Portal Vanish by David Copperfield and David Mendoza

Created by: David Copperfield, David Mendoza

Portal Vanish is a grand illusion where the magician and a volunteer from the audience seemingly vanish into thin air, transported to another location, typically a desert island. This trick is a staple of stage magic, known for its stunning visual impact and the sense of wonder it creates. The illusion involves a crane arm extending over the audience, with a 'shower cubicle' like structure at the end where the vanish occurs. The trick is celebrated for its innovative use of technology and the sheer impossibility of the vanish, making it a memorable experience for spectators.

Key features

Grand illusion suitable for stage performances
Involves a crane arm and a special structure for the vanish
Known for its stunning visual impact and sense of wonder
Innovative use of technology for the time it was created
Requires significant setup and space to perform

Pros

Creates a memorable and stunning visual impact
Highly innovative for its time
Strong audience connection and sense of wonder
Perfect for large stage performances

Cons

Requires significant setup and space
Technology may seem dated now
Not suitable for close-up or small venues

Effect

The Portal Vanish is a stunning stage illusion where a performer and a spectator seemingly vanish into thin air. The effect is dramatic and visually striking, often leaving audiences in awe. The performer and a volunteer step onto a small platform, which is then briefly concealed by a curtain or light. When the curtain is removed moments later, both have completely disappeared. The vanish is clean, instant, and seemingly impossible, making it one of the most memorable illusions in magic.

Full Details

The Portal Vanish was popularized by David Copperfield, who used it as a signature piece in his shows for years. The illusion involves a carefully designed mechanical setup, often incorporating a crane-like arm that extends over the audience. The performer and spectator step onto the platform, which is then briefly obscured before they vanish without a trace.

Richard Young, of Young & Strange, describes the Portal Vanish as "almost certainly the most stunning vanish of a human being that was ever created." He recalls seeing it live in Las Vegas and being completely baffled, even as a magician. The method, while ingenious, is also reportedly dangerous, adding to the mystique of the illusion.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This illusion is best suited for professional stage magicians who perform in theaters or large venues. Due to its technical requirements and scale, it is not practical for close-up or parlor settings. Performers who specialize in grand illusions and have the resources to transport and set up the necessary equipment will benefit most from the Portal Vanish.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Portal Vanish is a highly technical illusion that requires precise timing, mechanical setup, and careful execution. It is not a trick that can be performed casually—proper staging, lighting, and audience positioning are crucial. Richard Young notes that the method is "effing dangerous," indicating that it should only be attempted by experienced illusionists with proper training and safety precautions.

What Magicians Say

Richard Young praises the Portal Vanish as a masterpiece of illusion design, calling it "the most stunning vanish of a human being that was ever created." He emphasizes its impact on audiences, even if some of the technological aspects may seem dated by modern standards. The illusion's ability to create a moment of pure astonishment makes it a standout piece in any magician's repertoire.

Other magicians who have seen or studied the Portal Vanish often cite its clean execution and the impossibility of the vanish as key strengths. The illusion remains a benchmark for large-scale magical effects, demonstrating the power of well-crafted stage magic.

For performers looking to add a truly breathtaking vanish to their act, the Portal Vanish is a legendary choice that continues to inspire awe.

What people are saying about Portal Vanish

Richard Young says...

The portal vanish is almost certainly the most stunning vanish of a human being or in this case two human beings that was ever created. [...] It blew that theory out of the water and I would have had absolutely no idea how it was done.