Astounding Illusionist at the Rialto

Astounding Illusionist at the Rialto is a grand illusion story by A Bourreau.

=History=

It was originally posted to Shecky's Illusion Archive in or before October 1999.

=Outline=

The story takes the form of a newspaper review of a new illusion show by the magician Ricciardi. The show consists of six vignettes, which take on an increasingly Grand Guignol air, apparently culminating with the death of one of the magician's stage assistants and the on-stage arrest of the magician. Finally, it is revealed that it has all been part of the show.

=Content=

The story features various substitutions throughout, and performances of:
 * a transformation of a mannequin into one of the magician's assistants;
 * a quadruple performance of a cross between the Mismade and the Zig Zag Girl;
 * a levitation;
 * Impaled;
 * a version of Cheating the Gallows;
 * the Buzzsaw; and
 * the Guillotine

The magician's name Ricciardi references real life magician Richiardi Jr., as do some of the illusions and the manner of their performance.

The author's name references the French word (Bourreau) for executioner or torturer.