Designer: Clive Allen (aka Mad Jack)
Builder: Mad Jack

The New Age Backstage (aka Mad Jack’s Backstage (with a Magician)) is an updated version of the “Backstage with a Magician” illusion. It was designed by Clive Allen (stage name: Mad Jack).

Here is a letter from Mad Jack describing the history of his illusion:
“I have always loved the classic version of “Backstage With the Magician” but for me it was impractical. To really be convincing, I felt it needed four people – two to handle the boxes, a lady to get into the boxes, and then a fourth person for the surprise finale.

In the fall of 2010, I set about trying to “fix” these issues so that I could perform a new and improved version (for my needs at least) in a Christmas tour. I created a new prop and routine that was much more practical, deceptive, and could be performed with only two people if needed. I call it “The New Age Backstage”. Instead of having two boxes on a base that nest together, my version uses only one box. The box is shown empty and spun around only to have a lovely lady appear inside! The performer then explains that he will let the audience have a “backstage” view and performs the illusion again only this time facing the back curtain. The audience clearly sees the box spun around but then sees the lady climb out the back panel before the box is shown empty. She then re-enters the box and the box is spun around again. However, this time when the box is opened, the lady can either 1) have changed to another person, 2) be seen in the box WITH an additional person or 3) be seen to have vanished (for a two person act)! I posted a video on the Magic Café last year and got unwavering support both in the performance and originality. I have sold some of the plans and rights to other performers and it was built and performed recently by Magic Hall-of-Famer Dick Gustafson.”¹

https://youtu.be/tgW9uDaFtqk

SOURCES
Personal exchanges with Clive Allen and Illusion Repository