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Solid and Stretch by David Penn and Jonathan Farr

Created by: David Penn, Jonathan Farr

Solid and Stretch is a visually stunning close-up magic trick where a seemingly ordinary pen or small object undergoes impossible transformations. The magician demonstrates the object stretching, flattening, or even vanishing entirely, creating a surreal and cartoon-like effect that baffles spectators. This trick is perfect for close-up or parlour settings and requires minimal setup, making it highly practical for performers. Buyers should note that while the method is straightforward, the trick relies heavily on confident performance and misdirection to maximize its impact.

Key features

  • Visual and surreal transformations with everyday objects

  • Minimal setup and easy to carry

  • Works well in close-up and parlour settings

  • Relies on performance and misdirection rather than complex sleight of hand

Pros

  • Consistently gets strong audience reactions

  • Versatile for different performance styles

  • Easy to learn and perform

Cons

  • Requires confidence and good timing for misdirection

  • May need additional props for extended routines

Effect

The trick "Solid and Stretch" by David Penn and Jonathan Farr creates a surreal visual experience for the audience. A solid object, such as a pen or a small ball, appears to stretch, flatten, or change shape in impossible ways. The performer can seemingly manipulate the object's form, making it vanish, shrink, or even pass through solid barriers. The effect is cartoonish and playful, often eliciting laughter and disbelief from spectators.

Full Details

"Solid and Stretch" is a gimmick-based routine that allows for multiple visual transformations. The performer can make objects appear to defy physics—stretching, flattening, or vanishing with simple gestures. The method is straightforward, relying on clever prop construction rather than complex sleight of hand. The trick is modular, meaning it can be integrated into other routines or performed as a standalone piece.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy interactive, visual magic with strong audience reactions. It works well in close-up and parlor settings, particularly for performers who like incorporating humor into their acts. Since the method is not overly technical, it is accessible to beginners, but experienced magicians will appreciate the creative possibilities for routining and misdirection.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The technical difficulty of "Solid and Stretch" is low, making it suitable for magicians of all skill levels. The challenge lies in presentation—selling the illusion with confidence and timing. As reviewer Steve Faulkner notes, "There's no really difficult sleight of hand here. It's all boldness and understanding what they are thinking at the time." The trick relies on natural movements and misdirection rather than precision handling.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner praises the trick for its strong audience reactions and versatility. He mentions integrating it into his routines, saying, "The responses are so brilliant... their head is gone." He also highlights the importance of misdirection, explaining that the method allows for bold, unexpected moments. His enthusiasm suggests that "Solid and Stretch" is a reliable crowd-pleaser when performed with the right energy.

For magicians looking for a fun, visual trick that plays big with minimal technical demands, "Solid and Stretch" is a strong contender. Its flexibility makes it easy to adapt to different performance styles, and its surprising nature ensures memorable reactions.

What people are saying about Solid and Stretch

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

Solid and Stretch is such a great thing—you've got all this stuff going on, and the responses are so brilliant. It's really up my street and it's really good fun.

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