Crafting the Arcane

Crafting the Arcane gives you a clear process for turning ideas into repeatable, audience-ready pieces. It focuses on structure, pacing, and image rather than mystique, so your work feels intentional and your show holds together. Use it to design single routines, then link them into an evening that reads as one story.

Key benefits

• A step-by-step framework for creating original bizarre magic

• Tools to shape character, atmosphere, and the final image the audience remembers

• Worksheets and prompts to plan, test, and refine your material

What you’ll learn

• Plot-driven, character-driven, and object-driven approaches

• How to use ritual, prophecy, and fate as workable structures

• Pacing, transitions, and show flow so pieces sit together naturally

• Simple templates to move from idea to script to performance

Options and upgrades

Choose Softback for everyday use. Choose the Limited Edition Hardback if you prefer a durable, display-worthy copy. A free preview of the introduction and first chapter is available here: Crafting the Arcane Preview

Specs and practicalities

• Format: softback or limited hardback

• Contents: process chapters, examples, and printable worksheets

• Audience: suitable for newcomers and experienced performers

• Language: English

What people are saying about it

“Simon, I LOVE it! This is the ULTIMATE tome on Bizarre magic, and is guaranteed to improve every magician’s performance! It was obviously well thought-through, even taking into account, while describing potential effects, the audience’s emotions, props, music, and lighting! The worksheets at the back of the book will be particularly useful when planning and organizing one’s routines, again, taking much more into account than just the effect, methodology, and props. Bravo, Simon Piercy, I predict that this will become the working Mystery Entertainer’s, as well as the Hobbyist’s bible, for it’s vivid, imaginative, and crucial information. If you’re serious about Bizarre Majick, then this book will be your go-to reference for life, or in this case…for death!”
-Dr. Michael Likey, Ph.D.

“Crafting the Arcane is a much needed introduction and instruction for an oft-misunderstood branch of magic & mystery performance. Whether you’re brand new to Bizarre magic, or an old hand at the Seance table, Crafting the Arcane should be your next stop.”
-Michael Saint