Magic Trick The Mystery of L’Hassa. In this captivating illusion, the performer sets the stage by placing two trestles and a board, then introduces a young lady who appears to float on the board after the trestles are removed, leaving the audience in awe of the apparent levitation.
Magic Trick The Mystery of L’Hassa
Props Needed
- Two Trestles: Sturdy enough to support the board and the assistant.
- A Board: Approximately one and a half feet longer than the assistant (the lady) to create the illusion of floating.
- Curtain: A striped patterned curtain at the back of the stage to conceal the mechanics of the illusion.
- Wire: A strong, thin wire to create the levitation effect.
- Leather Pillow: Used for the assistant’s head and to conceal another wire.
Preparation and Setup
- Setting Up the Stage:
- Ensure the backdrop is a striped patterned curtain, with lines running vertically (dark lines on a light background).
- Position the two trestles (let’s call them Trestle No. 1 and Trestle No. 2) offstage before the performance.
- Preparing Trestle No. 2:
- Fasten a wire to Trestle No. 2. Create a loop at the end of the wire that goes around two nails at each end of the trestle. This wire should be attached to the top of the stage but concealed by the curtain.
- Final Setup:
- Set Trestle No. 1 (unprepared) and Trestle No. 2 (prepared) in the center of the stage about six feet apart, allowing enough space for the board to rest on them.
- Ensure the board can rest on both trestles, with one end fitted into the loop of wire on Trestle No. 2.
Steps to Perform the Trick
- Introduction:
- The performer walks forward to show the trestles are unprepared, demonstrating that they are normal.
- Placing the Trestles:
- Place the trestles in the center of the stage and ensure they are positioned correctly for the board.
- Laying the Board:
- Place the board across the two trestles. Ensure one end of the board is securely in the loop of wire on Trestle No. 2.
- Engaging the Audience:
- Use a long stick or wand to wave around the board, giving the illusion that the board is unsupported. Be careful not to hit the wire on the end of the board.
- Introducing the Assistant:
- Introduce the young lady and make some hypnotic passes over her. This adds drama to the performance and engages the audience’s imagination.
- Lifting the Assistant:
- Pick up the assistant and carefully lay her on the board, positioning her feet towards Trestle No. 2.
- Concealing the Mechanism:
- As the assistant is laid on the board, ensure that a second wire attached to the leather pillow is discreetly placed under the board. This wire should run up to the top of the stage as well.
- Removing the Trestles:
- Remove Trestle No. 1 first, showing that nothing is supporting the board. Then, carefully remove Trestle No. 2.
- The board appears to float in mid-air, supported only by the hidden wires and the balance of the assistant’s body.
- Concluding the Illusion:
- Once the trestles are removed, the assistant appears to be floating. The front curtain can then be dropped to finalize the illusion.
Explanation of the Mechanics
The Mystery of L’Hassa relies on clever use of hidden mechanics to create the illusion of levitation:
- Wire Mechanism: The wire attached to Trestle No. 2 allows the board to appear unsupported. The loop around the nails on the trestle holds the board in place while also keeping the wire hidden against the striped curtain.
- Support from the Pillow: The leather pillow not only provides comfort for the assistant but also helps conceal another wire that adds to the illusion of the lady floating.
- Distraction Techniques: By engaging the audience with hypnotic gestures and dramatic presentation, the performer directs attention away from the mechanics of the illusion.
Tips for Success
- Practice: Ensure smooth transitions between placing the assistant and removing the trestles. Practice timing and positioning to maintain the illusion.
- Audience Engagement: Maintain a charismatic presence to keep the audience captivated. The more engaged they are, the less likely they are to notice the mechanics.
- Conceal the Mechanism: Pay attention to the positioning of the wires and the pillow to ensure they remain hidden from view during the performance.
- Build Suspense: Create tension leading up to the moment of removing the trestles to enhance the dramatic effect of the illusion.
Conclusion
The Mystery of L’Hassa is a stunning illusion that combines elements of skillful performance and clever mechanics. With the right preparation and execution, you can amaze your audience and leave them wondering how the assistant managed to float so effortlessly in the air.
