Master Of Tricks

I love “magic tricks.”

Some of the most beautiful magic “tricks” ever presented were the design and creation of a Dutch magician named Eddy Taytelbaum. Eddy is 91 years old and, during his life, produced some of the most beautiful pieces of magic ever made. Until learning of Eddy, I had never seen magic props so beautiful. Each piece was truly a work of art. Intricate Chinese lettering and gold inlays were juxtaposed with sleek modern plastic that shone like ebony. The props were more than beautiful – they were amazing! Each piece was clever and entertaining, and none of them worked the way you thought they might. I don’t know how many times I had “the hose turned on me” as Eddy’s tricks took unexpected turns. These pieces of “micro-magic” are highly coveted by magic collectors today.

I am lucky to have been able to acquire a handful of Eddy’s amazing props. While I don’t know how all of them work, I have enjoyed trying to come up with my own uses based on the information I have been able to uncover through my research.  This research and exploration has taken me into many of magic’s most interesting rooms.  I have been privileged to visit noted collectors of Eddy’s masterpieces, compiling stories and information regarding his mysteries. I have been amazed by the pure craftsmanship and artistic design that informs his work; I have enjoyed studying the psychology of his routines and gained an appreciation for how he combines mechanical principles with sleight of hand to produce original pieces of magic. I have become a better performer by facing the unique challenges of presenting prop-based magic in sophisticated performance environments. I feel honored to be able to feature one of Eddy’s pieces in my close-up magic shows.  

If you would like to learn more about Eddy Taytelbaum and his amazing magical creations, please see the full article at the Conjuring Arts Research Center.

If you would like to see some of Eddy’s rare and beautiful magic – up close and in person – check out The Soiree show. It’s an amazing evening for you and a few of your best friends.  To reserve dates, contact me.