Chair Swindle by Andy Nyman

Effect

The Chair Swindle is a mentalism routine that transforms a simple moment—asking a participant to sit in a chair—into a magical experience. The magician appears to predict the participant's choice of chair before they even make it, creating a moment of surprise and intrigue. The effect is subtle yet powerful, leaving the audience wondering how the magician could have known the participant's decision in advance.

Full details

The Chair Swindle is a routine created by Andy Nyman, a renowned mentalist and magician. It involves two chairs and a prediction that is revealed after the participant chooses where to sit. The routine is designed to be quick and impactful, often used as a prelude to a larger effect or as a standalone moment in a performance. The setup is minimal, requiring only two chairs and a small envelope or similar prop to hold the prediction. The routine is versatile and can be adapted for close-up, parlor, or stage settings.

Who should consider the trick

The Chair Swindle is ideal for magicians and mentalists who want to add a quick, impactful moment to their performances. It’s particularly useful for those who perform in stage or parlor settings, as it works well with larger audiences. The routine is also great for performers who want to create a moment of magic out of an otherwise mundane interaction, such as asking a participant to sit down. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy mentalism and prediction effects, as it plays on the audience’s curiosity and sense of wonder.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Chair Swindle is relatively easy to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The routine doesn’t require complex sleight of hand or advanced techniques, but it does rely on timing, presentation, and the ability to create a moment of suspense. The key to success lies in the magician’s ability to sell the effect and make the prediction feel impossible. While the mechanics are straightforward, the performance aspect may take some practice to perfect, especially in terms of pacing and audience interaction.

What magicians say

Magicians who have performed the Chair Swindle praise its simplicity and effectiveness. AlakazamMagicUK describes it as a "killer must-have" routine, emphasizing how it turns a non-moment into a magical one. They note that it’s "so simple, so strong," and that it’s a routine they try to include in their shows whenever possible. Another reviewer highlights the "moment of silence" in the routine, which builds tension and intrigue, making the reveal even more impactful. Overall, the Chair Swindle is widely regarded as a versatile and powerful addition to any magician’s repertoire.