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Details

Price$50.00
Media TypeOnline Instructions
CategoryClose Up
Date AddedApr 30, 2023

Mystery Stick

TCC Presents

(Based on 1 review)
The Mystery Stick is a modern take on the classic Pom-pom Prayer Stick/Chinese Sticks trick, which was first described in the Chinese magic book "鹅幻汇编" published in 1889. This close-up version features a brass stick measuring 13.5 cm in length, with four wooden beads attached to each end, one of which is hanging on a cord. When you pull a bead on one side, the hanging bead is retracted, and when you pull a bead on the other side, the hanging one remains retracted. This process is repeated in various combinations, giving the illusion that all the beads are connected. However, when the stick is split in half, it is revealed that there is no connection in the center. The Mystery Stick is truly mesmerizing.

Designed for close-up performance, the Mystery Stick is compact and easy to carry around in your pocket. Jimmy Fan used wooden beads instead of pom-poms, this allows for a smaller size, while the classic combination of brass and wood gives it a delicate and crafty feel. Each set of the Mystery Stick is hand-assembled with precise attention to detail for comfortable performance.

Due to its structure, each set of the Mystery Stick is assembled by hand, with strict control over details for comfortable performance.

Features:
Close-Up Version of a Classic Effect;
Mini Size;
Brass and Wood, Exquisite and Classic Combination;
Hand Assembled with Precise Details.

Reviews

Stephan Sloan

Official Reviewer

May 09, 2023

Overview

More commonly know these days as the Pom Pom Prayer Stick, versions of this trick can be traced back to Japan as early as 1729. Over the centuries numerous variations ensued and ultimately reached its height of popularity when it became a show piece of Ali Bongo’s (William Oliver Wallace). The original versions were designed to be used for stage and wasn’t until 1912 when Chris Van Bern created a pocket version. The challenge has always been that when recreated in the smaller version, the routine could not continue after separating the halves of the sticks as the larger stage versions can, due to the necessary components required. The Mystery Stick by TCC Presents, not only recreates this classic in one of the most beautiful versions ever released but also allows the performer to take the stick apart, put it back together and continue the incredibly baffling display of the impossible.

Effect

A very attractive but unusual looking brass tube is shown. Two wooden beads dangle from either ends. If one were to pull on the bead above, it pulls up the lower bead. It’s obvious there is a string connecting them. However, when the bead on the opposite side is pulled down the bead which was just pulled up now comes down. “Oh, I see, they must all be connected”. The performer smartly displays a nice pattern, alternating pulling down and raising beads clearly showing they are all tied together. At one point the tube is separated into two halves…and much to the surprise of the spectators, the tube is completely empty with no strings and no wires. Yet, when the tube is reassembled, the beads still move up and down as if they were drawn by spirits from above.

Method

The method is no different than it has been for hundreds of years. Inside the tube is a clever mechanism which not only allows for the beads on one side to act independently but also allows for the beads on the other side to come into play. What makes TCC’s version exceptional is the ability to take apart the stick, reassemble it and easily get back to the performance. Other smaller versions do not have this ability.

Product Quality

TCC’s uncompromising dedication to quality and delivering the best product has garnered them a stellar reputation amongst magic creators and purchasers as well. The Mystery Stick is not only beautiful to look at, but when you hold it in your hands and feel the heft of the brass tube you instantly know you own a professional quality magic trick. This Mystery Stick itself is made out of brass and is finished with an aged patina. Its styling is not unlike the era where it appears to be of origin and reflects a bespoke Victorian look. The beads are wooden and the strings are a nice golden thread which compliments the brass finish. The mechanism is smooth as silk. When take apart and reassembled it resets itself without any fumbling. It is truly a work of art. The downloadable instruction is 14 minutes long and covers a short history, the operation and replacement of the strings when they wear out. By the way, they include several replacement strings as well.

Ad Copy Integrity

As all TCC products I own and reviewed, you always get as advertised and often even more. I can’t speak more highly of the quality, appearance, material choices and service the TCC provides.

Final Thoughts

This is one piece you will be proud to own. TCC Presents, reinvents classic magic in a style they can call their own.
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