The Untouchables by David Devlin

Experience a groundbreaking Any Card at Any Number effect where the spectator seemingly does all the work, and the magic unfolds right in their hands. The performer has predicted both the card and the number well in advance, without ever touching the deck once the effect begins.

Here’s how the audience perceives the magic: A spectator shuffles the deck and thinks of a number between one and fifty-two, keeping it secret until the performer asks. No notes are taken; the number is simply held in mind.

The performer hands the deck to a spectator and turns away, ensuring they cannot see the actions that follow. The spectator then freely selects a card by first choosing a value, say a King, and then a suit, like Diamonds, resulting in the King of Diamonds. They shuffle the deck to their satisfaction.

After holding onto their number, the spectator reveals it—let’s say it’s 27. The performer then turns to face the audience as the spectator deals to the 27th card, which is revealed to be the King of Diamonds!

To eliminate any notion of coincidence, the performer invites the spectator to open the card box, which has been visible throughout the performance. Inside, they find a Joker card with a note stating:

“The King of Diamonds will be found at the 27th position!”

This effect can utilize a borrowed deck, shuffled by the spectator, and is remarkably self-working.

• No sleight of hand required
• No nail writer involved
• No stooges needed
• No complex procedures
• No writing or peeking involved
• Can be performed at any moment during your show
• Any card can be chosen
• Any number can be thought of
• No gimmicks necessary
• No extra cards used
• No unusual counting required
• The deck can be borrowed and is completely unprepared
• Includes two versions: one that is 95% impromptu and another that is 100% impromptu

1st edition 2015, 14 pages. Word count: 4644, equivalent to 18 standard pages of text.