The Ultimate Guide to the Blindfold Q&A Act

If you haven’t heard of Cicardi (Dr. Charles Scott), it’s worth exploring his legacy. He is the mentalist behind the longest-running live television show, MIND PROBE, which aired weekly for 11 years, captivating over 15,000 live audience members and countless viewers at home.

Many fans attended his live performances repeatedly, with some returning over 100 times. This loyalty speaks volumes about the impact Cicardi has had on his audiences for more than three decades. What keeps them coming back?

The Main Attraction

Dr. Scott attributes this phenomenon to his signature routine, “Flashes of Thought in the Darkness of the Mind,” a captivating Blindfold Question & Answer act. The Q&A act has roots in ancient culture, and its universal appeal is well-recognized in the psychic entertainment community.

Mastering a credible Blindfold Q&A act is often seen as a hallmark of professionalism in mentalism. While it presents challenges, practitioners agree that it offers immense satisfaction for both the performer and the audience. So, why don’t more mentalists incorporate it into their acts?

For many, the hesitation stems from concerns about methodology and ethics. Let’s first tackle the simpler issue of methodology.

Paralysis of Analysis, Part One

Have you ever encountered someone who endlessly seeks the perfect method and never performs? It’s a common pitfall. While exploring methodologies can be fascinating, waiting for the ideal approach can prevent performers from experiencing the joy of engaging with their audience.

Dr. Scott shares his refined techniques, honed over 35 years, combining two classic methods into a powerful routine. His approach has set a new standard for Q&A performances among professionals.

• The optimal type of Q&A card to utilize
• An innovative update to a classic Q&A card
• Ensuring audience members complete cards accurately
• The most effective way to collect Q&A cards
• Step-by-step guidance on discreetly reading Q&A cards
• Strategies for handling illegible cards
• Pros and cons of using blindfolds

If you’ve hesitated to add Q&A to your repertoire due to uncertainty about the best approach, you can put that concern to rest. The second issue, ethics, is more complex.

Paralysis of Analysis, Part Two

Many performers grapple with the ethical implications of the Blindfold Q&A act, questioning their role in influencing others’ lives. It’s a valid concern, and for some, avoiding Q&A is the right choice.

However, there is a way to perform the Q&A act ethically. Dr. Scott teaches a method that allows for serious inquiries and meaningful responses without ethical dilemmas. His commitment to ethical performance is likely a key reason audiences returned week after week.

The Most Important Part, Revealed

The crux of the Q&A act lies not in how questions are gathered, but in how they are answered. This may seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Dr. Scott’s teachings will guide you through:

• Avoiding problematic questions
• Navigating ethical considerations
• Addressing confidential inquiries
• Knowing when to refrain from answering
• Empowering your audience
• The most intriguing question in Q&A

Ultimately, the goal is to create a presentation that not only showcases your skills but also enriches the audience’s experience. If you can leave them feeling empowered, you’ve succeeded.

The Blindfold

Dr. Scott’s insights on blindfolds are unmatched. His straightforward explanation in this DVD set is the best I’ve encountered. The effectiveness of his blindfold technique has made it a favorite among professionals.

You’ll gain knowledge on:

• Dr. Scott’s proven table setup
• Applying the multi-layered blindfold
• Selecting the ideal assistant
• An incredible learning aid
• Painlessly removing the blindfold
• Dr. Scott’s signature effect

With this knowledge, you’ll be equipped to perform a professional Blindfold Q&A Act, complete with ethical answering techniques and practical tips for a seamless performance.

The Performances

This DVD set features Dr. Scott performing five distinct presentations of his Blindfold Q&A Act, as seen on MIND PROBE. Observing his expertise in action is invaluable for learning and avoiding common pitfalls.

Previously, this footage was only accessible through unofficial channels, but now you can view these performances directly from Dr. Scott’s private collection, sourced from original broadcast master tapes.

Bonus Materials

With the Cicardi Project Volume 2 DVD set, you’ll receive a full-size reproduction of Dr. Scott’s Q&A question card, along with a list of sample questions that have proven successful in his performances. Additionally, you’ll find promotional materials used by Dr. Scott, including:

• Two articles on maximizing press coverage
• A flyer promoting Dr. Scott’s TV show, MIND PROBE
• A tent card for personal appearances
• A pocket-sized promotional handout
• A copy of Dr. Scott’s MIND PROBE newsletter

While these materials are photocopies, they are still inspiring and can help you enhance your own promotional strategies.

The Wrap-up

If you’re seeking the latest gimmick or trick, this DVD set isn’t for you. However, if you want to master the Blindfold Q&A act from a seasoned expert, this is a must-have. This set demystifies the Blindfold Q&A act, providing you with essential knowledge from a professional with decades of experience. It’s not something you’ll learn overnight, but it equips you with everything necessary to incorporate this impactful presentation into your performances.

The Disclaimer

This DVD set is an incredible value for serious mentalists. However, it’s important to note that while the MIND PROBE footage on Disk One was produced in a professional studio, the interview with Dr. Scott was a simple one-camera shoot. We may not have high production values, but the content is invaluable and cannot be found elsewhere.