Sleightful logoSleightful

Prediction Chicago Opener by PigCake

Created by: PigCake

The Prediction Chicago Opener is a captivating close-up card trick that combines prediction and transformation effects. A spectator names any card, and a prediction written on the back of a different card (the Four of Spades) is revealed, initially seeming incorrect. The magician then performs a visually stunning 'ink transfer' from the spectator's chosen card to the Four of Spades, making the prediction match perfectly. This trick utilizes a blend of card handling techniques and misdirection, offering a fresh twist on the classic Chicago Opener. Ideal for magicians looking to add a memorable and interactive routine to their repertoire.

Key features

  • Unique variation of the classic Chicago Opener with a prediction twist

  • Involves a combination of spread cold, double lift, top change, and thumb switch

  • Emphasizes presentation and misdirection for maximum impact

  • Sacrifices one card, but can be managed with a spare deck

  • Encourages customization of props and routines to fit personal style

Pros

  • Engaging and interactive with the spectator

  • Uses relatively simple card handling techniques

  • Strong visual transformation effect

  • Customizable to the performer's style

  • Great value for learning a powerful routine

Cons

  • Requires sacrificing one card from the deck

  • Relies on basic sleights that may need practice to perfect

  • The top change is described as 'shitty', indicating it may not be flawless

Effect

The Prediction Chicago Opener is a variation of the classic Chicago Opener (also known as Red Hot Mama). A spectator names any card from a spread deck. The magician reveals a prediction written on the back of one card, but it doesn’t match the spectator’s selection. The magician then appears to transfer the prediction from the wrong card to the correct one, creating a surprising and impossible moment.

Full Details

The trick uses a written prediction ("Four of Spades") on the back of the Four of Spades card, placed third from the bottom of the deck. The spectator names any card, and through controlled card handling, the magician makes it seem like the prediction was on the wrong card before visually "moving" the ink to the correct one.

Key techniques include:

  • Spread cold – Controlling a card’s position while spreading the deck.
  • Double lift – Showing two cards as one.
  • Top change – Secretly swapping the top card.
  • Thumb switch – Switching cards under misdirection.

The method requires sacrificing one card (the one with the written prediction), but using a spare deck can solve this issue.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

  • Enjoy prediction effects with a visual twist.
  • Are comfortable with intermediate card sleights.
  • Want a fresh take on the Chicago Opener.
  • Prefer routines that rely on presentation over flawless technique.

Difficulty

The trick involves several sleights, but PigCake emphasizes that presentation and misdirection are more important than perfect execution. The moves include:

  • A spread cold (moderate difficulty).
  • A double lift (basic but must be smooth).
  • A top change (can be rough, as PigCake admits his is "shitty").
  • A thumb switch (requires practice for clean execution).

PigCake notes that the trick is achievable with practice, even if some moves aren’t perfect.

What Magicians Say

PigCake describes the trick as "a fun variation" that creates strong reactions. He highlights the moment when the spectator sees the wrong prediction as a powerful point in the routine. He also suggests customizing the presentation to fit personal style, mentioning his own experience with modifying props.

Key quotes:

  • "It's a great variation on the classic Red Hot Mama Chicago Opener."
  • "The moment when the prediction doesn’t match the spectator’s card is very powerful."
  • "You don’t need flawless execution—just good presentation."

The trick is presented as an engaging, visual update to a classic effect, with room for personalization.

What people are saying about Prediction Chicago Opener

PigCake says...

This is a fun and engaging routine, achievable with a relatively simple setup. [...] It's a great variation on the classic red hot mama Chicago opener and all it involves you doing is a spread cold, double lift, and a really shitty top change.

Tutorial videos