Collection by Bob Read 4 Volume Set

The Effect

Robert Graham Read, affectionately known as Bob, stands out as one of the most remarkable figures in the world of magic. Renowned as the greatest magician in the United Kingdom, Bob’s unique blend of comedy and magic captivated audiences, creating an unforgettable experience that few can rival, alongside legends like Juan Tamariz and David Williamson. His dedication to research and history, particularly regarding the early days of magic in London and the art of the cups and balls, further solidified his legacy.

This exceptional 4-DVD collection features over eight hours of Bob Read’s performances spanning from 1976 to 2005, showcasing his most iconic routines. The set includes several lectures where Bob shares insights into his routines and his comedic philosophy. You’ll witness his stunning performances of “Bottle Production,” “Glass Through Table,” “Transpo Tumbler,” “Knife Through Coat,” “Quasimodo Card Trick,” “D(I)ice Stacking,” “Gypsy Torn and Restored Thread,” “Impromptu Cups and Balls,” “Four Coin Production with Handkerchief,” and many more, with detailed explanations provided for many of these acts.

Additionally, the set features two historical lectures by Bob: one discussing the evolution of cups and balls prints over the past 300 years, and another exploring the enigmatic author behind parts of the renowned magic book, the Annals of Conjuring.

Join Bob on a journey through magical London, where he highlights significant locations tied to the history of magic over the last four centuries. Also included is a private interview conducted by Richard Kaufman, where Bob delves into the secrets of misdirection and the art of comedy magic.

Moreover, this collection comes with PDF files of all seven of Bob Read’s publications, including “Thanks to Pepys,” “What You Get is What I Do,” “Knife Through Coat,” “Bottle Production,” “Glass Through Table,” “Transpo Tumbler,” and “Penultimate Cups and Balls.” The entire 2004 issue of Genii dedicated to Bob and his contributions is also part of this set.

In summary, these four DVDs encapsulate the life and artistry of one of magic’s most celebrated practitioners.

Disc One Running Time: Approximately 2hrs 14min

Disc Two Running Time: Approximately 2hrs 6min

Disc Three Running Time: Approximately 2hrs 20min

Disc Four Running Time: Approximately 75min

Released at the 2007 MacMillan Magic Convention, this special 4-DVD set celebrating the dynamic and entertaining magician Bob Read quickly became a favorite among magic enthusiasts.

Disc One: Bob Read Through The Years. A comprehensive 2-hour collection featuring nine outstanding performances by Bob, recorded between 1976 and 2005, offering a deep insight into his magical prowess.

Disc Two: The Bob Read Lecture And The Private Session. This full lecture (over 70 minutes) was filmed live at the MacMillan Magic Convention in 2002. It covers Bob’s theories on comedy and sight gags, including “The Bottle Production” and “Knife Through Coat,” followed by a private session filled with invaluable details.

Disc Three: The Cups And Balls In Art And Lithography And The Search For Arthur Watson. Bob’s engaging hour-long talk is a delight, enhanced to reveal intricate details. It includes his humorous presentation, “The Quest For Arthur Watson,” inspired by Gordon Bruce’s discovery of Arthur’s articles in an obscure book, showcasing Bob’s brilliance.

Disc Four: Bob Read’s Magical London, The Interview plus Bonus Material. This disc features excerpts from his acclaimed ‘Magical Tour of London,’ where he introduces audiences to historically significant magical landmarks, along with an in-depth interview with Richard Kaufman. In this interview, Bob elaborates on the Bottle Production and discusses comedy, timing, and technique. As a special bonus, you’ll receive full-resolution PDF files of all of Bob’s pamphlets, including “Thanks to Pepys,” “Penultimate Cups & Balls,” “$100 Glass Through Table,” “Knife Through Coat,” “The Bottle Production,” and “Transpo Tumblers,” along with the entire Genii feature article and interview from April 2004, plus Bob’s ‘Magical London’ map for your reference.