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Slashed by Wayne McEwan

Created by: Wayne McEwan

Slashed is a magic trick that combines elements of close-up and stage magic, designed to captivate audiences with its visual and psychological impact. The trick involves a narrative or thematic element that connects with the audience on a cultural or personal level, making it more than just a display of skill. It's suitable for various venues, from intimate gatherings to larger stage performances, and is known for its versatility and ability to engage diverse audiences.

Key features

  • Combines close-up and stage magic elements

  • Engages audiences with cultural or personal narratives

  • Versatile for various performance venues

  • Designed for maximum audience engagement and psychological impact

Pros

  • Deep audience connection through narrative

  • High versatility across different performance settings

  • Strong visual and psychological impact

Cons

  • May require customization for different cultural contexts

  • Performance complexity might be challenging for beginners

Effect

The magic trick Slashed creates a visually striking moment where a selected card appears to be cut or slashed by a sharp object, yet remains completely unharmed. The audience sees the card visibly damaged before it miraculously restores itself. The effect is direct, surprising, and leaves a strong impression.

Full details

Slashed is a card trick that combines elements of restoration and visual magic. The magician shows a freely chosen card, which is then visibly damaged—often appearing to be sliced with a knife or scissors. Despite the clear destruction, the card is revealed to be completely intact moments later. The method is clever and relies on a well-concealed principle, making it deceptive even to experienced magicians.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for performers who want a strong, visual effect that plays well in both close-up and parlor settings. It works for magicians who enjoy interactive routines with clear audience reactions. Because of its direct nature, it can fit into a variety of acts, from comedy to more serious performances.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level of Slashed is moderate. It requires some practice to ensure smooth handling and convincing misdirection, but it does not demand advanced sleight of hand. The method is well-structured, making it accessible to intermediate magicians. A confident performance style helps sell the illusion effectively.

What magicians say

Wayne McEwan, a respected New Zealand magician, emphasizes the importance of cultural relevance and storytelling in magic. While he does not specifically mention Slashed, his approach to magic—focusing on strong audience engagement and narrative framing—aligns well with this trick. He notes that the best tricks are not just about method but about meaning and connection.

Magicians who appreciate visual, self-working, or semi-automatic effects will find Slashed a valuable addition to their repertoire. The trick’s ability to create a strong reaction makes it a solid choice for performers looking to enhance their close-up or stage sets.

What people are saying about Slashed

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Wayne’s approach blends local relevance with strong magical foundations. For instance, his Copper-Silver-Brass routine isn’t just a standard coin trick—it uses an old New Zealand penny and a Chinese coin to tell a story about the country’s gold mining history.

Performance videos