Mes(s)merize by Stefan Olschewski

An impossible prediction effect

A clear wine glass is placed center stage, holding a black envelope with a prediction inside. Spectators are invited to focus on a thought, write it down on a card, and seal it in an opaque envelope. At your signal, they toss their envelopes onto the stage. A random spectator freely chooses one envelope (no forces involved). Let’s say the thought is “ICECREAM.” She retrieves the prediction from the glass and opens it, revealing a perfect match to her chosen thought!

The ultimate surprise follows: the spectator is asked to unfold the crumpled paper ball used to select her as a volunteer. It reads: “Tonight, a beautiful lady called Annie will think of ICECREAM!”

• The spectator is chosen at random
• No switching of the paper ball
• No stooges involved
• No secret assistants
• No pre-show required
• No fumbling during the performance
• No sleeving techniques
• No electronics used
• Participants can truly write any thought
• All other envelopes contain different words
• The spectator opens and reads the prediction herself
• Both prediction and envelope are completely unprepared

“Brilliant and clever indeed… this gentleman has forged a total masterpiece.” – Larry Becker

“I think it’s a terrific prediction, and I love the final punch-finish. Clever and very practical.” – Peter Duffie

“It’s perfect. The method is wonderfully simple and direct, and I imagine it plays extremely well. I give it my highest recommendation.” – Sean Waters

“Brilliant, yet simple, the only way to do it.” – Marc Salem

Pages: 42 – Saddle Stitched