I see the word "impromptu" widely used and there are many misconceptions and meanings for "impromptu" in magic.

GENERALLY, impromptu magic means that we can perform miracles, anywhere, anytime, using common objects around us, without elaborate props or gimmicks. This means impromptu for both spectators and magicians. Magicians can do this anytime they like and spectators who ask for this are most likely to see it. Twisting arm, card magic while playing a poker game, some metal bending, blah...

SPECTATOR-wise, impromptu magic means spectators see the miracle as impromptu. Objects that the magicians use are gimmicked and usually gives a stronger impact if performed as impromptu for specs. Healed and sealed, card through window, some metal bending, blah...

MAGICIAN-wise, impromptu magic means magician perform in a impromptu way but spectators may not see it that way. Magicians may or may not used gimmicks but it will seem gimmicked from a spectators point of view. Examples? You think.

Magicians will like many GENERAL effects so that they can never be caught unprepared. Personally i like the SPECTATOR-wise effects. Takes time to prepare but it's worth it.

glad you brought this up nyx, i agree with you.

I like spectator-wise effects too. In most cases Spectator-wise imromptu effects have a bigger impact on the spectator.

Borrow a coin, bite it and restore it. Borrow a name card and have it hovering around you. Vanish a borrowed coin in their hands. These are all miracles in the eyes of the spectator and apparantly you are doing it without any special preparation. This makes them believe that magic is real.

Yes there are quite a number of preparation and you have to carry the gimmicks around everywhere you go 24/7 BUT that's worth it.

In my opinon, it is not important that the trick is not impromptu magician-wise. I'm not performing for magicians and I don't mind the trouble of doing effects that need preparation. Spectator are the ones that are important. Magic happens in their eyes not mine.

Well, actually, I'd suppose if the effect was made to look like it was impromptu, it would be the best for the audience..


ie, Cesaral Melting Point...

It could look impromptu to the spectator..

provided, u are going to a restaurant or bar fo dinner/drinks "that happens to have" glass table tops .

and u are in "spain"

heheh..

To me, impromptu has always (for me) been with respect to the spectators.
And i think, impromptu to the spectators do actually mean a lot more prep work for the magician.

But yea, i agree with nyx that the outcome is a lot more satisfactory.
Looks a lot more like REAL magic to the people.

A.

Shouldn't all 'unpaid' magic be impromptu to the audience?

I agree with yong - 'impromptu' should be considered from the audience's point of view. That would make the magic stronger.

If you are always prepared for an effect, then that effect you do would always be 'impromptu', like carrying [ in your coin purse.

exactly my point.

Now, i wonder how many people actually know this.

i would agree that the strongest effect is indeed an 'impromptu' to the spectator. that has always been the strongest effect, like having a CTW or coin through glass table. perfect.

haha i saw a few threads about this already.. it should be impromptu to the audience whether it is or not. so there is kind of two version of impromptu magic people are talking about. 1)impromptu to you 2)look impromptu to the audience =) normally when a magician talk about impromptu i think noramlly it refers to whether the trick needs gimmick or not.