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Simon Says Celebrity Edition by Simon Lipkin

Created by: Simon Lipkin

Simon Says Celebrity Edition is a mentalism card trick disguised as an interactive guessing game. Spectators pick a card featuring a celebrity name, and through a clever marking system (SSM), the magician can divine the chosen name without ever touching the deck. The trick transforms a standard card revelation into a dynamic 20 Questions-style performance, making it perfect for close-up or parlour settings. The deck features 52 celebrity names (e.g., Elton John, Britney Spears) and allows for endless routine adaptations.

Where to buy

Simon Says (Celebrity Edition) by Simon Lipkin from Monster Magic
Monster MagicSimon Says (Celebrity Edition) by Simon LipkinÂŁ24.99
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Key features

  • Uses the SSM (Simon Says Marking) system for effortless card identification

  • Spectator can select cards via dribble, cut, or free choice without magician handling the deck

  • Disguised as a party game to justify the deck's presence

  • Works with any standard marked deck routine

  • Includes performance tips for natural audience interaction

Pros

  • Highly interactive and engaging for audiences

  • No sleight of hand required

  • Versatile—adaptable to existing card routines

  • Strong justification for carrying a marked deck

  • Clean handling with no deck switches

Cons

  • Requires familiarity with marked deck systems

  • Limited to celebrity name revelations (though adaptable)

  • May need customization for non-Western audiences

Effect

Simon Says Celebrity Edition transforms a standard card trick into an interactive guessing game. Instead of asking a spectator to pick a card, the magician invites them to pick a famous person from a deck designed like a party game. The spectator tries to guess the celebrity without using restricted words, making the experience engaging and fun. At the end, the magician reveals they knew the chosen name all along—even though the spectator handled the deck freely.

Full Details

The deck is a cleverly disguised marked deck using the SSM (Simon Says Marking) system, allowing the magician to identify the selected card without handling it. The spectator can cut, shuffle, or pull a card from anywhere in the deck, yet the performer always knows the chosen celebrity.

The trick blends mentalism with card magic, making it feel like a natural game rather than a rehearsed illusion. The deck includes a variety of famous names, ensuring broad appeal. The magician can also adapt standard card tricks to work with this deck, expanding its versatility.

Who Should Consider the Trick

  • Mentalists looking for a fresh, interactive approach to predictions.
  • Card magicians who want to add a social, game-like element to their routines.
  • Performers who enjoy audience participation and want a self-working yet powerful effect.
  • Social entertainers who need a trick that plays well in casual settings.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform—no advanced sleight of hand is required. The SSM system does the heavy lifting, allowing the magician to focus on presentation. However, selling the game aspect convincingly is key. As Simon Lipkin notes, "You have to genuinely play the game first to make the magic feel natural."

What Magicians Say

  • Penguin Magic Awards (2024 nominee): Highlighted as a standout in mentalism for its creativity and audience engagement.
  • Simon Lipkin (creator): Emphasizes the deck’s versatility, stating, "Any trick you know with a normal marked deck can be performed with this."
  • Alakazam Magic UK: Praises the SSM system for allowing spectators to handle the deck freely while the magician retains control.

The consensus is that Simon Says Celebrity Edition is a unique, crowd-pleasing tool that blends magic with interactive gameplay, making it a valuable addition to any performer’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Simon Says Celebrity Edition

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The SSM marking system removes the need for the magician to handle the deck. You can have spectators cut, dribble, or freely select a card while maintaining complete control—it's a game-changer for interactive mentalism.

penguinmagicshop says...

Simon Says Celebrity Edition by Simon Lipkin is a specially printed deck that allows multiphase routines with celebrity names. The cards are marked in a phonetic system that's cleverly disguised—even if you know what to look for.

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