In looking over and comparing notes from some old masters (the study never stops), I’m thinking about plugging a different effect into the opening spot. While the Zener board is quick and clean, I’ve come up with something that is even more direct, instantaneous, and impossible (although maybe not as visual).
I walk out holding a folded card in one hand, point to three different people and have them each call out a number from 1 to 10. I write their numbers on the white board, making a three digit number that everyone can see. I then hand my paper to a fourth spectator, have him open and read the card which says “Three people will make up the number XXX”. Those who have read chapter one of the 13 steps will have an idea how this is done.
I really like Banachek’s method for having a number predicted on a card or paper, even though Corinda doesn’t think much of it. Pencils are easy to come by, and the only maintenance required is an occasional sharpening. However, this effect is so deadly, that I’m about to place another order to the magic shop. I’ve constructed homemade versions that work satisfactorily, but for this to be as clean as I want, I need a “manufactured” version. I’ve been practicing with what I have, but for this, a “C-type” is in order.
Nuff said.