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Ambidextrous by Peter Turner

Created by: Peter Turner

In 'Ambidextrous,' a spectator demonstrates their natural handedness (e.g., right-handed), and by the end of the routine, the magician seemingly alters their dominant hand to the opposite (e.g., left-handed), creating the illusion of a lasting change. This is a propless mentalism routine that plays with perception and suggestion, making it ideal for close-up or parlour settings. The effect is baffling yet simple to perform, leaving spectators questioning their own abilities.

Key features

  • Propless mentalism—no gimmicks or props needed

  • Beginner-friendly with clear teaching

  • Creates a lasting, impossible-seeming change in the spectator

  • Part of the larger 'How To Control Minds' kit with 10 routines

Pros

  • Strong psychological impact on spectators

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Versatile for close-up or parlour magic

  • Comes with detailed video tutorials

Cons

  • Requires confidence in presentation to sell the effect

  • Part of a $150 kit, which may be pricey for just one routine

Effect

The trick "Ambidextrous" creates the illusion that the performer can change a spectator's dominant hand. A right-handed person appears to become left-handed, or vice versa, as if the magician has altered their natural abilities. The effect is striking because it challenges the spectator's sense of identity and control over their own body.

Full details

"Ambidextrous" is part of Peter Turner's "How To Control Minds" project, which focuses on propless mentalism and pseudo-hypnosis. The routine does not require any gimmicks or special props, relying instead on psychological techniques and structured presentation. The method is designed to be deceptive while remaining simple enough for beginners to learn.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for performers interested in psychological magic, mentalism, or hypnosis-themed routines. It works well in close-up or social settings where direct interaction with spectators is possible. Beginners can learn it, but it also offers depth for more experienced performers who want to refine their presentation.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is beginner-friendly, with the core method being straightforward. However, the effectiveness depends heavily on presentation and audience management. As fiddlinjonny notes, "if you are a beginner, you will be able to do some of these routines with relative ease." The challenge lies in selling the illusion convincingly, which may require practice in timing and delivery.

What magicians say

Fiddlinjonny describes "Ambidextrous" as a routine where "somebody will demonstrate let's say that they're right-handed and by the end of the routine they are left-handed." They emphasize that the entire "How To Control Minds" project is beginner-friendly, though the $150 price point may be steep for casual learners. The inclusion of jam sessions with Mark Lemon adds extra value, providing deeper insights for those who want to refine their performance.

The trick is part of a larger system that aims to create the illusion of mind control, making it a strong addition for performers who want to explore psychological magic without relying on props.

What people are saying about Ambidextrous

fiddlinjonny says...

Ambidextrous is one of those routines where somebody will demonstrate they're right-handed, and by the end, you've made them left-handed—seemingly for life. It's cleverly structured and plays with perception in a way that feels real to the spectator.

Review videos