This is the first effect where I actually have someone stand up front next to me. The prop is simply an I.D., but I’ve practiced to the point where the reveal is almost instantaneous. It’s very effective, but the real “power” is in the build up.
I show the deck as the volunteer walks forward, explaining that we’re going to try an experiment in “time travel”. Before the show began, before anyone came into the room, I stood here, alone, and did something very specific to THIS deck of cards.
I have the volunteer take a couple of “deep cleansing” breaths, while I explain briefly about the effect of oxygen changing the pH of the blood, which automatically affects higher brain function. I’ll usually have them take about three deep breaths. (Doing it with them makes it almost impossible for them to resist; mirroring in action!) Then I’ll make a small joke about hyperventilating; this keeps it from getting too serious, while holding them within a cooperative mood.
I then explain that before anyone came in, I took a single card out of the deck and turned it over, and put it back into the deck. I speak slowly, and make a very clear hand gesture as I do this. I ask them to close their eyes, and “see” me, standing in this very room, one hour ago. I am all alone. The tables are here, the chairs are here, but there is no one else present but me. (Seeing the room as it is, sans bodies, seems to be an easy visual, even for those who aren’t visually oriented!)
I’ll repeat this a couple times, and ask them if they can see this within their mind’s eye. Sometimes they’re almost afraid to answer, but I keep my voice level and encouraging. Regardless of the answer, I’ll ultimately “lead” them to seeing me with the cards in my hand, taking out a single card, etc.
Finally, when they indicate (by word or facial expression) that they do, in fact, see the deed, I ask very simply, “What was the card?”
This usually makes them open their eyes and look at me. I’ve only had one person who didn’t immediately have a card ready. In her case, she hesitated for a very long time and finally named the card I had tried to force during Silent Running (More research is warranted!!!)
I give a very visible sigh of relief, and fan the cards, showing the card they name as being the only one reversed. Initially, I pulled this card out and tossed it onto the table, but didn’t really see the advantage, so now I simply pull it out and hold it up. This get a huge applause, and I always shake the person’s hand and ask for more applause for them as they return to their seat.
Two things to note: first, I hold the deck edge even with the audience’s eye level. We’re all on the same floor (they’re seated) so this works. In another venue, my handling might change. After I (intentionally) “remember” to toss the Joker, I have a Jack of Spades and a Queen of Spades that would be visible to anyone who had the right angle. Holding this deck cupped flat between my hands allows me to instantly open the deck whichever way is required, with no “move” needed.
Second, I hold the deck up, fanning it in front of my face. This greatly simplifies targeting, since I need only to spot the correct card and make the break.
This effect is becoming a favorite for me AND for those who see it done!
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