Explore the Art of Magic with Kevin James

Poker magic, floating roses, card transformations, and captivating table magic are just a few of the innovative concepts worth mastering. Mark Kornhauser showcases the classic Coke bottle effect, compressing and then restoring it in a stunning display of magic!

In his FISM lecture, Kevin James introduces routines like the Perrier With a Twist, Animated Card Thru Balloon, and more. The Perrier With a Twist is a powerful multi-phase routine honed through years of performing at restaurants and private events, making it ideal for strolling performances.

This routine begins with lighting a piece of paper that magically transforms into a bottle, which is then handed to the audience for examination. A 50-cent coin visually penetrates the bottle, creating a stunning effect. The magician reveals a “trap door” in the bottle, unscrews the bottom, and screws it back on, allowing for further inspection.

Next, a cocktail napkin covers the bottle, with a hole allowing the top to be seen. The performer pours water from the bottle, crushes the paper into a ball, and then—poof!—the bottle vanishes, leaving the napkin as a souvenir for the spectator.

As for the Animated Card Thru Balloon of Death, don’t worry—no one gets hurt! A selected card is shuffled back into the deck and given to a spectator. A black balloon is introduced, and with a magical gesture, the balloon is popped to reveal the selected card inside! The magician then explains the method, demonstrating how the card was held against the balloon’s side. Suddenly, the card visually penetrates the balloon, hanging by one edge before spinning inside. Finally, the card drops completely inside and can be handed out for examination. This effect is highly visual and perfect for television performances.