Performing Magic on the Western Stage: From the Eighteenth Century to the Present - Hardcover

For centuries, magic has captivated audiences, yet most enthusiasts struggle to understand the deeper cultural forces shaping this ancient art form. You know the tricks, you've studied the techniques—but the rich historical context and social significance behind Western magic performance remains a mystery. This gap leaves collectors, performers, and scholars with an incomplete picture of the craft they love.

This hardcover volume fills that void by examining magic through the lens of performance studies, cultural history, and social practice. More than a simple history book, it reveals how magic intersects with religion, finance, gender roles, and national identity across centuries.

• Deep Cultural Analysis — Explores magic's connections to broader societal structures, showing how magicians reflected and challenged cultural norms from the 18th century through today.
• Historical Span — Traces the evolution from legendary figures like Robert-Houdin to modern icons Penn & Teller, providing a complete narrative arc of Western stage magic.
• Scholarly Authority — Features contributions from multiple academics including Karen Dearborn, Graham M. Jones, Mary Lawlor, and Robert E. Neale, ensuring comprehensive, well-researched content.

"Finally, a book that treats magic with the intellectual seriousness it deserves. This collection illuminates the stage, the street, and everything in between." — The Magician's Monthly

Whether you're a performing magician seeking historical context, an academic studying performance art, or a collector building a serious magic library, this illustrated hardcover belongs on your shelf. With 240 pages of rare insights and 0.7 x 8.3 x 5.5 inch dimensions perfect for display, it delivers the depth you need to elevate your understanding of this mesmerizing art form.

Add this essential volume to your collection today and experience magic as never before.