Max Maven's VideoMind - Phase One: Parlor Mentalism

Parlor Mentalism...It's done under what can be the most difficult conditions: performing for a medium-sized audience with no formal stage setting to focus attention. Sightlines are often poor, and people must be drawn into the experience even if they can't see everything clearly. Too, you may be working surrounded, so you'd better be sure there are no angle problems.  And, as it's likely to be a social occasion filled with potential distractions, your material needs to be compelling from the very first moment: intriguing presentations that build to powerful conclusions.  

This DVD features a range of commercial Parlor Mentalism.  No pre-show work, no secret assistance; this is practical material for the solo performer, using subtle and unusual methods that are as fascinating as the effects they produce.

First watch Max Maven in performance with an unrehearsed audience.  See why television's Entertainment Tonight dubbed him "the master mindreader," and the New York Daily News proclaimed, "This guy can read you like an open book."  Later, Max is joined by Eugene Burger for a private discussion in which the detailed secrets are revealed - including some that have been held back for many years.  You'll learn:

• THE MOCKINGBIRD: A sampling from the fabled "Birds of Prey" series.  At its core, an inexplicable demonstration of playing card telepathy-but you'll discover how audience participation and an unfolding plot structure can transform an already strong effect into a full-fledged routine.
• AUTOME: An extraordinary book test using plain, ungimmicked props under the fairest conditions.  This is a remarkable routine in and of itself, but it also introduces principles for which you'll find a host of other applications.
• DIVINE WRITE: Mutual mentalism with built-in appeal.  The performer tries an imposing experiment in clairvoyance, working simultaneously with a member of the audience.  Despite the overwhelming odds, the outcome is successful-for both!
• ZENVELOPES: A test of intuition using several participants and a number of ESP symbol cards hidden inside opaque envelopes.  These are thoroughly mixed by the spectators,  who then pair them off by playing their hunches.  When the contents are examined, all of the symbols have matched up perfectly.
• KUROTSUKE: An ancient game from the imperial court of Japan is turned into a delightful routine of stand-up mentalism that lets several people get involved.  And, best of all, it can be done entirely impromptu using only borrowed materials.
• THE MIND'S EYE DECK: A pack of some 40 design cards is used.  Each one is different and the deck is shuffled.  While the performer's back is turned, a spectator removes a card.  Without turning around, the mentalist starts describing the thought-of design, eventually drawing it on a pad of paper.  It's as straightforward as that.

Max Maven:  "The most original mind in magic"  - Orson Welles

69 minutes (DVD)