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Leipzig Pass by Nate Leipzig

Created by: Nate Leipzig

The Leipzig Pass is a deceptive card control attributed to Nate Leipzig, specifically the Screened Leipzig Pass variation which uses the top card as a screen to disguise the movement of a selected card from the middle to the top. This move is particularly useful in ambitious card routines and pairs well with visual reveals. It involves techniques like clip break setup, misdirection, and card insertion, making it a subtle and well-covered control for magicians.

Key features

  • Uses the top card as a screen for deception

  • Involves clip break setup for smooth execution

  • Relies on well-timed misdirection

  • Effective in ambitious card routines

  • Pairs well with visual reveals like snap changes

Pros

  • Extraordinarily satisfying to practice

  • Subtle and well-covered control

  • Built-in misdirection opportunities

  • Useful in a variety of card routines

Cons

  • Requires precise handling and timing

  • The card must be known to the magician (face-up by nature)

Effect

The Leipzig Pass is a deceptive card control that allows a magician to secretly move a selected card from the middle of the deck to the top. To the audience, it appears as if the magician simply turns the selected card face down or performs a casual action, with no visible movement of the card. In variations like the Screened Leipzig Pass, the top card acts as a cover, further disguising the control. The effect is often used in ambitious card routines, where a card repeatedly rises to the top despite being placed in the middle.

Full Details

The Leipzig Pass is attributed to Nate Leipzig and is known for its subtlety. The Screened Leipzig Pass variation, as taught by PigCake, uses the top card as a screen to hide the movement of the selected card. Key elements of the move include:

  • Clip Break Setup: The magician clips the upper right corner of the top card between the pinky and ring finger, creating a gap.
  • Card Insertion: While pretending to turn the selected card face down, the magician secretly inserts it into the gap, positioning it second from the top.
  • Misdirection: A well-timed question or comment diverts attention, similar to techniques used in a top change.
  • Face-Up Cover: In ambitious card routines, the top card can remain face-up, acting as a visual screen while the selected card is controlled beneath it.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Leipzig Pass is ideal for magicians who enjoy subtle, well-covered card controls. It is particularly useful for those who perform ambitious card routines or need a deceptive way to control a card to the top without obvious moves. PigCake describes it as "extraordinarily satisfying to practice," making it a good choice for magicians who appreciate refined sleight-of-hand techniques.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Leipzig Pass requires precise handling and timing. PigCake notes that a larger-than-usual clip break helps with smooth execution, but the move still relies on natural motion and built-in misdirection. While not the easiest control to master, it offers a deceptive alternative to more common passes. Magicians with experience in card sleights will find it manageable with practice, but beginners may need time to develop the necessary finger coordination.

What Magicians Say

PigCake highlights the Leipzig Pass as a strong addition to any magician’s toolkit, praising its subtlety and deceptive qualities. He emphasizes that the move works well in ambitious card routines, especially when paired with visual reveals like a snap change. The misdirection aspect is crucial, with PigCake recommending questions like "Are you capable of remembering this card?" to create a natural moment for execution. He also notes that the move is satisfying to practice, making it appealing for magicians who enjoy refining their technique.

The Leipzig Pass is a classic control that remains relevant due to its deceptive nature and versatility in card magic.

What people are saying about Leipzig Pass

PigCake says...

The Leipzig Pass is extraordinarily satisfying to practice and recommends it for magicians who enjoy subtle, well-covered controls. While it requires precise handling and timing, the move offers a deceptive alternative to more common passes.

Tutorial videos