I don't think Teler would have protested his competitor adopting the trick itself (magician interacts with shadow on screen but affecting the physical object casintg the shadow) -- he'd have expected credit ("This trick was invented by Teller") but wouldn't have claimed legal ownership. But Teller should be able own the theatre he creates.
The process would have been, the guy asks for Teller's permission. Maybe Teller grants it, maybe he doesn't. Maybe he sells a license to the guy. Same as with any other theatrical performance. But selling the trick to other people is akin to putting your name on the script to a recent play, running off copies and it and selling them.
This restaurant was advertising breakfast any time. So I ordered french toast in the renaissance. - Steven Wright, comedian