Scientist who looked to defy Gravity and succeeded.
Eric Laithwaite super conductive engineer
I stumbled a very interesting video today that could, and would lend itself well to a magic routine on levitation, if presented correctly. The video was shot in the early 80's by a pioneer named Eric Laithwaite. His studies of gyro-dynamics, and Gyroscopes with regard to it's clear impact on gravity still spur discussions in the scientific field today. His work with Magnetic power and use also led to his patent of what was called the linear induction motor, also know as the Maglev system used in the high speed rail systems. The Maglev system developed by Eric is literally an anti gravity system, using Magnetic energy. Yes, Eric is the father of the high speed rail propulsion system. Check out this video demonstration of his Anti-gravity Gyroscope at work.
This principle could be incorporated into your Magic routine to show that the effects of Gravity, and weight can be manipulated scientifically, and Magically. You then could go into a series of simple levitations leading to more Grand Levitation's. It could also spur the topic of U.F.O.'s and the principle on how they are thought to levitate. In researching more about Anti-gravity principles I found this unique cut-out sketch of a theoretical U.F.O. design. Take I look at this flying saucer sketch, but while reviewing it let the video you just watched sink in with this saucer concept. "It leaves you thinking, What If? Doesn't it"!
One might utilize these principles, and incorporate the trick: Rotation Of A Floating Human as found here. This principle of magic makes sense if you were to demo the Anti-grav prior to this levitation. As they are both spinning but with the use of magic you are able to slow the rotation and yet still levitate.
Obviously, the power to put together a great levitation type routine for
your stage performance is really limitless this is just a suggestion of how one might proceed. There is countless
directions you can go to help tip the spectators minds towards the realm
of possibility, and further develop your fan's imagination's.
Written by - Jason Ring
