Desert Sands: Preparation and Two Versions

Two Ways to Perform Desert Sands

Borja Montón explains the basics of Desert Sands along with a variation from his own repertoire. The effect combines water that changes appearance with different colored sands that are retrieved dry. The class examines both the preparation and the clarity of what the audience perceives, through testing and step-by-step explanations.

The starting point is a distinction: pulling dry sand out of the water does not make the same impression as first showing a mix and then recovering the separated colors. Borja develops his variation to reinforce that contrast and give meaning to the changes that occur during the routine.

Choosing the Vessel and the Sands

Vessels are compared by shape, size, stability, portability, and visibility. Borja shows a glass bowl and a plastic model with a stand, explains the difficulties he encountered with the curvature, and suggests starting practice with a simple container before deciding on the final setup.

He also compares special sands of different textures, colors, and behaviors. The tests allow you to observe how they fall, the residue they leave behind, and the differences when retrieving them from the water. Making homemade magic sand is mentioned as an experience that did not yield good results; no formula to produce it is taught.

Preparation and Handling of the Classic Version

The explanation covers the prior preparation, the accessories used, and the changes in the water's appearance. Variables that affect the result are discussed, such as temperature, the condition of the materials, and the cleanliness of the utensils. Borja demonstrates tests and adjustments to achieve a visible change and a clear final outcome.

The organization of the table and the towel is part of the handling: the items must be available at the right moment, and the drying gestures must be integrated naturally. The thumb tip is used, though a complete training on this accessory is not covered here.

Borja Montón's Variation

The second proposal incorporates decorative sand and a custom preparation so that the audience can better appreciate the mix before the colors are recovered. The making of a preparation element, the use of a vessel adaptation, and the coordination of the routine's phases are demonstrated.

This is not a version that eliminates all special materials. Borja also explains why he keeps magic sand as a backup in case the preparation fails. Consumables, wear and tear, potential breakages, and what changes when choosing one material over another are discussed.

Visibility is an important condition: the personal variation has limitations if the audience is viewing from above. The class points out when the classic version might be preferable and encourages checking the setup from the spectators' actual viewing angles.

Practice, Cleanup, and Presentation

The work is done with spare water and auxiliary containers so that tests can be repeated. Preparation between shows, material drying, and the management of residue and stains are discussed. The explanation does not amount to a complete stage performance of both versions with script and music; the musical presentation is left as your own adaptation work.

Materials and Prior Experience

You will need a suitable vessel, water, colored sands, the specific products and accessories for the chosen version, preparation utensils, towels, and containers to collect the material. The personal variation adds consumables and a vessel adaptation that you must prepare beforehand. It is helpful to know basic thumb tip handling and to set aside time to practice the phases and check the angles.

The preparation uses irritating chemicals and non-potable water. It requires protection and handling in accordance with the products' safety instructions; the recording does not constitute chemical safety training. The materials are not included, and the brands and prices mentioned correspond to the time of recording.