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Rollo Polo by Steve Rose

Created by: Steve Rose

Rollo Polo by Steve Rose is a delightful close-up magic trick perfect for entertaining both children and adults. The magician shows a selection of cards with various prizes listed on them. A spectator chooses one, whispers it around, and the magician claims to have a prize in their pocket with 'super sonic hearing.' The spectator names 'polos,' but the magician pulls out a packet of Rolos instead, creating a humorous moment. With a magical gesture, the 'R' on the Rolos changes to a 'P,' transforming them into Polo mints, which are then snapped in half to release a shower of mints. This trick is highly commercial, offers a fun giveaway, and is especially effective for children's entertainment.

Key features

  • Perfect for children and family-friendly events

  • Includes a fun and interactive giveaway

  • Commercial and easy to perform

  • Can be combined with other tricks for a cohesive routine

Pros

  • Engages the audience with humor and surprise

  • Simple to learn and perform

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Creates a memorable moment with the giveaway

Cons

  • May require preparation with specific props (Rolos and Polo mints)

  • Limited to environments where food items are appropriate

Effect

In Rollo Polo by Steve Rose, the magician shows a group of cards with different prizes written on them, such as Sharpies, a ring, or crisps. A spectator freely chooses one and whispers it to others. The magician claims to have "super sonic hearing" and pulls out a packet of Rolos from their pocket—only to realize it’s the wrong prize. After a playful moment of confusion, the magician transforms the "R" on the Rolos into a "P," turning them into Polos. The packet is then snapped in half, releasing a shower of Polo mints, which can be given away as a fun souvenir.

Full Details

Rollo Polo is a commercial, interactive trick that works well in casual settings, especially with children or family audiences. The routine involves:

  • A selection process where the spectator picks a prize from a set of cards.
  • A playful reveal where the magician "mishears" the choice, creating a humorous moment.
  • A visual transformation of the candy packet, followed by a surprising physical change (Rolos to Polos).
  • A giveaway element, making it memorable for the audience.

Steve Rose also offers a variation using Fruit Pastilles with a card reveal, adding versatility to the routine.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Magicians who perform at family events, weddings, or children’s parties.
  • Those looking for a lighthearted, interactive routine with a strong visual payoff.
  • Performers who enjoy tricks with a giveaway element, as the Polos can be handed out.

Difficulty

Rollo Polo is not technically demanding. The method relies on a clever gimmick rather than sleight of hand, making it accessible to beginners. The performance hinges on presentation—timing, humor, and audience interaction are key.

What Magicians Say

Rob Sweet (Sweet Deception Magic) praises Rollo Polo as "super commercial" and a great option for children’s magic, even though he doesn’t typically perform for kids. He highlights the trick’s strong reactions and the fun of the giveaway. He also mentions using Steve Rose’s Fruit Pastilles variation for added impact.

The trick’s simplicity and strong audience appeal make it a favorite among magicians who need a reliable, engaging routine for mixed crowds.

What people are saying about Rollo Polo by Steve Rose

Rob Sweet says...

I saw this from Steve himself a lecture at my local club and thought it was an amazing trick... it's brilliant has a lovely giveaway and is super commercial. It's also a brilliant effect for kids.

Review videos