Desert Island Tricks

This week we welcome another stranger to our island, Trak Smith, a semi-retired antiques dealer, author, and magician nestled in the south of France. Trak captivates us with his desert island list, revealing his top eight tricks that spark joy and wonder. From the mystifying Zodiac Prediction by Liam Montier to the playful versatility of sponge balls, Trak shares his passion for the creative artistry behind each trick. He even includes his own creation, Disassociated, giving a glimpse into his personal journey in magic. As we chat about other ingenious illusions like The Sting by Scott Patton and Steam 2.0 by Paul Harris and Ali Nouira, Trak's love for the craft shines through, inspiring both novice and seasoned magicians alike.Our conversation with Trak also highlights his appreciation for theatrical flair with Martin McMillan's Sterling and Howard Blackwell's Killer Clowns. Through this engaging list of tricks, listeners are invited to explore the beauty of illusion and the imagination it sparks. Trak's selections offer not just entertainment but a deeper understanding of the magic of performance, making this episode a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the art of magic. Whether you're a fellow magician or simply a fan of the mysterious, our journey with Trak Smith promises to leave you spellbound and eager for more magical adventures.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Today we are joined by the multi-talented Nick Mohammed, known for his roles as Nate on "Ted Lasso" and the ever-hilarious Mr. Swallow. Nick takes us on a magical ride through his fascinating career, sharing personal anecdotes and the unique approach he takes to comedy and magic. From captivating memory feats on "Cats Does Countdown" to the masterful blending of humour and apparent mishaps in his routines, Nick reveals the artistry behind his performances and his journey within the world of comedy and illusion.Step onto Alakazam Island with Nick as he shares his admiration for the memorised deck and his experiences incorporating the mnemonica stack into numerous shows, captivating audiences with its simplicity and power. Discover the charm of the Chop Cup and how a straightforward routine involving satsumas can sometimes outshine even the most elaborate of illusions like the Water Tank Escape. Nick offers insights into his creative process, the joy of unexpected surprises, and the collaborative efforts involved in refining his routines.Unveil the magic of flight and levitation and the role of electronics in modern magic, as Nick highlights the blend of technology and creativity at the heart of his performances. Learn about the exhilarating world of mentalism and the power of predictions, where simplicity meets profound showmanship. With personal stories and bold performances, Nick Mohammed's episode is a treasure trove of insight and laughter, not only is he charming and generous with his time but there are plenty of unexpected moments that will truly help you to elevate the art of your performance.Nick's Desert Island Tricks: 1) Memorised Deck 2) Chop Cup3) Out of this World 4) Water Tank Escape 5) Flying 6) Multi Dimensional (electronics) 7) News Paper Headline Predictions (predictions)8) Bold EffectsBook) Notes From a Fellow Traveller Item) CD PlayerFind out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Join us for a magical journey with Tom Cerny, a dedicated pharmacist whose passion for magic was reignited by his son Morgan's curiosity. Discover how this father-son duo, nestled in the secluded southern tip of Illinois, delves into the enchanting world of magic, exploring everything from classic books to cutting-edge online lectures. Tom shares his "desert island" list of magic tricks, featuring intriguing favorites such as Autome by Max Maven and the ever-enigmatic Invisible Deck. Each selection reflects his deep appreciation for the creativity and intellect that magic demands, illustrating their unique bond and shared love for performing and learning together.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Our latest episode features Wayne Goodman, the final member of the Alakazam team to record a DIT, who brings heartwarming stories and unparalleled passion for his craft. One of the most touching moments shared is about a groom who treasured a coin trick from his childhood, using it as a symbol during significant life events, and eventually passing it to his bride. This emotional tale sets the stage for a rich discussion on the emotional impact of magic and how even the simplest tricks can create lasting memories.Join us as Wayne reveals his ultimate list of magic tricks he'd take to a desert island, featuring the versatile sponge balls and the profound impact they've had, including a memorable performance for a blind child. Wayne’s dedication to inclusivity and emotional resonance in magic is truly inspiring. We delve into his specialised routines and explore indispensable props like Rocky Raccoon and the Magician's Insurance Card 2, highlighting how these tools elevate his performances for all audiences, making magic more than just entertainment—it's a source of joy and positivity.You'll also hear about the evolution of Wayne’s routines and the practical aspects of performing magic. From the utility of tricks that reset instantly to the nostalgic stories of props like the Split Die Box, this episode is packed with personal anecdotes and professional insights. Wayne's reflections on the deeper meanings behind simple tricks and his commitment to bringing happiness through magic make this an episode you won't want to miss. Whether you’re a magic enthusiast or just love a good story, Wayne Goodman’s magical journey offers something truly special.Wayne's Desert Island Tricks: Sponge BallsThumb TipRocky Racoon Split Die BoxProfessors NightmareMagicians Insurance Card 2 Hot ShotMagic CoinBook. Maxim’s Primer Item. Sharpie Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Ever wondered what mentalism tricks you'd bring if stranded on a deserted island? In this captivating episode of Stranded with a Stranger, we welcome A.C. Nicholas, an amateur mentalist and head of a publishing house, who generously shares his top picks for essential magic routines. A.C. delves into the mystique of mentalism classics like Kolossal Killer, the Stealth Assassin wallet routine, and Max Maven’s Positive/Negative close-up mentalism, providing personal insights and anecdotes that highlight the enduring appeal of these tricks. He also introduces listeners to the intriguing Chronologue diary effect and the remarkably versatile Sven pad, offering a treasure trove of potential routines for aspiring and seasoned magicians alike.This episode is packed with essential tools and insights that will elevate any mentalism and magic performance to the next level.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Buckle up for a hilarious ride as we welcome Piff the Magic Dragon to our podcast! Picture this: a marooned magic dragon on a desert island, armed only with his eight favourite magic tricks and an unexpected friendship with a FedEx driver named Gary. Intrigued? You’ll love hearing about Piff’s whimsical escape plans and the ingenious use of his iconic props like the Pifftacular and his trusty cannon. Plus, Piff opens up about the joys and challenges of his touring life, all while keeping us in stitches with his unique brand of humour.Ever wondered how a chosen card can end up in a sealed can of dog food or how a Chihuahua can elevate a magic act? Piff pulls back the curtain on his creative process, sharing stories that range from the funny to the downright surreal. We dive into his transition from close-up magic with sponge bunny rabbits to elaborate stand-up routines that leave audiences spellbound. Along the way, Piff reflects on his mentor, Faye Presto, and the life-changing lessons about making unforgettable first impressions.Rounding out this magical episode, Piff shares the heartwarming and comedic journey of his dragon persona’s birth at a costume party—a pivotal moment that skyrocketed his career. From living the struggling magician's life to winning over crowds on America’s Got Talent, Piff’s stories of perseverance and creativity are as awe-inspiring as his tricks. Join us for a spellbinding episode filled with laughter, magic, and the indomitable spirit of Piff the Magic Dragon.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

This week on Stranded with a Stranger, we bring you an extraordinary guest, Jason Christopher, a magician with over 40 years of experience. Known by many illustrious titles such as 'The Purveyor of Prestidigitation' and 'The Lithuanian Illusionist', Jason shares his secrets to mesmerising crowds with his unique blend of magic, mind reading, hypnosis, and comedy. From the classic "Card Under Glass" to timeless effects like "Cups and Balls," Jason unveils his top eight magic tricks, offering valuable insights that both magic enthusiasts and aspiring performers won't want to miss.Discover the meticulous thought and experience that go into selecting tricks that stand the test of time. Learn why "Crazy Man's Handcuffs" has been a staple in restaurant magic for decades and how "Confabulation" offers a personalised touch that leaves audiences spellbound. Jason also shares his approach to marketing himself with a variety of titles, making him a versatile entertainer for any event. Tune in for a rare and fascinating glimpse into the mind of a seasoned magician, and take away practical tips that can elevate your own performances to new heights.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

This episode features the incredible Kyle Purnell, a master magician and creator with over 20 years of captivating audiences and pushing the boundaries of card magic. We explore his preferred Desert Island Deck, the Butterfly Deck, a revolutionary marked deck that enables peeks that many other deck's do not allow, including instantly locating any card named by a spectator from a shuffled deck. Kyle also shares his go-to routine using this deck, offering a glimpse into the deck's unmatched versatility.The discussion then transitions to Paul Richards' Shanghai coins, a set of gaff coins that add a visual flair and seamless transitions to his performances. By combining the elegance of the Butterfly Deck with the tactile allure of Shanghai coins, Kyle ensures his acts are not only varied but also deeply engaging, captivating audiences whether in close-up settings or on the stage.Lastly, Kyle introduces us to the fascinating world of coin box magic, David Penn's eight ball and the Copeland coin box. Revealing how these props have enhanced his routines with added elegance and impossibility, Kyle shares his personal journey of integrating them into his performances. We also get an insider look at Kyle's innovative trick, Lightyear, and its special place in his heart despite its rarity in his shows. A perfect blend of insight and passion, this episode promises to inspire and amaze both aspiring magicians and magic enthusiasts alike.Kyle's Desert Island Tricks: Butterfly Deck Shanhigh coins Dropped CallMagnetic 8 Ball Copeland Coin BoxSimese Waltz LightyearPerfect Square Book) Mentalissimo Item) Post It NotesFind out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

What hidden secrets lie in the toolkit of a magician who also pilots helicopters through the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest? This episode introduces AJ Debeck, a multifaceted magician and mentalist, who shares his top Desert Island tricks and the tools of his trade. From the sleek Black Roses marked cards to the indispensable magic wallets like the Stealth Assassin and Heirloom, AJ’s methodical selection process is a revelation. Paul Voudini’s marked cards effect and the brilliance of various magic wallets are just the tip of the iceberg as AJ opens up about his passion for card magic and mentalism, infused with a touch of the bizarre and the eerie.AJ reveals his go-to gadgets, including the innovative Parapad and its sophisticated addition, the Foster-Johnson handling. The Phantom Deck's visual flair gets a nod over the Omni Deck for its standout impact. Listen as we dissect the intricacies of Tricolour by Simon Lipkin and explore the magic behind Eclipse ESP cards by Dee Christopher and the 1914. AJ also shares his top book recommendation, "Mentalissimo" by John Bannon, alongside his unique choice of non-magic item, a set of Major Arcana tarot decks, bringing a mystical edge to his performances. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration for both aspiring magicians and seasoned performers alike.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

*A quick note to our younger listeners. There is a bit of bad language in this episode to listen with caution* One of the UK's premier performing magicians Tom Wright graces the Alakazam Island and share with us his ultimate collection of tricks! From selecting between his own meticulously crafted routines and renowned tricks by other magicians, Tom shares how his list transformed from a standard performance set to a collection of personal favourites. Hear about the one book and non-magic item he deems essential, providing a unique glimpse into his artistic thought process.Prepare for laughter and astonishment as Tom walks us through some of his signature routines, like the crowd-pleasing "Bottle Through Table" and the thrilling "Epic Phone Smash Routine" that wowed audiences at the Blackpool Magic Convention. Experience the blend of humour and suspense in his performances, from the hilarious fruit pastels gag to the nail-biting moments leading up to dramatic reveals. Additionally, we uncover the versatility of the ITR and its spontaneous magical moments that leave audiences spellbound.Don’t miss our deep dive into the world of haunted decks, particularly Tom's favourite, "Chill," a standout in the magic community. Plus, gain insights into the creative process behind complex comedy routines and how nostalgia, timing, and presentation play pivotal roles in captivating an audience. Whether you're a seasoned magician or a magic enthusiast, this episode promises valuable insights and inspiration from one of the best in the business, Tom Wright.Tom's Desert Island List: 1) Chop cup2) Bottle through table3) ITR (PK Touches)4) Tom's Phone Smash Routine5) Chill Haunted Deck6) Tom's Comedy Smash and Stab7) Cell by David Stone8) Tom's Mind reading Goose RoutineBook) Mike Caveney's Wonders & The Conference IllusionsItem) Acoustic GuitarFind out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk