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ESP Symbol Routine by Peter Turner

Created by: Peter Turner

The ESP Symbol Routine is a captivating mentalism trick where the performer and a spectator each place down an ESP symbol card. The spectator's card mysteriously matches the performer's, creating the illusion of telepathic connection or intuition. This close-up mentalism routine is perfect for intimate settings and plays heavily on psychological presentation and subtlety. Buyers should note that the trick relies on clever methods and risk-taking with built-in outs, making it both bold and foolproof.

Key features

  • Uses ESP symbol cards for a clean, visual effect

  • Incorporates psychological presentation and dual reality

  • Includes built-in outs for seamless performance

  • Suitable for close-up mentalism and parlour settings

  • Blends simplicity with boldness for maximum impact

Pros

  • Highly visual and engaging for spectators

  • Clear teaching by Peter Turner in the masterclass

  • Versatile for different performance styles

  • Strong psychological impact with minimal props

Cons

  • Requires confidence in presentation and risk-taking

  • May need practice to master the built-in outs

Effect

The ESP Symbol Routine is a mentalism effect where the performer and a spectator each choose an ESP symbol card. The spectator uses their intuition to select a symbol that matches the performer's prediction. The routine creates the illusion of a genuine psychic connection, with the symbols matching in a seemingly impossible way.

Full details

The routine involves ESP symbol cards, which typically display classic symbols like a circle, square, wavy lines, cross, or star. The performer and spectator take turns placing down cards, with the spectator attempting to intuitively match the performer's symbol. The method allows for a strong psychological presentation, making the match feel like a real demonstration of extrasensory perception.

Peter Turner’s version of the routine includes risk-taking elements, where genuine suggestion is used to guide the spectator’s choice. If the initial approach doesn’t work, the routine has built-in outs to maintain the illusion. This makes it adaptable and reliable in performance.

Who should consider the trick

This routine is ideal for magicians interested in mentalism, particularly those who enjoy psychological techniques over complex sleight of hand. It works well for performers who want a quick, impactful effect that can be done with minimal props. Since it relies on presentation and audience interaction, it suits those comfortable with engaging spectators in a mentalism context.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The technical difficulty of the ESP Symbol Routine is low, making it accessible to beginners. However, the real challenge lies in the presentation and timing. The performer must sell the effect convincingly, using language and psychology to enhance the illusion. Peter Turner’s approach includes subtle verbal techniques that require practice to master, but the core method remains straightforward.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner from RealMagicReview praised Peter Turner’s handling of the ESP Symbol Routine, calling it "bold" and "inspiring." He highlighted Turner’s ability to take risks while having strong backup plans, making the routine both foolproof and impressive. Faulkner also noted that the routine reminded him of similar effects by Larry Becker and Derren Brown, emphasizing its strong impact on audiences.

The routine stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it a valuable addition to any mentalism performer’s repertoire.

What people are saying about ESP Symbol Routine

Steve Faulkner says...

The ESP symbol routine stands out for its boldness and backup plans, making it a foolproof yet daring piece of mentalism.

Review videos