Card magic legend John Carey takes us on a fascinating journey through the eight tricks that defined his remarkable career, from the streets of London to teaching in 26 countries worldwide.
John's selections reveal the essence of powerful, practical magic. The Biddle Trick, with its multiple magical moments in a single effect. Triumph, where chaos transforms into perfect order except for the spectator's selection. Cards Across, which proves equally effective in close-up or stage settings. ACCAN (Any Card At Any Number), the plot magicians have pursued for generations. The Ambitious Card, with John's advice to limit phases and build to an impossible climax. Think-a-Card, perhaps the purest demonstration of apparent mind-reading possible with playing cards. His One Coin Routine, the visual magic that saved him in challenging performance environments. And finally, Card to Impossible Location, creating unforgettable magical moments when signed cards appear where they simply cannot be.
Throughout our conversation, John shares performance wisdom gained over decades: "Less is more." "The effect should build, never plateau." But his most powerful insight comes from legendary performer Fay Presto: "The magic must always be strong, but YOU are the effing magic." John's personality shines through each routine, reminding us that technical perfection means nothing without the human connection that transforms tricks into magic.
John's Desert Island Tricks offers a masterclass in selecting effects that stand the test of time while allowing your personality to make them uniquely yours.

John’s Desert Island Tricks:

1. Biddle Trick
2. Triumph
3. Cards across
4. ACAAN
5. Ambitious card
6. Think a card
7. One coin routine
8. Card to impossible location

Banishment. Chinese Sticks

Book. Royal Road to Card Magic

Item. Personality

Find out more about the creators of this Podcast at www.alakazam.co.uk