We all know that the number of tricks that can be performed
at a dinner, party or impromptu performance is limited by POCKET MANAGEMENT --- what we can carry in our pockets and how we manage those items. Nothing is less magical than a performer fumbling around in his pockets trying to find something or attempting to setup an effect.Here's a simple pocket management system:
Purchase several identical "Coin Purses". These purses come in different shapes, sizes and colors --- just make sure that you purchase 4 to 8 of the same. Though they are called coin purses, you can load any small object: dice, thumb tips,sponge balls, ect. More importantly the purses will protect and organize gimmicked/gaffed coins or sets of coins, such as the "Hopping Halves" routine.
I use the black vinyl Goshman purses (small, about 2 1/2 inches wide & 3 inches in height), costing between $4.00 to $6.00 bucks each. The leather type can be bought at 7 to 9 dollars each --- shop around.
Here's the setup:
Place 2 purses in each pocket front and /or back pockets. Use 8 (2 in all four pockets) if you want to be "loaded". Have your routine in sequence with your pockets.
If you want "ease of organization" get some small dot shaped rhinestone studs from a craft store. Glue the studs on the the frame of the purses --- 1 stud for purse/effect number 1 and 2 studs for purse/effect number 2. You use your thumb and forefinger to feel for the studs so that you know without hesitation which purse you're pulling out.
Here's another tip: these purses come with a small hook that attaches to a key chain. This hook can be use for orientation of the purse. Example: when you pull out your purse, you can see that the hook is on the front side of the purse,thus you know that your coins are in the order that you need them. No fishing around in your purse for the shelled coin.
During a semi-impromptu routine, I used 12 purses. That's right: 12! I had 2 more purses in each sock. After performing for two hours non-stop, I was asked in amazement: "How did all those things come out of one purse!
Last Edited Shawn Evans on 25-Apr-2005 3:29 AM
