Volume 1 of the Art of Hopping Tables is a magical documentary as you are taken along with Britain's famous Mark Leveridge on one of his commercial bookings. This is a unique opportunity to see exactly what happens in a professional magician's "day at the office."

First Mark explains everything that goes into the preparation for an evening of strolling magic - it's a fascinating insight into what goes on behind the scenes in the build-up to a show. Then you are there as Mark entertains his audiences - you see it all exactly as it happened.

This is followed by an analysis of what makes a successful table-hopping performance, as Mark and Chris Payne look again at some of the key moments from the evening's work and discuss exactly how all the principles of performance come together. This is the "art" of hopping tables - it shows how all the many facets of personality, technique, audience control, and magic effects are blended into a memorable experience for the spectators. The tape ends with a discussion with experienced strolling magician Stuart Bowie about many other aspects of close-up performance with particular reference to restaurant and dinner-function work. Revealed in a candid and truthful way are many of the intimate working secrets of an experienced strolling magician. It is a gold mine of advice borne of genuine experience, and it is highly valuable to both experienced and novice strolling magicians.

Volume 2 concentrates on the magic itself. Using relevant sections of the live footage seen in Volume 1, you will see seven effects performed by Mark for his audiences and then fully explained in an entertaining and informal style with Chris Payne. All the magic comes from Mark's own current repertoire.

The effects explained are Spin Out - a flashy card revelation and production, as the sealed deck is thrown into the air and the selected card instantly appears outside the box; The Hypnotized Coin - very visual four-stage coin and handkerchief routine. No gimmicks or extra coins; Copy Ring - delightful borrowed ring routine. Often gets a gasps from the lay audience; The Department Store - spectators' names on cards are used to magically illustrate a simple human story; The Caught Card - very strong card release. Three ungimmicked cards with holes in one end are used. A court card penetrates off an examined ribbon when trapped between the other two indifferent cards; Aces Under Control - a simple yet strong way to produce the four Aces. Practical to use under any conditions.; Name Dropper - a spectator's name somehow jumps from the back of his freely named card onto the back of your business card. All the magic has been used regularly under fire - it works. Learn these routines and you will have added some strong magic to your repertoire.

This is a specially boxed set; Volumes 1 & 2 will not be sold separately.