Bruce Bernstein – Taboo

Introducing TABOO, the inaugural release in a series of exclusive manuscripts tailored for the elite circle of Psychic Entertainers. These works will be available solely through me, ensuring that they remain unwholesaled to dealers. My goal is to gradually unveil materials that I’ve meticulously developed over time, showcasing only my highest caliber of work.

I am thrilled to commence this series with TABOO, as it encapsulates some of my most profound insights and pioneers new territory in Psychic Entertainment. The techniques outlined in this book will empower you to unveil your audience’s most guarded secrets in an engaging and entertaining fashion.

In the introduction, I stated, “TABOO is a unique fusion of concepts I’ve been refining for nearly a decade and represents perhaps the most sophisticated routine in Psychic Entertainment I’ve ever devised. This is not merely an effect; it transcends that. I must emphasize that TABOO is intended for the boldest and most charismatic performers. It is not suitable for casual demonstrations among friends or as a simple showcase of mental magic. However, even if you never perform this effect, I believe you will gain valuable insights from my cutting-edge approach. It’s essential to understand that TABOO must be personalized and tailored to the performer who dares to embrace this presentation. Expecting a ‘one size fits all’ script is a recipe for failure. With the techniques and variations I share in this book, the right performer will discover their own miracle.”

While I explore several variations in the book, including “THE ULTIMATE TABOO,” which I designed for my own use, here’s the core premise:

Participants are invited onstage to contemplate actions they have taken or might consider that would be deemed “Taboo” by societal standards.

You will simultaneously read their thoughts, revealing details in a manner reminiscent of a soap opera or reality show.

Despite their attempts to maintain a “poker face” and conceal their secrets, you will increasingly hone in on each person’s hidden thoughts, gradually uncovering the specific Taboo they are contemplating.

In a stunning climax, each participant repeatedly acknowledges your remarkable accuracy in uncovering their most personal information.

While this may sound astonishing, I understand your concerns. You might be worried that such a routine could lead to discomfort or embarrassment for those involved. However, the true brilliance of this routine lies in the psychological subtleties and strategies I teach, which will help participants feel at ease and enjoy their roles as the “Stars” of the show.

Michael Weber – “I believe two things about Taboo to be true: 1) Bruce has crafted a routine that is both practical and powerful, and 2) 99.9% of the mentalists I have seen lack the courage to present it as it deserves.”

Christopher Carte – “Bruce Bernstein is a genius, a fact acknowledged by everyone familiar with his work. While others produce minor variations of overused themes, Bruce’s published effects consistently range from innovative to groundbreaking. He recognizes potential in ideas that others overlook and combines them in ways that yield results far greater than their individual components.”

“Taboo is a perfect manifestation of Bruce’s ingenious mind. The method contains familiar elements, yet they are combined to create a profoundly impactful effect.”

“What is that effect? It’s the holy grail of mentalism. When people discover you are a mind reader, they fear you might uncover their most intimate secrets. With Taboo, you do just that, revealing their secrets in a manner that ensures they will not feel publicly embarrassed, while still demonstrating that you possess insights you should not have been able to know.”

“When Bruce first shared his concept with me years ago, I was captivated by its boldness and simplicity, hoping to perform it one day. Since then, he has refined the routine and added nuances that enhance its strength. In my opinion, it ranks among his finest work.”

“I do have one caveat about Taboo. The aspect that distinguishes Bruce’s work is his understanding of the line between mentalism and magic. His best effects rely on subtle methods that require a bold approach.”