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Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte by Michael Skinner

Created by: Michael Skinner

Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte is a classic close-up card trick that combines deception, sleight of hand, and audience interaction. The magician performs the traditional Three Card Monte routine, where three cards (often including a Queen) are shown and shuffled face down. The spectator is challenged to follow the Queen, but despite their best efforts, they are always outsmarted by the magician. This trick is perfect for close-up performances, walk-around magic, or even street magic. It requires basic card handling skills and is ideal for magicians who want to add a deceptive yet straightforward routine to their repertoire.

Key features

  • Classic Three Card Monte routine with a magical twist

  • Requires basic card handling skills

  • Perfect for close-up, walk-around, or street magic

  • Highly deceptive yet simple to perform

  • Engages the audience with a challenge

Pros

  • Deceptive and fooling

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Great for audience interaction

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Timeless routine that appeals to all audiences

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the sleight of hand

  • May be familiar to some spectators as a traditional con game

Effect

Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte is a deceptive card trick that mimics the classic street scam of the same name. To the audience, it appears as though the magician is shuffling three cards, one of which is the target card. Despite the spectator's best efforts to follow the target card, it seems to vanish or change positions unpredictably, leaving them baffled and entertained.

Full details

The trick involves three cards, typically two indifferent cards and one target card, such as the Queen of Hearts. The magician uses sleight of hand and misdirection to control the position of the target card while appearing to shuffle the cards openly. The routine often includes multiple phases, each increasing the level of deception and surprise. The simplicity of the method allows for a clean and convincing performance, making it a favorite among card magicians.

Who should consider the trick

Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte is ideal for magicians who enjoy card magic and want to add a classic, deceptive routine to their repertoire. It is particularly suited for performers who appreciate tricks that are simple in method but strong in effect. The trick works well in both close-up and street magic settings, making it versatile for various performance environments.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is relatively easy to learn, especially for magicians with basic card handling skills. The methods used are straightforward, but the effectiveness of the trick relies heavily on the performer's ability to misdirect and engage the audience. With practice, even beginners can master the routine and perform it convincingly.

What magicians say

Craig Petty, in his analysis of Bill Malone's routines, highlights Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte as a deceptive yet simple trick that Malone performs flawlessly. Petty emphasizes Malone's ability to make even simple tricks feel magical through his showmanship and charisma. The trick's deceptive nature and clean execution make it a standout routine in Malone's performances.

What people are saying about Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte

Craig Petty says...

Michael Skinner's Three Card Monte is a deceptive yet simple trick that Bill Malone performs flawlessly, showcasing how even straightforward routines can feel magical with the right showmanship.

Review videos