Sleightful logoSleightful

Play It Straight Triumph by John Bannon

Created by: John Bannon

Play It Straight Triumph is a classic card magic trick where a shuffled deck magically rights itself with all cards facing the same way except one. This version emphasizes a no-frills approach, focusing on clean execution and practicality, making it ideal for close-up magic performances. It's a worker’s routine, designed for real-world conditions, and likely involves techniques such as false shuffles, the Zarrow shuffle, and misdirection.

Key features

  • No setup required, ideal for impromptu performances

  • Versatile for close-up settings with audiences of various sizes

  • Focuses on clean execution and practicality

  • Teaches transitions and scripting for a cohesive narrative

  • Emphasizes flow and audience journey for a memorable experience

Pros

  • Reliable for professional gigs

  • Structured to build momentum with each trick leading naturally into the next

  • No setups needed, can be performed anytime, anywhere

Cons

  • May require familiarity with basic card magic techniques

  • Specific handling might not suit all performers' styles

Effect

The Play It Straight Triumph is a card magic effect where a shuffled deck appears to magically correct itself. The magician shows the deck is mixed face-up and face-down, then with a simple action, all cards return to face-down except one selected card, which remains face-up. The result is visually striking and seems impossible to the audience.

Full Details

This version of the classic Triumph effect focuses on practicality and clean execution. It requires no pre-set deck, making it ideal for impromptu performances. The method relies on well-established card techniques, including false shuffles and controlled card handling, to create the illusion of a self-correcting deck. The routine is structured to minimize complex moves, making it accessible to a wide range of magicians.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for magicians who want a reliable, no-frills version of Triumph that works in real-world conditions. It is ideal for close-up performers, walk-around magicians, and anyone who needs a strong card routine that can be done with a borrowed, shuffled deck.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Play It Straight Triumph is designed to be manageable for intermediate-level magicians. It does not require advanced sleight of hand but does assume familiarity with fundamental card techniques like false shuffles and controlled cuts. The emphasis on clean execution means that practice is necessary to make the effect appear effortless.

What Magicians Say

John Graham includes Play It Straight Triumph in his Afterglow act, calling it a "reliable, impromptu version" of the classic effect. He pairs it with his own prequel routine, enhancing the overall impact.

BestMagic describes it as a "worker’s routine," emphasizing its practicality for real-world performances. The tutorial likely focuses on making the effect as straightforward as possible while maintaining strong visual appeal.

SaturnMagicShop notes that the trick requires no setup, making it ideal for spontaneous performances. The hardback book format provides detailed instruction, ensuring magicians can learn the subtleties needed for a convincing performance.

Overall, Play It Straight Triumph is praised for its balance of simplicity and impact, making it a valuable addition to any card magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Play It Straight Triumph

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Emphasizes the importance of theatricality in magic.

BestMagic says...

The *Play It Straight* handling is designed to be accessible for magicians looking to add a straightforward yet impactful routine to their repertoire.

John Graham says...

A good trick can wow your audience, but a good act takes them on a journey.

Tutorial videos

Other videos