Thanks to Roth by Josh Burch and Craig Petty

Thanks to Roth: A Detailed Analysis for Magicians

Effect

The “Thanks to Roth” trick utilizes a seemingly impossible transpo effect. The core of the illusion involves a guitar pick appearing to move instantaneously from one hand to the other, ultimately ending up in the spectator’s hand. The effect creates a strong sense of wonder and misdirection, relying on the audience’s expectation of a simple transfer. The trick’s visual appeal is enhanced by the use of a contrasting color pick (white and black) which adds to the perceived speed and mystery of the movement.

Full Details

This trick centers around a set of four custom-molded guitar picks, provided by Josh Burch through Penguin Magic. The set includes two standard picks (white and black, resembling Scotch and Soda picks), one uniquely colored pick for a specific demonstration, and a fourth pick designed for a particular effect. The instructional video, an hour in length featuring Craig Petty, details the method and provides a real-world performance example. The effect is presented as an adaptation of classic coin magic routines, specifically a “Thanks to Roth” in-the-hands transpo. The method involves a series of carefully executed palming, false transfer, and French drop techniques, all adapted to the shape and size of the guitar picks. The video demonstrates both a close-up presentation and a performance in a more natural setting. A variation of the effect is also shown using a deck of cards, where the pick penetrates the deck to reveal a selected card.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is most appealing to magicians who already possess musical skills or frequently find themselves in musical environments. The portability of the guitar picks makes them a convenient alternative to carrying traditional coins for coin magic routines. The low difficulty level, relying on established coin magic techniques, makes it accessible to performers with a foundational understanding of sleight of hand. Magicians who appreciate a clean, minimalist approach to magic – focusing on simple, elegant movements – will likely find this trick particularly attractive. The unique presentation of the effect, utilizing everyday guitar picks, can also be a draw for those seeking to create a memorable and unexpected illusion.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Thanks to Roth” trick is classified as having a low difficulty level. The core techniques involved – palming, false transfers, and French drops – are fundamental to coin magic and are readily adaptable to the guitar picks. Craig Petty emphasizes that these are basic skills, making the trick accessible to performers with a reasonable level of experience in sleight of hand. The key to successful execution lies in the precise timing and coordination of the movements, as well as a strong understanding of misdirection. The video provides detailed instruction on each step, allowing performers to master the method with practice. The use of the guitar picks, while presenting a slight adjustment to the familiar techniques, doesn’t fundamentally alter the difficulty.

What Magicians Say

David of Magic Orthodoxy, in his review, states, “These aren’t gimmicked or gaffed in any way – they are simply molded plastic guitar picks designed to be used in coin magic routines.” He highlights the value of the set as a portable alternative to coins, noting, “if you're a musician or you play guitar… it would make sense to carry these.” He also acknowledges the appeal of the effect, describing it as “fun and creative ways to do classic copper/silver effects using an everyday item.” He considers the purchase worthwhile, citing the quality of the picks and the length of the instructional video. He adds, “The white and black picks are readily examinable,” indicating a key element of transparency for the audience. He further notes, “it's not hard to Palm a guitar pick or to do a false transfer with a guitar pick or to do an a French drop with a guitar pick,” reinforcing the ease of learning the method.