[catonsville]

A truly great performer, who has inspired a whole generation of street magicians.

[weegee]

Funny how people who wouldn't give hustlers or beggars the time of day are perfectly willing to stand dumbfounded watching "street magicians" perform some upclose magic (including giving the spectators back their watches or other personal items).

Distraction is the name of the game and people who are slight of hand can easily pickpocket a distracted viewer.

There isn't much that separates a street magician from the guy who plays 3 card monty or asks for a dollar (to leave you alone). And people want these entertainers close enough to take their watches? You know that they still ask for a tip afterwards. It takes a lot of trust to believe that everyone will get their items back and that there isn't a second "performer" stealing some additional "tips".