There's definitely something to this trick that has endured. The most current version I've seen, is Nana's Necklace. It's gotten very good reviews, and the price tells me that it's been enhanced with gaffs. Even so, there are moves necessary, that don't completely lift it out of the realm of the 'kid' version. I have a set of these in my collection-and like other 'kid tricks', I approach it as seriously as I do my 'adult' tricks. What continues to amaze me, is that countless people-NON MAGICIANS, have NEVER seen these tricks-you know, the ones that are showcased in Marlo's Arcade Dreams. Clearly, these are the first tricks that any magician to be comes in contact with-the first ones to tickle and entice our imaginations. Adult sophistication applied to the same props, can indeed, make for entertaining magic. My audiece is between twenty to mid thirties. The most magic theyv'e seen is on current t.v.-they have not, however seen the tricks I've seen a thousand times-or decided weren't worth showing. Testing out effects on 'lay people', particularly children, I think can be more insightful, than with or on other magicians. So far as Hindu Beads, and the principal-I've seen it done with a wooden ball, locked in a walnut and brass box; another version themed around a block and Houdini; Mephysto Magic came out with a very theatrical version called 'the Skull of Cagliostro'-lots of window dressing on this one, but the m.o. is the same as the original version: simple. Simple enough that the center bead can be threaded as the effect is being performed. Rather than the generic beads that usually come with this trick, exotic ones from a bead store or flea market can be used.
I realize that there's so much magic coming out these days, and appearing on this site for review.- I use plenty of effects from the last five to ten years. Of course ALL effects have a history-and as fascinated as I am by new products, techniques, gimmicks and methods, I still appreciate the simplicity of these older tricks. Along these lines, I've not seen Michael Skinner's version of the ball vase-but it's a perfect example of how a pro took a kid's toy, and made a miracle out of it. Same with Mike Gallo.
What's great about the Hindu Beads, is that it can be done in the spectator's hand-preferably a lady's hand. Once the on the spot threading issue is mastered, this is a fine mystery to perform and no table is needed. Some curious antique beads, a good story, and there it is.