The Jerx – JAMM #5

CONTENTS

• Any Man Behind Any Curtain…………3
• X-Communication: Smurf Job
• Special Edition………………………………..10
• Good St. Anthony………………………….. 16

Coming in The JAMM #5

Any Man Behind Any Curtain

One of my less popular ideas within the magic community is the concept of shifting the focus away from yourself and your supposed abilities. This approach enhances your presentation. If your style revolves around “I’m a magician!” or “Look what I can do!” it often comes across as immature and easily dismissed. In contrast, if you frame your performance as “Look at this intriguing phenomenon,” or “What do you think about this?” you present the magic in a way that feels more genuine. This subtle shift in perspective can significantly transform how you deliver your magic.

Even when audiences recognize that they are witnessing a theatrical experience, the absence of a needy or boastful attitude makes the performance more enjoyable. They are more likely to engage and participate.

Recently, I have been delving into the methodological advantages of this approach. One of my initial explorations is featured in The JAMM #5, titled Any Man Behind Any Curtain, which presents a version of the Any Card At Any Number (ACAAN) effect. The trick is fairly standard, but its success hinges on your role as an observer rather than the magician. If you claim credit for the magic, it loses its impact.

This effect serves as a “proof of concept” for an idea that could lead to exciting developments in the future.

Good St. Anthony

Good St. Anthony began as a card location trick. Over time, it evolved into a design duplication and then a divinely inspired prediction, ultimately becoming a blend of all these elements.

While the evolution of this effect may intrigue magicians, its uniqueness and appeal to laypeople are what truly stand out. Much of the performance occurs in complete darkness.

Unlike typical attempts to create magic in the dark, this effect ensures that the participant feels completely satisfied. It won’t end abruptly or fail to start; you won’t find yourself saying, “This has never happened to me before, I promise. I’m just tired.”