Magic Unconcealed

It has finally arrived - the much-anticipated book by Magic Inc's very own Jay Collen! It is sure to get you thinking about the magic you currently do, and the kind of magic you wish to perform. It offers new insight into the nature of magic performances and the audience experience in general.  Magic Unconcealed respectfully challenges much accepted wisdom in contemporary magic theory. It is intended to be thought-provoking, but not dogmatic. Its core thesis is that audiences often experience frustration when they don’t now how a trick is done, and a magician must prevent or overcome that frustration. Doing so is partly a matter of trick selection and method, but is also a matter of performance technique centered on the ethos of the magician. These matters are discussed in detail, and the theoretical concepts are then are illustrated with over 20 dynamite tricks and routines from the author’s repertoire— all of which are proven workers in the real world of professional magic. Author Jay Collen says: “This book shares concepts and ideas built-up over more than 20 years as a professional magician. Some of my ideas are different, but I’m not looking to attack others or obtain converts. Rather, I hope to stimulate people’s thinking to help them on their magical journeys.” WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: "[Jay Collen's] fresh approach to today's audience, and, in particular, the precise recommendation on creating effective magic tricks and show sets is stellar. Highly recommended." ~ Rolando Santos - Linking Ring Magazine July, 2022 “Jay Collen has produced a magic book that is beyond the usual. Yes, there are some intriguing methods and routines, but he also delineates a philosophy of performing that focuses on contemporary audiences . . . Jay profoundly illustrates how to perform exciting magic with decency, common sense and artistry.” ~ Ross Johnson “A monumental achievement.” ~ Saratoga Ballantine, daughter of the legendary “Amazing Ballantine” and member of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Magical Arts Magic Unconcealed “showcases. . . Jay Collen’s professionalism and talent in the magical arts.” ~ Jon Stetson  "I loved your take on thoughts and theories and found them inspiring and refreshing. . .  Real world effects, not pipe dreams. Congratulations on a fabulous book. I think I've read them all, and this one is special." ~ Andy Lansing