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Stay Frosty by Andrew Frost

Created by: Andrew Frost

Stay Frosty is a card magic trick that creates a seemingly impossible coincidence, where a spectator's random selection of cards forms their own phone number. The trick is part of Andrew Frost's *Stay Frosty* routine and involves a 'mixed condition' deck, combining face-up and face-down cards. The performer encourages the spectator to shuffle and even switch cards, enhancing the illusion of randomness. The final reveal is a phone number formed by the selected cards, astonishing the spectator. This is a close-up magic trick that requires a deck of cards and is suitable for performances in casual settings.

Key features

  • Relies on a controlled mixing process to create a 'mixed condition' deck

  • Encourages spectator participation with shuffling and card switching

  • The number of cards in the deck should be sufficient to form a phone number

  • Suitable for quick performances for friends and family

  • Part of Andrew Frost's *Stay Frosty* routine

Pros

  • Creates a strong illusion of randomness and free choice

  • Engages the spectator with hands-on participation

  • Simple yet powerful effect that can be easily learned

  • Versatile for various performance settings

Cons

  • Requires preparation of the deck in a 'mixed condition'

  • May need practice to ensure smooth execution and spectator handling

Effect

The Stay Frosty routine by Andrew Frost includes a clever card trick where spectators shuffle and mix cards, creating the illusion of a random selection. Despite the apparent chaos, the cards reveal a predetermined outcome—often forming a phone number or another meaningful sequence. The effect is a baffling coincidence that leaves the audience questioning how such an impossible result could happen after genuine shuffling and mixing.

Full Details

The trick relies on a mixed condition deck, where some cards are face-up and others face-down. The performer guides the spectator through shuffling and switching cards, reinforcing the idea of randomness. The key is maintaining the mixed state while controlling the outcome. The spectator is given choices (such as whether to mix cards face-up or face-down), but these decisions do not affect the final result. The number of cards used is significant—enough to form a phone number or another structured sequence.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Close-up performers who want a strong, interactive routine.
  • Magicians who enjoy psychological tricks that play with perception and coincidence.
  • Those comfortable with card handling, though the method does not require advanced sleight of hand.

Difficulty

The trick is moderate in difficulty. While the method does not rely on complex sleights, it requires:

  • Confidence in guiding spectator actions to maintain the mixed condition.
  • Good timing and misdirection to sell the illusion of randomness.
  • Practice in scripting to ensure smooth performance.

What Magicians Say

  • Vanishing Inc Magic highlights the importance of thorough shuffling to sell the illusion: "The shuffling and switching of cards are crucial to the illusion, ensuring the audience perceives a truly random selection."
  • Andrew Frost emphasizes audience participation, making the trick feel organic: "Encouraging the spectator to shuffle reinforces the illusion of a free choice and makes the final reveal more impactful."

The Stay Frosty routine is praised for its deceptive simplicity and strong impact, making it a valuable addition to a magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Stay Frosty

Andrew Frost says...

The creator highlights the importance of encouraging the spectator to thoroughly shuffle the cards. This reinforces the illusion of a free choice and makes the final reveal more impactful.

VanishingIncMagic says...

The core of the trick relies on a controlled mixing process to create a deck in a *mixed condition* – a combination of face-up and face-down cards. This allows for a seemingly random selection that ultimately leads to a predetermined outcome.

Review videos

  • Thumbnail for Andrew Frost #2

    Andrew Frost #2

    VanishingIncMagic mentioned this magic trick in this video.

Tutorial videos