Back in the mid-Fifties, Bob Carver stirred the pot with a rope routine inspired by Hen Fetsch's ideas. Before snagging the IBM Originality Trophy in 1957, he had to spill the beans on the pure sleight-of-hand behind his creation to the judges. Enter Gene Gordon, who dubbed it Professor's Nightmare, and just like that, we have a classic: three fully examinable ropes of different lengths magically morphing into identical size. It's a gem that just won't quit.
In this video download, you’ll get the chance to watch six distinct performers, each bringing their own flavor to this time-honored effect. Kicking things off is the hilarious Michael Finney, whose routine has been polished through countless nights at comedy clubs. He’s got performance tips that not only simplify the trick but also amp up its impact. Then we have Dan Fleshman with a slick walk-around version that fits seamlessly into any strolling magician's toolkit. Bob Read’s performance serves as a masterclass on how to breathe new life into a classic, while Al Schneider’s take brings the intrigue of this effect right to the close-up table.
Marc DeSouza follows with a stage routine set to music, weaving together ideas that start and finish with a single length of rope. And let’s not forget Dan Tong, who also kicks off with a single piece of rope, takes you through the Professor's Nightmare sequence, and wraps up with a fully restored length—a perfect routine for those larger tables while mingling.
Don’t let anyone fool you into thinking the Professor's Nightmare is just another trick in the toolbox; that’s a rookie mistake. As Michael Finney puts it, "Don't be embarrassed to do it. It's a great trick. The layman loves it...and you'll like it!"
Professor's Nightmare - Michael Finney
Professor's Nightmare - Dan Fleshman
Professor's Nightmare - Bob Read (performance only)
Sold out
