John Bannon LIVE (Penguin LIVE)

“The more I study card magic and mentalism, the more impressed I am with John Bannon. His ‘lean and mean’ style of construction and execution inspires me. His routines are hard-hitting and fun to perform.” – Jeff McBride, Las Vegas Headliner

“John Bannon is known for his refined card work and excellent book-length collections of magic. A master of eliminating moves to maximize impact, he is the creator of some of card magic’s neo-classics.” – Jared Kopf, MAGIC Magazine

“Slick. Cool. Superb on all levels. Beyond the exceptional caliber of the effects is John’s brilliant thinking behind it all.” – John Guastaferro

“As I age, my ability to impress audiences with brute sleight of hand diminishes. However, John’s material gives me hope. Thanks to his work, they might even think I’m improving! Sooner or later, everyone does Bannon.” – Jack Carpenter

What Will He Teach?

John Bannon: The First Three Decades

THE 90s
Shriek Of The Mutilated – a dynamic torn and restored cigarette paper
Strangers’ Gallery – a logical color-changing deck routine
Bannon Triumph – a classic self-working triumph routine
Trick Shot Production – a card divination with a surprise reveal

THE 00s
Power Of Poker – two freely chosen poker hands predicted flawlessly
Final Verdict – spectator cuts to and reveals the Aces
Doctored Daley – classic Ace transposition in the hands
Origami Poker – unique royal flush production from a shuffled deck
Flytrap False Cut – an impressive in-the-hands false cut
Watching The Detectives – an unconventional sandwich routine

THE 10s
Montinator 5.0 – a game you simply can’t lose
Spin Doctor – a twist on the classic Twisting the Aces
Bullet Catcher – quickly locating four Aces
One Of The Better Losers – knowing when to hold and when to fold
Mousetrap – a self-working, slow-motion sandwich location
Collusion – a self-working Any Card At Any Number (ACAAN) routine

Who Is He?

John Bannon’s journey into magic began in Virginia Beach, where he learned from legends like Vernon and Goshman. His passion flourished in the vibrant magic scene of Washington D.C. during his time in the Air Force in the 1980s. Attending conventions expanded his network of magic friends and influences.

In 1988, John relocated to Chicago, where he published his first major works in the 1990s, showcasing his innovative approach and writing style. His books, Impossibilia (1990) and Smoke & Mirrors (1992), became instant classics. His packet trick, Twisted Sisters (1993), remains one of the best-selling tricks ever. John has lectured across the globe, establishing an international reputation.

Today, he is recognized as a leading creator of close-up magic, particularly with playing cards. His book, Dear Mr. Fantasy (2005), is celebrated as one of the best magic books of the last decade. His recent works, High Caliber (2013) and Destination Zero (2015), quickly became must-have titles. His latest project, Mentalissimo, is receiving similar acclaim.

In the realm of video, John launched his acclaimed series of “fractal” examinable packet tricks around 2008. Collaborating with Big Blind Media, he produced Bullets After Dark (2009) and Bullet Party (2011), both showcasing card magic. In 2014, they released the best-selling Fractalicious and the innovative Sizzle. Recently, they began the groundbreaking Move Zero series, focusing on John’s self-working card magic.

Outside of magic, John is a dedicated lawyer. In his free time, he enjoys performing card tricks. While his magic has a global reach, his live appearances are rare. We are thrilled to have him for this special lecture.

What Would You Ask One of the World’s Most Creative Magicians?

If you’ve never attended a magic lecture, now is the perfect opportunity. Join us on Sunday, October 23rd, at 7:00 PM for a spectacular 2-hour online lecture with John Bannon. Discover insights and techniques you won’t find in any book or DVD.