
Blaine's fame as a magician was achieved through high-profile TV specials, starting with Street Magic in 1997. Despite recognition as one of the world's most popular magicians, he has rarely given live performances in a seated venue. Blaine did however, previously perform an evening-length show at the University of Buffalo in April. In that appearance he performed a series of effects while submerged in a tank of water, evidently holding his breath during the 10 minute routine which included producing a live eel from his mouth, juggling, and smoking a cigar. After emerging from underwater Blaine delivered anecdotes about his development as a magician, and performed card magic and other tricks including effects from his recent special such as puncturing his hand with an ice pick. Some of the effects from the underwater portion of the show have also been performed for audiences at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey and Dallas's Winspear Opera House.