by Mandrake » Jul 25th, '05, 23:00
One way or another, all those topics have been discussed at some length on TM in the past 2 years or so. I won't attempt to précis the threads but they're all still there somewhere!
Just to add my personal opinions:
a) When is it acceptable to tell the secret of a trick? Very rarely and it all depends on who is being told those secrets.
b) What are your rights, limits, and obligations when publishing an article or book that describes a trick someone else invented or previously described? Very few - steer clear of publishing stuff which clearly belongs to others unless you have a good lawyer in the family.
c) Should you let a gullible spectator believe that you really have special powers? If they chose to believe that there's very little you can do to dissuade them but, if the spec really is 'gullible' then there's no reason to encourage that opinion.
d) Where do you draw the line when it comes to blood and gore, adult humour, and so forth? Depends on the audience. Adult humour can be funny in more circumstances than blood and gore. Personally, I'd be far more happy with a well tilmed and appropriate risque joke than spurts of blood and guts. Unless we're talking about the Amazing Jonathan in whch case spurt away!
e) Is it okay to slip that playing card into someone's pocket or purse to be discovered later at the right time? Yes if it's done professionally and you don't take anything out at the same time! Also, consider the pickpocket performer or the one who 'steals' watches as part of their performance. I'd be very unhappy if that happened to me even if done by a professional as part of a well intentioned act – not my idea of entertainment at all.
