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POW by Erik Casey

Created by: Erik Casey

POW is a visually stunning card trick that involves an impossible transposition of cards. The performer starts with three black cards on top of three red cards, places them inside a wine glass, and with a simple shake, the cards appear to mix thoroughly. A second shake restores them to their original order. This close-up magic trick relies on a clever mechanical principle rather than sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The trick uses a standard deck split into red and blue-backed cards, enhancing its deceptive simplicity.

Where to buy

POW by Erik Casey and John Michael Hinton from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicPOW by Erik Casey and John Michael Hinton£19.99
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Key features

  • No sleight of hand required, making it easy to perform

  • Uses a standard deck of cards, split into red and blue-backed cards

  • Visual and direct effect with a strong magical moment

  • Can be performed in various settings, from close-up to parlor magic

  • Self-working trick, suitable for beginners

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible-looking effect

  • Easy to learn and perform, no advanced skills needed

  • Versatile performance options, with or without a glass

  • Strong impact on audiences, creating a sense of wonder

Cons

  • Requires a specific setup with the deck split into red and blue-backed cards

  • The effect's simplicity might not challenge more experienced magicians looking for complex sleight of hand

Effect

POW is a visual card trick that creates the illusion of impossible mixing and unmixing. The performer starts with three black cards placed on top of three red cards inside a wine glass. A quick shake mixes them into a red-black alternating sequence. A second shake restores them to their original order. The effect is direct, fast, and highly visual, with no visible sleight of hand.

Full Details

POW uses six cards—three black cards from a blue-backed deck and three red cards from a red-backed deck. The trick relies on a mechanical principle rather than sleight of hand. Shaking the glass side to side mixes the cards, while shaking it back and forth restores them. The method is self-working, making it accessible to beginners. The trick can be performed with or without a glass, allowing flexibility in presentation.

Who Should Consider the Trick

POW is ideal for magicians who want a quick, visual effect with minimal setup. It works well in close-up, parlor, or stand-up settings. Beginners will appreciate its self-working nature, while experienced performers can use it as a strong opener or closer. The trick is also adaptable—different card designs can be used for themed performances.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

POW is easy to perform. No sleight of hand is required, and the method is straightforward. The trick involves simple actions—placing cards in the glass and shaking it. The main challenge is presentation, as the effect relies on timing and misdirection. Even a beginner can learn it quickly.

What Magicians Say

AlakazamMagicUK describes POW as "so direct" and "very visual," noting that "there's no way that anyone could have manipulated those cards." They highlight its speed, saying it avoids the "cumbersome nature of traditional oil and water routines." Another reviewer calls it "unbelievable," adding that they "haven't got a clue how it works." The trick is praised for its deceptive simplicity and strong audience reactions.

POW is a practical, visually striking trick that delivers a strong magical moment with minimal effort. Its versatility and ease of performance make it a solid addition to any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about POW

AlakazamMagicUK says...

POW is so direct and visual, it's quick and not like traditional oil and water routines. The backs change, the faces change, it's good isn't it? [...] It's a lovely version of the effect and it's straight to the point and it's very visual.

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