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Scent Transference Illusion by Calix and Magic Dream

Created by: Calix, Magic Dream

The 'Fragrance' trick by Calix and Magic Dream is a unique scent transference illusion suitable for close-up and stage performances. The magician presents two spectators with a fragrance sample (e.g., strawberry). After one spectator holds the fragrance in their hand, the performer seemingly transfers the scent to the other spectator's hand, leaving the first hand scent-free. This creates a surprising and baffling moment, engaging the audience's sense of smell. The trick includes a Sharpy-style marker and two spray bottles, with a specific, readily available item required for full execution. Performance choreography is crucial for selling the illusion, and the strong scent enhances the impact.

Key features

  • Engages the audience's sense of smell, adding a unique dimension to performances.

  • Includes a Sharpy-style marker and two spray bottles for the fragrance.

  • Requires a specific, readily available item for full execution (details on Magic Dream website).

  • Suitable for both close-up and stage performances with appropriate staging.

  • Simple method with a strong effect, emphasizing performance choreography.

  • Easy to carry and practical for strolling magic or mix-and-mingle routines.

Pros

  • Unique effect that engages the sense of smell.

  • Simple method with a strong impact.

  • Portable and easy to carry for close-up performers.

  • Can be adapted for stage performances with appropriate staging.

  • Quick and simple reloading process for the gimmick.

Cons

  • Requires a specific, readily available item not mentioned due to legal restrictions in some areas.

  • The scent's strength may be overwhelming for some performers or audiences.

Effect

The Scent Transference Illusion (also known as "Fragrance" by Calix and Magic Dream) creates a baffling moment where a scent visibly transfers from one spectator's hand to another. The performer sprays a fragrance (such as strawberry) onto one spectator's palm. After a magical gesture, the scent vanishes from the first spectator's hand and reappears in the second spectator's hand. The effect is verified by smell, making it a multi-sensory experience.

Full Details

The trick includes:

  • A Sharpie-style marker (used as a prop)
  • Two small spray bottles for the fragrance
  • Instructional videos in English and French

A readily available additional item is required for full execution, though it is not included in the package. The setup is quick, and the gimmick can be reloaded easily for multiple performances. The scent is strong, enhancing the illusion's impact.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Close-up performers (strolling magic, mix-and-mingle settings)
  • Stage magicians (with slight adjustments in presentation)
  • Those looking for multi-sensory magic (engaging smell as well as sight)

Nique Tan notes that while he doesn’t typically perform scent-based effects, he found this one unique and practical for performers who want to add variety to their routines.

Difficulty

The method is simple, but the choreography is crucial for selling the illusion. Nique Tan mentions that while the basic concept is straightforward, a clever detail in the performance makes the effect convincing. The reload process is quick, and the prop is easy to carry.

What Magicians Say

Nique Tan highlights several key points:

  • "The choreography is what really sells this effect."
  • "The scent is really strong, making the disappearance and reappearance inexplicable."
  • "It’s a unique effect—I’ve not come across something like this before."

He also notes that while the trick is complete in terms of hardware, an additional common item is needed, which may not be legally available in all regions. Despite this, he considers it a strong and practical addition to a performer’s repertoire.

The Scent Transference Illusion offers a fresh take on classic transference effects by engaging the audience’s sense of smell, making it a memorable and deceptive piece of magic.

What people are saying about Scent Transference Illusion

Nique Tan says...

The strength of 'Fragrance' lies not just in the method itself, but in the choreography of the performance. [...] The effect is really strong because it's it just seems quite impossible that the smell transfers from one hand to another.

Review videos