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Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle by Martin Lewis

Created by: Martin Lewis

The Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle is a captivating three-card Monty routine using oversized, durable cards, perfect for stage, parlor, or close-up performances. The trick involves a spectator trying to follow the 'money card' (an Ace) as it's shuffled among two blank cards, with the magician skillfully moving the cards between their hands and under their arm. The routine is designed to be learned in clear phases, making it accessible for magicians of all levels. The oversized cards are made of a durable, plasticky material, ensuring they last a lifetime. This trick is ideal for adding a narrative or storyline to enhance the performance and engage the audience more deeply.

Where to buy

Sidewalk Shuffle POKER SIZE by Martin Lewis - Trick from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicSidewalk Shuffle POKER SIZE by Martin Lewis - Trick£21.79
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Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle by Martin Lewis from Monster Magic
Monster MagicGreat Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle by Martin Lewis£59.99
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Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle by Martin Lewis from Magicbox
MagicboxGreat Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle by Martin Lewis£66.60
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Key features

  • Uses oversized, durable cards for visibility and longevity

  • Designed for stage, parlor, and close-up performances

  • Clear phase-by-phase instructions for easy learning

  • Encourages the use of a narrative to enhance performance

  • No advanced sleight of hand required

Pros

  • Durable cards that last a lifetime

  • Clear, easy-to-follow instructions

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Engages audience with potential for storytelling

  • No need for advanced sleight of hand

Cons

  • May require practice to master the sequence

  • Oversized cards might be less convenient for some performance settings

Effect

The Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle is a three-card Monte routine performed with oversized cards. The magician shows three cards—one "money card" (typically an Ace) and two blank "distractor" cards. The cards are mixed, and the spectator is challenged to follow the money card. Despite the straightforward shuffling, the money card vanishes and reappears in impossible locations, often ending up under the magician’s arm while the spectator is left baffled.

Full Details

  • Oversized Cards: The trick uses large, durable plastic cards, making them ideal for stage, parlor, or close-up performances.
  • Phased Routine: The effect is broken into three clear phases, making it easier to learn and perform.
  • No Sleight of Hand: The method relies on clever sequencing rather than difficult moves, making it accessible to a wide range of performers.
  • Storytelling Potential: The routine works well with a narrative, such as a scam story, to enhance audience engagement.

Who Should Consider the Trick

  • Performers who enjoy interactive routines with audience participation.
  • Magicians looking for a durable, large-scale version of three-card Monte.
  • Those who prefer structured, phase-based tricks that are easy to learn.

Difficulty

  • Low to Moderate: The trick requires memorizing a sequence rather than advanced sleight of hand.
  • Learning in Phases: Harry from AlakazamMagicUK recommends practicing each phase separately before combining them.
  • Performance Tips: Adding a storyline helps prevent spectators from guessing the outcome prematurely.

What Magicians Say

  • Harry (AlakazamMagicUK): "The routine is so baffling... it's got the perfect amount of phases and believability." He praises the durable cards and clear instructions.
  • Performance Insight: "If you allow the audience to jump to the finish line, the impact is lost. A storyline keeps them engaged."
  • Ease of Learning: "Took about 10 minutes to learn... the phase-by-phase breakdown makes it simple."

The Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle is a strong, visual routine that combines simplicity with high-impact deception, making it a solid choice for performers at various skill levels.

What people are saying about Great Big Fat Sidewalk Shuffle

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The routine's clear phase-by-phase instructions, making it relatively easy to learn, and praises the cards' durable construction. He also shares performance tips, suggesting a storyline to enhance the routine's impact and avoid audience assumptions.

Review videos