by Demitri » Sep 20th, '05, 08:13
NOTE: I know this is a double post - I just wanted to make sure Zero saw this. Hopefully it's helpful
This is a tough order. Unfortunately, it seems more often than not, the larger you go - the more you spend.
There's still some killer stuff, though for decent prices:
Cups and Balls
Full-sized Linking Rings. You can probably use Ninja Rings - but if it's a big stage (Like Zero's) the larger rings are better suited.
Slydini Silks - I would highly recommend picking these up. Penguin Magic offers the best deal ($15) I don't know of the quality, though. Once you have this, I would recommend picking up Bill Malone on the Loose vol 1 for his Slydini silk routine. It's GREAT.
Mandarin Mirror Box - Works great for productions
Sponge Balls - May not be the best for LARGE audiences, but you can't deny how useful these are!
The Zombie - Never used on myself, but it can be cool if performed well.
D'lites
ITR/Levitation work
One that I think is worth it (even if you have to spend some extra cash) would probably be Snowstorm in China. I've never performed it (or learned it) but it's INCREDIBLY impressive. Basically it goes like this:
Performer puts a piece of torn tissue paper in a glass of water. Removing it he squeezes the water from the soggy pieces. Then with a wave of a chinese fan - suddenly the ENTIRE area is covered with a massive "snowstorm". I don't know how difficult this is to perform - but I think this would SLAY your audience if you could pull it off.
Spurred by this topic - what are some of the greatest stage effects you've ever seen performed? One of my was Kevin James' Bowl-a-rama effect. I thought it was genius (Unfortunately it cost almost $800 if you want to buy it)
Hope these help. I don't have any stage experience, I'm just going by things I've seen.