Real Magical
The only real jails are those performed by outlaws. All of ours in the theatrical world are arranged in some form or another. The artist is supposed to get out and the outlaws are not to get out. So when an artist is locked up all the human security is called off. There is no one watching and waiting to stop the performer.
If the artist were to do a real get out of jail they would have to outwit all the guards an extra security systems. That’s why study of real jails is very valuable. The outlaws create far more clever ways than the magician as they are truly artists not actors.
The outlaws methods won't work for the artist anymore than the methods of artist would work for the outlaw. I don't tell you to study this subject for their methods but rather for their mind set. The Alcatraz was a brilliant master piece. I am not talking about if they got away or drowned I am talking about the skill to get out of that facility.
It was more than a brilliant plan it was pure genius (and the officials knew it) and it is well worth the study. This is about perfect timing, knowing the facility, planning, patience, daring, deception with sight, sound and more. If you put that much thought into your magical stage act you will be a star.
Here is a tip when reading articles. If a chain and padlock are used to lock the cell there is a good chance the door itself is not locked. Sometimes the article can give you a clue. Does the article say the cell door was locked and a chain and padlock were added or does it read the door was locked by a chain and padlock?
Either way is fine I am just telling you this so you can understand what is going on when reading about it. Believe me many jail tricks are really not a big mystery. They are publicity stunts which are supposed to be exaggerated to create interest in your work. This idea of just doing publicity stunts for press but not having a magic show to market is not for show business it is to fill someone's ego.
-N. Bigelow
