Okay, So I recieved a 4 DVD set from Penguin Magic last month. It is Escapology with Dixie Dooley. Are escapes recommended for busking? Nothing big, just chain escapes, rope escapes or straight jacket escapes? I can see these things drawing a huge crowd, but are they recommended?

Bobby maverick does one GREAT straight Jacket escape as a finale, sometimes. It works good for him when he doesn't do the "kiwi of death" finish

Okay, I was more thinking on doing an escape as a OPENER to draw a crowd. It kinda seems like a good way to attract attention. A guy all chained up struggling to escape. I mean who wouldnt stop and watch right? What do you think?

It would seem to me that would appear to be a climax. Once you're out, what do you do from there that doesn't look like an anti-climax?

I end my street show with a straight jacket. ALWAYS draws onlookers and provides a fun climax to the show.

Keep in mind that while you are "locked up" in a straight jacket or chains or similar then your busking gear and hat are subject to being taken and you can't chase after it or throw anything at the robber. So it would seem a good idea to have a friend around while you are locked up. A. to look after your gear. B. to release you if the routine doesn't work

Okay, so by doing the escape first it makes the rest of the show anti-climatic? I was thinking on ending with cups and balls routine. Is that a letdown after seeing the chain escape first?

I would think so, but I'm not a full time busker. Maybe you can pull it off.
(I use a Shang-hi Shackle for my final trick.)