I agree with Hero999, LEDs look too high tech, you want this thing to look simple, plus you'll have to have sockets for whatever you use. One version of the trick uses an Edison logo to make it look like its from the 1900s
I'll draw the schematic and post it here, maybe even on the projects page of my site.
Its almost too simple for a custom PCB but I'll see if I can draw it on a vero-board like Nigel uses in his tutorials. After all the only parts on the PCB would be the PIC, a cap or two, the diode, transistors and a few resistors (yea I'll use a mclr pullup so you can reprogram the thing with maybe even better tricks) all the other parts would be offboard. Batteries, switches & lamps.
Based on how popular this thread appears to be I guess we all still enjoy a magic trick.
Ps wooden box is also a good idea, the more last century it looks the better. You can buy small simple boxes at may dollar stores... (Use the sliding lid on the bottom for the batteries eh)