Behind the Illusions by JC Sum & "Magic Babe" Ning - DVD

In this groundbreaking DVD set, learn the design, performance and approach to modern stage illusions through one of the top illusion teams in the world.

If you ever wanted to learn how to approach illusion performing, designing and producing, this DVD is a must-have.

J C Sum & 'Magic Babe' Ning, "Asia's Most Famous Illusionists" (The Straits Times), take you behind their illusions and share their experience & expertise by analyzing 10 cutting edge illusions in live performance.

This is not an illusion method explanation video but J C & Ning offer a comprehensive overview to stage illusions that will be invaluable to stage magicians & illusionists of ALL levels.

The duo covers illusions of different sizes and scale to illustrate various learning points, highlight design elements and shed insight on illusion techniques, motivation and philosophy of performing illusions for today's audience.

As a bonus, for the first time ever, J C & Ning will share behind the scenes information on one of their live mega illusions, "The Aerial Exit".

Information shared in Behind the Illusions include:

Illusion Performance Approaches & Tips

Stage Movement & Blocking for Illusions

Working with an Assistant/ Partner

Making Illusions Unique through design and/ or presentation

Illusion Design Approach & Philosophy

Illusion Building Tips

Thoughts on Overly Performed Illusions

Illusions - to buy or to build?

Choosing the right illusions

Illusions with Multiple Uses

Recycling Illusions

Lighting Enhancement for Illusions

Illusion Cloth Handling

Casing Illusions - Managing space, weight, time and efficiency through illusion breakdown design.

Resources for Illusionists

Illusion Reference/ Credits & HistoryIllusions used to illustrate teachings include:

Crystal Metamorphosis
An original design for a see-through "Substitution Trunk" built for speed
Teachings: Illusion Design, Illusion Choreography & Movement, Lighting Design

Crystal Appearance
An original design & approach to performing the "Crystal Casket" illusion
Teachings: Deceptive Base Design, Illusion Construction, Illusion Cloth Handling

Smoke Chamber
A magical appearance from an empty glass cabinet that fills with smoke
Teachings: Deceptive Base Design, Illusion Construction

Human Light Tunnel* / Shadow Vision*
A reinvention of the Jim Sommer's "Lights Fantastic" mini-illusion
Teachings: Illusion Design, Ethics & Rights, Designing a Presentation to Enhance Stage Character, Onstage Cueing between Performers

Impassable*
A reinvention of Jim Steinmeyer's "Through a One-Inch Hole" illusion
Teachings: Illusion Design, Illusion Presentation, Practicality in Illusions

Light & Space
A high-tech "Spiker" style illusion using LED Light Staffs
Teachings: Illusion Design, Illusion Recycling, Examining Illusion Appearance Reveals

Theatre of Shadows*
The classic Shadow Box illusion presented in a modern illusion show
Teachings: Classics in a Modern Illusion Show, Choosing a First Illusion, Redressing an Illusion

Modern Art*
A different presentation for Jim Steinmeyer's neo-classic dividing girl illusion
Teachings: Illusion Design, Illusion Presentation, Differentiating your Illusion Performance

Revollusion
An original presentation for an illusion with a giant industrial fan
Teachings: Illusion Design, Character Development through Presentation, Creative Illusion Thinking, Show Production

360 Sawing*
J C's complete redesign and rebuild of Gerry & Leonora Frenette's "Woman's Revolution"
Teachings: Illusion Design, Illusion Choreography & Movement, Working with Stage Crew

* While approaches to illusion design are discussed, the exact methods of proprietory illusions are not revealed. The viewer will need to have a working knowledge of basic methods and principles used. Full credits and references of all illusions are included in the DVD.

Who are J C Sum & 'Magic Babe' Ning?

Based in Singapore, J C Sum & 'Magic Babe' Ning are Asia's Most Lethal Combination in Magic!

The Straits Times acknowledges them as "Asia's most famous illusionists". Channel News Asia calls them "Singapore's celebrity magic duo" and "the new faces of an old-age art form".

J C & Ning's illusions have been seen by millions on network and cable television across Asia. They are well known for their innovative illusions such as teleporting and vanishing people & cars over great distances as well as setting a world magic record and successfully predicting the national 4D lottery.

Their distinct contemporary East meets West "Urban Illusions" style makes them one of the definitive international acts in today's modern world.

What others are saying about Behind the Illusions:

"There is so much in this DVD... I'm giving it a 90% (rating)!"
- David Penn, Wizard Product Review

"Anyone who performs illusions will get something out of this, it is the first time I have something like this for illusions. It is a great product, highly recommended"
- Paul Romhany, Romhany Report

"I have always admired how JC creates his magic and especially the subtleties he employs during his performance. An example of his subtleties during his performance would be when he is "panting" for breath after a magical appearance. These little things will help create better magic. So, if you are into Illusions, you should check out this DVD, if you like it, you can even get the plans from his book. Rating 4.5/5"
- Bernard Sim, Sexy Magic Reviews