A magic revealed performance is an intriguing and captivating show that involves uncovering the secrets behind magic tricks and illusions. During this performance, the magician reveals to the audience how they perform various tricks that have baffled and amazed people for centuries. The main idea behind a magic revealed performance is to bring transparency and education to the world of magic. It aims to demystify the art of magic by explaining how the trick is done, without ruining the sense of wonder and excitement. In a magic revealed performance, the magician may perform a trick and then immediately explain the step-by-step process of how it is executed. They might reveal secret compartments, hidden props, or intricate sleight of hand techniques that are used to create the illusion.
They might reveal secret compartments, hidden props, or intricate sleight of hand techniques that are used to create the illusion. By doing so, the magician gives the audience an insider's perspective into the world of magic and stimulates their curiosity and interest. One of the key advantages of a magic revealed performance is that it enables the audience to gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and creativity behind the tricks.
Earwig and the Witch by Diana Wynne Jones
Earwig lives at St Morwald's children's home. Unlike some orphans in literature she's perfectly happy there since she seems to have everyone answering her every whim, and she loves spending time with her best friend Custard. Things are soon to change though as one day a rather strange couple, Bella Yaga and the Mandrake, come to look for a child to foster and the one they pick is Earwig!
This is a wonderful little story, perfect for those aged around 7 to 11 years old although it can easily be read aloud to slightly younger children too who can't manage to read it themselves. Earwig finds herself the servant of Bella Yaga, a witch, living in fear of disturbing the Mandrake. She's interested in magic herself, and so carefully watches everything Bella Yaga does before finding an unlikely accomplice who helps her find a way to bewitch both Bella and the Mandrake into doing what she wants them to.
The book is full of wonderful, quirky line illustrations - there are crow headers on each page, as well as spiders and crows appearing at the bottom of pages throughout but then there are also fabulous pictures of the characters showing Earwig with her googly eyes and crooked teeth, Bella Yaga looking rather hideous and the Mandrake with his horns and scary eyes! The pictures are funny and spread throughout the book, and it's nice to look over them if you read it aloud with your child, thinking about how the different characters are feeling and what's going on.
The story is divided into chapters, but at less than 150 pages isn't so long that younger readers would find it too difficult. I could easily see myself several years ago (well, quite a bit more than several but let's not get into that!) curled up reading this over a school holiday. Earwig is a fun character and the story is entertaining and engaging.
I had a feeling, by the end, that this could well have been a much longer, more detailed book though. It's sad that Diana Wynne Jones died earlier this year, cutting short what might have been quite a different story had she had more time. There were things mentioned, about Earwig's past for example, that aren't touched on for the rest of the book, and the ending also leaves things somewhat unfinished, I felt, so it's sad to think that there won't be any follow up stories about Earwig to tie up the loose ends. Adult fans of Wynne Jones will perhaps be disappointed by this book which is shorter and less detailed than some of her other novels, but I thought it was a nice introduction for younger readers to the wonderful characters she could create in her writing, and the magical worlds they live in.
I'd like to thank the publishers for sending a copy to the Bookbag.
Further reading suggestion: You might also like to try another of Diana Wynne Jones' books - Power of Three.
You can read more book reviews or buy Earwig and the Witch by Diana Wynne Jones at Amazon.co.uk Amazon currently charges £2.99 for standard delivery for orders under £20, over which delivery is free.
You can read more book reviews or buy Earwig and the Witch by Diana Wynne Jones at Amazon.com.
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Further reading suggestion: You might also like to try another of Diana Wynne Jones' books - Power of Three.
By understanding the mechanics and methods used, spectators can better understand the immense effort and practice that goes into creating a magical performance. This can enhance their overall experience and make them more engaged and involved in the show. Moreover, a magic revealed performance can also inspire aspiring magicians or individuals interested in learning magic tricks. By revealing the secrets, it provides valuable insights and knowledge that can serve as a starting point for them to explore and experiment with magic on their own. It can be a source of inspiration and motivation for those who want to pursue magic as a hobby or even a profession. In conclusion, a magic revealed performance offers a unique and educational experience to the audience. It brings transparency and understanding to the world of magic, while still maintaining the sense of wonder and excitement. It allows spectators to appreciate the skill and creativity behind the tricks, and can also serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring magicians..
Reviews for "The Illusionist's Handbook: A Guide to Understanding and Revealing Magic Performances"
1. John - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with the "Magic revealed performance." It completely shattered the awe and wonder that I associate with magic. Instead of being captivated by the tricks, I was left feeling underwhelmed and unimpressed. The explanations behind the magic tricks took away the mystery and left me feeling like I wasted my time and money. I would definitely not recommend this performance to anyone who enjoys the mystique of magic.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the "Magic revealed performance," but unfortunately, it failed to live up to my expectations. While I appreciate the idea behind revealing the secrets behind magic tricks, the execution fell flat. The explanations were confusing and poorly delivered, leaving me more confused than enlightened. Additionally, the performance lacked the showmanship and charisma that are essential to making magic tricks truly entertaining. I left the show feeling disappointed and wishing I had spent my evening elsewhere.
3. Mike - 2 stars
The "Magic revealed performance" was a letdown for me. The whole point of magic is to create a sense of wonder and amazement, but this performance did the opposite. The explanations behind the tricks took away the magic and made everything seem mundane. It felt more like attending a lecture on how magic works rather than a captivating performance. I wouldn't recommend this show to anyone looking for a thrilling and entertaining experience.
4. Jessica - 1 star
I was highly unimpressed with the "Magic revealed performance." The secrets behind the tricks were interesting, but the overall execution of the performance was lacking. The magician lacked stage presence and failed to engage the audience. The pacing of the show was slow, making it feel like a chore to sit through. I expected to be dazzled and amazed, but instead, I left feeling bored and unentertained. I wouldn't recommend this performance to anyone looking for a memorable magic experience.
5. Robert - 2 stars
The "Magic revealed performance" was a big disappointment for me. While the concept of revealing the secrets behind the tricks seemed intriguing, it ended up ruining the magic for me. It stripped away the wonder and left me feeling like I was watching a tutorial rather than a captivating performance. The magician's delivery was lackluster, making it hard to stay engaged. I regret spending money on this show and would caution others against attending.