Pierced by Simon Lipkin

Effect

The magic trick Pierced by Simon Lipkin creates a startling illusion where push pins appear to penetrate the performer's skin. The effect begins with a fake pin pressed into the arm, escalating to a real pin pushed into the neck—chosen by the spectator from a mix of real and fake pins. The tension builds as the audience believes the performer is in real danger, making it a high-impact visual piece.

Full details

Pierced is a modern take on the classic "smash and stab" routine, designed for close-up performances. The set includes high-quality props: a custom tin, five gimmicked pins (retractable), and five non-gimmicked pins (one real, four fake). The real pin is marked for safety, ensuring no accidental injuries. The trick is self-working, relying on psychological tension rather than sleight of hand.

A 70-minute tutorial covers multiple routines, including contributions from Jamie Allan, allowing performers to adapt the effect to different styles—comedy, mentalism, or shock magic. The props were developed by a film special effects company, emphasizing durability and realism.

Who should consider the trick

Pierced is ideal for magicians who want a high-energy, interactive routine that plays well in both close-up and stage settings. It suits performers who enjoy audience participation and psychological tension. Due to its visceral nature, it works best for mature audiences (18+). Those looking for a portable, reset-friendly trick with strong reactions will find it valuable.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is technically simple, requiring no advanced sleight of hand. The challenge lies in presentation—building suspense and selling the danger convincingly. The tutorial provides detailed guidance on pacing, scripting, and handling spectator reactions. PigCake notes it’s "foolproof," while Magic Orthodoxy highlights its examinable nature, making it accessible even for intermediate performers.

What magicians say

• PigCake praises the trick’s simplicity, safety, and versatility: "It can be performed for both small and large groups and includes variations for different handlings."
• Magic Orthodoxy calls it a "safe, portable version of the classic knife stab trick," justifying the $130 price for its quality and originality.
• AlakazamMagicUK emphasizes its psychological impact: "The routine plays heavily on tension—spectators never quite know if they’ve chosen the real pin."
• Sebastian Toca notes its strong audience reactions: "Groups found it almost too intense to watch, making it a standout piece."
• Magic-TV’s review rates it 95/100, praising its "innovation, presentation flexibility, and sheer entertainment value."

Pierced is widely regarded as a standout effect, blending suspense, audience interaction, and professional-grade props into a memorable performance piece.