Amazing Close Up Magic…

For over 40 years, I’ve been captivated by remarkable close-up magic, especially the timeless classics involving coins, cards, ropes, and silks—magic that can be effortlessly performed from your pocket.

Imagine executing spontaneous, mind-blowing tricks with no setup or complex moves, leaving your audience in awe. Utilizing classic props like the thumb tip, dye tube, or Sanada gimmick opens up countless astonishing effects, suitable for all skill levels.

Consider the advanced, angle-proof vanish achievable with the thumb tip—slow, controlled movements that truly impress. This is what magic should be: fun, thought-provoking, and completely unexpected. Routines with no fast wacky hand gesture. Slow and natura. 

If you’re new to magic, the Pocket Magic Show Thumb Tip 101 Course offers over 30 tricks in 7 videos and 3 ebooks—perfect for beginners.

Magic should evoke an emotional response, making spectators say, “Wow! I didn’t see that coming!” Impromptu close-up magic is not only thrilling but also incredibly rewarding when done right, leaving audiences speechless.

Great close-up magic stands the test of time, focusing on genuine moments of wonder rather than quick, flashy tricks. Ultimately, it’s about believability rather than speed.

Now that’s magic!

-Hal 

I turned to the thumb tip (along with a few other incredible tricks) due to an injury and my passion for classic magic.

In 1985, I suffered a severe hand injury that required microsurgery and extensive physical therapy. Then, in 2000, I experienced a fully displaced fracture of the distal radius in my other hand—a badly broken wrist.

Interestingly, a fully displaced distal radius fracture was the most common injury in the 1920s. My doctor explained that back then, cars were started by manually cranking a rod. If the car backfired, the crank would spin rapidly and often result in a broken wrist for the person starting the car.

These injuries impacted my ability to perform cardistry and coin manipulation, affecting both my range of motion and sense of touch.

However, my passion for magic remained strong, and I was determined to adapt. The thumb tip, dye tube and Sanada turned out to be the ideal solutions, offering countless incredible effects to master.

I also knew I wanted to avoid the sleazy, rapid, and manipulative gestures often seen in magic today. Instead, I embraced a slow, methodical, and controlled approach, which resonated with many in the magic community. People began saying, “I love your teaching style and performance.” One experienced magician remarked, “You move slowly, explain what’s about to happen, and even when you perform right before my eyes, I still miss it every time.”

If I can execute stunning effects slowly and deliberately, letting spectators know what’s about to happen while still leaving them amazed and asking for more, then you can too!