Poker Face by Bill Abbott

Effect

In the Poker Face routine, a magician brings five spectators on stage. Each spectator secretly peeks at a random card from a deck. The magician then claims to read their "tells" or subtle body language to deduce the cards they are holding. One by one, the magician correctly identifies the cards, and four spectators sit down. The final card is revealed in a dramatic and engaging way, often involving a physical connection with the last spectator, such as holding their hand. The routine ends with a strong payoff, leaving the audience amazed.

Full details

Poker Face is a card routine developed by Bill Abbott. It uses a gimmick deck to achieve its effects, making the method straightforward and easy to perform. The routine is designed to be highly entertaining, with a focus on humor and audience interaction. Over two decades, Abbott has refined the routine, adding gags, alternative endings, and multiple presentation styles. The trick is versatile and can be adapted to different performance settings, though it requires a specific deck to work.

Who should consider the trick

Poker Face is ideal for magicians who perform in front of live audiences, especially those who enjoy interactive and comedic routines. It’s well-suited for stage performers, close-up magicians, and those who want a reliable, crowd-pleasing effect. The routine’s simplicity allows performers to focus on their presentation and audience engagement rather than complex sleight of hand. However, it may not be suitable for those who prefer impromptu tricks or avoid using gimmicked decks.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Poker Face is considered easy to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The method relies on a gimmick deck, which eliminates the need for advanced card handling techniques. This allows performers to concentrate on their presentation, humor, and interaction with the audience. While the routine is simple, its success depends on the performer’s ability to engage the crowd and sell the idea of reading "tells."

What magicians say

Bill Abbott describes Poker Face as a "workhorse" routine that he has performed for over two decades. He emphasizes its reliability and entertainment value, stating that it has been tested on thousands of audiences. Abbott also mentions that the routine has fooled many magicians, making it a strong effect for lay audiences. Reviewers like Craig & Ryland highlight the trick’s strong impact but note that it may not suit all performers due to its reliance on a gimmick deck. Overall, Poker Face is praised for its simplicity, humor, and ability to create memorable moments in a show.