Desert Island Tricks

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

This mid-week edition of "Stranded with a Stranger" features the captivating Brian Lloyd from London. Influenced by icons like Penn and Teller and David Blaine, Brian shares his top eight magic tricks, including The Grail, Knock'em Dead, and Die-ceptive Do-plicity. We take a nostalgic trip to the vibrant magic scene in Covent Garden and savor iconic moments from David Blaine's Street Magic. Stick around for a mesmerising story from Scott Ratner about receiving praise from "The Professor."In another enchanting segment, we dive into the whimsical world of young magician Scottori the Wizard and his 10-year-old sister Linda. Their Sherlock Holmes-themed magic act brings laughter and mystery, blending standard parlor tricks with a detective narrative. Thrill to their adventures as they perform under the scrutinizing eyes of legends like Professor Dai Vernon and Max Maven. We explore the high stakes of crafting a coherent and entertaining magic storyline, drawing fascinating parallels between magic and detective fiction. This episode is a spellbinding mix of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and the sheer joy of storytelling in the world of magic.Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

In this episode, we bring you the whimsical world of Sam Strange, one half of the captivating magic duo, Young and Strange. Sam takes center stage to share the journey of their 15-year partnership, recounting memorable moments and some of is much loved illusions. You'll get an insider look at their lighthearted approach to magic and the deep camaraderie that shapes their performances, along with a sneak peek into Sam's thoughtful guesses on  Richard Young's episode.We chat about the legendary David Copperfield's iconic flying routine and dive into nostalgic tales of how early experiences influence our magical preferences.  Beyond the personal connections, we also tackle the practical side of magic, exploring how the Extractor and object-to-impossible-location tricks can leave even the most skeptical audiences spellbound.The grandeur of stage illusions takes the spotlight and Sam sheds light on the technical challenges behind these awe-inspiring acts, emphasising the importance of respecting the creators by purchasing official props. We also capture the excitement of discovering new tricks at the Magic Live convention and share a unique card trick perfect for engaging audiences on tour. With a blend of magic, humour, and behind-the-scenes camaraderie, this episode promises to enchant and entertain, showcasing the charm and expertise of Young and Strange. Sam's Desert Island List: 1) Osmosis 2) Card Manipulation 3) Destination Box4) E2 - Extractor 5) Million Dollar Mystery 6) Chest of Nostradamus 7) Coin Under Watch8) Random Card GeneratorBook) Magic Tricks by Keith FieldsItem) His KidsFind out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Can a magician's essential tricks be just as practical as they are mesmerizing? Scott K. Ratner tells all in this weeks episode of "Stranded with a Stranger", a magician with nearly fifty years of experience. Scott opens his magic box to share his desert island must-haves, including the versatile Sidewalk Shuffle and his enhanced spin on the Professor's Nightmare, known as the Three Ropes and a Baby routine. His selections reflect a deep understanding of tricks that are easy to reset and perfect for any setting, whether close-up or on stage. We also dive into Scott's passion for puzzle plot detective fiction, showcasing his multifaceted talents beyond the world of magic.We delve into the world of timeless magic tricks that continue to captivate audiences. From the nearly fifty-year wonder, the Invisible Deck, celebrated for its instant reset and adaptability, to the contemporary twist on traditional hot rod routines using STIXX, we cover it all. Discover the charm of Simon Aronson's shuffleboard and the family-friendly Little Bunny's Card Trick, proving that some magical effects never lose their luster. Whether you're a magician or an enthusiast, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights into the enduring appeal and modern innovations of classic magic tricks.If you would like your list read out on an episode of 'Stranded with a Stranger', please sent your list of 8 tricks, 1 book and 1 non magic item as well as a brief bio about yourself to sales@alakazam.co.uk with the subject link 'My Desert Island Tricks' Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk