Forgive me if this is not the correct place to post this question...it probably is not

I do close-up magic. That's what I do. I am considering entering the talent show at my university(bear with me). This really is a big event on campus and I feel I can get real big exposure for this.

I have nine months about to prepare 2 or 3 acts - one for the audition, one for the show, and one for the winners-concert.

I need help to know what is out there. I thought maybe doing a classical Cards to Pocket - Downs style. I was also thinking maybe needle through arm, finger fantasies. But I don't know these effects(except the Cards to Pocket I know OF). Could anybody help me please.

What would play big? (For those wondering - my performing style is something of a crossover between a Gregory Wilson meets Guy Hollingworth meets myself thing..)

Any help will be greatly appreciated

It really depends on your venue.

Close-up magic won't do if this is going to be on a stage, in a typical auditorium, most of your audience probably won't even be able to see your card, your fingers, or the needle. Although I'd like to see you attempt cards-to-pocket with jumbo stage-sized cards!

Not everybody can do finger fantasies. Heck, I can't even do the old stunt of pulling my thumb off.

In this day and age, with people piercing everything from their ears, to their nostrils, their cheek, their tongue, navel, and various unmentionables, I don't think needle through arm will have the same impact that it once did.

I'll leave you guys to figure out the tricks.

My only real question is why are you making far more work for yourself?

3 different performances?
One for the audition, one of the show and one for the post party?

That doesn't make any sense - to me at least.

If you knock their socks off during the audition, why would you dare risk performing with something that might disappoint?

And furthermore - after you win - people want to see the routine you did again. Not something new.

That said - the post party is the only place I'd have new material. Perform your winning routine, then have other stuff just to entertain people and have a good time.

But don't create so much work for yourself.

Do one routine. Do it brilliantly.

Good luck!
Robert Bloor

BTW - as an addition to this post - close up CAN work on stage. I've done it and won talent shows.

See if you can rent an InFocus or other type of video projector and shoot that image up on a wall or screen. You'll need a camera too but they can be had for cheap. Even rented or borrowed from a friend.