Center Dealing by Paul Gordon

Effect

The Center Dealing trick creates the illusion that a magician can deal cards from the center of the deck while secretly controlling which cards appear. In Paul Gordon's demonstration, he places the Four Kings on top of the deck, cuts the cards to the center, and then deals four cards—revealing the Four Aces instead. The audience believes the Kings are still in play, but the magician has secretly manipulated the deal to produce an unexpected outcome.

Full Details

Center Dealing is a deceptive technique often associated with card cheating but adapted for magic performances. The magician appears to deal cards fairly from the center of the deck while actually controlling which cards are dealt. In Gordon's routine:

• The Four Kings are placed on top of the deck.
• The deck is cut, seemingly mixing the cards.
• The magician deals four cards, which turn out to be the Four Aces instead of the Kings.
• The Kings are then revealed still in the deck, creating a surprising twist.

This method relies on precise handling and misdirection to maintain the illusion of fairness.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for intermediate to advanced card magicians who are comfortable with sleight of hand and false deals. It is ideal for performers who want to incorporate gambling-themed routines or strong visual card magic into their acts.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Center Dealing requires practice to execute convincingly. The technique involves:

• A convincing false cut to make the deck appear randomized.
• Precise finger positioning to control the deal.
• Natural handling to avoid detection.

Paul Gordon describes the routines in his book as "worker doable," meaning they are practical for real-world performances but still demand skill. Beginners may find this challenging, while experienced card workers will appreciate the deceptive potential.

What Magicians Say

Paul Gordon emphasizes the practicality of the routines in his book, calling it his "best book ever" and highlighting the quality of the material. He demonstrates Center Dealing as a strong, visual effect that can fool even knowledgeable spectators.

The technique is not just about dealing from the center—it’s about creating a moment of impossibility where the audience believes the cards were fairly mixed, only to be surprised by the magician’s control. As Gordon says, "That can't be beaten... a miracle."

For magicians interested in advanced card work, Center Dealing offers a powerful addition to their repertoire, blending deception, skill, and strong audience impact.