Del Ray: America’s Foremost

Del Ray is celebrated as one of the most groundbreaking magicians of the 20th century. By seamlessly blending technology with classic magic, he created extraordinary illusions that set him apart from his peers. Throughout his life, Del Ray fiercely protected the secrets of his craft and personal life, leading many to believe that a biography would never be published.

Now, seven years after his passing in 2003, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Bob Escher, David Baldwin, and Bill Spooner, this long-awaited book has finally come to fruition. With complete access to the Del Ray archive, including personal scrapbooks and memorabilia, author John Moehring presents a compelling narrative that offers deep insights into Del Ray’s life and legacy.

Part One chronicles Del Ray’s journey in magic, starting from his early performances in an orphanage for just $3 to his rise as the most successful nightclub magician of the 1950s. His innovative approach to close-up magic allowed him to command fees of up to $10,000 per week. This captivating story is enriched with 116 vintage photographs, celebrating the personality, accomplishments, and brilliance that made Del Ray a unique figure in the magical community.

Part Two delves into eight of Del Ray’s cherished close-up routines. Gary Plants provides detailed descriptions for seven effects, including Half-dollar Through Ring, The Bet, and Blackjack Deal, accompanied by eighty original photos showcasing the sleight-of-hand techniques. Additionally, The Royal Assembly, an effect originally documented by Ed Marlo in 1954, is illustrated by Jay Marshall. This section also features an eight-page audiovisual script for the Companion Video, acknowledgments, and a comprehensive index.

The Companion Video, a 92-minute DVD, is conveniently located in a flap pocket on the inside back cover of each copy of Del Ray: America’s Foremost. It includes Del Ray’s stage performance from the 1983 Tannen’s Magic Jubilee, along with close-up acts such as the Rabbit & Frog, Half-Dollar Through Ring, and the Million Dollar Card Trick.