The Mediums Ties Magic Trick. The “Medium’s Ties” is an intriguing escape trick that creates the illusion of being tightly bound while allowing the performer to easily escape and re-secure themselves. This trick relies on clever positioning, misdirection, and a little sleight of hand to create a convincing effect.
The Mediums Ties Magic Trick
Effect
The performer appears to be securely tied with a cord around their wrists, then placed behind their back. After a moment of suspense, the performer escapes from the bindings and can re-tie themselves, seemingly without effort. The audience is left amazed by the illusion of being tied and the ease of escape.
Props Required
- Street Car Cord: A sturdy length of cord that can be tied tightly but is not painful when bound.
- Chair: A regular chair with a hole in the back of the seat through which the cord can be passed.
- Sealing Wax or Tape: To create the illusion of sealed knots for added effect.
Preparation and Secret Moves
- Initial Binding:
- Begin by tying one end of the cord around your left wrist, pulling it tight but ensuring it’s not painful.
- Tie a secure knot and seal it to enhance the illusion that it cannot be easily undone.
- As you place your hands behind your back, extend your little finger to catch hold of the rope, twisting it once. This twist is crucial as it will allow you to free your hand later.
- Positioning the Right Hand:
- Lay your right hand on top of your left wrist so that the back of your right wrist rests against the front of your left arm.
- Use the remaining cord to tie the right wrist securely to your left arm, creating the appearance of being firmly bound.
- Securing to the Chair:
- Pass the ends of the cord through the hole in the back of the chair and tie them tightly. This makes it seem like you are secured to the chair.
- Making the Escape:
- Once the cabinet is closed, you can give your right hand a half turn. This movement will free your right hand from the knot since it has been cleverly twisted.
- You can then perform some “manifestations” (such as producing objects or creating sound effects) while appearing to be bound.
- Re-tie for Effect:
- To re-tie your hands, you can wet your right hand with your tongue to allow for easier movement.
- Put your right hand back in position and give the necessary twist to the cord, re-securing yourself in a manner that looks as tight as before.
Tips for a Convincing Performance
- Practice the Mechanics: The key to this trick is the smoothness of your movements. Practice the escape and re-tying process until it feels natural and fluid.
- Engage the Audience: Keep the audience engaged with storytelling or patter as you perform the trick. This can help distract them from any suspicious movements.
- Control Your Angles: Be mindful of your positioning and angles so that the audience cannot easily see the mechanics of the escape.
- Build Suspense: When you appear bound, build anticipation before revealing your escape. This enhances the overall impact of the illusion.
Conclusion
“The Medium’s Ties” is an effective magic trick that showcases a performer’s ability to create a convincing illusion of being bound and then effortlessly escaping. Through careful planning, practice, and misdirection, the performer can leave the audience astounded by the simplicity and effectiveness of the routine. When performed with skill, this trick is a captivating addition to any magic act.
