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Wild Names by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

Wild Names is a close-up card magic trick that puts a personalized twist on the classic Wild Card plot. The magician uses a deck of cards, some of which are blank, to create a surprising and interactive effect. Spectators write their names on the blank cards, which then magically transform into a selected card, creating a strong emotional connection and a memorable experience. This trick is perfect for performers who want to add a personal touch to their routines and engage their audience on a deeper level.

Key features

  • Personalized effect using spectator names

  • Variation of the classic Wild Card plot

  • Uses blank cards for a clean and surprising transformation

  • Close-up magic suitable for intimate performances

  • Strong audience interaction and emotional impact

Pros

  • Highly engaging and interactive

  • Creates a strong emotional connection with the audience

  • Simple to perform with a powerful impact

  • Versatile and can be adapted to different performance styles

  • Comes with detailed commentary and performance tips

Cons

  • Requires blank cards, which may need to be prepared in advance

  • May not be suitable for large stage performances

  • Relies on spectator participation, which can be unpredictable

Effect

Wild Names is a magic trick that uses personalized cards to create a strong connection with the audience. The magician shows a deck of cards, each with a different name written on it. A spectator selects a card, and through a series of magical moments, their chosen card becomes the only one left in the deck. The trick ends with the spectator’s name being the sole focus, creating a memorable and personal experience.

Full details

Wild Names is a variation of the classic Wild Card plot, where multiple cards transform into a single selected card. In this version, the magician uses a deck of cards with different names written on them, adding a personalized touch. The trick involves a combination of sleight of hand and clever misdirection to make the selected card appear as the only one remaining. The use of personalized names enhances the emotional impact, making the trick more engaging for the audience.

Who should consider the trick

Wild Names is ideal for magicians who want to add a personal and interactive element to their performances. It works well for close-up magic, street magic, or any setting where you can engage directly with your audience. If you enjoy tricks that create a strong connection with spectators and leave a lasting impression, Wild Names is a great choice.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level of Wild Names is moderate. It requires some basic sleight of hand skills and the ability to manage audience interaction effectively. The trick also involves a bit of preparation, such as writing names on the cards. However, with practice, most magicians should be able to perform it smoothly. Craig Petty emphasizes the importance of simplicity and spectator involvement, which can help make the trick more manageable.

What magicians say

Craig Petty highlights the effectiveness of Wild Names in creating strong reactions from audiences. He notes that the use of personalized cards adds a unique touch that makes the trick more memorable. Craig also shares tips on handling mistakes and staying calm during performances, which can be particularly useful when performing a trick that relies heavily on audience interaction. Overall, Wild Names is praised for its simplicity and the powerful impact it has on spectators.

What people are saying about Wild Names

magic-tv says...

Craig emphasizes the importance of audience management and choosing the right spectators. [...] The tricks highlight simplicity and spectator involvement for maximum impact.

Performance videos