Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

What if you had to rewrite and perform the second act of a show with almost no preparation? In this episode, we sit down with the extraordinarily talented Simon Lipkin, who opens up about his remarkable journey from starring in Avenue Q at just 20 years old to his current role in Oliver with Cameron McIntosh. Simon’s career has been anything but conventional, and he shares the highs and challenges of his life in theater, including his sudden need to improvise and perform under intense pressure.

Listeners are in for a treat as Simon takes us through his transition into the world of mentalism and his role in Derren Brown's Unbelievable. We delve into the indispensable tools for any mentalist, such as the peak wallet and Harribo by Lord Harry. Simon's insights on the importance of a well-thought-out narrative and how to tailor tricks for a personal touch promise to enrich any magician’s repertoire. With Simon’s acting background and passion for improv, he offers unique perspectives on making magic feel interactive and tailor-made for the audience.

But that’s not all—Simon also shares his exhilarating experiences on stage, including performing at the Royal Variety Show and the thrill of creating new acts on the fly. From discussing the fascinating world of PK Touches to recounting magic mishaps and the joy of performing with simplicity and ingenuity, this episode is a celebration of Simon Lipkin's multifaceted career. Whether you’re an aspiring magician or a seasoned performer, Simon’s stories and advice are sure to inspire and entertain.

Simon's Desert Island List:

1) Stealth Assassin Wallet by Peter Nardi
2) Harribo by Lord Harri
3) Stirling by International Magic
4) Magicians Graphology by Andy Nyman
5) PK Touches
6) Smash & Stab
7) Change in Pocket / Swami
8) Try Colour by Simon Lipkin
Book) Dunningers Complete Encyclopaedia of Magic
Item) Rubiks Cube

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

What if magic could be more than just tricks and illusions, but rather a journey into the mystical and the personal? Terry shares his fascinating experiences with seances and narrative-driven magic, illustrating how deeply personal stories can create unforgettable moments for the audience. Discover how the power of psychometry and the return of personal items can forge emotional connections that far surpass the mere spectacle of the trick.

From ancient ceremonies to modern-day performances, bizarre magic has undergone a remarkable evolution, and Terry Tyson is here to guide us through its rich history. We get a glimpse into his favourite routines, including Bob Cassidy's ‘Fourth-Dimensional Telepathy’, and learn how ghost tours and haunted venues continue to ignite the public's imagination. Terry also reveals how tools like pendulums and utility items such as wallets can elevate mentalism to new heights, creating immersive and impactful performances.

In addition to sharing some of his personal magical journeys, Terry provides invaluable book recommendations that every aspiring mentalist should add to their collection. From Mark Strivings' insightful works to Caleb Strange's unique narrative-driven approach, these resources offer a deep dive into the world of magic and mentalism. We wrap up this enchanting episode with a heartfelt reflection on the importance of storytelling in magic. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the art of bizarre magic.

Terry's Desert Island Tricks:

- Fourth Dimensional Telepathy by Bob Cassidy
- B'Wave by Max Maven
- Pseudo Psychometry
- Will to Read by Steve Dela
- Q&A Act
- Pendulums
- Sight Unseen Case by Mark Strivings
- Desire by Max Maven
Book
- Garden of the Strange by Caleb Strange
Item
- Poetry Book

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

On this episode of Desert Island Tricks, we talk with amazing mentalist Luca Volpe. Listen as Luca shares why the Stealth Assassin wallet tops his list of must-have tricks and how it enhances his performances by prioritising the journey over the reveal.

But that’s just the beginning. Luca takes us on a journey through his favorite magical tools, including a classic gimmick revamped for mentalism and the emotionally powerful Grismer lock from his FISM act. He emphasizes the significance of emotional connection and storytelling, showing how even simple tools can make a profound impact. For anyone passionate about mentalism, Luca's insights into using everyday items to build emotional resonance and memorable experiences are truly invaluable.

Luca also delves into the mysterious allure of tarot cards and pendulums, and how they can turn a standard trick into a mesmerizing performance. As we explore the evolution of his "The Fox" folio and reminisce about timeless techniques from Bascom Jones volumes, Luca’s stories remind us of the magician’s unique ability to craft lasting human connections. Tune in to discover how you can elevate your own magic and mentalism performances by focusing on the little things that make a big difference.

Luca's Desert Island List:

Stealth Assassin Wallet by Peter Nardi
NYX Project by Luca Volpe
Thumb Tip
The Grismer Lock by Paul McCaig
Pendulum
Tarot Deck
The Fox Folio by Luca Volpe
Crystals
Bascom Jones Book
Pocket Multi Tool Knife

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

Prepare to be inspired as we spend an hour with the master of illusion, Bill Abbott! Bill's approach to captivating an audience within the first 30 seconds sets the stage for a performance that blurs the line between reality and the impossible. From the mysterious vanishing of a champagne bottle to the beloved trick "Smart Ass," Bill shares the secrets and the psychology behind his iconic illusions. Imagine the perfect magical setting – even if it's as unconventional as a desert island with a tiki bar and an intimate stage, Bill knows how to create a world that leaves a lasting impression on his audience.

Throughout the episode, we explore the interplay between storytelling and magic, as Bill takes us down memory lane to his beginnings, sparked by a Christmas gift that would alter the course of his life. He reveals how he turns each performance into a theatrical experience, with his 'five-card box' trick and his 'Poker Face' routine merging his background in psychology with the thrill of a poker game. Bill's routines aren't just tricks; they're emotionally charged narratives that engage the audience, creating a communal and intimate experience that resonates long after the curtain falls.

The conversation peaks as we examine the strategic choreography behind different magical routines, balancing the spectrum from energetic to intimate, ensuring that each effect weaves into a narrative arc that leaves the audience spellbound. Bill's 'Voodoo Ceremony' act, the communal "$1 mystery," and the "Psychic Prediction" game are just a few examples of how he crafts a journey for his audience, one that challenges their rational mind with moments of awe. With a notepad and pen always at the ready, Bill Abbott reminds us that the essence of magic lies in creativity and the joy of crafting wonder, a lesson that's sure to inspire both fledgling magicians and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Bill Abbotts list:

1. Champagne Opener by Bill Abbott
2. 5 Card Box by Bill Abbott
3. Poker Face by Bill Abbott
4. Centre Tear Routine by Bill Abbott
5. Ashes on Palm
6. Pegasus Page
7. Bill in Lime
8. Smart Ass

Book - Impromptu Magic by Martin Gardner

Object - Notepad and Pen

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

The likelihood is, you've already had Jack appearing on any number of your social feeds! With millions of views across all platforms, his reach is substantial and his video's are always incredibly clever and fun to watch!

This year, he appeared on Britains Got Talent with a quirky act based on his viral video's.

Jack is now transitioning to more live events and stage performances which his list reflects! This is an excellent mix of stage effects and close up effects which make for a truly diverse selected of effects!

Jack's List:

1) Revolution by Greg Wilson
2) Card 2Phone by Jakob Halskov
3) Stand Up Monte by Garrett Thomas
4) Instant Access by Carl Royale
5) OXF Coin Set by Roy Kueppers and Eric Jones
6) Venom Cube by Henry Harrius
7) Cylinder and Coins by Joshua Jay
8) Chop Cup Mini
Book) Piff the Magic Book by Vanishing Inc
Item) Camera

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

James is a BAFTA Awarding winning performer, star is hit TV show 'Help! My Supply Teacher is Magic!' and consulting on shows on Netflix, the BBC, ITV and Discovery International as well as others!

He is a huge reader of magic books but also indulges in commercially released items which makes his Desert Island List incredibly diverse! With a few hidden gems thrown in for good measure, this is an excellent episode you are not going to want to miss!

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

Chris Congreave is best known for his incredibly commercial magic. Effects like 'Roll', 'Omen', 'Safe' and 'Lie' amongst many others are used by hundreds of magicians daily!

As you would imagine, Chris's list is full on incredibly commercial routines and since he create's for himself, many of his choices are his own.

If you are a magician looking into crossing over to restaurants or weddings, this is the perfect list to get you on your way!

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk

Want to send in your own Desert Island List? Send us a message and include your name for it to be read out on a future episode of DIT!

Jake Allen is one of the most talented young magicians in the UK and an absolute card ninja! A regular at The Magic Circle, Jake is someone people wan't to sit down with and watch the amazing magic he performs.

In Jake's episode, he show's his passion for card magic with a mixture of classic effects and routines as well as some quirkier choices that you perhaps haven't come across before. Heavily influenced by books, Jake's Desert Island list really is a fantastic collection of tricks!

His book choices were the most interesting and shows where Jake's mind is now leading him. No doubt, we will see big things from Jake in his magical career!

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk