Every magician eventually faces the same question: where do you find new material, and how do you decide what’s worth adding to your act?
Whether you're performing close-up, strolling, or on stage, selecting the right tricks isn’t just about learning something new—it’s about building a cohesive, engaging, and practical performance.
Below is a structured guide based on real-world insights from working magicians on how to discover, evaluate, and refine material for your repertoire.
Why Choosing the Right Magic Tricks Matters
Adding a new trick isn’t just about variety. The right material can:
- Improve the flow and pacing of your show
- Strengthen your audience engagement
- Differentiate your act from other magicians
- Make your performances more practical and repeatable
The wrong trick, however, can slow your show, feel redundant, or create logistical headaches.
Where Magicians Find New Material
1. Magic Books (Especially the Classics)
One of the most recommended sources is books—particularly older ones.
- Classic magic books often contain underused material
- Many effects feel fresh because few modern performers use them
- Re-reading books regularly can spark new ideas and interpretations
A frequently recommended resource is the Tarbell Course in Magic, often referred to as a foundational library for magicians.
Key takeaway:
If you want unique material, study old books—not just new releases.
2. Watching Performances
Magicians often discover new ideas by watching others:
- Live performances
- Online platforms like YouTube
- Magic retailers such as Penguin Magic or Vanishing Inc.
Seeing a trick performed helps you evaluate:
- Audience reactions
- Practicality in real-world settings
- Presentation style
Important: Don’t copy—use performances as inspiration, then adapt to your own style.
3. Magic Retailers and New Releases
Many magicians receive regular updates from:
These sources are great for discovering modern, commercial effects, but require careful filtering.
Tip: Just because a trick is new or popular doesn’t mean it fits your act.
4. Personal Creativity
Some magicians take a more creative route:
- Ideas can come from dreams or random inspiration
- The process becomes: imagine first, then figure out the method
This approach often leads to original material that truly stands out.
Building a Magic Repetoire : How to Decide What Tricks to Add
Finding material is easy. Choosing the right material is the challenge.
1. Start with Your Performance Needs
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a strong opener or closer?
- Is my act feeling repetitive or “samey”?
- Do I need something more visual or interactive?
For example:
- If your act has too many card tricks, consider adding rope, mentalism, or visual magic
- If pacing feels slow, add something quick and visual
2. Consider Your Performance Environment
Your venue heavily influences your choices:
Close-Up / Strolling Magic
- Minimal setup
- Quick reset
- Angle-friendly (can be performed surrounded)
- Small props (“pack small, play big”)
Stage Magic
- Larger visuals
- Strong audience interaction
- Clear structure (opener, middle, closer)
3. Build a Structured Routine
A strong act isn’t random—it’s carefully constructed.
- Opener: Fast, visual, and attention-grabbing
- Middle: Variety and audience interaction
- Closer: Memorable and impactful
Avoid starting with something predictable like a deck of cards unless you have a strong, unique hook.
4. Avoid Repetition
One of the biggest mistakes is repeating the same effect type:
- Multiple “pick a card” tricks
- Repeated vanish effects
- Similar plots back-to-back
Instead, aim for variety in effect and experience.
5. Focus on Practicality
Working magicians emphasize real-world requirements:
- Reset quickly (especially for strolling gigs)
- Portable (fits in pockets or a small case)
- Durable (no fragile or messy props)
- Angle-safe (can perform surrounded)
Example advice from professionals:
Avoid tricks with liquids—they spill, require cleanup, and complicate resets.
6. Create Memorable Moments
Some of the strongest material leaves the audience with something:
- Souvenirs (e.g., signed cards, fused cards)
- Emotional connections (e.g., anniversary routines)
These moments increase impact and memorability long after the performance ends.
7. Match Your Personality
A trick should feel natural for you.
Consider:
- Does it fit your character and style?
- Can you make it funny, engaging, or meaningful?
- Does it allow for audience interaction?
If it doesn’t fit your persona, it won’t feel authentic—no matter how strong the method is.
A Practical System for Building Your Act
One effective approach:
- Create a running list of potential tricks
- Organize them by:
- Opener
- Middle
- Closer
- Test them in real performances
- Eliminate weak or redundant material
- Refine transitions and flow
Over time, this process turns a collection of tricks into a polished, professional act.
Experience Is the Best Teacher
Ultimately, the best way to choose material is simple:
Perform often and pay attention.
Live performance teaches you:
- What gets reactions
- What feels awkward
- What slows you down
- What truly fits your style
The more you perform, the clearer your choices become.
Ring 22 March 2026 Discussion
Listen to the detailed discussion on how magicians add effects to their performing repertoire