Erik Tait talks about favorite tricks, humble beginnings and Penn & Teller Fool us!

This video, a segment from a larger interview with Erik Tait, hosted by David, offers a fascinating look into the magician's career, influences, and favorite tricks. It's a valuable resource for magicians of all levels, providing insights into Tait's journey and his perspectives on the magic world. Tait recounts his journey to working at Penguin Magic, starting with his friendship with Nicolao Just and his experience performing as an opening act for renowned magicians like Richard Turner. He highlights the unique environment of Columbus, Ohio, a hub for magic production, and emphasizes the lean, collaborative nature of the Penguin team. Tait also shares his background as a photographer and videographer, skills that proved invaluable in his role as producer at Penguin, encompassing tasks from hosting the Penguin Podcast to directing tutorials and managing the company's extensive video archive. He amusingly mentions his earlier career as a stand-up comedian, even sharing that he released a comedy album on iTunes. Tait discusses the magicians who shaped his early career, citing Leonard Greene, Julian Aen, and Simon LeVelle as significant influences. He also acknowledges the impact of J. Slimini and O. Pearlman. When asked about his favorite trick deck, Tait enthusiastically champions the stripper deck, explaining his unique handling of it and his preference for negative stripper work, which he demonstrates in Mark Cali's Penguin Live 3. He also highlights Angelo Carbone's “On Edge” as a standout non-P3 trick. A significant portion of the video focuses on Tait's experience on Penn & Teller: Fool Us, describing the audition process and the surreal experience of being the first act on the show. Tait provides updates on his upcoming projects, including the release of “Gasp,” a trick utilizing magnetized cards, and his ongoing work on a book. He also shares his appreciation for Todd Lassen's and Dr. X's tools, particularly his custom-made Sharpie pens for his Schrödinger's Cat routine, and praises Craig Petty's “Chop,” calling it the “Cadillac of chop cup tricks.” The video offers a candid and insightful look into the career and creative process of Erik Tait. His passion for magic, his dedication to Penguin Magic, and his willingness to share his experiences make this a must-watch for any magician seeking inspiration and practical advice.