Ava Do, a former pickpocket turned mentalist, and Apollo Robbins, a world-renowned pickpocket and magician, share their unique insights on deception and psychology. They recount Ava's thrilling past on the Las Vegas Strip and her journey from theft to mentalism. The duo explores the complexities of love and trust at the Magic Castle, revealing how their careers intertwine with romance. They also discuss the moral implications of crime, reflecting on vulnerability and critical thinking in an engaging conversation on ethics and illusion.
Ava Do's transition from physical pickpocketing to information theft reveals a complex understanding of deception's psychological dimensions.
Her upbringing in post-war Vietnam shaped her perception of layered narratives, influencing her approach to relationships and ethical dilemmas.
Deep dives
The Evolution to Information Theft
Ava Doe transitioned from being a skilled pickpocket to focusing on information theft, driven by her talent rather than financial gain. She detailed an experience where she stole a watch on the Vegas Strip, emphasizing that her motivation was the thrill of the act itself. Ava’s journey led her to realize that her skills could be repurposed to steal not just physical objects, but also valuable information. This change of direction signified a deeper engagement with the complexities of deception beyond mere theft.
Cultural Background and Identity
Ava’s upbringing in post-war Vietnam shaped her understanding of differing perspectives, particularly regarding the Vietnam War and her education under a communist regime. She grappled with conflicting narratives presented by her teachers and her parents, who had experienced significant trauma from the war and its aftermath. This duality fostered her awareness of layered realities, influencing her future encounters with deception and psychology. Ava’s parents' fears regarding the political climate also contributed to her own identity and understanding of secrecy.
A Unique Partnership in Performance
Ava met Apollo Robbins, a renowned theatrical pickpocket, during a fateful trip to Las Vegas, igniting a partnership built on a mutual interest in deception and performance art. Their relationship blossomed through long conversations that combined personal experiences with extensive discussions on psychology and crime. Initially, Ava learned the art of pickpocketing from Apollo, but soon pivoted toward becoming a mentalist, blending magic with psychological tricks. Their combined talents not only led to successful acts but also fostered a profound personal connection.
The Brain Trust and the Struggles of Collaboration
Ava and Apollo formed a group termed the 'Brain Trust,' bringing together skilled individuals from various backgrounds in deception, including pickpockets and hackers, to consult on security and offer educational demonstrations. However, the dynamic of the group was complicated by differing morals and objectives, leading to tensions over the legality of their activities. As time went on, it became apparent that many members still had lingering inclinations towards their former illicit lifestyles. This environment highlighted the challenges inherent in blending personal ideals with collaborative efforts in the realm of deception.
“He stole my watch. He stole my jewelry. I stopped wearing jewelry – just to see what else he would steal.” In 2004, Ava Do met a professional pickpocket at a bachelorette party in Las Vegas. And they fell in love.