Pre-Show Research

Effect

The trick involves appearing to know personal details about audience members, seemingly through supernatural means. The performer delivers specific information about individuals, such as names, relationships, or past events, creating the illusion of psychic ability.

Full details

This method relies on pre-show research and cold reading techniques. The performer or their team gathers information about participants before the show, often through publicly available sources like social media or registration forms. During the performance, the magician uses this data to craft seemingly impossible revelations.

The trick may also involve selective editing or cherry-picking successful readings while omitting failures. In live settings, only a small number of participants receive readings, reinforcing the illusion of accuracy.

Who should consider the trick

This method suits mentalists or performers who want to create a psychic or mediumship-style act. It is particularly effective for those targeting emotional themes, such as connecting with lost loved ones. However, ethical considerations are crucial, as the trick can exploit vulnerable audiences if misused.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty depends on research skills and performance ability. Gathering accurate information beforehand requires time and effort. The performer must also deliver readings convincingly, blending scripted details with improvised cold reading techniques. While not physically demanding, the psychological and emotional aspects make it challenging.

What magicians say

PigCake critiques this approach, calling it exploitative when used unethically. He states, "These psychics are always adapting to incoming technologies... but the scam remains the same." He contrasts this with legitimate mentalism, which prioritizes transparency and audience respect.

Another reviewer notes that performers often cut off sessions when challenged, avoiding scrutiny. They also highlight how only successful readings are showcased, creating a false impression of accuracy.

PigCake suggests ethical alternatives, such as learning mentalism techniques rooted in magic theory rather than deception. He promotes his Mentalism Academy as a resource for performers who want to achieve similar effects without misleading audiences.

The trick remains controversial, with some defending its entertainment value while others condemn its potential for exploitation. Performers should weigh ethical implications before using pre-show research in their acts.