Theatre of Magic

Bally 1995

Theatre of Magic is a 1995 pinball machine designed by John Popadiuk. The player assumes the role of a novice magician who must develop his or her skills by performing a variety of stage illusions to become a master magician. It was originally designed as The Magic of David Copperfield, but the name was changed after Bally and Copperfield were unable to reach an agreement concerning the use of his name and likeness.

The most prominent feature on the playfield is the Magic Trunk, which can rotate to show four different sides during play. One side has a hole that can be shot to collect awards and start modes, while another has a magnet that can catch and hold the ball before rotating to drop it into a sinkhole beneath the playfield. This is a case where an “aftermarket” part is better than the original factory part. The trunk was always known for breaking apart from frequent ball hits, but a hobbyist in Germany was able to make an exact replica in an indestructible material that easily outlasts the original.

The playfield was replaced, as were the ramps, plastics, and a very long list of new parts. The metal rails were replated in brass and now look better than new. The bill of materials for this restoration came in at just about $5,000. The cabinet is original and in great shape, with minor touch-ups and clearcoating; the original artwork is preserved to last.

$29,995

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