I like the idea of using an illusion to cover up something which is traditionally a staple of illusion shows.
IF he /can/ float though, he's most likley to be part cloud.
I read that as 'a pint per vowel'.
If someone's getting a pint for every vowel they utter, that's going to be a very pissed someone.
Unless they're from New Zealand. Haven't got a vowel to their name, that lot.