Ritual by Dan Harlan

Effect

Ritual by Dan Harlan is a magic trick where a spectator pulls wooden beads off a necklace. The magician uses the trick to illustrate the concept of positive mental attitude (PMA). The spectator focuses their negative energy onto the beads, which are then magically removed from the necklace. The performance is often enhanced with humor and audience interaction, making it engaging and entertaining for live audiences.

Full details

Ritual is an updated version of the classic 'Grandmother's Necklace' trick. It features a wearable necklace with wooden beads that can be magically removed by the spectator. The trick is designed to be an everyday carry (EDC) item, making it convenient for magicians to have on hand. However, it requires careful setup and reset, and there is a risk of the setup coming undone during performance. The presentation focuses on the theme of positive energy, adding a meaningful layer to the magic.

Who should consider the trick

Ritual is suitable for magicians who perform in live settings and enjoy incorporating humor and audience interaction into their acts. It is particularly effective for gigs where engaging the audience is a priority. However, it may not be ideal for those looking for a highly examinable or practical trick for everyday use.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Ritual is relatively easy to learn and perform. The sequence is straightforward, and the trick relies more on presentation and audience interaction than complex sleight of hand. However, the setup and reset require attention to detail to ensure the trick works smoothly. Magicians should be mindful of the risk of the setup coming undone during performance.

What magicians say

Craig and Matt from magic-tv have mixed opinions on Ritual. Craig rates it 50%, noting the setup risks and reset needs, while Matt gives it 80%, appreciating the performance but acknowledging its drawbacks for professional use. They compare it to 'Grandmother's Necklace' by TCC, highlighting that while Ritual has a more organic look, it lacks the practicality of the TCC version. Another review by Craig and Ryland mentions that Ritual is wearable but less visual and examinable than TCC's version. They also note that the sequence is easy to learn and versatile but may feel procedural. In a live performance, the magician uses humor and audience interaction to enhance the trick, making it great for entertaining live audiences.