Victoriana
This is a multiphase routine and something that could be a centerpiece of a show or a show all unto itself. A lot of props or routines sell you on the idea of that prop being a whole show, but in reality, the prop is simply a tool. On the other hand it could possibly be a “show” if you spent a long time talking and not much time in action. This is neither. This is a handful of props that can be used for a variety of routines.
The routine could be considered a piece of bizarre magic, or straight mentalism, part of which has a darker edge. However, it is still acceptable to perform for a mainstream show. Paul Prater has been performing these pieces for many years and has fine-tuned the presentation.
All of the props are custom sourced or made by hand. Furthermore, you are provided information on creating and/or sourcing more of the props in the future, as well as being provided with extras making creating other options easy for you to do.
The first routine is a book test using a book of Tennyson’s poetry. One audience member can select right or left hand columns. They can then call on a second spectator to select a page number and final spectator selects the phrase. The performer has had an envelope in full view the entire time. The spectator can then go and open the envelope and confirm that the writing inside matches the phrase randomly selected by three different spectators.
Next, four different spectators are given the images of the deceased. The group is put into a light hypnotic trance. They are each asked to look closely at the images and really try to get in touch with, or associate with the people in the photograph. They are asked to put themselves in their position. The mindreader can then reach into the thoughts of each of the spectators and describe what they are feeling and what they are seeing.
Next, is a living and dead test. The performer shows Victorian cabinet photos of the deceased. A monocle, which supposedly belonged to Tennyson is then shown around along with the cabinet card of Tennyson himself. The photos are then mixed and laid face down in a row. A spectator is then instructed on the use of pendulums. The monocle is used as a pendulum and the spectator reveals the photo of the one person alive in the photograph, Tennyson.
Finally, the mindreader attempts to take the entire audience on a trip back in time. First the mindreader sends a message to all of the spectators, and then the entire group sends one to him. Finally, there is a test involving an outcome that no one could know. The mindreader shows that the audience member picked up on the image that he sent, he picked up on what was sent to him and finally, he predicted the final outcome. This is a strong finish to your show.
This set comes with everything needed to perform aside from a few pieces of paper and a pen. You get:
An authentic book from the late 1800’s-early 1900’s. Because each book is authentic and old, some have looser spines, foxing, writing in the margins, etc… None of this affects the ability to perform and enhances the look of the props;
Extras of some of the papers needed for the book test. While these aren’t necessary, we wanted to provide you with extras for plenty of different options.
Three reproduction antique calling cards;
A set of the photographs. You will receive nine hand assembled and hand aged cabinet card photographs
An old glass lens on a chain, which is used for the monocle/pendulum;
A small wooden box containing a key, a British coin, a clay marble, a two other small trinkets, which will vary by box;
A link to a video with full performances and very detailed instructions on all of the routines;
A PDF of the script for the routines;
Lifelong email support from Paul Prater.
This is truly a one of a kind performance piece.
$325.00 plus Priority Shipping.
