately impactful without a well-developed presentation

Effect

The Michael Amar Cups and Balls routine is a classic magic performance where balls vanish and reappear under cups in impossible ways. The routine includes multiple phases of visual magic, ending with a surprising final load, such as a signed card appearing inside a lemon. The effect is engaging, interactive, and adaptable to different performance styles.

Full Details

Phil Tilston, a veteran magician with 30 years of experience, constructed his own version of the Cups and Balls routine by studying Michael Amar's videos. He highlights the flexibility of the routine, allowing performers to develop their own handling and presentations. The routine can be performed in close-up or parlor settings, making it versatile for different venues.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is ideal for magicians who enjoy classic magic with room for personalization. It suits performers who want a strong, interactive piece that can be adapted for different audiences. Those who appreciate visual magic with a structured yet customizable method will find this routine valuable.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Cups and Balls requires practice to master the sleight of hand and timing. Phil mentions that developing new routines takes time, but the foundational techniques are learnable with dedication. The routine is intermediate in difficulty, making it accessible to magicians with some experience in sleight-based magic.

What Magicians Say

Phil Tilston praises the routine for its adaptability and strength in performance. He says, "I don't believe that it's any one specific routine, but something I constructed from various parts of the Michael Amar cups and balls videos." He also notes the potential for creative final loads, such as incorporating a signed card into a lemon for a strong finish.

The routine is well-regarded for its visual impact and audience engagement, making it a staple in many magicians' repertoires.

What people are saying about Michael Amar

Phil Tilston says...

I perform this regularly at Houdini's Magic Bar... something I constructed from various parts of the Michael Amar cups and balls videos... apart from having a great trick to perform on the desert island, I would have a lot of time to develop new routines and practice some handling not in my current version.

Review videos