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Deceptive Duplicity by Stuart James

Created by: Stuart James

Deceptive Duplicity is a captivating prediction trick that combines dice and cards for a mind-blowing revelation. A prediction envelope is placed in full view while four dice are rolled. The total of all the dice is used to deal two packets of cards. The top two cards of the packets give a value, while the top card of the deck signifies a suit. The arrived-at card is found missing from the deck and in the prediction envelope. This trick is perfect for close-up or parlor magic, offering a blend of suspense and surprise that leaves audiences in awe.

Key features

  • Combines dice and cards for a unique prediction effect

  • Involves a prediction envelope for added suspense

  • Suitable for close-up or parlor magic settings

  • Requires some setup and preparation before performance

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and clean effect

  • Engages the audience with a blend of suspense and surprise

  • Versatile for different performance settings

Cons

  • May require practice to master the handling and timing

  • Setup needed before performance

Effect

Deceptive Duplicity is a prediction trick that combines dice and cards to create a surprising outcome. The magician places a prediction envelope in full view. Four dice are rolled, and their total determines how two packets of cards are dealt. The top two cards of these packets provide a value, while the top card of the deck reveals a suit. The selected card is found missing from the deck and appears inside the sealed prediction envelope.

Full Details

Deceptive Duplicity, created by Stuart James, is a self-working trick that requires minimal sleight of hand. The method relies on mathematical principles and clever construction, making it accessible to performers of varying skill levels. The trick includes a custom prediction envelope and standard playing cards, with the dice adding an element of randomness. The effect is clean, with no suspicious moves or awkward moments.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy mathematical magic, prediction effects, or routines that combine multiple objects (cards and dice). It suits performers who prefer self-working tricks but still want strong audience reactions. Since it requires minimal setup, it works well for close-up or table performances.

Difficulty

Deceptive Duplicity is rated as easy to perform. The method is straightforward, with no complex sleights or difficult moves. The trick relies on the structure of the routine rather than manual dexterity, making it suitable for beginners. More experienced magicians may appreciate the clever construction and the ability to present it as a puzzle.

What Magicians Say

Brian Lloyd included Deceptive Duplicity in his top eight magic tricks, though he did not provide detailed reasoning. The hosts of Stranded with a Stranger researched the trick and described it as "really interesting," noting its combination of dice and cards. They were unfamiliar with it before Brian's recommendation, suggesting it may be a lesser-known but strong effect.

The trick's structure—using dice to determine card selections—makes it engaging for audiences who enjoy interactive magic. The final reveal, where the predicted card is missing from the deck, provides a strong magical moment.

Deceptive Duplicity is a solid choice for performers looking for a self-working trick with a surprising and logical conclusion.

What people are saying about Deceptive Duplicity

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Deceptive Duplicity: A prediction trick involving dice and cards, researched by the hosts due to Brian's lack of explanation. [...] I think it sounds really interesting I'm going to see if I can find more information on it.

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