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Magician's Choice/Equivocation

Magician's Choice/Equivocation is a psychological magic technique where the magician gives the spectator the illusion of free choice while subtly guiding them to a predetermined outcome. This method is versatile and can be applied to various magic genres, including close-up, mentalism, and card magic. The trick involves presenting multiple options to the spectator, but through clever scripting and timing, the magician ensures the spectator 'chooses' the desired option. It's perfect for impromptu performances and requires no gimmicks, making it a powerful tool in any magician's arsenal.

Key features

  • Versatile technique applicable to various magic genres

  • No gimmicks or props required

  • Relies on psychological principles and scripting

  • Great for impromptu performances

  • Can be combined with other magic effects for stronger impact

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and baffling to spectators

  • Can be performed anytime, anywhere

  • No setup or reset required

  • Builds strong audience engagement and interaction

  • Teaches valuable performance skills like timing and misdirection

Cons

  • Requires strong scripting and confidence to execute effectively

  • May feel manipulative if not performed with finesse

  • Beginners might struggle with the psychological subtleties

Effect

Magician's Choice, also known as Equivocation, is a psychological technique that creates the illusion of free choice while secretly guiding the spectator to a predetermined outcome. In performance, the magician presents multiple options, making it seem like the spectator has complete control over their decisions. Yet, no matter what they choose, the magician always arrives at the desired result.

For example, a spectator may be asked to freely select cards from a shuffled deck, yet the magician can still predict or control the final outcome. The method relies on subtle verbal and physical misdirection, making the process appear completely fair.

Full Details

Magician's Choice is not a single trick but a principle used in many effects. It involves structuring choices so that any decision leads to the same conclusion. The key is in the presentation—the magician must frame options in a way that eliminates hesitation and maintains the illusion of fairness.

In the "Triple Whammy" routine by Mike Powers, Magician's Choice is combined with other techniques like the breather crimp and deceptive controls to create a multi-phase card trick. The spectator believes they have freely selected cards, but the magician has secretly controlled them all along.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Magician's Choice is useful for performers at any skill level. Beginners can use simple versions to enhance basic tricks, while advanced magicians can integrate it into complex routines. It is especially valuable for:

  • Mentalism performers – Creates the illusion of mind reading or prediction.
  • Card magicians – Strengthens control over selections without suspicious moves.
  • Impromptu performers – Works with any objects, making it versatile for walk-around magic.

Difficulty Level

The technique itself is not physically demanding, but it requires strong presentation skills. The magician must:

  • Speak confidently to avoid hesitation.
  • Structure choices naturally to prevent suspicion.
  • Adapt quickly based on spectator responses.

Mike Powers emphasizes the importance of rehearsing different scenarios to ensure smooth delivery. Recording practice sessions helps refine timing and eliminate awkward pauses.

What Magicians Say

Mike Powers highlights the deceptive power of Magician's Choice in his "Triple Whammy" routine, calling it "super fair" and "incredibly clean." He advises performers to avoid over-explaining choices, keeping the presentation direct and natural.

MurphysMagicSupplies notes that the technique is a "foundation for learning equivocation," praising its versatility. They recommend practicing with real-world audiences to build confidence and refine the method.

Willis Kenny's deceptive control, mentioned by Powers, adds another layer of subtlety, making the trick even more convincing. The combination of psychological influence and sleight of hand makes Magician's Choice a powerful tool in any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Magician's Choice/Equivocation

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Mike Powers clearly loves this routine, praising its fairness and clever construction. He believes it's a great foundation for learning equivocation and encourages magicians to practice and incorporate it into their performances.

Tutorial videos