Prohibition Monte by Alan Rorrison

Created by: Alan Rorrison

Prohibition Monte by Alan Rorrison is a captivating close-up card trick that reimagines a classic 1920s gambling swindle. The performer uses two half-cards to play a deceptive game of 'find the queen,' blending historical storytelling with sleight of hand. The routine culminates in a stunning visual finale where the signed cards magically fuse together, leaving the spectator with an impossible object as a keepsake. This trick is perfect for table-hopping, bar magic, or themed performances, offering a unique blend of history, interaction, and surprise. Buyers should note that the trick includes gimmicked cards and a detailed tutorial, making it accessible for beginners while still impressing seasoned magicians.

Where to buy

Alakazam Magic

Refill for Prohibition Monte by Alan Rorrison and the 1914 - Trick

£9.31

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Key features

Uses half-cards for a unique twist on the two-card monte
Historical prohibition-era presentation adds depth
Spectator ends up with a signed, fused card as a souvenir
No advanced sleight of hand required
Includes 25 gimmicked cards and a 40-minute tutorial

Pros

Engaging historical context
Strong visual finale
Easy to carry and reset
Suitable for beginners and pros
Option to give away signed cards

Cons

Back design may not appeal to everyone
Scripted phases may require practice to remember
Angles need careful handling during performance

Effect

Prohibition Monte is a modern take on the classic two-card monte, blending deception with a surprising visual finish. The trick starts with two half-cards—one hidden, the other in play. The spectator tries to follow the hidden card as the magician shuffles them, but the real magic happens when the cards fuse together at the end, creating an impossible object. The routine often includes audience participation, with spectators signing the cards before the final reveal.

Full details

Prohibition Monte is based on a historical gambling swindle from the 1920s, where con artists used half-cards to bypass anti-gambling laws. Alan Rorrison’s version updates this concept, adding a signed card element and a fused-card finale reminiscent of the Anniversary Waltz. The trick includes:

Gimmicked cards (25 total, with extras for audience giveaways).
A 40-minute tutorial covering performance, scripting, and setup.
Historical context explaining the prohibition-era inspiration.

The routine is structured with clear phases, leading to a strong, unexpected finish. The cards are durable, with a distressed design fitting the theme.

Who should consider the trick

Prohibition Monte is ideal for:

Beginners – No advanced sleight of hand is required.
Working performers – Great for bar magic, table hopping, or themed events (e.g., casino nights, 1920s parties).
Magicians who like interactive routines – The signed card element makes it memorable for spectators.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is beginner-friendly, with no complex moves. The main challenge is smooth handling and timing, especially when switching cards. Reviewers note that while the mechanics are simple, rehearsing the script and angles ensures a polished performance.

What magicians say

The1914 highlights the historical angle, calling it a "passion project" that blends deception with storytelling.
RealMagicReview praises the easy-to-learn nature and strong finish but mentions that remembering the scripted phases may take practice.
Mentalistonashoestring appreciates the portability and the ability to reset quickly, calling it a "great little effect" for table work.
FiddlinJonny recommends personalizing the script for better flow and notes the trick’s suitability for themed performances.

Overall, Prohibition Monte is praised for its unique twist on a classic plot, strong audience engagement, and practical carry-along size.

What people are saying about Prohibition Monte

fiddlinjonny says...

The routine culminates in a stunning visual finale where the signed cards magically fuse together, leaving the spectator with an impossible object as a keepsake.

mentalistonashoestring says...

This trick blends the classic two-card monte with elements of the Anniversary Waltz, offering a fresh take on both. The signed, fused card makes for a memorable finish.

RealMagicReview says...

The trick shines with its unique backstory and interactive fun, though it does require practice to nail the sleight of hand and timing for the big reveal.

The1914 says...

The trick starts simply: the performer hides a queen, shuffles the cards, and lets the spectator guess its location. But the real magic happens when the spectator is 'caught' holding a full card, playfully framed for illegal gambling.