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Strangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon

Created by: John Bannon

Strangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon is a visually stunning color-changing deck routine that has stood the test of time since its original release in the mid-1990s. The trick involves four specially printed cards (on durable USPCC stock) with unique backs (red, green, yellow, purple), seemingly drawn from different decks. These cards magically share the same value as a spectator's randomly selected card, culminating in the entire deck changing color. The effect is perfect for close-up, parlour, or stage performances, offering multiple phases for varied presentations. The updated version includes a beautiful faux-hardback book for packaging, ensuring the gaff cards are protected and easily transportable. No adhesives or sticky stuff are required, making it a clean and practical choice for magicians.

Where to buy

Strangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon from Monster Magic
Monster MagicStrangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon£21.50
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Strangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicStrangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon£21.79
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Strangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon from Magicbox
MagicboxStrangers Gallery 2.0 by John Bannon£22.20
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Key features

  • Four specially printed cards on USPCC stock

  • Multiple phases for versatile performances

  • No sticky stuff or adhesives required

  • Beautiful faux-hardback book packaging

  • Easy to do with basic sleights

  • Impossibly fooling and visually striking

Pros

  • Classic effect with modern updates

  • Highly visual and engaging

  • Suitable for various performance settings

  • Durable and well-crafted materials

  • No complex sleight of hand needed

Cons

  • May require practice to perfect the presentation

  • Limited to card magic enthusiasts

Effect

Strangers Gallery 2.0 is a color-changing deck routine where multiple cards visually transform into different colors, creating a series of impossible moments. A spectator freely selects a card, and as the routine progresses, the deck itself changes color, reinforcing the impossibility of the effect. The trick combines prediction, transformation, and humor, making it engaging for audiences.

Full Details

Originally released in the mid-1990s, Strangers Gallery 2.0 has been updated with new packaging and specially printed cards from the US Playing Card Company. The routine involves four cards with unique backs (red, green, yellow, purple), which appear to come from different decks. These cards then match a randomly selected spectator card, culminating in the entire deck changing color.

The trick is packaged in a faux-hardback book, making it easy to store and transport. It requires no sticky substances or complex gimmicks, relying instead on basic sleights and clever mechanics.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Card magicians looking for a visually striking routine.
  • Performers who enjoy multi-phase effects with strong audience interaction.
  • Beginners to intermediate magicians, as it uses fundamental sleights.
  • Close-up and stand-up performers, as it plays well in both settings.

Difficulty

Strangers Gallery 2.0 is designed to be accessible. It uses basic sleights, making it suitable for beginners, but experienced magicians can enhance the routine with their own presentation. The included instructions provide clear guidance, and the effect’s structure allows for multiple phases, giving performers flexibility in pacing.

What Magicians Say

  • itsallthingsmagic calls it "one of the best versions of the color-changing deck ever", praising its updated visuals and ease of use.
  • BigBlindMedia highlights its "impossibly fooling" nature, noting that it remains a consistent seller after 25 years.
  • MurphysMagicSupplies describes it as "world-class", with Craig Petty endorsing it as "the best color-changing deck on the market."
  • SaturnMagicShop emphasizes the humor and presentation, stating that the trick’s impact comes from "the build-up of expectation and the unexpected reveal."

Strangers Gallery 2.0 is a proven classic with modern refinements, making it a strong addition to any magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Strangers Gallery 2.0

BigBlindMedia says...

Strangers Gallery 2.0 is the best color-changing deck on the market, with four specially printed cards and a beautiful faux-hardback book for packaging. It’s impossibly fooling and easy to do.

itsallthingsmagic says...

John Bannon’s Strangers Gallery 2.0 is one of the best versions of the color-changing deck ever. The updated packaging and cards are visually striking, and the deck transforms into different colors with impossible ease.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Wake up grandma because there’s new cards! Strangers Gallery 2.0 is a world-class color-changing deck routine, with multiple phases and no sticky stuff. Craig Petty even called it the best on the market.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The trick’s humor stems from Bannon’s attempt to explain the impossible outcome, creating a comedic twist that enhances the entertainment value. It’s a clever routine that prioritizes audience interaction.

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