This book was written by a magician for magicians. Jim Ravel knew both fields inside out. Like magic, pickpocketing requires certain skills but there are also secrets that make seemingly impossible steals well within the realm of any performer. Theatrical Pickpocketing contains the applied psychology, step-by-step moves, logical ideas and complete routines necessary to steal watches, wallets, belts, suspenders, cuff-links, neckties and shirts right off a spectator's back. So whether you want to change careers or simply add a couple of screamingly funny moments to your present act, Theatrical Pickpocketing is MUST reading for every working magician or anyone who would like to be.
Contents:
7 Preface
9 Publisher's Note
11 About the Authors
15 Warning
16 Pickpocketing and the Law
19 Pickpocketing through the Years
25 Basic Information
31 Volunteers
31 Selecting Volunteers
33 How Many Volunteers
33 Problem Volunteers
35 Unusual Cirumstances
41 The Pickpocket Act
41 Rehearsing
42 Staging
44 Dressing for the Act
44 Misdirection
45 Using a Microphone
46 Flashing the Goods
51 Getting Caught
52 Protecting Yourself
57 Tricks of the Trade
57 Magic Tricks
57 General Tricks
58 Stage Tricks
59 Close Up Tricks
59 Close Up Pickpocketing
63 Touching
64 Lessons in Touching
71 Watch Steals
71 Buckle Bands
75 Metal Expansion Band Watch
78 Metal Clasp Type Watch
79 Metal Watch Band Routine
79 Ravel's Other Routine
80 More Watch Steals
83 Wallet Steals
84 Million Dollar Wallet Steal
85 Two Million Dollar Wallet Steal
86 Inside Coat Pocket Wallet Steal
93 Stealing Objects from Pockets
93 Front Trouser Pocket
95 Outside Coat Pocket
97 Breast Pocket Steals
103 Stealing Belts and Suspenders
103 Stealing Belts
107 Stealing Suspenders
113 Miscellaneous Steals
113 Stealing a Necktie
116 Stealing Cufflinks
121 The Shirt Steal
127 Additional Information
127 Bits and Pieces
128 Pickpocket Prevention
133 Glossary of Terms
137 Bibliography
