Old Gold having started the idea of trying cigarettes blindfolded, there were many effects and methods based on this theme. In my notebook has been an idea for the presentation and working of such an effect, and to me, it was about the simplest of all.
Bringing forth about four packs of cigarettes, the performer has them opened and dumped into a hat or a bowl of good size. This is placed on a table or stand close by, and now the performer is blindfolded securely. The committee of one who has done the blindfolding has been given a package of matches and stands by as the performer reaches into the hat, draws a cigarette, and puts it in his mouth. The spectator lights it, the performer takes a puff, and names the make. Tossing this away, another is drawn and the test repeated.
It should be done three times, and that is enough in this case. Each time, the spectator verifies the make as called.
For working this, only the simplest preparation is made. A cigarette dropper on the market now is most suited for it, although I had another in mind at the time I thought of it. It will hold ten cigarettes and drop them without fail and without jamming. Have it under the right side of your coat and load with three brands in a known order.
First, have the three or four packages dropped in the hat. Then be blinded. Your hands drop to the side as you step to the hat, which is near your side, and you get the first cigarette from the dropper, which you apparently pick out of the hat. The same thing happens each time, and you get the cigarette from the dropper as you lean a little forward for the spectator to take the burning cigarette from your mouth to check after naming it. I’ve tried this out and know it to be effective as well as simple.
Leave a Reply