Professor's Nightmare (Repo) by Repo

Effect

The Professor's Nightmare (Repo) is a classic rope magic routine where three ropes of different lengths appear to become equal in length. The magician shows three ropes—one short, one medium, and one long—and then, with a magical gesture, all three ropes visibly transform to the same size. The effect is visual, surprising, and easy to follow, making it a strong piece for both close-up and stage performances.

Full Details

The trick involves three ropes that are initially displayed as different lengths. Through a series of manipulations, the ropes appear to stretch or shrink until they match perfectly. The routine is self-contained, meaning no additional gimmicks or resetting is required between performances. The method is clever yet straightforward, allowing the magician to focus on presentation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform for live audiences, whether in close-up, parlor, or stage settings. It works well for family shows, comedy acts, or even as a quick visual piece in walk-around magic. Because the effect is visual and requires minimal explanation, it’s also great for international audiences or performances where language barriers may exist.

Difficulty

The Professor's Nightmare (Repo) is considered an intermediate-level trick. While the basic handling is simple, mastering the timing and misdirection will enhance the effect. The routine does not require advanced sleight of hand, but smooth execution is key to making the transformation convincing. With practice, most magicians can perform it confidently within a short time.

What Magicians Say

Mark T from Saturn Magic included the Professor's Nightmare (Repo) in his list of reliable and popular tricks, noting that it’s a strong visual routine. He emphasized that the trick is a staple in magic shops because it consistently sells well, indicating its lasting appeal among performers. The trick’s simplicity and strong impact make it a favorite for both beginners and experienced magicians looking for a dependable rope effect.

The Professor's Nightmare (Repo) is a proven classic that continues to impress audiences, making it a worthwhile addition to any magician’s repertoire.