Sleightful logoSleightful

Color Monte by Emerson and West

Created by: Emerson and West

Color Monte is a classic close-up card trick, often performed as a gambling-themed routine where the magician shows three cards—typically two black cards and one red card—and challenges the spectator to follow the red card as they are mixed face down. Despite the spectator's best efforts, they consistently lose track of the red card, leading to a surprising and impossible climax, such as the red card transforming, disappearing, or reappearing in an unexpected way. In modern versions like Craig Petty's 'Ultimate Monty', the trick is adapted to use a regular deck (not a packet trick), incorporates a humorous gambling story, and features a strong finale where a signed card reappears, enhancing its commercial appeal. Buyers should note that some variations may require setup with blank cards or borrowed decks for impromptu performances, making it versatile for both beginners and professionals.

Key features

  • Uses a regular deck for a natural feel

  • Can be performed impromptu with a borrowed, shuffled deck

  • Builds through multiple phases for a progressive impact

  • Incorporates a gambling-themed story for engaging presentation

  • Suitable for all skill levels from beginners to professionals

  • Focuses on smooth transitions and logical narrative pacing

Pros

  • Strong audience reactions and commercial appeal

  • Deceptive simplicity with a powerful payoff

  • No special gimmicks needed in some versions

  • Encourages viewer interaction and storytelling

Cons

  • May require setup with blank cards in certain routines

  • Gambling story could confuse beginners if not well-scripted

Effect

The Color Monte trick presents as a three card gambling game. A performer shows two red cards and one black card. The audience tracks the black card as the performer mixes the cards face down. Despite appearing simple to follow, the audience cannot correctly identify the black card's location. The routine often builds to a surprise ending where the black card changes or a signed card appears.

Full details

Color Monte is a card trick based on the Three Card Monte street scam. Performers use a regular deck of cards, making the trick impromptu. Some versions use a prepared set of cards. The routine involves multiple phases where the cards change positions and identities. Craig Petty's Ultimate Monty version includes a gambling story and a finale with a signed card. Matt McGurk teaches a five phase routine that builds to a strong finish. The method relies on sleight of hand and psychological principles to control the audience's perception.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who perform with cards. Beginners can learn basic versions. Professionals can use advanced routines for paid shows. It works well for close up magic and street performance. Magicians who like storytelling will enjoy the gambling theme. Those who prefer impromptu magic can perform it with a borrowed deck.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies by version. Basic Color Monte uses simple moves that beginners can learn. Matt McGurk states his routine is suitable for beginners. It includes what he calls the World's Easiest Double Lift. More advanced versions require practice for smooth transitions. Craig Petty's Ultimate Monty involves setup with blank cards. The gambling story presentation adds another layer that may challenge new performers. Practice is needed to make the phases flow naturally.

What magicians say

Magic TV says Craig Petty's Ultimate Monty uses a regular deck which makes it feel less like a packet trick. They note the trick has a strong finale and commercial appeal. Matt McGurk loves the routine for its deceptive simplicity and powerful payoff. He has used his five phase routine in professional shows for over ten years. He emphasizes presentation and pacing for maximum impact. Both magicians highlight the importance of building audience investment through logical phases and engaging storytelling.

What people are saying about Color Monte

magic-tv says...

Craig's 'Ultimate Monty' is a fresh take on 'Color Monte' with a regular deck, making it feel less like a packet trick. The performance is engaging and commercial, with a humorous gambling story tying into the climax where a signed card reappears unexpectedly.

MattMcGurk says...

This five-phase routine builds to a surprise ending with a borrowed, shuffled deck, focusing on smooth transitions and logical narrative. It's suitable for beginners and professionals, emphasizing presentation and pacing for maximum impact.

Promotional videos

Tutorial videos