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Jim Steinmeyer (born November 1, 1958) is an American author, inventor, and designer of magical illusions and theatrical special effects. He holds four US patents in the field of illusion apparatus, including a modern version of the Pepper's Ghost illusion. Steinmeyer has consulted for many famous magicians, including David Copperfield, Doug Henning, Siegfried and Roy, and Lance Burton.
Steinmeyer is also known for his work on Broadway, and received two Drama Desk nominations for his effects in Merlin and Into the Woods. He has also designed illusions for Disney's stage productions of Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and Mary Poppins.
Steinmeyer has written multiple books on the history of magic, including the Los Angeles Times bestseller Hiding the Elephant.