Psychic Touch by Jay Sankey, Yigal Mesika, Tom Wright, and Craig Petty

Effect

Psychic Touch is a magic trick where the magician appears to psychically predict or identify objects, such as coins or cards, without physical contact. The effect creates a strong illusion of touchless interaction, often leaving the audience amazed by the magician's apparent psychic abilities. In one version, the magician predicts the dates on borrowed coins shaken in a glass. In another, the magician correctly identifies cards chosen by a spectator from a shuffled deck, all while their back is turned.

Full details

Psychic Touch is a versatile trick that can be performed with borrowed items, such as coins or a deck of cards, making it feel authentic and organic. The trick relies on subtle techniques, such as the 'one ahead' principle, to maintain the illusion of psychic prediction. In the coin version, the magician secretly notes a coin's date and pretends to predict others, creating a seamless and convincing effect. In the card version, the magician uses a self-working method to identify chosen cards without needing a marked deck. The trick is designed to be interactive, often involving audience participation and humor to enhance the experience.

Who should consider the trick

Psychic Touch is ideal for magicians who perform close-up or bar magic, as it works well in intimate settings. It is also suitable for those who enjoy interactive tricks that involve audience participation. The trick is versatile, as it can be performed with borrowed items, making it a practical addition to any magician's repertoire. Beginners may find the coin version challenging due to the need for discreet handling, while the card version is more accessible for those new to magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of Psychic Touch varies depending on the version performed. The coin version requires practice to master the discreet handling of coins and the 'one ahead' technique, making it more suitable for intermediate or advanced magicians. The card version, on the other hand, is self-working and easier to perform, making it a good choice for beginners. Both versions demand smooth execution and strong audience interaction to sell the effect effectively.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey praises Psychic Touch for its organic feel and authenticity, noting that it uses borrowed items to create a convincing effect. He highlights the importance of performance and audience interaction to enhance the trick's impact. Yigal Mesika's live performance of the trick emphasizes its interactive nature and the use of humor to engage the audience. Craig Petty describes the card version as simple yet impactful, noting that it can be performed with any borrowed deck, making it versatile and practical. Tom Wright introduces a new method for Psychic Touch, suggesting that the trick continues to evolve with innovative approaches. Overall, magicians agree that Psychic Touch is a standout trick for its simplicity, versatility, and strong audience reactions.