Pierced by Simon Lipkin

Effect

The trick Pierced by Simon Lipkin creates a high-tension, Russian roulette style experience for an audience. A spectator selects a pin from a set of seemingly identical push pins. The performer then appears to push the chosen pin directly into their own hand or neck. The effect is a startling visual illusion of penetration, creating a strong visceral reaction. The audience is left with the impression that the performer has endured a dangerous act, though the method ensures complete safety.

Full details

Pierced is a close-up magic effect. It uses a set of custom-made metal pins. The set includes both real, sharp pins and specially designed gimmicked pins. These props are stored in a custom magnetic tin. The routine involves a spectator making choices from the set of pins. The performer then demonstrates the sharpness of a real pin before the selected pin is applied to the performer's skin. The effect concludes with the pin apparently penetrating the body without causing injury. The method is self-working and relies on the quality of the props. The product includes a detailed video tutorial approximately 70 minutes long. The tutorial covers multiple routines and presentations contributed by Simon Lipkin and other magicians like Jamie Allan. The props were developed with a film special effects company.

Who should consider the trick

Pierced is suitable for magicians who perform walk-around or close-up magic for adults. It is ideal for performers who enjoy interactive, high-impact routines that generate strong audience reactions. The trick works for both small groups and larger audiences. Magicians interested in psychological tension, mentalism presentations, or shock-style magic will find it adaptable. It is marketed for performers over the age of 18 due to the nature of the props. As reviewer PigCake notes, it is versatile for any audience size. Sebastian from sebastiantoca9208 found it created a visceral reaction, especially with groups who found it intense.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is designed to be easy to perform. The method is described as foolproof and self-working. The learning curve involves understanding the handling of the props and studying the provided tutorial. Reviewer magicorthodoxy states the trick is examinable and comes with a clear, detailed tutorial. PigCake praises its simplicity and quick reset. The magic-tv review mentions the hosts recommend watching the tutorial thoroughly for a smooth performance but confirm the method ensures no real risk. The primary skill required is confident presentation and the ability to build suspense through audience interaction.

What magicians say

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the props and the strength of the audience reaction. PigCake highlights the trick's simplicity, safety, and the high-quality props. He recommends it for its entertainment value. Sebastian from sebastiantoca9208 calls it a visceral reaction piece and includes it among his crowd-pleasing workhorse effects for strolling gigs. The magic-tv review team awarded it a 95 out of 100, praising its strong impact, quality construction, and adaptability for comedy, mentalism, or shock magic. They believe it is a worthy replacement for electronic "which hand" effects. David from magicorthodoxy states that while the price is high, the quality and originality justify the investment for those interested in danger acts or mentalism. The trick was a sell-out success at the Blackpool Magic Convention 2025 and was a nominee for Trick of the Year at the Alakazam Awards.