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Christopher Taylor
Manage episode 508531990 series 3552922
What happens when the universe sends you a sign? For Christopher Taylor, it came in the form of a prisoner's profound question and a late-night phone call from David Copperfield on the very same day his wife encouraged him to pursue magic full-time.
In this captivating episode, Christopher shares his remarkable journey from prison guard to classroom teacher to pioneering creator of electronic mentalism. As one of the first innovators in this field, his products like Equinox, Real Ghost, and Death Toll have revolutionised how performers approach classic effects by creating versions that look "as if they could be done for real."
Christopher's approach to magic transcends mere methodology. A skilled storyteller, he explains how narrative transforms tricks into meaningful experiences, emphasising that a well-told story must stand on its own merits before magic is introduced. His philosophy that "the story is what makes the audience hungry" offers a masterclass in creating context that elevates magical moments.
Perhaps most thought-provoking is Christopher's perspective on magic itself. He challenges the notion that "there's no such thing as magic," arguing instead that magic is as real as comedy or tragedy, it simply requires a particular viewpoint. The synchronicities in his own life, like David Copperfield calling at the perfect moment, reveal the magical structures that exist if we're willing to see them.
Whether you're a creator, performer, or simply fascinated by the psychology behind powerful experiences, Christopher's insights into electronic mentalism, storytelling technique, and the philosophy of impossible moments will transform how you think about the art of astonishment.
Christopher’s Desert Island Tricks:
- Equinox
- PK Touch / Real Ghost
- Taylor Index Decoding System
- The Prisoner
- Overkill
- Card Under Table
- Trilogy
- Scrying Out Loud
Banishment. The idea that there is no such thing as magic
Book. Storytelling: Process and Practice
Item. Keys
Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk
Chapters
1. Christopher Taylor (00:00:00)
2. The Prison Guard's Epiphany (00:00:38)
3. Introduction to Christopher Taylor (00:09:06)
4. First Magic Choice: Karatsuké to Equinox (00:16:21)
5. Real Ghost: Reimagining PK Touch (00:30:04)
6. The Power of Pathfinder Clear (00:44:55)
7. The Prisoner: Story as Magic (01:00:42)
8. Overkill: Matching Murderers (01:10:26)
9. Trilogy and Scrying Out Loud (01:28:14)
10. Card Under Table and BSC (01:29:56)
113 episodes
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