From: LaughingEgg-AT-webtv.net (Steve Weber)
Date: Thu, 6 Nov 1997 11:02:04 -0800
Subject: Re: Special effects


Hi Brian,

   One effective way of producing a substantial
puff of smoke is a device that the Muppets first used way back in the
mid-60's.
Begin with a funnel..  cris-cross pieces of
masking tape across the top of the funnel so they resemble the spokes of
a wagon wheel.
Now... attach a suitable length of rubber tubing
that will fit snugly over the spout end of the funnel.
 When you're ready to go,, place a good shake (about a tablespoon) of
baby power (or
unscented talc) inside the top of funnel....
As you blow through the tube, the masking tape
dispurses the powder into a wide pattern..  creating enough of a vail to
effect a transformation or dissapearance.
=====================================A dragon breathing fire can be simulated by
attaching jagged strips of appropriately colored 'china silk' around the
end of a very small and flexible vacuum cleaner hose..and of course your
dragon would have to be constructed with a sizable passage down it's
throat and body to accomodate it.
When an consistant air flow of substantial force is produced, the strips
of china silk will eject
forward through the dragon's open mouth,
rippling and flapping like flames.

This  traditional technique has been used to simulate flickering
fireplaces and burning buildings for many, many years in the theatre.
And it is still considered to be VERY effective
when properly executed. 
                                           
                             Good luck !            

                                                    
                                                   Peace,
                                              Steve Weber       

      


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