Desert Island Tricks

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

How did Richard Young and his partner manage to fool magic legends Penn & Teller using a rather unconventional trick? Richard Young, from the dynamic magician duo Young and Strange, shares his journey from their unique audition for "Penn & Teller: Fool Us" to performing on grand stages and intimate settings alike. The insight into their creative brainstorming sessions and the remarkable tricks they've pulled off will leave you amazed.Discover the secrets behind some of the most iconic stage illusions and card tricks. We explore the allure of David Copperfield's theatrical magic and the practical wonders of Michael Vincent's "Intuitive Speller." We also celebrate the silent brilliance of Teller's Miser's Dream and the intricate challenge of Homer Liwag's "Coin One," illustrating why coin magic continues to mesmerise audiences.This episode isn't just about tricks; it's about the heart and soul of magic. We discuss the importance of connecting with your audience, sharing touching moments from Richard's interview with the inspirational Derren Brown. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Magician's Podcast Network and learn about the creative bond between Young and Strange, likened to legendary duos like Penn & Teller. Packed with stories, tips, and heartfelt reflections, this episode is a treasure trove for magic enthusiasts and aspiring performers. Tune in for a magical journey you won't forget!Young's Desert Island Tricks: 1) Portal Vanish 2) Intuitive Speller 3) Leviosa 4) Teller's Miser's Dream5) Coin One6) Bottle Through Table 7) Bureau De Change8) Flying Book) Notes From a Fellow Traveller Item) Framed Photo of Sam StrangeFind out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Join us as we welcome Rob Sweet, also known as Sweet Deception Magic, a talented close-up magician from Coventry. Inspired by the Quick Trick Show and a cherished Paul Daniels magic set, Rob shares his journey into the magical arts, revealing a thoughtfully curated list of his favorite tricks. Featuring breathtaking routines like "Swindle" by Steve Cook and "Double Back" by John Allen, Rob’s selections are sure to amaze and inspire both veteran magicians and budding enthusiasts alike. But that’s not all – we also explore some of Rob’s top picks for modern magic tricks that seamlessly blend traditional elements with cutting-edge technology. From the mesmerizing visuals of Leviosa by Joao Miranda to the mind-bending mentalism of Wikitest by Mark Kerstein, each trick is designed to leave a lasting impression. Discover how a Joshua Jay-inspired Instagram trick adds a personalised touch to social media magic, and how "Spread" by Ace Magic Studios creates unforgettable memories with a surprise photo reveal. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind these innovative performances and learn how to captivate any audience with a perfect mix of classic and contemporary magic.If you would like to be a part of Stranded with a Stranger, send in your list of 8 tricks, 1 book and 1 non-magic item you use for magic to sales@alakazam.co.uk and you might just appear on a future episode! Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Get ready for an extraordinary journey into the world of mentalism with the legendary Kenton Knepper. Learn how Kenton's revolutionary concepts like 'Silent Influence' and 'Wonder Words' have shaped his illustrious career, and hear the fascinating story behind his essential desert island trick, Kolossal Killer. This episode promises to unravel the mysteries of mentalism, offering profound insights and practical techniques from one of the best in the business.We then explore the power of symbols and the subconscious, drawing inspiration from Carl Jung's psychological discoveries. Kenton explains how incorporating symbols into performances can forge deeper connections with audiences, enhancing the impact of each trick. Discussing the indispensable role of a regular deck of cards in close-up magic, this segment is packed with valuable tips and historical context that will elevate your magic game.The conversation continues with the playful and captivating world of sponge ball routines, and the commanding presence of Kenton's cane or sonic staff. You'll be spellbound by stories of floating spheres and the symbolic weight they carry. We wrap up with reflections on the soulful essence of magic, emphasizing emotional connections and meaningful performances. Plus, a thoughtful dive into the world of tarot, urging a deeper, respectful approach to this ancient art. Whether you're a seasoned magician or just a curious listener, this episode is a treasure trove of magical wisdom and enchanting stories.Kenton's Desert Island List: Kollosal KillerTarot DeckThumb TipDeck of cards Sponge BallsKenton’s CaneFloating Sphere Asrah levitationBook. The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages by Paul Foster CaseItem. Piano Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Can magic really be your escape hatch from the mundane? Discover how Scott McKay, a magic hobbyist from Kent, finds joy and solace in the world of illusions. In this mid-episode of "Stranded with a Stranger," Scott opens up about his love for magic, despite his self-admitted technical struggles, and shares a heartfelt list of eight tricks, one book, and a special non-magic item that have enriched his life. Listen as Scott recounts his first magical encounter with the timeless "Do as I Do" trick and his admiration for Tobias Dostal's innovative style, particularly his latest creation, "Liquify." Join us to uncover the small, magical moments that keep Scott captivated and inspired. From classic tricks to cutting-edge illusions, Scott's selection is a testament to his passion and the sheer wonderment that magic brings him. Whether you're an experienced magician or just someone who loves the thrill of a well-executed trick, this episode promises to ignite your imagination and remind you of the power that magic holds. Don't miss out on this charming conversation that celebrates the awe-inspiring world of magic through the eyes of a true enthusiast.If you would like to be a part of Stranded with a Stranger, send in your list of 8 tricks, 1 book and 1 non-magic item you use for magic to sales@alakazam.co.uk and you might just appear on a future episode! Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk