Effect: The spectator writes a name on a
page in a notepad. The spectator then tears out the page, crumples it up and
places it in an ashtray. The paper is set alight and the magician then rubs the
ashes on his arm, on which the name written by the spectator, mysteriously
appears.
Preparation: You will need a small notepad,
pen, ashtray, lighter and a small piece of soap or wax.
Method: The spectator is asked to write
either a name or favourite anything of their choice on a notepad. They are then
asked to tear out the page, crumple it up and place it in the ashtray. The
magician then sets the paper alight. At this point the magician should take the
notepad from the spectator. If looked at closely, it should be possible to see
an imprint of the spectators written word on the top
page of the notepad. ( It should not be made obvious that
the magician has been looking at the notepad..) Then subtely, perhaps by using a little misdirection, the
word should be written on the magicians arm by himself using the soft soap or
wax. ( Again, this action should not be visible or
obvious to anyone.)
The magician can then take some of the ashes and rub them on
his arm where the ash will stick to the soap or wax and the name become visible
to the astonishment of the audience.
This is a great trick but depends o the magician
creating an atmosphere with an entertaining routine and patter about black
magic to enhance the trick and create misdirection to allow himself an
opportunity to pull off the trick.
