Here's a tip on dealing with performance nerves. I call it "scripting relaxation". I write scripts. In addition to the words, I include things like facial expressions, blocking, as well as specific reminders to myself to actively try to relax at specific moments during the performance. In addition to that, I have a secret inner ritual I carry out just before I begin any presentation. It's an inner mantra, consisting of a single word. The word is "Commit". I relax as I repeat this word several times over and over again in my mind. I find it to be incredibly helpful. Problem is, sometimes I forget to do it. And when I do forget, my performances always turn out worse than what I'm capable of. This was the case for the Vindicator video I shot with Patrick. I was preoccupied with things that shouldn't have distracted me, such as whether or not there was enough free space on his camera SD cards to keep me from having to start over.

But, again, what I put out and want people to see is all done in the spirit of honesty. The performance was "just okay" from my point of view.

Ben

Ben, thanks. As always your careful attention to scripting and performance increases the impact quite a bit.

You mentioned that people accuse you of using a marked deck in the trick. As with much of Aronson's and other memdeck material, the problem is often how to disprove the notion of marked cards in performance. Proving afterwards is much weaker, in my opinion.

I think a future script might point out that when s/he turns over the packet with the selection that "even if I were peeking now, even if the cards were marked, there's no way I could read the back or front of your card. And for good measure, shuffle your packet, so I wouldn't even know what card to look at if I could!"

People don't even really know how using marked cards works--you can help them to understand and then dispel it as a solution for them at the very same time.

Thanks, Landmark. I generally prefer not to verbally introduce the idea in the first place. I'd rather have people think that I have no idea what marked cards are in the first place. As well, I like to rule out as much as possible in the audience's mind via structure. In this routine, a marked card (in the spectator's mind) wouldn't help me, because I never see the front or back of their selection. The magicians who watch this often suggest using marked cards not to identify the selection itself, but rather the indicator that cues it. Besides, if I'm performing for strangers with my own deck, I give it to them to keep when I'm done. That is good enough for me.

Yes, you are congruent enough that it could well be that you're a guy who happens to have some cards, rather than a card guy. After that, it's a matter of balance between keeping your assumed naivete and dispelling possible solutions. I can appreciate that your performance style can lean towards the former effectively.

I've finally seen the explanation footage. I think it has more to offer than the performance video. Only Patrick has the power to decide how and when this will be released. I think it turned out particularly well, and am personally eager to share it. Let's hope Patrick comes up with something that makes us all happy!

Ben

I really enjoyed watching you perform Vindicator Ben, great stuff, I'm well impressed. You looked far from nervous to me. I'm a musician [among other things] and I'm mostly never satisfied with any recording that I do in the studio. I think it's just knowing that I'm being recorded that puts me off a bit. Anyway, your performance was great, and I like your remarks about not letting a particular s**k dictate what your routine is going to be. The word 'Flexibility' springs to mind.

Will.

Patrick Redford has just officially released the explanation footage, which includes a lot of subtleties and valuable insights for this routine. It can be viewed for free if you’re a member of his “Tempirarily Out Of Order” Facebook group, or my own “Ben Blau Mentalism” group.

FYI,

Ben

I'll admit that, even though I was aware of the main modus operandi, I was clueless has to how you actually obtained the information needed. Thanks for sharing, Ben.

Very well constructed!

Best,
Jed

Thank you! I also have a borrowed-deck impromptu version (called “Jackal Lantern”) that I’ll be teaching in my next project. It plays out almost the same. Some would say even more fairly. 😈

I've been performing this effect over the last couple of weeks, and not only does it get great reactions but I also really like performing it!

Will the impromptu version be included in Completely Out Of Order?

An impromptu version will be in my next book. Glad to hear you’re enjoying it!

Ben

Your next book ? Good new...what is its name and when do you think it will be published ?

My publisher and I are currently discussing possible titles. I don’t have a specific release date, but if you enjoyed ASYMPTOTES I think you’ll like this one even more.

Thanks for your interest! It’s still off a little ways, but I’m making progress and will keep everyone posted.

Ben

Yes I enjoyed "Asymptotes" and I am waiting for your next book.

Even better than Asymptotes? Sign. Me. The. Hell. Up.

That’s the plan! 😈