A GOOD FRIEND OF MINE, MICHAEL BAILEY, once told me that the first contract he secured when he turned full time professional was a booking for a tour of hotels in South Africa. Working in cabaret at floor level he found that many of the audience at the back could not easily see his presentation, to the point that if they’re not interested they would  start drinking and talking to each other.

He said he overcame the problem by having a small, portable platform made that lifted him about twelve inches higher so that he could speak above the audience rather than directly at them. He confirmed that it made all the difference in the world and drew increased interest and applause from the audience.

Over the years I have come across a number of other working professionals who likewise, when in cabaret have had made a small Dias made that would lift them up by around twelve inches that made a noticeable and considerable difference to their presentation and reception.

I give four of five times a month a one hour magic presentation called “Behind the Doors of The Magic Circle” to groups of 80 -100 people, usually in local theatres and village halls where I prefer to work at floor level allowing more inter- action with the audience. In so doing I have encountered the same problem and so an enterprising magic craftsman has designed for me a platform that folds in half to form a suitcase in which magic props can be carried. It’s a great idea that takes up no more room in the back of the car and when it’s delivered I’ll let you know how it checks out. But I’m convinced it will be a big advantage in presenting magic to a large group at the same level.

Filed under: Magic Ideas, Magic Miscellanea