Pick a Card? Not always the best way to go.

Boston Strolling Close-Up Magician

An article addressed to Magicians

So, the concepts I’ve learned are not new… I am sharing my experiences, which agree with the conventional knowledge of magicians through time. However, those who are new to this type of entertainment may discover something “new” to them.

Anyone working for the audiences that count, laymen. Most likely perform an Ambitious Card Routine. Why wouldn’t you? So much magic in a short time. (Yes, please keep it short.)

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Often when performing the Ambitious Card routine for couples, I will follow up with a Signature Fusion Effect. Why not? I am already halfway home as I’ve already got one signed card. All that is required to be done is to get the other side of the card signed, unknowingly to the couple.

The method I use is Shaun McCree’s Second Inkstain, from his excellent two-DVD set… Mix N’ Mingle So with a little extra effort, I have a unique “signature fusion” card to leave with the couple.

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The drawback of performing the Ambitious Card is you will quickly notice the size of the deck diminishes rapidly.

The answer to this problem was simple, carry extra cards. This way, your deck stays intact. (Advice provided by experts since the beginning of time.)

In some tricks, the free choice of a card is paramount. This is not so with the Ambitious Card.

Solution: I carry a bunch of red number cards in a pocket… signatures show up well on a red number card. Signing the card is stronger than the free choice of one. Following this procedure avoids getting bogged down in a selection procedure. I just give them the card. I normally say something like…

” Here’s a card I brought for you. It was sitting in a drawer, collecting dust. Do me a favor, sign your name as big as you can on the face of the card…now I think it’s kind of special…don’t you? (Addressing the boyfriend, they always agree.) Now we’re off to the races.

Simple… Just give them the damn card.