Vanishing Bottle by Henry Harrius and Nielsen Magic

Created by: Henry Harrius, Nielsen Magic

Vanishing Bottle is a classic stage magic trick where a bottle, often a familiar object like a Coke bottle, visibly disappears and can reappear in a surprising manner. This effect is highly visual and adaptable, making it suitable for various performance settings such as stage shows, parlour magic, or even close-up with proper handling. It relies on clever mechanics, including a duplicate bottle and a well-timed switch, enhanced by misdirection and audience engagement. Buyers should note that it requires practice for smooth execution, and versions like the one from Nielsen Magic are recommended for their quality and effectiveness. The trick is known for its strong opener potential, commercial appeal, and ability to create memorable magical moments with humor and impact.

Where to buy

Magicbox

Vanishing bottle by Chris Randall - Video Download

£2.19

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Key features

Uses a duplicate bottle and switch mechanism for the vanish
Highly visual and adaptable to different performance styles
Requires practice for deceptive execution and timing
Can be performed with common objects like Coke bottles for added believability
Includes performance tips on misdirection and audience management
Suitable for stage, parlour, and some close-up settings

Pros

Strong visual impact and commercial appeal
Versatile for various performance environments
Encourages creative presentation and personalization
Well-made versions allow for examination after effects

Cons

Requires significant practice to master the switch and timing
May involve gimmicks that need careful handling
Not ideal for impromptu performances due to setup needs

Effect

The Vanishing Bottle is a visual stage or close-up trick where a full bottle of liquid, often a recognizable brand like Coca-Cola, disappears in the performer's hands. The bottle can then reappear at a later point in the routine. The effect is direct and surprising, creating a strong moment of magic that audiences find both baffling and entertaining.

Full details

The trick uses a special duplicate bottle designed to look identical to a real one. A key part of the method involves a well-timed switch, supported by misdirection and audience management. The quality of the gimmicked bottle is important for the trick to look convincing. Performers must handle the bottle naturally and maintain a confident demeanor to prevent the audience from suspecting the method. The routine can be adapted with different presentations, including comedy or storytelling, to enhance the overall effect.

Who should consider the trick

The Vanishing Bottle is suitable for magicians who perform in settings where visual magic works well. This includes stage performers, close-up magicians working in bars or restaurants, and family entertainers. It is especially effective for those who want a strong opener or a highlight in their set. Magicians who enjoy using familiar objects like soda bottles will find this trick particularly engaging for audiences.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires practice to master the timing and handling of the switch. It is not overly complex, but performers need to develop smooth movements and good misdirection skills. Craig Petty notes that while some magicians worry about the method being detected, lay audiences do not notice the secret moves. With consistent practice, magicians of intermediate skill can perform the Vanishing Bottle effectively.

What magicians say

Craig Petty recommends the Vanishing Bottle as a strong opener, praising its humor and magical impact. He says, "I love this trick for its humor and strong magical moments." In a review with his son Ryland, they gave the trick a perfect score, calling it "practical and well-made, perfect for shows." The team at SaturnMagicShop highlights the importance of using a high-quality duplicate bottle, specifically recommending the version from Nielsen Magic for the best results. They note that the Coke bottle version is particularly effective because audiences recognize it easily.

What people are saying about Vanishing Bottle

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Trailers shown for new tricks like 'Vanishing Bottle' highlight its excitement and potential for engaging performances in live settings.

magic-tv (Craig Petty) says...

Vanishing Bottle is practical and well-made, perfect for shows. Craig loves this trick for its humor and strong magical moments, despite some magicians arguing openers should be quicker.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Allows for examination of objects after effects and focuses on organic and surprising magic that feels real, making it ideal for bar and close-up performances.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The core of the effect relies on a cleverly disguised duplicate bottle and a well-timed switch. The quality of the duplicate bottle is crucial, and I recommend purchasing the version from Nielsen Magic.