The Witch of the Woods by Louis Levall and Benjamin Francis

Effect

The Witch of the Woods is a ticketed mentalism show that creates an immersive experience for the audience. The performance is built around a strong central theme, blending storytelling, atmosphere, and carefully selected effects to craft a cohesive and engaging show. Unlike a collection of disconnected tricks, the show uses props, lighting, sound, and scripting to transport the audience into a mysterious and theatrical world.

Full Details

The Witch of the Woods is one of Louis Levall’s full-length shows, used as a case study in the instructional video What Happens in the Shadows by Benjamin Francis and Louis Levall. The project teaches magicians how to design, script, and produce their own ticketed shows. Key elements include:

• Theme Development – The show is structured around a central idea rather than just a sequence of tricks.
• Visualization – Effects are chosen to support the theme, ensuring everything fits the narrative.
• Scripting – Tight scripting helps guide the performance, making it polished and professional.
• Props & Atmosphere – Props are selected for both function and aesthetic, contributing to the show’s immersive quality.
• Lighting & Sound – Music and lighting enhance mood and emphasize key moments.
• Business Considerations – The project also covers practical aspects like venue selection, ticketing, and promotion.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This show is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want to move beyond commercial performances and create their own ticketed theater shows. It is best suited for those interested in storytelling, atmosphere, and producing a full theatrical experience rather than just performing individual tricks.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Creating a show like The Witch of the Woods requires significant planning and attention to detail. The scripting, prop selection, and technical elements (lighting, sound) add layers of complexity beyond standard magic performances. While the effects themselves may not be overly difficult, the challenge lies in weaving them into a cohesive, themed production.

What Magicians Say

Nique Tan, a mentalist from Singapore, reviewed What Happens in the Shadows and praised the project for its practical approach. He highlighted how Louis Levall’s shows, including The Witch of the Woods, serve as real-world examples of the concepts taught. Tan emphasized the importance of theme, saying:

"Your show has to be about something... it's not going to be a show where you just kind of string a whole bunch of tricks together."

He also noted the value of scripting and atmosphere, admitting that he previously overlooked elements like lighting and sound. The project is recommended for performers serious about elevating their work into full theatrical productions.