Jack Delvin Lecture

18 June 2006

Jack stated at the outset that he had just thrown lots of stuff in a box and that nothing he would do was planned. Indeed, the whole lecture had a very relaxed feel to it and the 'stuff in his box' was all effective and commercial material.

Throughout the evening he told us amusing stories about his magical experiences; how he got started in magic, people he has met and effects he has marketed. His effects were split into three categories: mentalism, children's and cabaret.

He talked about the importance of 'what you claim' when performing mentalism. Jack talks about how the subconscious mind works and uses a pendulum and 'Haunted Key' to demonstrate this. He said it was good to begin with something which isn't a trick, as you can't be caught out doing anything.

He then performed and explained a routine with matching zodiac signs, a 'Just Chance' effect and several 'book tests', each with different methods. He also shared his thoughts on 'billet switches' and the one handed 'centre tear'.

His cabaret and children's material included: a 'Sympathetic Ropes' routine, 'Anti Gravity Glasses', 'Cut and Restored Skipping Rope' and a 'Coin to Nest of Russian Dolls'. He finished by vanishing a ring on a silk, which ended up tied to a bottle of wine.

At times, he seemed like an 'old school' magician bumbling his way through tricks and explanations, however there were some good ideas and his demeanour added to the overall feel of the lecture. His manner is wonderfully laid back and he has an engaging sense of humour. It all added up to a very enjoyable lecture.

Giles

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