How to Perform Party Stunts

At dinner parties and luncheons during the 1930’s, a good host was always prepared with a few stunts which would be performed at the table after the meal. A thoughtful guest would also come prepared to perform a stunt or two. Many of these traditional stunts seem old-fashioned today, but others are just as entertaining now as they were so many years ago. Try some of the following the next time you invite guests over.

Instructions

1 Egg in a Bottle Stunt

1. Announce that you are going to insert a hardboiled egg into a milk bottle—without cutting up the egg—and that you will get it back out as well.

2. Light a small piece of newspaper. Drop it into the bottle right away.

3. Immediately place the small end of the egg into the neck of the bottle.

4. Show the guests how it goes down into the bottle.

5. Turn the bottle almost upside down so that the small end of the egg is facing the neck of the bottle.

6. Blow forcefully into the bottle.

7. Turn the bottle completely upside down, and the egg will slide out.

The Endless Thread Stunt

1. Prepare for the stunt before the party by threading a needle, but do not cut the thread—leave it attached to the spool which you will put into the inside pocket of your jacket.

2. Stick the needle through your jacket so that a small piece of thread is hanging out.

3. Remove the needle.

4. At the party, watch for someone looking at the thread and casually say, “Get rid of that for me, please.”

5. Watch in amusement. As the unsuspecting helper pulls on the thread, it will reel out indeterminably.

Shirt Removal Stunt

1. Prepare for the stunt before the party by arranging for an accomplice to help you in this deception. Put a dress shirt on your accomplice, but don’t have him put his arms in the shirt sleeves. Fold the shirt sleeves over the back. Button the top three buttons. Have your accomplice put on a tie

2. Announce to your guests that you will remove a shirt from someone at the party without having the individual take off his jacket. Look around the group as if searching for someone to choose.

3. Ask your accomplice remove his tie and unbutton the top button of his shirt.

4. Pull the shirt up and off from the back of the collar.

5. Watch as your guests gasp in amazement.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a light-hearted attitude when performing stunts.

• Don't reveal your tricks. Mystery is best.