Spirit Slates by Dan Baines

Created by: Dan Baines

Spirit Slates is a classic mentalism and bizarre magic effect rooted in Victorian séance traditions, updated for modern performances. As a stage or parlour trick, it typically involves two or more blank slates that are shown to the audience, then placed together or handled in a way that mysterious writing or symbols appear on them, as if communicated by spirits. The method often relies on subtle gimmicks, sound, or vibration to create the illusion, allowing the performer to focus on rich storytelling and audience engagement. Buyers should note that preparation is key, and the effect works best when integrated into a narrative to enhance believability and emotional impact.

Where to buy

Magicbox

Tiny Spirit Slates by Quique Marduk - Trick

£31.04

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Key features

Rooted in Victorian séance magic with modern updates
Emphasizes storytelling and narrative to enhance the magical experience
Uses simple, subtle methods to allow focus on performance
Ideal for stage or parlour settings with controlled audience engagement
Requires preparation and attention to prop details like distressed textures

Pros

Creates a powerful, memorable experience that lingers with the audience
Simple methods free the performer to concentrate on storytelling
Versatile for various performance styles, from bizarre to mentalism

Cons

Preparation and setup are crucial and can be time-consuming
May require specific props or gimmicks that need maintenance
Less effective without a strong narrative to support the effect

Effect

Spirit Slates is a classic magic effect. The magician shows two blank slates. The slates are often made of wood or slate material. The magician may tap the slates together. When the magician separates the slates, writing or a drawing has appeared on one of them. The message seems to have come from a spirit. The effect creates a feeling of contact with the unseen.

Full details

Spirit Slates is a prop-based magic trick with historical roots in Victorian séance performances. The props are central to the effect. Dan Baines notes the importance of prop design, mentioning distressed textures and a believable provenance to make the object feel authentic. The method involves clever hidden technology that operates quietly. The classic method uses sound and vibration to make writing appear. The best methods allow for a clean switch to happen early in the routine, sometimes under a glass lid. This gives the audience the feeling they have watched the slates the entire time.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform mentalism or bizarre magic should consider Spirit Slates. It is good for performers who enjoy storytelling and creating a mysterious atmosphere. Dan Baines highlights its use for theatrical magic that feels genuinely real. Cavan Booth mentions it as a potential act for a major competition like FISM, indicating it has strong performance potential. It suits magicians who appreciate classic effects updated with modern craftsmanship.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of Spirit Slates depends on the method and prop construction. Dan Baines emphasizes that the methods can be simple. Simple methods free the performer to focus on storytelling rather than complex sleight of hand. The technical operation is designed to be quiet and reliable. Preparation is important for a successful performance, as Cavan Booth notes from his own experience. The performer must learn to handle the props naturally and integrate them into a narrative. It is not a trick that relies on difficult sleight of hand.

What magicians say

Dan Baines discusses Spirit Slates as part of his work in bizarre magic. He says he loved techniques like spirit slates that write using sound and vibration. He states, "The best switches often happen early, sometimes under a glass lid, allowing spectators to feel they have watched their choices the entire time." This approach makes the magic feel more impossible.

Cavan Booth mentions Spirit Slates briefly as a potential act for a FISM performance. This indicates he views it as a strong, stage-worthy effect that can impress in a formal competition setting.

What people are saying about Spirit Slates

Cavan Booth says...

If you're never performing anything, then what is the point of learning it at all? [...] Performing is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Dan Baines says...

Simple methods are a gift because they free the performer's mind to focus on telling a better, more engaging story.