Picto Transpo

See Picto Transpo in Action!
(Windows Media (3MB) | Windows Media (1MB) | QuickTime (600k))

EFFECT: The performer draws a humorous caricature of a spectator and the spectator draws one of the performer. Each signs his/her name on the back of the picture frames and they are openly placed into envelopes held by the artists. To make it clear that nothing has happened (yet), the performer removes his frame from his envelope and shows both his drawing and his signature. He replaces his frame in the envelope, and with a magic word the pictures change places. He immediately withdraws her drawing from his envelope, while she withdraws his from hers. The routine is entertaining throughout and baffling at the finish. Click here for reviews and testimonials.

The drawings can be individualized and are easily adapted for holidays or special events. I find it's a particularly nice effect for a male performer to use involving a female spectator: it's novel, non-threatening, funny and ends with strong magic. In my show it is always in second position and the first time I involve somebody from the audience. The reason is it establishes how I treat guests on stage: with dignity and respect. That doesn't mean we don't have fun together, but not at their expense. The routine is both fun and a fooler, and it subtly establishes the norms of conduct for both my audience assistants and me.

THE PROPS look like normal articles - not special magic apparatus - and something you could probably buy at any office supply store. In reality this is an updated slate effect, and my original version used posterboard in picture frames. I performed the posterboard version for almost 30 years. Many magicians who saw me lecture or perform inquired about using dry erase whiteboards, but dry erase materials have technical and performance limitations. The breakthrough was finding a material which met my requirements: a unique thermoplastic Teflon® product. Permanent markers almost glow on its surface, the marks don't rub off, and yet they are readily removed with white board cleaner. The result is a much superior product. Click here for specifications.

INSTRUCTIONS are another point of personal pride. A six-person crew spent over eight hours filming me in action before editing it all to a 34-minute instructional DVD. In two words, it's exceptional! In addition, you receive eight full (packed!) pages of written instructions that also include every nuance of the preparation and handling as well as my personal performance routine.

Return policy: Two week (14 days) inspection with full refund if not completely satisfied (in fact, delighted!). Contact gene@geneanderson.com for return shipment instructions.

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Copyright © 2008 Gene Anderson