Back In Time by Jay Sankey

Created by: Jay Sankey

Back In Time is a close-up card trick that plays on the theme of time travel, creating a strong visual impact with minimal sleight of hand. A spectator selects a card, which is then lost in a shuffled deck. Through controlled shuffles and cuts, the deck appears thoroughly mixed, only for the selected card to magically return to its original position. The trick requires no special setup and relies on clever techniques like the double lift and the upside-down all-round poker shuffle. It’s an impromptu effect that’s perfect for engaging audiences with its fun and imaginative premise.

Key features

  • Impromptu trick requiring no special setup

  • Engaging time travel theme that captivates audiences

  • Detailed tutorial covering all steps, including shuffles and controls

  • Strong visual impact with minimal sleight of hand

  • Relies on techniques like the double lift and upside-down all-round poker shuffle

Pros

  • High-impact and visual

  • Magic happens in the spectator’s hand

  • Clear and thorough tutorial making it accessible for intermediate magicians

  • Impromptu nature allows for performance anywhere

Cons

  • Requires careful handling during shuffles to sell the illusion

  • Double lift can be tricky for beginners

  • Needs strong presentation to sell the time-travel theme

Effect

The 'Back In Time' card trick creates a strong visual impact by making a selected card seemingly return to its original position in a shuffled deck. The trick uses a time travel theme to engage the audience, making it both entertaining and memorable. The card appears to defy logic, leaving spectators amazed.

Full details

The 'Back In Time' trick is an impromptu card effect that requires no special setup. It involves a spectator selecting a card, which is then lost in the deck. Through controlled shuffles and cuts, the card appears to return to its starting position. The trick relies on techniques like the double lift and the upside-down all-round poker shuffle. The time travel theme adds a layer of fun and intrigue, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want to add a high-impact, visual card effect to their repertoire. It suits both close-up and parlor settings. Beginners with some experience in card handling will find it accessible, while more advanced performers can use it to enhance their shows with its engaging theme.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The 'Back In Time' trick is rated as intermediate in difficulty. It requires mastery of basic card techniques like the double lift and controlled shuffles. While the sleight of hand is minimal, precise handling during shuffles is crucial to maintain the illusion. Practice is essential to ensure smooth execution and to sell the time travel theme effectively.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey describes the trick as "impromptu and engaging, with a strong visual impact." He emphasizes the importance of clear presentation to sell the time travel theme. Matt, a beginner, found the trick challenging at first but improved with practice, noting that "the magic happens in the spectator's hand." Craig highlights the need for a larger repertoire, suggesting that 'Back In Time' is a valuable addition for its high-impact effect. Overall, magicians agree that the trick is a fantastic choice for those looking to captivate their audience with a visually stunning and thematically engaging card effect.

What people are saying about Back In Time

magic-tv says...

Matt performs 'Back In Time' at Smoke & Mirrors, showcasing his growth as a magician with strong reactions from the audience, though he admits to some mistakes.

SankeyMagic says...

The trick is impromptu and requires no special setup, using an engaging time travel theme to captivate audiences. [...] The detailed tutorial covers all steps, including shuffles and controls, making it accessible even for intermediate magicians.

Performance videos

Tutorial videos