The Corpse Candle by Dan Baines

Created by: Dan Baines

The Corpse Candle is a bizarre magic and close-up effect that draws inspiration from Victorian séance traditions and modern theatre. In this trick, a candle appears to ignite or extinguish on its own, often in response to a haunting narrative, creating an eerie and immersive experience for spectators. The method involves subtle, hidden technology, such as fiber optic elements used in theatre, which operates quietly beneath a distressed, vintage-style prop to enhance believability. Buyers should note that this trick emphasizes storytelling and emotional engagement, making it ideal for performers who want to create lasting, chilling impressions through simple yet powerful methods.

Key features

Uses subtle, hidden technology for a clean and deceptive effect
Emphasizes rich storytelling and narrative to enhance the magical experience
Features distressed textures and vintage design for added authenticity
Inspired by Victorian séance magic and modern theatre techniques
Simple method allows performers to focus on engagement and atmosphere

Pros

Creates a powerful, lingering emotional impact on the audience
Method is straightforward, freeing the performer to concentrate on storytelling
Visually striking with a believable, aged prop design

Cons

May require practice to integrate storytelling seamlessly
Relies on narrative setup, which might not suit all performance styles

Effect

The Corpse Candle is a magic effect that creates the illusion of a spectral or supernatural flame. To the audience, it appears as if a candle flame moves, floats, or behaves in an impossible way without any visible cause. The effect is often presented within a story about spirits or haunted objects, making the flame seem alive and intelligent.

Full details

The Corpse Candle is a prop-based effect that uses clever hidden technology. Dan Baines drew inspiration from fiber optic fireflies used in theatre to design this trick. The method is subtle and operates quietly. The prop often has a distressed texture and a vintage look to support a story of age and mystery. The effect does not require complex sleight of hand. It relies on the prop and the performer's narrative to create a powerful experience.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform bizarre or storytelling magic should consider The Corpse Candle. It is well suited for those who present effects with a macabre or historical theme. Performers who use props and want to create a haunting atmosphere will find this trick valuable. It is also a good choice for magicians who want to focus on narrative rather than difficult moves.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Corpse Candle is not a difficult trick to perform. The method is simple and does not require advanced skill. Dan Baines states that simple methods free the performer to focus on storytelling. The trick uses a prop that handles the method, so the magician can concentrate on presentation and audience engagement.

What magicians say

Dan Baines includes The Corpse Candle in his 'Desert Island Tricks' list. He explains that the effect is inspired by theatre techniques. Baines emphasizes that the key to the trick is the story. He says, "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 helps make the magic feel real and believable. Baines believes that using simple methods allows for better storytelling, which is central to the impact of The Corpse Candle.

What people are saying about The Corpse Candle

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Dan Baines uses subtle methods and rich storytelling to create bizarre magic that feels real. He emphasizes that simple methods are a gift because they free the performer's mind to focus on telling a better, more engaging story.