Name That Name Magic Trick The Art of Revealing a Thought-of Name. “Name That Name” is a clever and straightforward magic trick where you predict a name thought of by a spectator, leaving your audience mystified. This trick uses basic props and a well-constructed secret setup to create an illusion that seems impossible. In this guide, we’ll walk through the details of this trick, including its effect, secret, setup, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure a flawless performance.
Name That Name Magic Trick The Art of Revealing a Thought-of Name
Overview of “Name That Name”
Effect: A spectator writes down a name on a slip of paper and drops it into a box. You then reveal the exact name they’ve thought of, despite not seeing it.
Why It Works: The trick utilizes a hidden compartment and a set of pre-written slips, which give you full control over the final result.
Materials Needed
- A Box with a Removable Lid: This should be small enough to hold slips of paper but large enough that spectators won’t notice any tampering.
- Two Sets of Paper Slips:
- Set One: Ten slips with the same pre-written name.
- Set Two: Ten blank slips for spectators.
- Small Hidden Box: This box will be attached inside the main box to catch the spectators’ slips.
- Tape and Scissors: For creating and securing the hidden compartment.
Preparing the Trick
Step 1: Create the Secret Slot
- Cut a Slot in the Main Box Lid: Make a small slot in the removable lid of the box. The slot should be large enough to allow the slips of paper to pass through easily.
- Attach the Hidden Box: Inside the main box, securely tape a small box or compartment directly underneath the slot you’ve cut. This hidden box will catch all the slips placed by spectators.
Step 2: Prepare the Pre-Written Slips
- Write the Same Name on Each Slip: Take ten slips of paper and write the same name on each one (e.g., “Michael” or any other name you want to use for the trick).
- Place the Pre-Written Slips in the Main Box: Put these slips in the main box, outside the hidden compartment. When you later open the lid, only these pre-written slips will be accessible.
Step 3: Prepare the Blank Slips
- Hand Out Blank Slips: Give the blank slips to your spectators and ask them to write down any name they think of.
Performing “Name That Name”
Step 1: Introduce the Trick
- Explain the Trick: Tell the audience you have a box that can “magically” reveal any name they think of.
- Hand Out Blank Slips: Distribute the blank slips and ask each spectator to write down a name.
Step 2: Collect the Slips
- Gather the Slips Through the Slot: Ask each spectator to place their slip through the slot in the lid. The slips will actually fall into the hidden compartment, ensuring they remain out of sight and separate from the pre-written slips inside the main box.
Step 3: The Big Reveal
- Remove the Lid: With confidence, remove the lid from the box. Only the pre-written slips with your chosen name will be visible inside.
- Draw a Slip from the Box: Pick any slip from inside the box (they are all identical), and reveal the name confidently. Your audience will be astonished as they believe this is the exact name written by the spectator.
Tips for a Smooth Performance
- Be Casual: Handle the box naturally, as though it’s an ordinary part of the trick. This helps prevent suspicion.
- Build Suspense: Let the audience think about the “name” they wrote and emphasize the mystery of how you’ll identify it. This builds excitement for the final reveal.
- Use Misdirection: Talk with the spectators as they write down names to divert attention away from the box’s setup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Accidentally Exposing the Hidden Compartment: Ensure the hidden box is securely taped so it doesn’t shift or come loose during the trick.
- Mixing Up Slips: Only reveal slips from the pre-written set in the main box. Avoid any movements that might accidentally expose the slips in the hidden compartment.
- Overuse of the Trick: Since this trick relies on a single pre-chosen name, it’s best performed only once per audience group to maintain its mystery.
Enhancing the Trick
- Personalize the Name: Use a popular or common name, or tailor it to your audience for added impact.
- Add a Storyline: Create a narrative about “predicting thoughts” or “magically reading minds,” which can heighten the mystique of the reveal.
- Use Visual Elements: Use a decorative box or customize the slips to add an extra layer of intrigue.
Final Thoughts on “Name That Name”
“Name That Name” is a powerful mentalism trick that captivates audiences with its simplicity and effectiveness. It requires minimal materials and effort to execute, making it ideal for performers of all skill levels. When done right, this trick can leave a lasting impression and a sense of wonder in your audience.
Key Takeaways
- Practice Handling the Box: Make sure you’re comfortable with the secret slot and hidden compartment to perform seamlessly.
- Confidence is Key: Act with certainty and keep the focus on the name reveal, as this adds to the trick’s mystique.
- Keep it Brief: Perform the trick confidently and without hesitation to maintain the illusion.
With a little practice, “Name That Name” will become a staple in your magic routine, leaving audiences amazed at your mind-reading abilities!
