Caterpillar Love

Type: Closeup, Walk around

Skill Level:

Retail Price: $15

Effect: The spectator holds out her hand, palm up. The performer displays 3 cards, one at a time while reciting the story of the metamorphosis (of a caterpillar into a butterfly) in poetic verse. The pictures on the cards magically change to illustrate the story. For the climax, a large colorful Butterfly magically appears on her hand.

Performance Time: About 1 minute

Reset Time: less than 30 seconds

Angles:

Quality: The cards are well printed. The butterfly is crafted from features is very attractive and real looking.

Dr. Mitch: The story and the props blend well into a beautiful tale of a caterpillars' transformation...however, this is nothing compared to the GREAT REACTION you get when the butterfly appears. It has elicited a gasp every time I have performed this. This is a strong effect, well suited for walk-around and has a startling climax. When the butterfly appears on the spectator's own hand. One poor aspect is the card handling...I am currently working on changing the handling to look a little more casual.

New handling......I think if you use a Rumba Count the handling becomes a lot more flowing and elegant. It also provides a reason for using the person's hands. As you lay down each card, you still need your hands free to do the next Rumba count. So where better to place the card than the spectator's hand. A little experimentation will give you the set-up needed on the cards. Enjoy !

Mike Maione: I haven't spent a lot of time with this trick but enough time to know that it's a hit. And, judging from what the dealers are saying the butterflies are flying off the shelves.

The trick is in essence the same trick as another popular new trick called the Web. The handling for both is pretty much the same. Both require you to be able to perform a flustration count. (Nothing very complex and the instructions explain it if you don't know it.) The difference between the trick is the story, the props, and the reaction you can expect from your spectator. If you perform the Web you know to be prepared for the spectator to jump back violently. That doesn't happen here, instead although the spectator is startled, she smiles in amazement and curiosity.

I'm not so sure it will be very useful for walk-around performers, however. The butterfly is fragile and not easily pocketed, being made of feathers. Still it's a winner.

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