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Fringe Mentalism by David Alnwick and Ken Dyne

Created by: David Alnwick, Ken Dyne

Fringe Mentalism is a digital download featuring six powerful mentalism routines designed by David Alnwick, a seasoned performer with over a decade of experience at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The effects range from card-based mentalism to interactive audience participation, blending classic methods with modern presentations. Highlights include 'Macro Personality,' a personality test disguised as a card trick; 'Tossed Out Text,' a contemporary twist on the tossed-out deck using text messages; and 'Up To Spec,' where a spectator is briefly trained to read minds. The routines are performance-ready, adaptable to various styles, and require minimal props—often just a deck of cards or everyday items like a cell phone or a ripped book page. Ideal for close-up, parlor, or virtual performances, this release is perfect for magicians looking to expand into mentalism or refine their existing acts with proven, audience-tested material.

Where to buy

The Vault - Fringe Mentalism by David Alnwick presented by Ken Dyne video DOWNLOAD from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicThe Vault - Fringe Mentalism by David Alnwick presented by Ken Dyne video DOWNLOAD£17.42
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Key features

  • Six professional-grade mentalism routines

  • Minimal props required (e.g., cards, phone, book page)

  • Adaptable to close-up, parlor, or virtual settings

  • Beginner-friendly methods with professional-level impact

  • Includes performance theory and audience management tips

Pros

  • Highly practical and performance-tested

  • Clear, detailed instructions with live performance examples

  • Affordable at $17.99 for six routines

  • Flexible scripting for personalization

  • Strong focus on presentation and spectator experience

Cons

  • Not ideal for those who dislike mentalism

  • One routine ('Ethereal Card') may feel procedural to some

Effect

Fringe Mentalism is a collection of six mentalism routines designed to create powerful, audience-driven experiences. The effects range from personality tests using playing cards to mind-reading demonstrations where a spectator learns to read minds in minutes. One standout routine involves audience members sending text messages, which later reveal their freely chosen playing cards. Another effect uses a single page from a book to predict a spectator's chosen word. The routines feel organic, engaging, and deeply interactive, making them ideal for both live and virtual performances.

Full details

Fringe Mentalism includes six effects:

  • Macro Personality – A card trick disguised as a personality test, where spectators pick cards that reveal insights about their character.
  • Tossed Out Text – A modern take on the tossed-out deck, where audience texts predict their chosen cards.
  • Up to Spec – A spectator is briefly trained to read minds and successfully identifies a freely selected card.
  • The Wise Owl – A poetic prediction that subtly influences a spectator’s card choice.
  • Ethereal Card – A virtual performance piece where spectators manipulate their own decks to reveal a chosen card.
  • The Nightmare Page – A compact book test using a single torn-out page for impromptu performances.

    • The methods are simple, relying more on presentation and audience management than complex sleight of hand. The download includes professionally shot performances followed by detailed explanations from David Alnwick and Ken Dyne.

    Who should consider the trick

    Fringe Mentalism is ideal for:

    • Beginners – The methods are straightforward, making them accessible even to those new to mentalism.
    • Professionals – The routines are refined from years of real-world performances, offering strong material for working performers.
    • Card magicians – Many effects use playing cards, making it easy for card workers to transition into mentalism.
    • Virtual performers – One routine is specifically designed for Zoom or online shows.

    Information on how difficult it is to perform

    The difficulty level is beginner-friendly, with no advanced sleight of hand required. The most challenging aspect is mastering the classic force (used in some routines), but alternative forces can be substituted. The real skill lies in presentation, audience management, and pacing—elements that David Alnwick thoroughly explains.

    What magicians say

    • Fiddlinjonny calls it "the best download I've purchased this year," praising its practicality and professional appeal. He highlights the adaptability of the routines, noting they can be reshaped to fit different performing styles.
    • RealMagicReview (Steve Fultner) describes it as "a bargain for the depth of material," emphasizing the theatrical insights and strong audience engagement techniques. He particularly loves the "Tossed Out Text" routine for its modern twist on a classic effect.

    Both reviewers agree that Fringe Mentalism is an outstanding value at £17.99 (around $18.50), offering professional-grade material at an accessible price. While mentalism may not appeal to everyone, those interested in interactive, performance-driven magic will find it highly rewarding.

    What people are saying about Fringe Mentalism

    fiddlinjonny says...

    Fringe Mentalism is the best download I've purchased this year—practical, professional, and packed with routines I can actually use in my working repertoire.

    RealMagicReview says...

    This is a masterclass in mentalism. For £17.99, you get more value than some £100 books or DVDs. David and Ken’s insights are gold.

    Review videos