Open Travelers by Luke Jermay

Effect

The Open Travelers trick creates the illusion of invisibility with playing cards. The magician places a Queen inside a "magic circle" and makes other Queens vanish and reappear in plain sight. The audience sees the cards disappear from one location and instantly materialize in another, all while being able to inspect the magic circle and the cards themselves. The routine includes storytelling and audience interaction, reinforcing the impossibility of the effect.

Full Details

Open Travelers is part of Luke Jermay’s Constructing Magic project, which includes four card magic effects. This version of the classic traveler plot uses a gimmick that allows the magician to perform the trick openly, with minimal sleight of hand. The method relies on clever construction rather than difficult moves, making it accessible to many performers.

The routine is best suited for parlor or seated performances where the magician can take time to build a narrative. Audience members can examine the props, adding to the effect’s believability. The trick requires some preparation, including the creation of a specific gimmick, but once set up, it resets quickly.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy storytelling and interactive performances. It works well in sit-down settings, such as parlor shows or close-up performances with small groups. Those who appreciate classic card magic with a modern twist will find Open Travelers engaging.

Magicians who dislike building gimmicks may find the preparation process challenging, as the effect requires precise construction. However, the method itself is not overly difficult to execute once the gimmick is ready.

Difficulty

The trick is not technically demanding in terms of sleight of hand. The difficulty lies in the choreography and timing of the routine. The magician must practice the presentation to ensure smooth transitions and convincing reveals.

Sebastian Toca notes that while the moves are simple, the routine requires practice to make the effect fluid and natural. The gimmick construction may take time, especially for those unfamiliar with crafting card props.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Toca describes Open Travelers as a "really interesting way" to perform the classic traveler plot. He praises its visual impact and the fact that it can be performed openly, with spectators able to inspect the magic circle. However, he mentions that the effect requires a specific setting and is not ideal for strolling or impromptu performances.

Vanishing Inc. highlights the trick’s strong audience engagement, noting how Jermay uses storytelling and repetition to enhance the illusion. The performance video demonstrates how the trick can be presented with theatrical flair, making it both visually striking and memorable.

Overall, Open Travelers is a well-constructed trick that combines classic magic principles with modern presentation techniques. It is best suited for performers who enjoy structured routines and are willing to invest time in preparation.