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Garage Sale Routine by Dan Harlan

Created by: Dan Harlan

The Garage Sale Routine is a close-up magic trick that uses snap cards to create an illusion of influence over a spectator's choices. The performer sets up a scenario where they and the spectator engage in a mock garage sale, buying and selling items represented by cards. At the end of the routine, the remaining cards that the spectator didn't select spell out the item they decided to buy, demonstrating the performer's influence from the start. This trick is part of Dan Harlan’s Equivocation Masterclass, focusing on the technique of equivocation where the performer subtly guides the spectator towards a predetermined outcome.

Key features

  • Uses snap cards for a unique and engaging routine

  • Teaches the principle of equivocation, allowing for versatile application in various magic tricks

  • Adaptable to different performance environments (close-up, stage, parlor)

  • Props are practical and easily sourced

  • Routines are fully examinable, enhancing the illusion's integrity

  • Includes over six hours of instructional content, including live performances and a Q&A session

Pros

  • Comprehensive instructional content

  • Versatile application across different magic genres

  • Practical and examinable props

  • Engaging and unique routines

  • Teaches foundational principles for creating equivocation routines

Cons

  • Requires sourcing specific props for some routines

  • May need adaptation for performers not familiar with equivocation techniques

Effect

The Garage Sale Routine is a magic trick that creates the illusion of influence over a spectator's choices. The performer presents a set of items, simulating a garage sale scenario where the spectator "buys" and "sells" items. At the end, the remaining items not selected by the spectator spell out the exact item they chose, making it appear as though the magician predicted or controlled their decision from the start.

Full Details

The routine uses snap cards or similar props to represent different items in a garage sale. The spectator freely selects which items to keep or discard, yet the magician demonstrates that their choices were subtly guided. The method relies on equivocation, a technique where the performer appears to offer genuine choice while steering the outcome.

The trick is adaptable to different performance settings, including close-up and stage. All props are examinable, reinforcing the illusion of fairness. The routine can be extended or combined with other effects, as taught in Dan Harlan's Equivocation Masterclass.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine suits magicians who:

  • Perform interactive, audience-participation magic.
  • Want a versatile trick that works in close-up or stage settings.
  • Enjoy psychological magic that emphasizes choice and influence.
  • Prefer examinable props to strengthen the effect’s credibility.

Difficulty

The Garage Sale Routine is not technically demanding. Success depends on clear communication and proper application of equivocation principles rather than complex sleight of hand. Beginners familiar with basic performance skills can learn it, though mastering the psychological aspects may take practice.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Toca describes the routine as "fantastic" and "incredible," praising its deceptive power and adaptability. He highlights that the method ensures all props remain examinable, enhancing the trick’s believability. The routine is part of Dan Harlan’s broader teachings on equivocation, which Sebastian rates as a "10/10" resource for magicians and mentalists.

The Garage Sale Routine is one of several effects in Harlan’s masterclass, which includes over six hours of instruction on applying equivocation across different magic plots. Reviewers emphasize its practicality, with props being easy to source and routines flexible enough for various performance environments.

What people are saying about Garage Sale Routine

sebastiantoca9208 says...

Dan harland's equivocation masterclass is the holy grail and the best master class there is on the vanishing King website [...] The Garage Sale Routine is a fantastic routine, it's incredible but one of my personal favorites.

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