Answer:
Because that creates suspense and helps to make the audience feel more thrilled when they see the real trick. You see... the fake trick makes the audience this is it. Like.. this is what the guy is capable of but that is not the truth. So when he performs the real trick, the amazement of the people will be more than the amazement they would have if they had seen the real trick just like that. So.. yeah. It helped to bring more excitement.
The complication of elements in his name, skin color and heritage, with makes the conversation of race harder.
Eyeswitness is mostly a primary source meaning the person was at the event. while a news article will be a secondary source get information from other people.
Their loyalty and hustle for the task. And the brave they show.