Create a new routine: Danger

The Challenge: 

Create a new magic routine that adds an element of danger to the show that is funny, scary, and would fit into my College and University Comedy Magic show.

The Process:

The idea:

I've always liked the idea of a dangerous gamble. In the past I've done some side show stunts that were not magic. I've pounded a nail into my sinus cavity. I've laid on a bed of nails and I've juggled fire. They all have their draw backs. The human blockhead (pounding a nail into the sinus cavity) can be hard to see in a large auditorium. The bed of nails is impossible to put on a plane and fire is generally illegal in most theatres.

"The Trick:"

The "smash and stab" plot has been around in magic for awhile and has had it's share of notoriety. There have been a few televised versions of magicians stabbing themselves. Here are just two. The first video has another video of the magician stabbing a volunteer at minute 2:10.
  

My Take:

I've always felt that the weakest portion of this trick is selecting which cup or bag to smash. If the audience choose, they could feel they were put in a horrible predicament. If the magician choose which cup to smash, he could know where the spike is and avoid it. So, I needed a new selection process.

The Game:

I've always loved board games and one of my favourites is Trivial Pursuit. I happen to own the best version of Trivial Pursuit and that is Trivial Pursuit: 90's edition. It is the coolest game about the coolest of decades. And just like the 90's, I wanted to take the game TO THE EXTREME!

Next:

In my next post I'll show you how this spike and Trivial Pursuit, 90's edition become the best show you've ever seen.

About the Author: 

Edd Fairman, Wizard of Sorts is a stand up comedy magician who specializes in College and University shows for Student Activities and Campus events.