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Experience the unexpected with the Balancing Glass on Playing Card trick. Watch as a drinking glass defies gravity, balanced on the edge of a playing card! Learn the Balancing Glass on Playing Card Trick Ready to tip the scales of reality? The Balancing Glass on Playing Card trick is an eye-catching illusion that seems to break the laws of physics. Difficulty: ⭐ Keep reading, and you'll soon be balancing objects like a master, following the step-by-step directions and video instructions below. ​ Why You'll Love This Trick: Gravity-Defying Illusion: Create a visual spectacle that challenges the laws of physics. Everyday Objects: Perform this trick with common items found around the house. Adaptable to Audience: Suitable for both close-up magic and larger gatherings. What the Audience Sees: Effect A drinking glass is balanced on the very edge of a playing card, leaving your audience in awe of this gravity-defying feat. How to Perform the Trick Let's uncover the secret behind this balancing act. What You'll Need: Two playing cards a drinking glass glue. Secret: A second card is folded and glued to the face card, acting as a secret hinge. With a secretly prepared card, you'll create an illusion that's sure to amaze. Ready to learn how? Keep reading! Step By Step Instructions Follow these steps, and you'll be defying gravity in no time! Step 1. Fold a playing card the long way and glue half to the face card. Step 2. Position the glass on the secret hinge. Step 3. Present the illusion, making sure to hide the secret hinge. You're now ready to balance a glass on a playing card. Want to see it in action? Check out the video below! Watch Wasn't that astonishing? Now it's your turn to perform. Keep reading for additional tips and insights! Notes: Here is one final suggestion for making this trick baffling for your audience! Practice your presentation to make the illusion convincing. Hit the ♥️ heart button below if you enjoyed learning this gravity-defying trick. Have any questions or comments? Share them, and let's balance some magical moments together! Magic Tricks to Learn Next: We highly recommend checking out Easy Magic Tricks with Everyday Objects that Anyone Can Do! Floating Ring on Pencil Magic Trick Vanishing Crayons Magic Trick AMAZING Coin Through Balloon Magic Trick ​Ryan Joyce is the Executive Director of the Ontario OWOW Magic Festival. Ryan is a professional magician, entertainer and speaker who has performed over 5000+ shows worldwide . He has appeared on Penn & Teller's Fool Us , Canada's Got Talent and every Canadian national television network. He has over 10+ million views on YouTube, Facebook and social media and is trusted by Fortune 500 companies to deliver world-class performance. Website • Facebook • Instagram

It's time to learn a fun and easy magic trick with paper clips! You don't need any special preparation, which means the trick can be performed " impromptu ." Let's take a look at the linking paper clips and watch the video below. Magic tricks have always fascinated people of all ages, especially children. The excitement of watching something seemingly impossible happen right before your eyes is truly captivating . If you're a beginner magician or a parent of a child who loves magic, this blog post is perfect for you! We'll teach you an easy and fun magic trick called the Linking Paper Clip Magic Trick that you can perform without any special items or props! This trick is perfect to perform at home, office or when you are out with friends! Video: Linking Paper Clips Magic Trick The linking paper clips magic trick can be learned in minutes! Let's learn it! Quick links: The Effect Materials Needed The Secret: Step-By-Step Instructions Alternative Tips & Tricks Conclusion What to Learn Next The Linking Paper Clips Magic Trick The linking paper clips magic trick is one of the first magic tricks that most magicians (including myself) learned because it's straightforward to perform and can be done anytime and anywhere. ✅NO sleight of hand! ✅Uses EVERYDAY Objects! ✅EASY to Learn! ✅AMAZE for your audience! Magicians refer to this style of magic as "impromptu." What the audience sees: The Effect : The magician shows the audience two paper clips, a rubber band and a dollar bill. These items can be borrowed. The magician folds the bill and slides the paper clips and rubber band on the bill. When the magician unfolds the bill, the paper clips instantly link onto each other and the rubber band! It's a great trick to teach the kids and a fun trick you can present around school or at the office. Materials Needed To perform this trick, you'll need the following materials: Two paper clips A rubber band A piece of paper (optional) Let's take a look step-by-step! Step-by-Step Instructions The secret to the linking paper clip magic tricks is how the magician folds the dollar bill and where they place the paper clips. The paper clips and rubber bands are combined when the bill is pulled and linked instantly. Follow these directions to perform the linking paper clip magic trick step-by-step: 1. Prepare the materials Before you begin, you'll need two paper clips, a dollar bill and a rubber band. Medium-sized paper clips and a rubber band that's not too tight or loose will work best for this trick. 2. Attach the rubber band Thread the rubber band just off the center of the bill, as shown below. 3. Fold the bill in half Fold the bill slightly off-center. 4. Add the paper clips Take the first paper clip and attach it to the first folded bill. Fold the bill over the first paper clip. Then, attach the second paper clip to the rubber band, facing the opposite direction. 5. Perform the trick Hold the ends of the bill before your audience, ensuring they can clearly see the two separate paper clips. Slowly pull the bill ends further apart with your hands, and the paper clips will link to the rubber band. Be sure to practice this movement to make it look smooth and effortless. 6. Reveal the linked paper clips Once the paper clips appear to be linked together, show your audience the final result. They'll be amazed at how the paper clips have magically linked together! 7. Practice and refine the trick Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice this trick, the more convincing and engaging it will become. Linking Paper Clips & Rubber Band Alternative You can perform this trick with only two paper clips and a dollar bill. The difference is that instead of the paper clips linking onto the rubber band, they will fly into the air and become linked. This fun alternative looks just as magical. Here's a tip for performing this magic trick without the rubber band. Don't pull too hard when unfolding the bill. Too much force will cause the paper clips to fly into the air and possibly rip the bill. Be gentle and use light force to link the paper clips together. Tips and Tricks Here are a few tips and suggestions for presenting this fantastic Linking Paper Clip Magic Trick: Always borrow the objects when possible - if you can borrow the paper clips or bills, it will increase your spectator's amazement because they know they are ordinary. Use large or jumbo paperclips - this will help make the magic more visible and easier to see but won't impact the magic trick in any way. You can use any paper - this doesn't need to be a dollar bill, it can be any piece of paper, but we recommend trimming to the size close to a bill. Be colorful - Use different colored paper clips and elastic to add a visual element to the trick Focus on your presentation - Tell a story or create a narrative around the trick to engage your audience Always practice before - don't show a piece of magic to a friend or spectator unless you have practiced and perfected the trick. Involve your audience - Incorporate audience participation by asking a volunteer to hold the rubber band or paper clips Conclusion The linking paper clip trick is an excellent piece of magic that every beginner magician should learn because it's easy to perform and can be performed anywhere. Knowing this trick will help give you the confidence to perform and present magic to your friends at school or the office. It also helps to learn the basics of impromptu magic, which can be done anywhere with borrowed objects. Now that you know the steps to perform the Linking Paper Clip Magic Trick, it's time to practice and have fun with it! Don't forget to try other beginner-friendly magic tricks to expand your repertoire. We'd love to hear about your experiences and any tips you've discovered in the comments section below. Happy magic-making ! That's It! Did you enjoy this magic trick? Hit the ❤️ button below and share any questions or comments. Don't miss these other magic tricks and articles we think you'll love! What to Learn Next: Are you looking for other easy magic tricks? Here are our recommendations. AMAZING! Coin Through Balloon Magic Trick! 5 Easy Pencil Magic Tricks Anyone Can Do! Vanishing Crayons Magic Trick ​ Ryan Joyce is a professional magician, entertainer and speaker who has performed over 5000+ shows worldwide . Ryan is the Executive Director of the Ontario OWOW Magic Festival . He has appeared on Penn & Teller's Fool Us , Canada's Got Talent and every Canadian national television network. He has over 10+ million views on YouTube, Facebook and social media and is trusted by Fortune 500 companies to deliver world-class performance. Website • Facebook • Instagram

Do you want to learn how to palm a coin? Classic Palming is a sleight-of-hand trick that can make it seem like a coin, ball, or other object has disappeared into thin air. This is a great place to start if you want to pull off some fun magic tricks that will wow your friends and family. But before you get started with Classic Palming, it's essential to understand the basics. To classic palm, a coin or small object, magicians use sleight of hand techniques to secretly hide the thing in their palm by manipulating the position of their fingers and hand muscles to hold the object secretly. To the audience, it appears that it's completely vanished! Palming allows a magician to secretly hold a coin in their hand while showing the audience that their hand is "empty." The muscles of your thumb and fingers grip the object secretly from the audience's view. This grip gives the magician some hand function and natural movements. Magicians use this trick to create false impressions of their actions, such as making a spectator's borrowed coin disappear and reappear. Let's take a look at how to palm a coin. In this article, we'll cover these topics for palming a coin: What's the best palming coin? Where to place the coin in your palm What pressures hold the palmed coin? How to display your hands empty? VIDEO: Classic Palm Tips & Suggestions for coin palms Conclusion How to palm a coin or small object Palming coins or making coins seemingly appear from nowhere is a useful sleight-of-hand technique that will provide unlimited opportunities to entertain friends, family, and coworkers. Here are the steps to palming a coin with The Classic Palm . Step 1: Selecting A Coin When just starting, choose a larger coin like a half-dollar or fifty-cent piece. Holding the larger coin will make your hand look more natural as you palm a smaller coin. Only use a quarter if your hands are tiny. Step 2: Placement Place a coin in the base of your palm. This area can clutch and hold a coin in place when the hand muscles contract. Curl your fingers into your palm or turn it, so your palm faces down when you make a fist to hide the coin from view. Step 3: Pressure To hide a coin in your hand, press it into the palm of your hand, then contract your thumb muscle by bringing your thumb closer to the center of your hand. Hold your hand facing down, and you should be able to conceal the coin from the audience's view. Practice will help you perfect this skill until the sleight of your hand becomes so natural that it is hard for anyone to detect that you are concealing a coin in your hand. Step 4: Display Your Hand Empty It's easy to show how empty your hand is while keeping a coin hidden in your palm. Just wiggle your fingers and show them you don't have anything in your hand. The wiggle should be subtle, not overdone. VIDEO: How To Classic Palm A Coin Here's a step-by-step video showing how to palm a coin or small object. Tips & Suggestions. Classic Palming is the name given to a particular sleight-of-hand technique used in magic by magicians. Here are a few tips: Bigger coins are easier to palm. The size of the coin chosen for this trick is important. The smaller the coin, the more difficult it will be for the magician to pull off the trick without being caught. A larger coin will be easier to palm and manipulate in one's hands, making this trick much easier. Learn with your dominant hand Everyone has slightly different hand sizes, shapes, and dexterity levels. You'll need to find your positioning for this move. Start by learning with your dominant hand, then try it out with your non-dominant hand. Make a fist with your fingers, then open your hand while keeping your fingers together. Then place the coin in the center of your palm. Directly below the middle finger, fold your fingers into a fist again. Your thumb should be resting on top of the coin. Move your thumb toward your palm and grip the coin by squeezing the thumb and small finger muscles. You should be able to hold the coin freely and have natural looking posture. Practice gripping and releasing the coin to get used to moving it in and out of sight quickly. Now try it with your non-dominant hand so you can be ambidextrous! Practice makes perfect You need to be able to hide an object in your hand without anyone noticing. You'll need to practice this so your hand looks relaxed and natural. You'll also learn how big an object you can palm. You can get away with almost anything with the right misdirection and practice. Classic Palm Exercises There's no shortage of tips, tricks, and gimmicks to help you perfect your palming technique. But sometimes, it's the simplest things that work the best. For example, one trick I've used to help build up my grip strength is simply using a staple remover with my pinky finger. This forces me to develop the muscles I need for palming and helps me get used to using my pinky. You can also try to lift a small rock or object off a table without touching it. Like anything, palming coins takes practice. The first step is getting used to the technique. I found a Theory11 forum post with good ideas: Here are the main takeaways: Smooth coins may be easier to grip than grooved ones. Coins will be easier to palm if placed deeper into the palm. You can achieve that by pressing a little harder with your fingers. To build strength, try palming more than one coin at a time! If you've already mastered coin palming, consider learning advanced moves like the muscle pass or finger twirl. Purchasing Palming Coins Magicians have special coins for palming. These are usually made of lighter metal and larger than standard coins. They are thinner, so griping them with your fingers is easier. Many stage performers and manipulators use palming coins on stage because they are more visible to the audience and easier for the magician to manipulate. Conclusion Learning to palm a coin is essential for magicians of all skill levels. There are many other tricks and magic secrets to learn and practice but don't overwhelm yourself and start with the basics. Once you've mastered palming a coin, you can move to more advanced tricks, sleights or even larger palm-sized objects. Always remember: practice makes perfect! The basics of palming a coin are easy to learn. The Classic Palm is done by hiding a coin or other small object in the palm of the magician one's hand so that the hand appears empty. When palming is done correctly, it should seem like nothing is in hand. The magician can then appear to show it is empty before reaching into their pocket or behind someone's ear and producing the coin. Practice your palming magic regularly and make it an everyday sleight-of-hand routine. The more you do it, the better you'll get. Did this article help you learn how to palm a coin? Hit the ♥️ and share any questions or comments below. Another great vanish to learn is the French Drop, it's an excellent sleight!

Here's an easy piece of magic that will SHOCK your audience! It uses a coin, a jar and a few other everyday objects and can be learned in minutes. Watch Now! Coin Through Balloon Magic Trick This piece of magic can be performed without any sleight of hand and has three unique benefits: It's EASY to learn for magicians of all ages It's a mind-blowing magic trick your audience will love It has a GREAT SOUND that adds a strong impact as the magic happens! Next, let's take a look at the coin through the balloon effect. The Effect A magician shows a drinking glass or jar with a piece of rubber over the opening. Resting on top are two coins. The magician asks a volunteer to name either "heads" or "tails." The selected coin is pushed into the glass, passing solid through solid. No holes or secret openings! Watch the Coin Through Balloon Trick: Supplies You'll Need Here are the basic supplies you'll need to perform this magic trick: Clear Latex Rubber Balloon Scissors Rubber Band Two Coins Empty Jar or Drinking Glass Playing Card The Secret Before the trick begins, one of the coins is secretly pushed firmly into the clear latex balloon. The naked eye can't see the stretched transparent latex over the quarter, which appears to be resting on top. Preparing The Trick With a pair of scissors, cut off the end of the balloon and discard the trimmed piece. Place the quarter tails side up in the centre of the balloon. Press the coin firmly into the latex until the rubber looks invisible and the tension holds the quarter in place. Cover the jar's opening with the latex balloon and hold it in place with a rubber band. Place a penny heads side up and slide a tiny part underneath the edge of the quarter. This will add to the deceptiveness. Cover both with a playing card. Performing the Trick Step-By-Step Bring out the jar with both coins covered with a playing card. Tell your volunteer, "Under the playing cards are two coins." Remove the playing card and ask your volunteer to " choose heads or tails. " If they say heads, you say, " Great! We'll remove the penny. " If they say, tails say, " Great! We'll use the quarter. " This is a powerful mentalism secret called equivoque. Now, all that's left is to push the quarter into the jar! Watch The Full Instructions Did you enjoy this magic trick? Hit the heart button below and tell us in the comments if you will perform the coin through a balloon magic trick! What to Read Next: 20 Easy Magic Tricks with Everyday Objects Anyone Can Do Jumping Rubber Band Magic Trick: Amazing Leap of Fun! Balancing Glass on Playing Card: A Gravity-Defying Illusion!

Have you ever watched a magician or mentalist perform and wondered how they could read minds or predict the future? Mentalism is a fascinating and mysterious practice that uses psychology, deception, and showmanship to create the illusion of supernatural abilities. But don't be fooled anyone can learn mentalism. Let's dive in! Learn Magic Tricks Now: Beginners Guide to Learning Mentalism With the right knowledge and practice, anyone can learn the basics of mentalism and start impressing their friends and family with mind-bending tricks. In this beginner's guide, we'll unlock the secrets of mentalism and explore the techniques and principles behind this captivating art form, from reading body language to mastering the art of suggestion. You'll learn everything you need to know to start your journey into the world of mentalism. Here are the topics covered in this mentalism guide: Table of Contents What is Mentalism? Brief History of Mentalism Who was the First Known Mentalist? List of Famous Mentalists Mentalism vs. Magic Tools of the Trade 15 Popular Mentalist Tricks Conclusion What is Mentalism? Mentalism is a performance art that revolves around the apparent manipulation of thoughts, predictions, and other psychological phenomena to amaze and bewilder audiences. Unlike traditional magic tricks, which focus on sleight of hand, visual illusions, or physical feats, mentalism delves into the realm of the mind. Mentalism explores the boundaries of human perception, intuition, and suggestion. The key difference between magic tricks and mentalism lies in the presentation and the audience's experience. My Experience with Mentalism Having honed my craft for over 30 years, I've had the privilege of captivating audiences across the globe as a magician, illusionist, and hypnotist. From dazzling corporate events to thrilling theatrical productions, I've witnessed firsthand the power of mentalism to enthrall and mystify. Mentalism can be very strong. I've performed in almost every type of venue and event imaginable and now work prominently on cruise ships, where mentalism has become a cornerstone of my show. As a kid, I was inspired by legends like Max Maven , James Randi , and Jeff and Tessa Evason . In fact, some of my career's most memorable and impactful moments stem from the principles and techniques that I'll discuss in this post. There's a lot to cover, so let's dive in! Understanding the Basics of Mentalism While magic tricks aim to create a visual spectacle, mentalism seeks to tap into the audience's innermost thoughts  and emotions, often leaving them questioning the limits of their cognitive abilities. READ: 10 Lessons of Mentalism from Max Maven Mentalists employ techniques such as cold reading, power of suggestion, and psychological manipulation to create seemingly impossible demonstrations of mind reading, telepathy, and clairvoyance. The result is a unique and enthralling performance art. Mentalists use many magician techniques, sleights, and methods with a significant focus on psychology. Here are some of the techniques. Explanation of the Key Principles Underlying Mentalism At its core, mentalism is the art of understanding and manipulating perceptions to give the impression of supernatural control over others' thoughts and actions. Mentalism operates on several key principles: Perception : Mentalism largely controls how others perceive you and the situation. By presenting yourself confidently and understanding the context, you can guide people's thoughts and actions the way the mentalist desires. Observation : A keen eye for detail is crucial in mentalism. This means picking up on non-verbal cues, reactions, and seemingly minor details others may overlook. Influence : You can influence people's thoughts and responses by carefully steering conversations and asking the right questions. Psychology : Understanding basic human psychology, emotions, and motivations is vital to effective mentalism. It helps you understand why people think and act the way they do. Integration of Magic : Mentalism often incorporates elements of magic secrets and time-tested magician’s tricks. Mentalists combine the secrets of the art of magic with psychological principles to create illusions of mind-reading and thought control. These techniques can steer people's attention, create convincing diversions, and manipulate perceptions to achieve a desired outcome. Distinguishing Mentalism from Psychic Abilities Though they might appear similar, mentalism differs from psychic abilities. Psychic abilities are often perceived as supernatural or metaphysical phenomena, whereas mentalism is a skill that can be learned and perfected over time. Mentalism leverages principles from psychology, social science, and human behavior rather than claiming access to mystical forces. The Science Behind Mentalism: Cognitive Psychology and Perception Mentalism has firm roots in cognitive psychology – the study of mental processes like "perception," "memory," "judgment," and "problem-solving." Mentalists use their knowledge of how people perceive the world, combined with stagecraft, showmanship, and the fundamentals of the art of magic, to influence their thoughts. They leverage biases and shortcuts in human thinking (heuristics) to predict and manipulate responses. Skills of a Mentalist Becoming a mentalist requires the development of a specific set of skills, including: Observation Skills : These help notice subtle non-verbal cues that others may miss. These cues can reveal a person's thoughts and feelings, allowing a mentalist to "read" them. Cold Reading : This is the ability to make accurate guesses about a person based on their behavior, appearance, body language, etc. It's about making high-probability guesses and making them sound impressively accurate. Hot Reading : This involves using previously known information about a person to make it seem like you've intuitively understood it. Misdirection : This technique controls people's attention and guides them towards or away from certain thoughts or actions. Psychological Manipulation : A mentalist uses persuasive techniques to subtly steer a person's thoughts or decisions. Memory Enhancement Techniques : Mentalists often use techniques like the "method of loci" to enhance their memory, allowing them to recall vast amounts of information that can impress and confound others. You can embark on the fascinating journey of learning mentalism by understanding and honing these skills and principles. The Art of Reading Body Language Importance of Body Language in Mentalism Body language is a critical component of mentalism. Our bodies often reveal what our words do not. As a mentalist, understanding how to decode body language can give you deep insights into people's thoughts and emotions and allow you to predict or influence their actions more accurately. Basic Tips to Read and Interpret Body Language Accurately Here are some fundamental tips to help you start reading and interpreting body language effectively: Facial Expressions : They are often the most apparent form of body language. Pay attention to people's eyes, eyebrows, and lips. Are their eyes darting around nervously, or are they making steady eye contact? Are their lips pressed together in frustration, or are they smiling genuinely? Posture : A person's posture can tell much about their attitude and self-esteem. Someone standing tall with their shoulders back typically feels confident, while slouching might indicate insecurity or discomfort. Gestures : Watch for common gestures, such as crossed arms (which might indicate defensiveness) or fidgeting (which could suggest nervousness). Proximity : How close a person is to you or others can give you clues about their comfort level and relationships. Remember, it's essential to consider the context while interpreting these signs. Different cultures and individual habits can change the meaning of specific body language cues. How to Practice Observing Body Language in Day-to-Day Life Reading body language is a skill that requires practice. Here are a few ways you can work on improving this skill: People Watching : Spend time in public places like parks or cafes and observe how people interact. Pay attention to their body language and guess what they might be thinking or feeling. Self-awareness : Pay attention to your body language. Are you crossing your arms without realizing it? What does that say about your emotional state? Active Listening : When talking to someone, try to focus on their body language as much as their words. Over time, you'll begin to notice patterns and get better at reading people. Reading and Learning : Many great books and online resources on body language exist. Learn from these sources and apply the knowledge in your daily interactions. By mastering the art of reading body language, you'll be one step closer to becoming a proficient mentalist. The Power of Cold Reading Definition and Explanation of Cold Reading Cold reading is a powerful technique mentalists use to give the illusion of knowing intimate details about a person without prior knowledge. It involves making calculated guesses based on observing body language, attire, age, ethnicity, gender, and other visible cues. Techniques Used in Cold Reading Some effective cold reading techniques include: The Barnum Effect : Making broad and vague statements that could apply to many people but are often perceived as uniquely applicable by individuals. Shotgunning : Making numerous guesses quickly, hoping some will hit the mark. Rainbow Ruse : Making a statement that credits the person with a personality trait and its opposite. For instance, "You can be both introverted and extroverted depending on the situation." Real-Life Examples and Applications of Cold Reading Cold reading can be seen in various scenarios, from tarot card reading and psychic predictions to personality assessments and sales tactics. When used ethically, it can be quite impactful for building connections and better-understanding people. Mastering the Art of Hot Reading Definition and Explanation of Hot Reading In contrast to cold reading, hot reading involves using prior knowledge about a person to create the illusion of a mentalist's supernatural insight. This information can come from a variety of sources: prior conversations, research, shared acquaintances, or even information inadvertently revealed by the person during your interaction. How to Collect and Use Information in Hot Reading For effective hot reading, gathering as much information as possible without raising suspicion is crucial. This might involve careful listening, discreet questioning, or in-depth research for professional mentalists. The art lies in using this information subtly without making it obvious that it was previously known. Ethical Considerations When Using Hot Reading While hot reading can be a powerful tool, it is crucial to use it responsibly and ethically. Using personal information without consent can breach trust and damage relationships. It's important for practicing mentalists to respect boundaries, maintain confidentiality, and always use their skills to create a positive, enlightening experience for the individuals involved. Effective Techniques for Mental Manipulation and Influence Overview of Persuasion and Influence Techniques Used in Mentalism Mentalists subtly guide people's thoughts and decisions using persuasion techniques and influence. These techniques often draw from established psychological principles and human behavior patterns. Some of these methods include: Suggestion : Involves planting an idea or thought in someone's mind through subtle cues or statements. Anchoring : This technique associates a particular response with a specific stimulus, which can be activated to elicit the desired response. Mirroring : By mirroring someone's actions or language, a mentalist can build trust and rapport, making the person more susceptible to influence. Social Proof : People tend to conform to what others are doing. Using this principle, a mentalist can steer a person's thoughts or actions. Explanation of How These Techniques Can Help in Reading Minds While it might not be actual "mind reading," these influence techniques can help mentalists predict or guide a person's thoughts. A mentalist can accurately anticipate their responses by understanding how people typically react in certain situations or to specific stimuli. Moreover, by subtly influencing a person's thoughts, a mentalist can create the illusion of being able to control or predict those thoughts. Steps to Responsibly and Ethically Apply These Techniques Like hot reading, these influence techniques can be potent, so they should be used responsibly and ethically. Here are a few guidelines: Respect Personal Boundaries : Do not use these techniques to intrude into someone's personal life or to manipulate them for selfish reasons. Obtain Consent : When possible, inform people that you're practicing mentalism and obtain their consent before trying these techniques. Be Transparent : Before performing any mentalism routines, it's wise to disclose to your audience that you don't purport to possess psychic abilities to maintain integrity and avoid misunderstandings. This approach not only cultivates transparency but also promotes a greater appreciation for the skill and technique involved in the performance. Use for Good : Aim to use your mentalism skills to entertain, enlighten, or improve people's lives. Never use them to take advantage or harm others. With these guidelines in mind, the art of mental manipulation and influence can be a valuable tool in your mentalism repertoire. Practicing Mentalism: A Beginner’s Exercise Guide Simple Exercises and Drills to Start Practicing Mentalism Skills A good mentalist relies on many skills outside of the art of magic that, when combined together, create a mind-blowing experience for the audience. If you want to be a successful mentalist, you have to sharpen these skills. Here are a few exercises you can start with to build your mentalism skills: Observation Drills : Try people-watching at a park or café. Practice observing their body language, facial expressions, and gestures. See if you can guess their mood or what they might be talking about. Memory Enhancement : To improve your recall abilities, start practicing memory techniques, like the loci or peg method. Try remembering lists of items, sequences of numbers, or conversation details. Cold Reading Practice : With friends or family (with their consent), try to use the principles of cold reading to make accurate guesses about them. Influence Techniques : Experiment with subtle persuasion and influence techniques like suggestion or mirroring in your day-to-day interactions. Tips on How to Progress and Improve Over Time To hone your mentalism skills over time: Stay Consistent : Perform as often as you can. Regular practice in front of an audience (no matter the size) is crucial. Seek Feedback : Record your shows. After trying a new routine review, set your ego aside. Ask for feedback from another magician or someone you trust. What worked well? What could be improved? Continue Learning : There's always more to learn in mentalism. Read books, watch performances, and learn from experienced mentalists. Test Yourself : Push your boundaries by trying more complex exercises or performing in front of larger audiences. Common Pitfalls and Mistakes to Avoid When Practicing As you embark on your mentalism journey, beware of these common mistakes: Expecting Instant Mastery : Mentalism is a complex skill that takes time to master. Don't get discouraged if progress is slow. Neglecting Ethics : Always remember the ethical guidelines of mentalism. Never use your skills to manipulate or deceive in harmful ways. Overcomplicating Things : The simplest explanations or techniques are often the most effective. Don't get lost in complexity. By following these steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can steadily improve your mentalism skills and become a proficient mind reader. History of Mentalism Mentalism, a performing art that has captivated audiences for centuries, dates back to the late 16th century. During this period, Girolamo Scotto, the first known mentalist, emerged, mesmerizing spectators with his remarkable card manipulation and telepathy skills. Born in Italy, Scotto's talent quickly garnered attention, leading him to perform for notable figures such as Archduke Ferdinand II and possibly even Queen Elizabeth I. As mentalism gained traction, the 18th and 19th centuries witnessed the rise of spiritualism and mediumship, with performers like the Davenport Brothers and Daniel Dunglas Home claiming supernatural powers. However, Harry Houdini's relentless debunking of fraudulent mediums helped distinguish mentalism as a separate art form, emphasizing psychology and suggestion over claims of paranormal abilities. In the 20th century, mentalism continued to evolve as master practitioners like Theodore Annemann and Joseph Dunninger refined techniques and incorporated new elements such as hypnosis and cold reading. Television brought mentalism to a broader audience, with performers like Kreskin and Derren Brown captivating millions with their mind-reading feats and psychological illusions. Mentalism is a thriving art form today, with performers worldwide showcasing their talents on stage and screen. From its humble beginnings with Girolamo Scotto to the present-day masters, the history of mentalism is a testament to the power of the human mind and our enduring fascination with the seemingly inexplicable. The First Known Mentalist Girolamo Scotto, also known as Hieronymus Scotto, was an Italian magician, juggler, and mentalist active in the late 16th century. He was born in an unknown location and year. Still, his earliest recorded association was in 1569 with Archduke Ferdinand II, Regent of the Tyrol, for whom he performed in 1572. Scotto was one of the first known mentalists, and he travelled Europe performing his mentalism acts. He was also a clever card manipulator and a capable telepathist. Some famous people of that era include Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo Buonarroti, William Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth I, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, and Christopher Columbus. Scotto was mentioned in literature by Thomas Nash and King James I and may have performed for Queen Elizabeth I of England. "Scotto that did juggling tricks here before the Queen." He was one of the famous people of his era who contributed to developing magic and mentalism. The sculptor Antonio Abondio produced a medal with his image in 1580, making it one of the first portraits of a known magician. Nothing further is known of Scotto after 1602, but he was inducted into the Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame and Magic Museum. Source: https://geniimagazine.com/wiki/index.php?title=Girolamo_Scoto Popular Mentalists Here's a list of famous mentalists: Max Maven - An American mentalist and magician, Max Maven was a prominent figure in the world of mentalism for decades. He was known for his innovative techniques and engaging stage presence. Banachek - Born Steven Shaw, Banachek is a British-American mentalist renowned for his mind-reading abilities and unique performances. He has also worked as a consultant for other magicians and mentalists. Keith Barry - An Irish mentalist, hypnotist, and magician, Keith Barry has gained fame for his impressive stage shows and television appearances. He has even worked as a consultant for blockbuster films like "Now You See Me." Guy Bavli - An Israeli mentalist and illusionist, Guy Bavli has been performing since a young age and is known for his interactive stage shows and telekinesis demonstrations. David Berglas - A British mentalist, magician, and author, David Berglas is a legendary figure in the world of mentalism. He is known for creating the "Berglas Effect," a card trick that has puzzled magicians for years. Derren Brown - A famous British mentalist, is known for his mind-blowing stage shows, television appearances, and best-selling books. Brown's unique blend of psychology, misdirection, and showmanship has earned him international acclaim. Richard Osterlind is an American mentalist, author, speaker, and teacher of magic and mentalism. He has performed for major corporations for over 35 years and has appeared at luxury resorts worldwide. Osterlind has published 16 books and 25 instructional DVDs on mentalism and is considered one of the leading teachers of the art. These mentalists have contributed significantly to the art of mentalism and have inspired countless performers worldwide. Their innovative techniques and captivating performances continue to amaze audiences and push the boundaries of what is possible in mentalism. Mentalism vs. Magic Mentalism is a form of entertainment that creates illusions in the mind by using fundamental secrets and magic principles combined with the power of suggestion and psychology. It can be used as an independent performance, or it can be incorporated into a magic show. Mentalists often use props such as cards, coins, dice, and other objects familiar to their audience. They may also employ several different types of mentalist techniques, including cold reading (using information about people gathered beforehand), hot reading (using knowledge gained during an interaction), blindfold work (wherein performers guess what others are thinking), the power of suggestion (influencing someone's ideas or memory) and more. Magicians use similar techniques but typically involve more elaborate props than mentalists. Illusionists use large stage props that often involve people or objects. Tools of the Trade The tools of the trade for a mentalist are simple and easy to obtain. The most common tools are: Playing cards - These can be used in many different ways, but they're usually used in card tricks and predictions. They're also versatile because they can be easily hidden or disguised as something else (like an origami crane). ESP Cards - These cards typically feature five symbols (a circle, square, star, cross, and wavy lines) and test for extrasensory perception or the ability to read someone's thoughts. A participant is asked to choose a card randomly, and the mentalist attempts to guess which symbol they selected. Mobile Phones - With the rise of technology, mobile phones have become handy tools for mentalists. Mentalists can use apps to know secret information, messages or cue words. Billets & Notepads - Notepads are valuable tools for mentalists, as they can be used for various purposes during performances. They can be employed to write predictions, list audience members' thoughts, or even serve as a secret method for mind reading and telepathy. Envelopes - Envelopes can be used in various ways, such as predicting a participant's choice or revealing a secret message. They can be pre-sealed or even handed out to the audience for inspection before being used. Blindfolds - Blindfolds are often used in feats of psychometry, where a performer can read information from an object by touching or holding it. The blindfold helps the audience believe that any visual cues that might give away the answer are eliminated. Chalkboards - Chalkboards can be used for various mentalism tricks, such as mind-reading or predicting a participant's drawing. They allow for a visible display of the mentalist's predictions and can add an element of drama to the performance. Books, Newspapers and Magazines - These can be used for book tests, where a participant selects a passage randomly, and the mentalist can reveal information about the reading. They can also be used for prediction tricks, where a specific word or phrase is chosen ahead of time and revealed to the audience through a book or magazine. Dice - Dice is another versatile tool that can be used in many different ways depending on what kind of trick you want to perform. For example, if you're going to predict someone's future or find out their thoughts about something specific, then dice would be appropriate because they allow you more freedom when choosing numbers than other methods would offer, such as drawing from a hat or pulling cards out at random from an ordinary deck of playing cards. Chests & Locked Boxes - Locked boxes, chests, and other "props" can be used for prediction tricks or as a dramatic reveal at the end of a performance. The performer can claim to have predicted the contents of the box or chest ahead of time and reveal the prediction to the audience at the end of the show. Popular Mentalist Tricks Have you ever been captivated by how a mentalist can toss out a deck of cards and accurately predict the cards chosen by multiple audience members? Or have you ever been amazed by a mentalist predicting a newspaper headline days in advance? These and many more fascinating feats are staples in the repertoire of accomplished mentalists. In our dedicated blog post titled "15 Popular Mentalism Tricks," we unravel the mystery behind the most popular feats of mentalism. Click the link below for our in-depth blog post, "15 Popular Mentalism Tricks." Read: "15 Popular Mentalism Tricks" Remember, knowledge is the key to mastery. By understanding how these tricks work, you're not just learning to perform them. You're embarking on a thrilling journey into the heart of mentalism itself. So, prepare to amaze, inspire, and leave your mark. The world of mentalism awaits! Conclusion The journey of learning mentalism is a fascinating and fulfilling one. From understanding the basic principles, decoding body language, and practicing cold and hot reading combined with traditional techniques used by magicians for centuries, mentalism creates a unique sense of mystery and intrigue. Something is amazing about having the ability to 'read minds.' It's a journey that demands patience, practice, and a deep respect for the art and the people involved. Remember, the magic of mentalism lies not in supernatural powers but in the extraordinary power of human connection and understanding. Welcome to the exciting world of mentalism. The mind awaits! Engage With Us! We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive introduction to the captivating world of mentalism. If you found this post helpful and enjoyed it, please show your appreciation by clicking the ♥️ heart button below. Your support means a lot to us. Also, don't forget to delve deeper into our blog. What to Read Next 10 Lessons from the Legendary Mentalist Max Maven 13 Steps to Mentalism (COMING SOON) 15 Popular Mentalism Tricks (COMING SOON) ​​ Ryan Joyce is a professional magician, entertainer, and speaker who has performed over 6000+ shows worldwide . Ryan is the Executive Director of the Ontario OWOW Magic Festival . He has appeared on Penn & Teller's Fool Us , Canada's Got Talent, and every Canadian national television network. He has over 10+ million views on YouTube, Facebook, and social media and is trusted by Fortune 500 companies to deliver world-class performance. Website • Facebook • Instagram

Master the slip force card trick to force a preselected card secretly! This essential card force is one of the most versatile card-handling techniques with unlimited possibilities to amaze your audience! What is the Slip Force Card Trick? The slip force is a classic card trick force that allows a magician to seemingly give a spectator a free choice of a card while, in reality, forcing them to choose a predetermined card. It is also sometimes referred to as a "Backslip Force." This is one of my favorite card forces, and I know you'll love it too! Here is how the slip force works: The magician starts with a deck of cards that has been set up in advance. A specific card (e.g. the 7 of clubs) is placed on the top of the deck. The magician riffles through the cards and gives the spectator a free choice to call "stop" at any time. As the deck is separated at their selection, the forced card is secretly "slipped" onto the selection. The spectator takes the pre-selected card and is revealed as their seemingly "free selection." The slip force relies on simple movements, psychology, and misdirection to force a card. When done well, it looks like a completely free choice. It's a powerful technique for card magicians to control selections. Let's learn it step-by-step! Jump to the tutorial . History and Origins The Slip Force is a cool card trick that's been around for a long time. It started way back around 1700 with a trick in a book called “ The Asti Manuscript.” This trick was about changing one card into another. Later, in 1912, a magician named Ellis Stanyon showed a new way to do it in his magazine. He used a knife to pick a card! Then, in 1913, another magician, Val Evans, said he had a new way to do the Slip Force in a magazine called The Sphinx . In 1933, Victor Farelli changed it a bit and used it in a different trick. And then, in the 1970s and 1990s, more magicians like Gary Kurtz and Marc Delahousse added their own cool touches to the force. There's even a way to do the Slip Force with one hand, which was shown by Eddie Joseph in 1941 and T. Page Wright in 1991. Bruce Cervon added a neat twist in 1972 by flipping the card over as it slides out. So, the Slip Force has been around for ages, and many magicians have made it even better over time! 🃏✨ Reference: https://www.conjuringcredits.com/doku.php?id=cards:slip_force Step-By-Step The slip force is a card-forcing technique that allows the magician to force a spectator to choose a predetermined card. There are two ways to execute the move. Let's take a look at the basic steps. Basic Method: Step 1 - Start with the deck face down in your left hand and the card you want to force on top. The cards are held in mechanics' grip . Step 2 - Bend the corner of the cards with your left thumb and slowly begin releasing them and allowing them to spring upwards. Magicians call this riffling. Step 3  - Ask the spectator to call " stop " at any time while you are rifling through the cards slowly. Step 4  - When the spectator calls you to stop, without hesitation, your right hand grips the top stack of cards along the short edges, and your palm covers the forced card. Step 5  - Draw the top stack of cards upwards while your left fingers maintain grip on the top card. Step 6  - In one continuous movement, your left-hand fingers slide the force card from the top of the deck and "slip" it to the bottom stack. Step 7  - Tell the spectator to take the card they selected by offering them to take the top card of the left-hand stack. To the spectator, it appears as if you simply divided the cards where they called and handed a freely chosen card. Step 8  - Continue with the trick, using the force card for the revelation or other effects. Next, let's look at a variation of the steps above that are slightly more advanced but more deceptive. Advanced Method Here's a slight variation on the slip force that can make it even more deceptive. Step 1  - Repeat steps 1 to 4 above. Step 2  - After the spectator calls to stop and you've gripped the top stack with your right hand (step 4), rotate both hands so both packets are now face up. Step 3  - As you rotate your hands, the left-hand steals the top card. Step 4  - Point with your left index finger to the bottom card of the right back as you say, "Don't take this card because I've seen it..." Step 5  - Turn your left hand so the cards are face down, bring the forced card forward, and say, "... take the card you stopped at." The benefit of this second version of the slip force is that it can be performed surrounded and undetectable at every angle. Practice the basic version until you've mastered it, and then work on the abovementioned subtleties. The slip force takes some practice to perform imperceptibly but allows you to control what card the spectator picks every time . Master this technique to amaze your audience! Why It's Effective The flexibility of the split force makes it an indispensable technique for card workers. Here are some of the benefits: The slip force better hides the magician's secret work and makes the spectator's choice appear genuine. It's easy to learn and master for magicians of all skill levels. Unlike mathematical forces or equivoque forces, the slip force can be repeated in a routine without exposing the method. Any serious magician should devote time to properly learning the slip force and using it effectively in their performances. Tips & Suggestions The slip force is a fundamental card trick, but there are many small tweaks and techniques that can help perfect the execution. Here are some tips for practicing the slip force: Start slow  - Go through the motions step-by-step to build muscle memory. Perform the slip force in slow motion, focusing on smoothness and precision. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase the speed. Perform in front of a mirror  - Better yet, record the actions on your phone and watch yourself as you execute the slip force. Look for any extraneous motions that could tip off the spectator. Check that your grip and handling appear relaxed and natural. Practice the riffle - The key to the slip force is riffling through the cards seamlessly with one hand. Experiment to find the right amount of pressure that works for your hands. Misdirect attention - When riffling through the cards, chat with your spectator and make eye contact. Their focus will be on you rather than the cards. Vary the card selection - Don't always force the same card. By forcing different cards, you prevent the trick from looking too repetitive if performed multiple times. Change up the deck - Practice with both new and used card decks. This is helpful when you are asked to perform a magic trick and have to use a borrowed deck of cards. Older, worn decks will slide and riffle differently than newer decks. Relax your grip - A tense, rigid grip on the deck will make the move more noticeable. Keep your grip firm but relaxed. With regular, focused practice, the slip force can become second nature. Strive for invisibility - when properly executed, not even a magician should detect the force. Read: How to Become a Magician for Beginners This versatile technique is an invaluable addition to any card magician's repertoire. The slip force is one of the most useful card sleights to master. With practice, you'll be able to perform it flawlessly. Mastering the nuances and variations will help you perform it like a professional. Using the Slip Force in Other Card Tricks The slip force is an incredibly useful technique that can be incorporated into many other card tricks. RELATED POST: Here are some of the ways magicians use the slip force in other card routines: Card Controls : Since you know the spectator's chosen card, the slip force allows you to find and control the card to wherever you need it in the deck. Card Reveals : Tricks where you reveal a thought-of card benefit greatly from the slip force. You can use it to force the spectator's card and then magically reveal it any way you wish! Transpositions : The slip force is perfect for accomplishing this, allowing you to transpose their card with another card seamlessly. Mentalism & Prediction Tricks : Tricks where you predict a chosen card can be done flawlessly with the slip force. You simply force the prediction card, and the trick looks like real mind-reading. And more! As you can see, mastering the slip force opens up many possibilities for stunning card magic. It is one of the most useful sleight-of-hand techniques in card magic for good reason. Common Mistakes The slip force is a fundamental card magic technique, but it does take practice to master. Here are some of the common mistakes to watch out for when first learning and performing the slip force card trick: Rushing the force - Don't flip through the cards too fast when having the spectator say "stop." Rushing can make the force seem suspicious. Not covering the slip - When separating the cards and slipping the forced card, keep the hand and fingers over the top so it is concealed. If the slip is visible, it will give away the trick. Forcing from the front - Always force the card from the middle of the pack. Forcing from the front leaves limited cards to flip through and makes the force too obvious. Poor acting - Act confidently as if whichever card they land on is a random selection. Don't oversell it, but also don't seem tentative or nervous. Fumbling or noisy card exchange - Practice smoothly slipping the force card with little to no sliding card noise. Awkward handoffs can ruin the illusion. The key is to practice the slip force until the motions feel natural. When the technique becomes second nature, the focus can be on showmanship and presentation to truly master the trick. Being aware of the common mistakes will help identify areas to improve. With time and repetition, the slip force can be performed flawlessly to amaze audiences. Conclusion The slip force is one of the most useful and versatile forces in card magic. A force is a technique where the magician causes a spectator to choose a specific card while giving the illusion that the spectator has a completely free choice. Learning the slip force is considered a rite of passage for many magicians. It requires practice and skill to perform smoothly and convincingly, but once mastered, it opens up many card tricks . The slip force integrates naturally into tricks and routines, enabling magicians to guide outcomes and create stunning reveals. Audiences are amazed when their "freely chosen" card matches predictions or reveals itself in impossible ways. In magic, the ability to control what appears uncontrolled is the source of wonder and astonishment. The slip force elegantly embodies this principle, empowering magicians to shape outcomes under the guise of free choice. For this reason, it remains a masterclass in the art of deception through natural and disarming action. Truly a fundamental of card magic. That's It! You've just unlocked the secret of the Slip Force! With practice, this skill, the slip force, will become a seamless part of your magical performances, leaving audiences in awe. If this post helped you master the Slip Force, show some love by hitting the ♥️ heart button below. Or better yet, share your experiences and tips in the comments – your insights could be a game-changer for fellow magicians! Keep shuffling, and remember, the real magic is in your dedication to the craft. 🃏✨ What to Read Next: Cross Cut Card Force The Mechanic's Grip: A Magician's Secret to Card Control 20 Easy Magic Tricks with Everyday Objects Anyone Can Do

Have you ever wondered what the world's oldest magic organization is? Magic has existed for thousands of years, and it's no secret that magicians have secrets. It's our industry. Like other trades and crafts, magicians have societies dedicated to advancing the art of magic, connecting like-minded magicians, and sharing industry trade secrets. The Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.) is the world's oldest magic organization. It was founded on May 10, 1902, in the back room of Martinka's Magic Store in New York City and now has over 5000 members that meet in 300 branches (called Assemblies) around the world. Annual dues for a SAM membership range from $55- $ 79 annually. The Society of American Magicians is one of the five North American Member Societies of the World Championship of Magic (FISM) The Society of American Magicians represents members worldwide, including some of the most famous magicians in history, like David Copperfield, Lance Burton, and Mat Franco. Notable names like Harry Houdini, Howard Thurston and Dr. Harlan Tarbell served as SAM National President. The official publication for the SAM has changed many times over the Society’s 115+ year history. M-U-M Magazine has been the Society of American Magicians' official periodical since 1951. The first newsletter was published with the acronym M-U-M due to a misunderstanding by the printer. The intended title was “Magic Unity Might,” from the Society's motto. "Those who love Magic will, through Unity, gain Might." In addition to a monthly publication, the Society of American Magicians hosts an annual convention and magic contests. Magicians can compete in both close-up and stage competitions. Winning magicians earn cash prizes and endorsements by the Society to advance to Nationals and the World Championship level. The SAM has a program dedicated entirely to magic's youth aged 7 to 17 called the Society of Young Magicians. The Society of Young Magicians was established in July 1984 and had SYM Assemblies worldwide to promote the interest in magic as a hobby. Join an organization like the SAM has many benefits, including monthly publication, online learning opportunities, live and virtual lectures, networking, convention and magic contests. Let’s look at the World’s Oldest Magic Organization, the Society of American Magicians. Here’s a quick link to the topics covered in this article: Annual Magic Convention & Contests Why join a magician organization like S.A.M? Current 2021 S.A.M. President Famous Past Presidents of the S.A.M. National Magic Week Do you need to be American to join? International Assembly 272 Virtual Assembly V1.1 How to join the S.A.M. How to connect with the S.A.M. Brief History of the SAM The Society of American Magicians was founded on May 10, 1902, in the back room of Martinka's magic store in New York City. Martinka's Palace of Magic was opened in the late 1800s by The Martinka brothers, Antonio and Francis. The 6th Avenue magic shop became a popular hang-out for some of the biggest names in magic. It even had a stage in the backroom where only "initiates" were allowed inside. In "the little back room" of Martinka's Palace of Magic, a decision was made to establish the Society of American Magicians. On April 26, 1902, 13 magicians met to discuss the by-laws, constitution and the Society's purpose. Within a week, 23 magicians had joined to help, and on May 10th, the Society of American Magicians was formed with the following mandate: "To promote harmony among those interested in magic and to further the elevation of the art." Dues in 1902 were set at $2 , payable in advance. First Member & First President of SAM Dr. Saram Ellison is the first member of S.A.M., and Dr. W. Golden Mortimer became the second member. Dr. Mortimer would become the first President of S.A.M. He created the constitution's first draft and designed the emblem and seal. Early support from famous magicians Harry Houdini, Howard Thurston, and Harry Kellar and among the long list of early influential magicians who contributed their time, energy and personal finance to support the organization. The most famous, Harry Houdini, served nine consecutive terms as SAM President from 1917 until he died in 1926. Since its founding, the Society of American Magician's membership has exceeded 45,000 worldwide. SAM’s Mission & Goals "It is the mission of The Society of American Magicians to promote an environment for the worldwide magic community that fosters fellowship, preservation of the magical arts, ethical standards, education, and personal growth." ( Source ) Five Goals of SAM Improve program and member services Provide opportunities to learn magic Provide leadership Establish standards of ethics Preserve and honor the history of magic and magicians Famous Members The Society of American Magicians is a magical society with a rich history, and it's one that's been filled with some of the most famous magicians in the world. Some are household names, and others have faded into obscurity over time. But all these men and women have been instrumental in shaping the art of magic as we know it today. Famous Society of American Magician Members Harry Houdini Harry Blackstone Sr & Jr Gay Blackstone Kellar David Copperfield Siegfried & Roy Mat Franco Mac King Notable Past SAM Presidents The Society of American Magicians has many recognizable names who served as National President. Typically, modern-day SAM Presidents serve a one-year term, but in the organization's early years, it was common for Presidents to serve multi-year terms. Over its history, the Society of American Magicians has had many famous magicians serve as SAM National Presiden, including Harry Houdini , a famed escapologist who served from 1917 - 1926; Howard Thurston , an acclaimed stage magician who served from 1927 - 1929 and Dr. Harlan Tarbell renowned teacher of magic who authored the Tarbell Course in Magic served from 1949 - 50. Houdini's brother , Theodore Hardeen, also served as the Society's National President from 1929 - 1930, and so did Houdini's Lawyer, Bernard M.L. Ernst. Ernst was elected following Houdini's death. "Thurston the Great, Magician, 'The Wonder Show of the Universe'" by Halloween HJB is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 President Houdini Houdini's influence on the Society of American Magicians was enumerable. Harry Houdini was a champion for the SAM who often used his finances to support the Society's early endeavours and boost membership. However, Houdini's relationship with the Society of American Magicians wasn't always cordial; in the founding years, there was a tiff. Houdini resigned from the organization for several years before returning as an Honorary Member and eventually National SAM President. Houdini resigns In 1906, Houdini started his magazine called Conjuror's Monthly . He wanted to establish this publication as SAM's official magazine but was defeated by The Sphinx . In 1908, Harry Houdini resigned from the SAM out of protest and an ongoing public feud with The Sphinx editor, Dr. A. M. Wilson. Wilson vowed never to publish Houdini’s name in his magazine: “I will never again mention his name in The Sphinx , no matter how great the provocation." The two magicians eventually healed their divisions, "I apologized to Houdini; he made amends," said Dr. A.M. Wilson, stating, "Now we are friends, as we should have been years ago." A yearly subscription to Houdini's Conjurer's Monthly cost $1, and the magazine ran from September 1906 to August 1908. Harry Houdini would return to the Society of American Magicians six years later, in 1912, as an Honorary Member and serve as National SAM President five years later. Recommended: “The saga of Houdini and Dr. A. M. Wilson” https://www.wildabouthoudini.com/2016/08/the-saga-of-houdini-and-sphinx.html Harry Houdini becomes President In 1917, Houdini became the National President of the Society of American Magicians. During his first year of Presidency, Harry Houdini would embark on one of the most significant magic club recruitment efforts in SAM history. He set out to inaugurate groups of magicians in Baltimore, Cincinnati, Columbus, Detroit, Kansas City, Pittsburgh and Toledo. Houdini's sudden death Harry Houdini served nine-consecutive terms as the President of the Society of American Magicians until his sudden death on October 31, 1926. Houdini served as SAM President from 1917 - 1926. Houdini's Lawyer and amateur magician, Bernard M.L. Ernst, was elected Society of American Magician President following Houdini's passing. Every year a Broken Wand Ceremony is performed at Houdini's grave at the exact time of his death, October 31 at 1:26 pm. The first Six Assemblies of the Society of American Magicians New York City, NY - Parent Assembly San Francisco, CA - Golden Gate Assembly Chicago, IL - Werner F. Dornfield Assembly Philadelphia, PA - Detroit, NY Baltimore, MD Fighting magic exposure Throughout the 1920's many large magazines and newspapers began producing content that exposed magic. The Society of American Magicians formed an Exposure Committee with Servais Le Roy as its chairman. Le Roy proposed changes to the SAM constitution regarding "Easy Pocket Tricks," a term coined by Thurston. Houdini gained a large amount of publicity by condemning the exposure of magic tricks, and in 1921, he authored an open letter to editors which stated: "Noting the epidemic of exposures in the various scientific and daily papers, might I call your attention to the fact that by so doing, you are taking away the bread and butter of honest, hard-working, ambitious magicians." Source: https://geniimagazine.com/wiki/index.php/Timeline_of_magic_exposures National Magic Week October 25 - 31 was established as National Magic Week in 1967 by the Society of American Magicians and had origins dating back to Houdini's death. It's a tradition that continues today, and National Magic Week has received Proclamations in Alaska, Washington and New York City by Mayor Bloomberg. “It is no illusion that New Yorkers are some of the most generous people in the world. This week’s events are a wonderful opportunity to recognize the talented and dedicated magicians who lend a helping hand" - Mayor Bloomberg. The Society of American Magicians designates National Magic Week celebrations as a time to celebrate and share the art of magic. Magicians and SAM Assemblies are encouraged to offer free magic performances for the less fortunate, including VA Hospitals, senior citizen groups, and daycare centres. From Houdini Day to National Magic Day The summer following Harry Houdini's death, Ms. Bess Houdini declared "Houdini Day" to honor the life and legacy of her late husband. Magicians across North America organized several celebrations without any official mandate. Chicago SAM member Les Sholty sought official sanction for a "Houdini Day" and permission from Mrs. Houdini to proclaim October 31 as "National Magic Day." On July 20, 1938, the eighth oldest radio station in the United States, known then as KQW, broadcasting from California, became the first radio station to air details with Mrs. Bess Houdini about National Magic Day. From National Magic Day to National Magic Week National Magic Week became an official function of the Society of American Magicians in 1967. The efforts were heavily influenced in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, hosted “Magic Day” organized by Parent Assembly 1 and featured a tribute to magician Mark Wilson. Annual Magic Convention & Contest The Society of American Magicians presents an annual convention in a different host city. The multi-day convention is typically held in July and features lectures, dealers, stage performances, close-up shows, and magic contests. Being a member of the Society of American Magicians is not required to attend SAM magic conventions. However, members receive early discounts and incentives for registration. 2021 Magic Convention & COVID-19 Cancellation Due to the global pandemic COVID19, the 2020 and 2021 S.A.M. Magic Conventions were postponed. The organization hosted its first convention after the pandemic in January 2022 in Las Vegas. 2022 SAM Convention The S.A.M 2022 Convention will return to Las Vegas in January 2022. The previous conventions in Las Vegas were in 2012 and 2003. Registration is now open for the four days of magic at the Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, including magic, lectures, dealers, contests and Mac King Banquet & Roast. Interest levels at magician conventions vary from hobbyist to professional, and some magicians attend solely to compete among their peers. The Society of American Magicians hosts stage and close-up magic competitions. Winners receive cash prizes and may be encouraged to compete at the National Championships of Magic (FISM NA). World Championship of Magic (FISM) Member Society The Society of American Magicians is one of five North American member societies of FISM NA and the World Championship of Magic (FISM). For a magician to compete at the World Championship level and earn the title of “World Champion,” they must compete and win nationally. Here are the Six North American Member Societies of FISM: Academy of Magical Arts (Magic Castle) Canadian Association of Magicians (CAM) Club De Magie Du Québec International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) Society of American Magicians (SAM) Texas Association of Magicians (TAOM) How North American magicians compete at the World Championships of Magic (FISM) Magicians must first win the North American Championships of Magic (FISM NA) before they can enter the World Championship competition: National Contest - Magicians must compete and win a place against contestants at the FISM NA qualifying contest. World Championship Contest - Once a magician wins at the FISM NA national competition level, they received an endorsement to represent North America at the World Championships of Magic (FISM) The highest award a magician can earn is the coveted “FISM Grand Prix World Champion” Current S.A.M. President The 2020-2021 president of the Society of American Magicians is Joel Zaritsky. List of past 20 years of S.A.M. Presidents See the full listing of Society of American Magicians Presidents here 2000-2001 Jann Goodsell 2001-2002 Warren Kaps 2002-2003 Ed Thomas* 2003-2004 Jay Gorham 2004-2005 John W. Apperson 2005-2006 Rich Dooley 2006-2007 Andy Dallas 2007-2008 Maria Ibanez 2008-2009 Bruce Kalver 2009-2010 Mike Miller 2010-2011 Mark Weidhaas 2011-2012 Vinny Grosso 2012-2013 Christopher Bontjes 2013-2014 Dal Sanders 2014-2015 Kenrick Ice McDonald 2015-2016 David Bowers 2016-2017 Jeff Sikora 2017-2018 Dick Bowman 2018-2019 Ron Ishimaru 2019-2020 Steven Spence 2020-2021 Joel Zaritsky Publications The Society of American Magicians has embraced several publications in its history. In September 1902, the first column for the Society of American Magicians was distributed in a publication called Mahanta. Mahanta was an existing monthly magic periodical printed at Martinka’s where the SAM was founded. Two months later the SAM also adopted The Sphinx magazine for western magicians and in 1909 The Sphinx became the SAM “Official Organ.” In October 1911, the first M-U-M monthly print magazine was published and since 1951, the Society of American Magician’s official publication is M-U-M Magazine. Timeline of S.A.M Magazines 1902 - 1906 Mahatma - First Official Column of the Society 1906 - 1911 The Sphinx 1911 - 1927 M-U-M Newsletter 1927 - 1942 The Sphinx 1942 - 1947 Genii Magazine 1947 - 1951 The Sphinx 1951 - Present M-U-M Magazine M-U-M is a monthly magazine now offered digitally for members. Members can pay an additional fee for printed editions of M-U-M on the SAM website. Magic store Members can support the S.A.M by becoming a member and also by purchasing official Society of American Magicians merchandise such as clothing, accessories, insignias and previous M-U-M Magazines. You can visit the SAM store here: https://www.magicsam.com/store/ Life Membership The only criteria for Life Membership enrollment is a good standing with the Society of American Magicians. A single contribution of $1500 or more payable for a solo member or $2500 with a spouse. "Lifetime members enjoy the special feeling in their hearts that they have done something real to help the S.A.M. and the advancement of the art of magic!”\ Life Members include David Copperfield, Lance Burton, Seigfried and over 400 others. Why Join the Society of American Magicians magician's organization? There are many reasons a magician should join an organization like the Society of American Magicians including: Learn the art of magic - acclaimed opportunities to learn and share magic A Community of Magicians - Join an assembly of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the art of magic Interact with some of the biggest stars of magic - SAM offers multiple platforms to engage, interact and ask your questions to some of the biggest minds in magic Use the Logo: proudly show the world you're a member of the SAM Exclusive Society of American Magicians International Assembly Facebook Group Enter Contests - competing and winning a stage or close-up contest can dramatically change a magician's career. Annual S.A.M. Magic Convention - An opportunity to be part of our annual magic convention talent line-up. M-U-M Magazine delivered to your inbox - Receive a copy of the digital magazine (or pay additional for printed copies) Access to exclusive SAM Content - including special Vimeo Showcase How to join S.A.M. Are you interested in joining the World's Oldest Magic Organization? Join the Society of American Magicians: https://www.magicsam.com/general/register_member_type.asp? How to join - International Member Introducing the International Assembly 272 You don't need to be an American citizen to join. This world-wide-organization openly welcomes members from any country to join its International Assembly 272. Past-Presidents of SAM have been International Assembly 272 members. Two requirements to join Assembly 272: You must have a genuine interest in the art of magic You must be a member of S.A.M. Virtual Assembly V1.1: How to Join The SAM Virtual Assembly In the era of COVID-19 and the 2020 global pandemic, members are encouraged to visit the Virtual Assembly V1.1 for online content, magic instruction and lectures. https://www.facebook.com/assemblyv11/ How to connect with S.A.M The Society of American Magician has several ways you can connect and all major social media platforms, you'll find below: Society of American Magicians (Official) Website https://magicsam.com/ Society of American Magicians (Convention) Website https://samconvention.com Society of Young Magicians Official Website https://magicsam.com/page/SYMYouthProgram Parent Assembly #1 http://magicsampa1.com/ Find your local S.A.M. Assembly https://magicsam.com/search/ Social Media for S.A.M. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheSocietyOfAmericanMagicians/ Facebook (Members Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/SAMMembers/ Twitter (Main) https://twitter.com/SAMMAGICIANS Twitter (News) https://twitter.com/sammumnews Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sammagicians YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Additional Sources: https://askalexander.org/ https://geniimagazine.com/wiki/ The First 100 Years http://magicsampa1.com/the-first-100-years/ Conjurers Monthly Magazine 1906 September Vol. 1 No. 1 – Part 1 https://houdiniandhardeen.home.blog/ https://legacy.lib.utexas.edu/taro/uthrc/01275/hrc-01275.html IMAGE CREDIT: "Thurston the Great, Magician, 'The Wonder Show of the Universe'" by Halloween HJB is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The overhand shuffle is one of the most popular methods for shuffling a deck of cards, and it's also one of the easiest. It's also essential for magicians to learn how to handle cards . What is the Overhand Shuffle? The overhand shuffle is a popular technique for shuffling cards and is often used by magicians, card players, and cardists alike. It's quick and easy to learn and can be used with any deck of cards of any size. Table of Contents Watch Video Learn the Overhand Shuffle What You'll Need Step-by-Step Photos Let's take a look at this shuffle! How to Overhand Shuffle The overhand shuffle is performed by holding the deck face down between your thumb and second and third fingers. The left hand then transfers random cards from the right hand to the left by sliding small groups of cards from the top of the deck and repeating until all cards are transferred. ​Level of Difficulty: Easy ​Time Required: 5 mins WATCH: This video shows how to overhand shuffle a full deck of playing cards. Step-by-Step: Learn the Overhand Shuffle What You'll Need Deck of cards Step-By-Step Step 1 - Hold the deck face down in your dominant hand - in this case, our right-hand holds the cards along the short edges. Step 2 - Grip the cards between your thumb, second and third fingers. Your index finger can choose to rest on the top corner of the long edge of the cards. Step 3 - With the thumb of your other hand, slide a few cards from the top of the deck into the palm of the other hand. Step 4 - Repeat the process until all cards have been transferred. Photos Hover over each photograph for short descriptions of the movement. Is the Overhand Shuffle good? The overhand shuffle is a popular and easy way to shuffle cards, but is it any good at actually randomizing the deck? Umm-- not so amazing. The overhand shuffle is the most common way people shuffle cards, and it does mix the cards—but it's nowhere near as effective as other shuffles like the riffle shuffle for randomizing a deck. A key factor in achieving 'randomness" is that each card has an equal chance of appearing at any position in the deck. Here's a video of Persi Diaconis, a Standford mathematician, discussing the effectiveness of the overhand, riffle and "smoosh" shuffle. The video starts with the question, "How many shuffles do you need to mix up a deck of cards?" The results may surprise you. Diaconis says seven riffle shuffles are enough to randomize a card deck compared to ten thousand overhand shuffles . The overhand shuffle is easier to do, but it's not very random. So why do we use it? Because it's easy! The overhand shuffle can be learned in seconds and requires no special equipment or training. Here are a few other reasons you should learn the overhand shuffle. Why Should You Learn the Overhand Shuffle? The overhand shuffle is a move every magician and card enthusiast should know. It's especially useful when you want to mix up the order of your deck in a hurry, whether shuffling cards for a game or performing a magic trick. It also teaches you the basics of what magicians call "card handling"—the idea that you should easily handle a deck of cards. Cardistry is a relatively new art form that demonstrates card-handling mastery. It's easy to start—you can practice shuffling one or two at first until you feel comfortable enough to shuffle three or four at once. The more familiar you are with your deck, the better your magic tricks will look! Curious to learn about other shuffles? Other Card Shuffles The Overhand Shuffle and the Riffle Shuffle are two of the most common shuffle methods. They're used in casinos and at home alike, but you don't have to be a pro card player to use them. Here are a few useful shuffles you should know. Other Popular card shuffles: Here is a list of other popular shuffles, click one to learn more: Overhand Shuffle (easy) Hindu Shuffle (easy) Riffle Shuffle (beginner) Pile Shuffle (easy) Faro Shuffle (Advanced, Magicians) Smooshing Shuffle (easy) What's your favorite shuffle? Let us know in the comments. Conclusion The overhand shuffle is quick and easy to learn, and it's useful for all sizes of playing cards or decks. Plus, it teaches you the basics of handling cards. The overhand shuffle is an essential technique to learn. If you want to randomize a deck of cards, learn the riffle shuffle. Stanford Mathematician shares that seven riffle shuffles can effectively randomize a deck of cards and over ten thousand overhand shuffles. Keep your eyes out for a riffle shuffle tutorial coming soon! That's It! Hit the button and leave a comment below! Don't forget to check out these incredible articles from Magician Masterclass! What to Read Next Hindu Shuffle Explained 12 Tools to Transform You Into A Magician 4 Easy Magic Wand Tricks You Can Learn in 10 Minutes ​Ryan Joyce is the Executive Director of the Ontario OWOW Magic Festival. Ryan is a professional magician, entertainer and speaker who has performed over 5000+ shows worldwide . He has appeared on Penn & Teller's Fool Us , Canada's Got Talent and every Canadian national television network. He has over 10+ million views on YouTube, Facebook and social media and is trusted by Fortune 500 companies to deliver world-class performance. ​ Website • Facebook • Instagram

Canadian magicians have appeared on the hit television show Penn & Teller Fool Us since its first season, which aired in 2011. Penn & Teller Fool Us is a magic competition and television program where magicians perform tricks in front of the American magician-comedian duo Penn & Teller. The 1hr format television show features four magicians per episode and one segment featuring Penn & Teller. The coveted prize for magicians on the Fool Us stage is the FOOLER award, bragging rights for fooling Penn & Teller and an opportunity to perform in Las Vegas. The first Canadian magician to appear on the CW Network's hit television show Penn & Teller is Shawn Farquhar, FISM Grand Prix Winner . He appeared three times and fooled Penn & Teller twice. DID YOU KNOW: Canada has a reputation for nurturing world-acclaimed magicians throughout history. Names like Doug Henning, Dai Vernon ( aka  The Professor), and The Charming Cheat, Martin Nash are a few names from Canada's rich history in magic. Canadian magicians also have great influence within magic, the world's largest magician's society, the International Brotherhood of Magicians was founded in Winnipeg, Manitoba by magician Len Vintus and the Canadian Association of Magicians  was founded in Elora, Ontario by Joan Caesar. Here's a list of Canadian magicians who fooled Penn & Teller: Canadian Magicians Who Have Fooled Penn & Teller Shawn Farquhar Shin Lim Wes Barker Shawn Farquhar Mahdi Gilbert Shin Lim Jean-Pierre Parent The Sentimentalists Ryan Hayashi Damien James Nicholas Wallace Eric Leclerc Shin Lim is the most-watched Canadian Fooler and most-watched Penn & Teller Fool Us magician. Watch here: First 5 Canadian Magicians to Fool Penn & Teller Here are the first five Canadian magicians to appear on CW Network's magic-contest television show Penn & Teller Fool Us: Shawn Farquhar Shin Lim Wes Barker Jay Sankey Chris Funk 1. Shawn Farquhar Shawn has appeared three times on Penn & Teller Fool Us and fooled the magic duo two times. Here is Shawn Farquhar's first appearance on Fool Us: 2. Shin Lim This is Shin Lim's second appearance on the hit television show Fool Us. Shin Lim has the most views among Canadian magicians (see above for his first time on Penn and Teller Fool Us.) Shin-Lim 2nd Appearance: 3. Wes Barker Toronto magician and YouTube, Wes Barker is the third magician to appear on the hit television show. He fooled Penn & Teller. Watch: 4. Jay Sankey One of the greatest minds in magic. Magician and YouTuber, Jay Sankey appeared on Fool Us in season two, but we cannot find a video of his performance. 5. Chris Funk Magician Chris Funk from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, appeared on season two of Penn & Teller Fool Us. Canadian appearances on Penn & Teller: Fool Us Here is a list of Canadian magicians who on the television show can be celebrated by the following Canadian magician who has appeared on the Penn & Teller: Fool Us stage. Shawn Farquhar Shin Lim Wes Barker Jay Sankey Chris Funk Shawn Farquhar Ryan Joyce Mahdi Gilbert Greg Frewin Matthew DiSero The Evasons Neil Croswell Shin Lim Hatfields Matt Johnson Jean-Pierre Parent Richard Forget Yan Markson Ekaterina Patrik Kuffs The Sentimentalists Ryan Hayashi Ian Stewart Damien James Murray SawChuck Nicholas Wallace Darcy Oake Anastasia Synn Jason Palter Derek Selinger Ryan Stock & AmberLynn Walker Eric Samuels Lucy Darling (Carisa Hendrix) Shawn Farquhar Eric Leclerc Miranda Allen Michael Bourada Vincenzo Ravina Clinton W. Gray Visit the Penn & Teller Episode Guide: Interested in seeing all American Foolers? Here's a complete list of American magicians who have fooled Penn & Teller: Who was your favourite Canadian magician to appear on Penn & Teller Fool Us?

Welcome to the exciting world of virtual magic tricks! In this comprehensive guide, we'll unlock the secrets to performing captivating magic tricks in a digital setting. Ideal for online shows and virtual gatherings, these tricks are specifically designed to engage and amaze your audience through the screen. Key Takeaways: Tricks tailored for digital performances. Techniques to adapt magic for virtual audiences. Variety of illusions suitable for online shows. We asked magicians from the Canadian Association of Magicians and listeners of the Magicians Talking Magic Podcast about the tricks they performed virtually. We wanted to know if they had one “go-to” effect or a favourite virtual effect? Let’s get into the results and key virtual takeaways! List of Popular Virtual Magic Tricks We also asked magicians to share ONE piece of advice for performing virtual magic! You can find these survey results and other incredible articles in the July 2021 edition of VANISH International Magic Magazine ! READ: What is the Best Magazine for Magicians? First, we asked magicians if they had one piece of magic that performed virtually more often than other tricks. 60% of magicians who responded had ONE piece of magic for their go-to effect, and 50% of those tricks were mentalism. The magicians who responded to our survey included 35% stage magicians 35% hobbyists 10% Close-up & Stage 10% Children’s performers. We also asked magicians if they had a second favourite virtual magic trick, and 66.7% of those magicians said yes! Virtual Magic Tricks Magicians Are Performing Here is the list of magicians favourite virtual magic tricks (sorted alphabetically) BM Project by Bakore Magic 4D Burger Board by Magzaic BWave by Max Maven Decisions by Mozique Deepest Sympathy by Jim Steinmeyer Invisible Deck by Joe Berg Kirigami by Max Maven Cardboard Connection by Paul Harris Looch prediction/ mystery solved by Looch/ David Penn Manifest by Danny Weiser Matrix by Al Schneider Outside the Box by David London Peekaboo Bunny by Silly Billy Pointless by Greg Wilson Prementaliction by Chris Dugdale Rope Evolution by Juan Pablo Nine Card Problem by Jim Steinmeyer What advice do you have for magicians about performing virtually? After one year of the pandemic and virtual magic, we were curious to hear from magicians what their biggest lesson or advice for performing virtually. Here's what they told us: "Commit to Camera" - Steve Valentine Don't sit to perform your virtual shows! Interaction! Lighting and good mics. Be personable - don't be that stage character because this isn't a live performance - it's like television. The show should be more varied instead of just card trick Engage! Find a way to involve the audience. Otherwise, I can watch YouTube. Look into the camera Invest in PRO Gear; otherwise, you’ll look like an amateur. Get a quality camera and separate microphone Make it simple! If your show is for kids (zoom or in-person), do not do more than one card trick. (I have watched Zoom magic shows for kids where the magician only does card tricks. Boring.) Use the borders outside the camera. Lighting is of utmost importance. Don't BE a virtual magician. Be a magician who can perform under nearly any condition. Don't do too many card tricks. Make sure you are lit well and have good audio.

Shhhh! Don’t share this with the muggles. We are sharing five ways you can force a card over ZOOM that are easy and deceptive! These will be useful the next time you are asked to perform a piece of magic in a virtual meeting. This resource is great for beginner magicians looking to force a playing card over ZOOM or other virtual platforms. Here are the five different playing card forces : Flip Flop Force Hindu Force Svengali Deck One-Way Forcing Deck Glimpse or Peak Let's dive into how to force a card over ZOOM. 5 Ways for a Magician to Force a Playing Card Virtually! 1. Flip Flop Force Place the card you want to force on the top of the deck. Ask the spectator to give you a number between 1 and 10. Count those playing cards out and turn them all face down. Keep those face-down cards slightly down-jogged as you ask another spectator for a number between 10 and 20. Count out those playing cards and flip both packs. You confirm with both spectators that they could have chosen any numbers, and they've settled on one random card, the first facedown card-- the forced card. Ask, " Give me a number between 1 and 10" flip Ask, " Give me a number between 10 and 20. " Flip Force done Next is a force that uses the Hindu Shuffle . 2. Hindu Shuffle Force Start by placing the card you want to force on the bottom of the pack of playing cards. READ: Learn the Hindu Shuffle Force & Glimpse Step-By-Step Hold the pack face down in your right hand as you peel off small packets of cards into the left hand while asking the spectator to call "STOP!" When they say stop, reveal the card they stopped you at, them the bottom forced card! 3. Use a Svengali Deck Many magicians often overlook the Svengali Deck! This is a perfect tool for virtual shows and one of the easiest ways magicians can force a playing card over ZOOM. 4. One Way Force Deck Virtual magic shows allow magicians to make secret moves that are often difficult in live performances. The screen frame provides us with a whole new way to think about magic. Throughout your show, use a regular deck of cards, and then when you need to force a playing card on a ZOOM volunteer, grab your one-way forcing deck! An easy and powerful way to blow minds on ZOOM! 5. Glimpse This is one of the more advanced techniques for magicians, but it comes with a major advantage: this technique allows the spectator to use their playing cards. Glimpse a card on your end through the computer Manipulate that to where you need it to be Download the List of 30+ Virtual Friendly Magic Tricks You Already Own PDF. " Virtual Magic Tricks: A List of Virtual-Friendly Magic Tricks You Can Easily Add to Your Virtual Show " Download here For detailed information about ways to force a playing card over ZOOM, listen to Episode 66 of Magicians Talking Magic Podcast

Dive into the captivating life and enduring legacy of the legendary mentalist Max Maven. This blog post uncovers 10 profound lessons from Max Maven's successful career , offering invaluable insights for aspiring mentalists and magicians. Let's embark on a journey of inspiration guided by the wisdom of a true master of magic. Table of Contents Max Maven: Legendary Mentalist Watch FISM Interview Mentalism Legacy Remembered 10 Lessons From Max Maven's Career Conclusion Max Maven: Legendary Mentalist The world of mentalism recently lost one of its most influential figures, the legendary Max Maven. Known for his profound insights and unique approach to the art, Maven left an indelible mark on the field, inspiring countless magicians and mentalists around the globe. His passing is a significant loss, but his legacy in magic lives on through the wisdom he shared and the techniques he pioneered. In honor of his remarkable contributions, we've compiled a list of 10 critical lessons for mentalism inspired by Max Maven's wisdom. These tips encapsulate the essence of his teachings and valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to become a successful mentalist. From mastering the art of card selection to creating a character that fits you, these tips reflect the depth and breadth of Maven's understanding of mentalism. I was thrilled to see Max speak at the FISM World Championships of Magic in Quebec City. Here's his interview with Luis De Matos. WATCH: Max Maven at FISM Quebec 2022 I had the pleasure of meeting Max Maven only a few times. The last was at FISM Quebec 2022, only a few weeks before his death. As we delve into these insights, we celebrate the life and legacy of Max Maven, remembering him not only as a legendary magician and mentalist but also as a mentor whose teachings continue to enlighten and inspire. So, whether you're a budding mentalist or an experienced practitioner, these tips offer a pathway to success lit by the wisdom of the incomparable Max Maven. Max Maven: A Legend Remembered Max Maven, born Philip Goldstein on December 21, 1950, was an American magician and mentalist whose performances were renowned for their erudition and intelligence. He was ranked as one of the most influential mentalists of all time and was recognized as one of the 100 " Most Influential Magicians of the 20th Century" by Magic Magazine . Maven was born in Ithaca, New York, but spent much of his childhood in Boston, Massachusetts. He was known for performing at several nightspots, including the then-popular Playboy Club. Before his rise to fame as a mentalist, Maven was a successful radio announcer. Max Maven was a prolific author and creator of many magical and mentalist effects used by other magicians. He was a magic consultant for renowned performers such as David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, Siegfried & Roy, and Doug Henning . His contributions to the field were not limited to performances and consultations; he was a frequent contributor to industry journals such as Genii, The Linking Ring, and M-U-M . WATCH: Max Maven on Paul Daniels My first introduction to Max Maven was on the Paul Daniels Magic Hour in the late 1980s. Maven's performances transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries. He performed in over two dozen countries and was featured on the cover of over thirty magazines. His full-evening one-man show, " Thinking in Person ," had a critically acclaimed two-month run at the Beverly Hills Playhouse. TV Appearances Throughout his career, Max Maven was a regular guest on network television: His television appearances included top talk shows, variety specials, and acting roles in comedy and dramatic shows. He also hosted eight network specials in Japan, performed in Japanese, and created a pair of his specials in Thailand. He was also the only regular on the ten-part "Magiskt" series for TV4 in Sweden. Max Maven was a pioneer in interactive broadcasting. He created the groundbreaking video "Max Maven's Mindgames" for MCA. His interactive work was included in " The World's Greatest Magic ," NBC's highest-rated special of 1994. Author & Educator In addition to his performing career, Maven was a successful author, teacher, actor, lecturer, writer, and thought leader. He was known to read over 150 books and magazines monthly, providing a constant flow of information that stimulated new ideas for presenting his uncanny abilities. The late Orson Welles wrote that Max Maven had " the most original mind in magic. " He published over 1700 creations in the conjuring literature and was an advisor to over a hundred television shows. He was also recognized for his contributions to the field with multiple awards from the Society of American Magicians , the International Brotherhood of Magicians, and the Academy of Magical Arts. Max Maven died from brain cancer on November 1, 2022, at 71. His legacy continues to inspire and influence magicians and mentalists worldwide. His profound understanding of the human mind, innovative techniques, and charismatic performances have left an indelible mark on the world of magic and mentalism. In honor of his legacy, we've compiled a list of 10 lessons from the Legendary Max Maven. Let's take a look. 10 Key Insights from Max Maven's Illustrious Career Max Maven, a legendary mentalist, has inspired countless magicians and mentalists with his profound insights into the art of mentalism . Here are 10 key tips, lessons, and insights inspired by his wisdom that can help you become a successful mentalist: Create a Character That Fits You : Most characters come out of a person's existing persona. Exaggerate the parts you want to emphasize and minimize the parts you wish to downplay to create a character that fits you. Follow the Straight Line Principle : In magic, the most logical path of action is a straight line. Any deviation from this path might alert the audience that something is up. As a mentalist, always aim for the most direct and logical path of action. Master the Art of Card Selection : There are three straightforward ways to select a card: a card is removed from the deck, the deck is cut, a card is looked at, or a card is simply named. Mastering these techniques can enhance your performance and make your tricks more convincing. Learn Unique Techniques : Techniques like the Hindu shuffle force can add a unique element to your repertoire. This technique takes advantage of the fact that following what happens during a Hindu shuffle force is easy to learn but hard for an audience to follow. Justify Your Actions : If you must deviate from a straight-line action, justify it. Creating reasons for non-straight-line actions can make them appear more logical to the audience. Encourage Self-Learning : Allowing the audience to teach themselves something, rather than explicitly telling them, can have a profound impact. Guide your audience to a realization rather than stating it outright. Adapt to Your Environment : As a mentalist, you must adapt to physical circumstances preventing straight-line action. For example, if a spectator is too far away to pick a card in the most obvious straight-line way, find a way to adjust your performance. Develop Language Skills and Cultural Understanding : Learning a new language and understanding different cultures can enrich your performance and make you a more versatile mentalist. Consider Different Methods : Consider different methods of performing a trick. For example, dealing the cards to a table until the spectator says stop can be seen as a slow version of cutting the deck, which fits within the straight line concept. Find Your Own Style : Authenticity and individuality are important in magic. Each magician should find their own style and character that suits them best rather than trying to imitate others. By incorporating these tips into your practice, you can enhance your skills and become a more successful mentalist. Remember, the key to success in mentalism, as in any art, is continuous learning and practice. Conclusion Max Maven's legacy is a testament to a life dedicated to the art of mentalism. His profound insights, innovative techniques, and charismatic performances have left an indelible mark on the world of magic and mentalism. His wisdom continues to guide and inspire magicians and mentalists worldwide, shaping the future of this fascinating art form. The 10 lessons we've explored in this blog post encapsulate the essence of Maven's teachings. From the importance of logical and straightforward actions to the power of self-learning, from the ability to adapt to physical circumstances to creating a character that fits you, these lessons reflect the depth and breadth of Maven's understanding of mentalism. Max Maven's life and career serve as a reminder that success in mentalism, as in any art, requires continuous learning and practice. Every aspiring mentalist should strive to emulate his dedication to his craft, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and commitment to sharing his wisdom with others. As we remember Max Maven, we celebrate his remarkable contributions to mentalism and his enduring influence as a mentor and inspiration. His legacy reminds us of the magic that can be created when the human mind is pushed to its limits. Let's continue to learn from his wisdom, apply his teachings, and keep his spirit alive in our performances. That's It We hope you've found these lessons from Max Maven's life and career inspiring. Now, we'd love to hear from you. Hit the ♥️ to let us know you've enjoyed this post. How have these insights influenced your approach to mentalism? Do you have any personal anecdotes or lessons learned from Max Maven's teachings? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. Let's continue the conversation and keep the legacy of this legendary mentalist alive in our community. Remember, every shared insight contributes to the collective wisdom of our magical fraternity. What to Read Next Mastering Misdirection in Magic: Revealing the Invisible Art That Amazes Audiences Unlocking the Secrets of Mentalism: A Beginner's Guide To Learn How to Read Minds 15 Popular Mentalism Tricks ​Ryan Joyce is the Executive Director of the Ontario OWOW Magic Festival. Ryan is a professional magician, entertainer and speaker who has performed over 5000+ shows worldwide . He has appeared on Penn & Teller's Fool Us , Canada's Got Talent and every Canadian national television network. He has over 10+ million views on YouTube, Facebook and social media and is trusted by Fortune 500 companies to deliver world-class performance. Website • Facebook • Instagram