Alive or Dead by Simon Lipkin

Effect

The "Alive or Dead" trick is a mentalism routine where a spectator writes the name of a deceased celebrity on a billet and mixes it with billets containing names of living celebrities. The performer then identifies the correct billet containing the deceased celebrity, seemingly through intuition or psychic ability. In some versions, the performer can also reveal the exact name written by the spectator.

Full Details

"Alive or Dead" is part of Simon Lipkin's TriHarder mentalism download. The trick uses a deceptive marking system called Set the Bar, which allows the performer to distinguish between billets secretly. The routine involves:

• Four billets and envelopes labeled "Alive" or "Dead."
• A spectator writes a deceased celebrity on one billet and living celebrities on the other three.
• The billets are mixed inside envelopes, making it impossible for the performer or spectator to track them.
• The performer eliminates the "alive" billets one by one, leaving only the "dead" celebrity billet.
• Optionally, the performer can reveal the exact name written by the spectator.

The method is simple yet highly deceptive, relying on a clever marking system rather than complex sleight of hand.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

• Mentalists who want a quick, engaging routine.
• Performers who enjoy psychological magic and billet work.
• Those looking for a portable effect that can be performed impromptu with minimal setup.
• Magicians who perform in close-up or parlor settings.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform. According to reviewer Sebastian Tocamagic, "None of these routines are difficult... the method is so incredibly out there and so easy that it just flies over people's radars." No advanced sleight of hand is required, making it accessible to beginners while still fooling experienced magicians.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Tocamagic praised the trick, calling it "very clever because of the principle used." He highlighted the deceptive nature of the Set the Bar marking system, stating, "It is an extremely deceptive and good marking system... I think I will be using this for a lot of envelope tricks moving forward."

He also noted that the routine is adaptable, saying, "You can customize it to yourself or to the company you're performing for." The trick is part of a broader set that can be combined into a full mentalism act, making it a versatile addition to a performer's repertoire.

Overall, "Alive or Dead" is a strong, easy-to-perform mentalism effect with high audience impact.