Newspaper Tear by Jean Anderson

Created by: Jean Anderson

The Newspaper Tear is a classic stage magic trick where a magician tears a newspaper into pieces, only to restore it to its original, undamaged state in a flash. This trick is a visual and powerful piece of magic that leaves audiences in awe. It’s particularly effective in stage or parlour settings, and its use of a common, everyday object (a newspaper) makes it relatable and surprising. Buyers should note that while newspapers are becoming less common, the trick remains a timeless piece of magic that can be adapted to modern contexts.

Key features

Visual and impactful restoration effect
Uses a common, everyday object (newspaper)
Works well in stage or parlour settings
Timeless trick with a strong emotional impact
Can be adapted to modern contexts despite the decline of newspapers

Pros

Highly visual and leaves a lasting impression
Uses a simple, relatable prop
Strong emotional reaction from audiences
Classic trick with a proven track record

Cons

Newspapers are becoming less common, which may limit performance opportunities
Requires some practice to perfect the tear and restoration

Effect

The Newspaper Tear is a classic magic trick where a magician tears a newspaper into pieces and then magically restores it to its original, intact form. The restoration happens in a flash, often eliciting audible gasps from the audience. The trick is visually striking and leaves a lasting impression, making it a memorable piece of magic.

Full details

The Newspaper Tear involves a newspaper that is torn into several pieces by the magician. The torn pieces are then gathered and, with a magical gesture, the newspaper is restored to its original state. The trick is known for its simplicity and powerful impact. It has been performed by legendary magicians like Doug Henning and continues to be a favorite among performers today. The method is straightforward, but the presentation is key to making the effect truly magical.

Who should consider the trick

The Newspaper Tear is ideal for magicians who perform in settings where they can use larger props, such as stage shows or close-up performances in larger venues. It’s also a great choice for those who want to add a classic, visually stunning effect to their repertoire. If you enjoy performing tricks that leave a strong, lasting impression on your audience, this is a trick worth considering.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Newspaper Tear is relatively easy to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The method is simple, but the trick relies heavily on presentation and timing. Practice is essential to ensure the restoration happens smoothly and convincingly. With a bit of rehearsal, even beginners can master this effect and deliver a powerful performance.

What magicians say

Ken Hallgring, a magician with over 50 years of experience, praises the Newspaper Tear for its impact and simplicity. He recalls seeing Doug Henning perform the trick on Broadway and being completely captivated by it. Ken notes that the trick always elicits a strong reaction from the audience, making it a staple in his performances. He appreciates the trick’s ability to stop the show and leave a lasting impression on spectators. Ken’s endorsement highlights the timeless appeal of the Newspaper Tear and its effectiveness as a magical effect.

What people are saying about Newspaper Tear

Ken Hallgring says...

I was lucky enough to see Doug Henning perform Jean Anderson's newspaper tear on Broadway in the magic show when I was a teen. It was so powerful, it really stopped the show. [...] There was always an audible gasp at the flash restoration of the paper.